Guided by Faith: Daily Christian Devotions and Advice for Teens and Young Adults

How do we actually live out our faith when life gets hard? In this concluding episode of the Romans 8:12–17 series, Ryan Woods brings everything together by reminding teens and young adults that real transformation happens by the power of the Holy Spirit—not our own effort. This episode recaps our identity as sons and children of God, co-heirs with Christ, and explains why suffering is a normal part of the Christian life. Drawing from Romans 8 and 1 Peter 4, Ryan challenges listeners to stop relying on self-effort and instead daily set their minds on the Spirit. When we walk in our new identity and depend on God’s strength, we experience life, peace, and the ability to resist our old way of living—no matter the circumstances.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlGuided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

What does it mean to be a child of God—and why does that matter for how we live today? In this episode, Ryan Woods continues unpacking Romans 8:12–17, focusing on verse 16 and the powerful truth that believers are not only sons of God, but also children and heirs of God. Ryan explains the difference between sonship (our relational closeness to the Father) and being children of God (our future inheritance and hope). Through Scripture and creative illustrations, this episode highlights how our identity as heirs—fellow heirs with Christ—gives us a hopeful expectation of what’s to come and reshapes how we see ourselves now. Instead of being defined by our past, we’re invited to live with confidence, joy, and anticipation as members of God’s family.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlGuided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

What does it really mean to be called a son of God? In this episode, Ryan Woods continues walking through Romans 8:12–17, focusing on verse 14 and the powerful truth that believers are sons of God through the Spirit. Ryan explains how “sonship” is not about gender, but about an intimate relational status—one that allows us to cry out “Abba, Father” with confidence and security. Using personal stories and biblical insight, this episode explores how God invites us into a close, loving relationship where He guides, trains, protects, and cares for us like a perfect Father. Whether you had a great dad, a difficult relationship with your father, or no father at all, this conversation points to the healing and hope found in our identity as sons adopted into God’s family.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlGuided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

What does it actually mean when the Bible says the Holy Spirit lives in you? In this episode, Ryan Woods continues through Romans 8:12–17 and helps teens and young adults understand what it means to live with the Spirit dwelling within them. Building on the idea of a new identity in Christ, Ryan explains how the Holy Spirit—God Himself—comes to live in believers as a guide, comforter, and interpreter of truth. Drawing from both Romans 8 and Galatians 4, this episode clarifies how salvation through Jesus leads to adoption as sons and daughters of God, freeing us from fear, slavery, and striving for approval. Rather than focusing on trying harder to avoid sin, listeners are invited to set their minds on the Spirit, discovering true life, peace, and transformation.Listen and Subscribe:Apple Podcasts | SpotifyConnect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlGuided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

What if Christianity was never meant to be just a list of rules to follow? In this episode, Ryan Woods continues through Romans 8:12–17 and challenges us to rethink the true purpose of the Christian life. Instead of focusing on simply “not sinning,” Ryan unpacks how the gospel invites us into a new identity as children of God—led by the Spirit, adopted into God’s family, and free from fear. Using practical illustrations and Scripture, this episode explores how real spiritual growth happens when we set our minds on the Spirit and live out who God says we are. If you’ve ever felt stuck, discouraged, or confused about what Christianity is really about, this conversation will help refocus your faith on relationship, identity, and life in the Spirit.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlGuided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this episode of Guided by Faith, Jay wraps up a powerful week studying Romans 8 by exploring how the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit work together in our salvation. While Jesus frees us from the penalty of sin and the Holy Spirit gives us power to resist sin, the Father promises the ultimate victory: freedom from the presence of sin altogether. Jay encourages teens and young adults who struggle with temptation, guilt, or the ongoing effects of sin, reminding them that one day, through Christ, all believers will be fully transformed and sin will no longer have any hold over them. This episode offers hope and motivation to keep walking in the Spirit today, knowing that the glory to come will far outweigh present struggles, and God will complete the work He started in each of us.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this episode of Guided by Faith, we continue unpacking Romans 8 by asking a simple but deeply challenging question: How do you please God? Jay explains that Scripture gives a clear answer—love God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself—but living this out can feel impossible on our own. This episode clarifies that pleasing God isn’t about willpower or religious effort; it’s about relying on the Holy Spirit. Drawing from Romans 8:11, Jay reminds listeners that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in every believer, enabling us to forgive, resist temptation, and love others genuinely. When we stop relying on ourselves and begin walking in the Spirit, we discover that pleasing God is not only possible—it’s the way we experience true spiritual life and growth.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this episode of Guided by Faith, we continue exploring Romans 8 and what it truly means to be freed from the power of sin. Jay breaks down Paul’s teaching that “to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace,” and makes it practical for everyday life. This episode challenges listeners to consider how what they watch, listen to, and dwell on shapes their desires, thoughts, and spiritual direction. Using the powerful idea that our eyes and ears are windows to the soul, Jay encourages believers to take inventory of their media, conversations, and habits—and to intentionally set their minds on the Spirit. As you learn to be more aware of God’s presence and invite the Holy Spirit into daily moments, you’ll discover how choosing life-giving influences leads to spiritual growth, freedom, and peace.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this episode of Guided by Faith, we continue our walk through Romans chapter 8, moving from freedom from sin’s penalty to freedom from sin’s power. Building on Romans 7’s picture of the exhausting inner struggle with sin, Jay explains why Romans 8 is one of the most victorious chapters in the Bible—because it shifts the focus from “I” to the Holy Spirit. While living in our own strength leads to frustration and failure, God has given believers His Spirit to live within them as a true power source. This episode highlights a life-changing truth: the Holy Spirit enables us to follow Jesus, love others, and live in freedom, no longer enslaved to sin. As you learn to rely on the Spirit daily, you can experience real victory, peace, and spiritual growth.Listen and Subscribe:Apple Podcasts | SpotifyConnect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this episode of Guided by Faith, we begin a powerful multi-week journey through Romans chapter 8, often called the pinnacle of the book of Romans. Jay unpacks the incredible truth found right at the start of this chapter: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” This episode clearly explains the gospel message—Jesus has freed us from the penalty of sin. Even when we fail and feel discouraged, our identity in Christ is no longer defined by condemnation but by grace and freedom. This episode encourages listeners to bring their sin to Jesus, receive His forgiveness, and live with gratitude and confidence as someone who has been set free through Christ.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this episode of Guided by Faith, Jay wraps up the week-long series on building a resilient faith by focusing on one of the most powerful ways we love God—through our relationships. Speaking to teens and young adults, Jay explains that loving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength naturally leads to loving others well. This episode introduces two simple but transformative relational practices: staying intentionally connected by talking with a friend every day, and living as a giver through the mindset of bless and build. Learn how offering encouragement, using your God-given strengths, and investing in the people around you creates forward momentum in your faith and prepares you to stand strong during life’s storms. This episode challenges you to see relationships not as something to consume, but as a daily opportunity to love God, serve others, and experience the fullest life Jesus offers.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this episode of Guided by Faith, Jay continues the series on building a resilient faith by addressing one of the most powerful parts of who we are—our emotions. Speaking to teens and young adults, Jay explains that emotions are a gift from God, but they were never meant to take control of our lives. Using Jesus’ teaching about building your life on a firm foundation, this episode explores how to love God with your emotions without ignoring them, stuffing them down, or letting them “drive the bus.” You’ll learn two practical, life-giving practices—highs, lows, and buffaloes; and intentional gratitude, that help you identify your emotions, bring them honestly to Jesus, and redirect your heart toward truth and thankfulness. This episode offers biblical wisdom and real-life tools for developing emotional maturity, spiritual resilience, and a faith that remains steady in every season.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this episode of Guided by Faith, Jay continues the series on building a resilient faith by tackling one of the biggest challenges facing teens and young adults today: distraction. Rooted in Jesus’ call to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, this episode explores what it truly means to love God with your mind in a hyper-distracted world. Jay shares practical insights on how constant noise and divided attention can weaken our spiritual focus—and offers two simple but powerful practices to help retrain your mind: intentional focus and godly play. Learn how strengthening your ability to pay attention can deepen your relationship with God, enhance your time in scripture and prayer, and help you experience joy, creativity, and wonder as part of your faith. This episode is a must-listen for young believers who want to grow mentally, spiritually, and emotionally stronger in their walk with Christ.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this episode of Guided by Faith, Jay continues the series on building a resilient, unshakable faith by focusing on an often-overlooked part of loving God: caring for your body. Jay explains that loving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength includes how you treat the physical body God has given you. Instead of a guilt-driven list of “don’ts,” this episode offers two simple, biblical practices—eating intentionally and moving your body with purpose—that help you honor God out of gratitude and love. Discover why your body matters in God’s plan, how everyday choices can become acts of worship, and how caring for your health prepares you to serve Christ faithfully through every season of life.Listen and Subscribe:Apple Podcasts | SpotifyConnect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlAs a new year begins, this episode of Guided by Faith challenges us to build a resilient, “anti-fragile” faith by prioritizing time with God. Drawing from Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 7 and the Greatest Commandment in Matthew 22, Jay explains that storms are inevitable—but a life rooted in loving God will not crumble. This episode kicks off a week-long series on spiritual practices that help you thrive through challenges, starting with the foundation of all faith: spending intentional time with God through Scripture, prayer, and worship. Learn why connecting daily with God isn’t just a religious duty, but the heart of a real relationship with Jesus—and how this simple habit can shape every other area of your life. Perfect for Christian teens and young adults who want to grow stronger in their walk with Christ this year.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this powerful and honest episode of Guided by Faith, Jay closes out the week by addressing fear, anxiety, and suffering through the lens of Psalm 23:4. Speaking directly to teens and young adults who may feel overwhelmed by uncertainty, loss, or anxiety about the future, Jay shares personal experiences of walking through real-life “valleys”—from fear of failure and rejection to grief, loss, and financial hardship. This episode reminds listeners that while anticipation fear often robs us of joy, God promises His presence and grace in the moment we actually need it. If you’re struggling with fear, anxiety, or the unknown as you step into a new year, this devotional offers reassurance that Jesus walks with you through every valley, and that fear does not get the final word.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this New Year’s Day episode of Guided by Faith, Jay invites us to begin the year with joy, reflection, and intentional gratitude. Centered on Psalm 118:24, this short devotional introduces a simple but powerful daily practice: reflecting on your highs, lows, and “buffaloes”—the unexpected moments that stand out in your day. Jay explains how noticing both your experiences and your emotions can reshape your heart, deepen gratitude, and help you fully experience the good God places in your life. Whether you’re starting a new habit, a new year, or a new season with God, this episode offers a practical tool to help you rejoice daily and recognize God’s presence in every moment.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this New Year’s Eve episode of Guided by Faith, Jay encourages us to rest in the unchanging faithfulness of God as one year ends and a new one begins. Using Psalm 37 and his devotional Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal, Jay explores how God provides stability and security during seasons of uncertainty especially when facing big life decisions about school, careers, relationships, and calling. Through personal stories about choosing a college and wrestling with God’s will, this episode reminds listeners that God’s love does not rise or fall based on our decisions. If you feel anxious about the future or overwhelmed by choices, this message will help you trust that God is steady, faithful, and deeply loving even when you feel unsure.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this encouraging episode of Guided by Faith, Jay reminds teens and young adults of a powerful truth as the year comes to a close: God is not finished with you yet. Rooted in Philippians 1:6, this devotional challenges listeners to recognize the areas of their lives where God is still patiently at work even in ongoing struggles like pride, insecurity, and spiritual growth. Jay shares personal reflections on how God continues to shape his heart over time and explains the difference between salvation and sanctification, emphasizing that while salvation is by faith, spiritual growth requires our daily participation. If you feel discouraged by slow progress, recurring sin, or personal struggles, this episode offers hope, reminding you that God hasn’t given up on you, and you shouldn’t give up on trusting Him either.Listen and Subscribe:Apple Podcasts | SpotifyConnect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org

***Pick up a copy of Jay’s new Journal: Renewed: The 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal https://amzn.to/3MLWavlIn this episode of Guided by Faith, Jay invites us to reflect on God’s incredible patience as we close one year and step into a new one. Drawing from an A.W. Tozer quote and his devotional “Renewed: 365-Day Christian Gratitude Journal”, Jay explores what it means that God never rushes—and why His timing is always rooted in love. Through personal stories about spiritual growth, Bible reading habits, relationships, and waiting on God, this episode encourages listeners to trust God’s process, especially when life feels delayed or frustrating. If you’re struggling with impatience, comparing your timeline to others, or questioning why God hasn’t answered yet, this message will help you see how God’s patience is working for your good—and why learning to be patient with Him can change everything.Listen and Subscribe:[Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify]Connect with Us:Website: www.guidedbyfaith.netYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedbyFaithPodcastInstagram: @guidedbyfaith_podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with friends who might benefit from this message.Guided By Faith is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.org