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Crazy Unbelievable Faith

Author: Brian and Kersha Owen

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Welcome to Crazy Unbelievable Faith, a podcast where co-hosts Brian and Kersha Owen guide you through the storms of life with humor, authenticity, and faith. In a world where silence and stigma around mental health prevail, we invite you to step out of your comfort zone and into a space of vulnerability and growth. Whether you're seeking hope, self-belief, or just a good laugh, 'Rare Air' is your sanctuary. Join us as we share personal stories and insights, interview inspiring guests, and provide tools to empower you to break free from the past and live a life of bold authenticity. It's time to discover who you truly are and embrace the journey ahead—together. Tune in for your dose of encouragement, humor, and real talk.
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The story of faith didn't stop in Hebrews 11. It's still being written today — through ordinary people making radical choices in quiet, consistent, obedient ways. In this sequel episode, Brian and Kersha bring the biblical heroes of faith into the modern world and ask what it actually looks like to live that kind of faith right now.From a daughter who woke up and made sandwiches for the homeless, to JellyRoll preaching from the Grammy stage, to the quiet giver nobody ever hears about — this episode is a reminder that you don't need a pulpit to have an impact. You just need obedience.🔥 What You'll LearnWhy the story of Hebrews 11 is still being written and what your verse could sayWhat "What if heaven is watching your obedience?" actually means for your everyday decisionsHow radical generosity starts small and why being faithful in the little is the foundationWhy giving out of your heart is always more powerful than giving out of your bank accountWhat faith that isn't loud but is consistent looks like in real lifeWhy you don't need a pulpit to have an impact but you do need to earn the right to be heardHow JellyRoll's story is one of the most powerful modern examples of radical obedienceWhy his obedience strengthens somebody else's beliefThe difference between pursuing your dreams and working for someone who didWhy faith moves before fear disappears and what that means for the step you've been putting off💬 Memorable Quotes"Faith didn't stop in Hebrews chapter 11. The story is still being written."— Kersha Owen"What if heaven is watching your obedience?"— Brian Owen"Give out of your heart, not out of your bank account."— Brian Owen"Radical generosity requires radical trust."— Kersha Owen"It's all God's money anyway."— Kersha Owen"Our judgment is: were we obedient?"— Kersha Owen"Faith isn't loud. It's consistent."— Kersha Owen"We don't need a pulpit to have an impact."— Kersha Owen"His obedience strengthens somebody else's belief."— Brian Owen"Faith moves before fear disappears."— Brian Owen"You will either pursue your dreams, or you'll work for somebody who did."— Brian Owen"If there's one person that comes to Christ through this, it's been a success."— Brian Owen🛑 Reflect + ApplyIf heaven is watching your obedience right now, what would it see? What would you want it to see?Where is God nudging you to give — time, money, resources, or encouragement — that you've been holding back on?Is your faith loud or consistent? Are you earning the right to be heard, or just talking?Who in your life is a modern hero of faith that you've never told? Reach out to them this week.What is the first step of obedience you've been waiting to feel less afraid to take? Take it anyway.📖 Scripture FocusHebrews 11:41 — "By faith, [your name here]... what will your verse say?"Matthew 6:3-4 — "When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret."Luke 16:10 — "Whoever is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much."🙌 Join the MovementWe don't know the ripple effect of what one act of obedience can do. But God does. If this episode stirred something in you, share it with someone who needs to be reminded that their faith still counts — even when it's quiet, even when it's small, even when nobody's watching.Subscribe, follow, and stay connected:Website: www.crazyunbelievablefaith.comInstagram: @crazyunbelievablefaithBecause the life God calls you to isn't always easy, but it is always worth it.
There's a big difference between respecting the stories of the Bible and actually believing them. Brian and Kersha Owen dig into the faith hall of fame in Hebrews 11 and ask the uncomfortable question: if God asked you to do what Noah, Abraham, and Joshua did, would you actually do it?These aren't Sunday school felt-board stories. They are belief-stretching, logic-breaking, obedience-demanding moments that mirror the impossible things God still asks His people to do today. This episode is a challenge to stop admiring the heroes of faith from a distance and start living like one.💡 This Episode's Big IdeaFaith isn't admiration. Faith is action in the face of the impossible.🔥 What You'll LearnWhy there's a critical difference between respecting the Bible's stories and actually believing themWhat Hebrews 11 reveals about the kind of faith God calls all of us toHow Noah's story applies to anyone God is asking to build before the storm arrivesWhat Abraham's willingness to leave without a map looks like in a modern contextWhy Jericho didn't fall from strategy but from obedience and what that means for your next stepHow a microwave mentality is the enemy of faithful obedienceWhat real faith looks like according to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: following God without the expectation of deliveranceWhy your delay in obedience is still disobedienceWhat it looks like when community steps in to deliver the word God hasn't given you yetThe question every listener should ask: if Hebrews 11 had your name in it, what would it say?💬 Memorable Quotes"Faith isn't admiration. Faith is action in the face of the impossible.""There's a big difference between believing the stories and respecting the stories.""These are belief-stretching, logic-breaking, obedience-demanding moments.""Faith is building before the storm.""Your delay in obedience is still disobedience.""Jericho didn't fall from strategy. It fell from obedience.""Faith can look ridiculous before it looks victorious.""Real faith is not God will. Real faith is even if he doesn't.""The more you feel resistance to do it, that's the more reason you should do it.""God is always ready. He's always listening. He's always ready to answer. We have to go seek that out."🛑 Reflect + ApplyWhat is the "boat" God is asking you to build right now, before the storm, before the evidence, before the applause?Is there an area of your life where your delay in obedience has become disobedience? What is one step you could take this week?Are you following God with the expectation of deliverance, or are you willing to follow Him even if He doesn't?What is the nudge that keeps coming back to you that you haven't stepped out on yet?If Hebrews 11 had a verse with your name in it, what would you want it to say? What would it actually say right now?📖 Scripture FocusHebrews 11:1 — "Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."Hebrews 11:3 — "By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible."Hebrews 11:6 — "Without faith it is impossible to please God."Hebrews 11:17 — "By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice."Hebrews 11:30 — "By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the army had marched around them for seven days."Daniel 3:17-18 — "Our God can deliver us. But even if he does not, we will not serve your gods."Genesis 6-9 — "Noah built the ark by faith, before any rain had fallen."🙌 Join the MovementIf this episode stirred something in you, share it with someone who needs a push toward obedience. Even one minute. Even one clip. That's how hope and encouragement spreads.Subscribe, follow, and stay connected:Website: www.crazyunbelievablefaith.comInstagram: @crazyunbelievablefaithBecause the life God calls you to isn't always easy, but it is always worth it.
Brian and Kersha Owen get honest about the winding, confusing, sometimes painful road that most of us actually walk with God. If you've ever looked at your life and thought, "How did I get here? Is this really part of God's plan?" this episode is for you. The cross on their set is intentionally crooked for a reason: the path to God isn't always straight.From Joseph's pit to the palace, to a small group that turned them away while they were grieving a friend's loss, Brian and Kersha share biblical truth and their own raw experience to remind you that God wastes nothing, not the detours, not the delays, not the pain.🔥 What You'll LearnWhy God's path often follows a pattern of promise, process, pain, and purposeHow free will factors in when life feels broken or unfairWhy detours aren't detours at all: they build dependency on God, refine character, and prepare you for what's nextBiblical examples of crooked paths: Joseph, David, Moses, and what their stories have in commonHow to stay submitted even when you're confused about the directionWhat "church hurt" really looks like and how to keep walking anywayWhy most people quit too soon and how close they actually were to the breakthroughThe three practical anchors for navigating a season that doesn't make sense yet💬 Memorable Quotes"God wastes nothing. Nothing at all." — Brian Owen"He makes the destination straight. But the process may be winding. There'll be some detours along the way."— Brian Owen"God's path often looks like promise, process, pain, purpose."— Kersha Owen"Everything worthwhile is uphill."— Kersha Owen"Detours build dependency upon God."— Kersha Owen"Every detour is discipleship. Every delay is development. Every valley is vision training."— Brian Owen"Comparison is the stealer of joy."— Brian Owen"Sometimes you have to have obedience before you can have full clarity."— Kersha Owen🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfWhere in your life right now are you in the "process" or "pain" phase of God's pattern? What would it look like to trust the purpose is still coming?Is there a detour you've been resenting that God might actually be using to build something in you?Are you comparing your timeline to someone else's and letting it steal your faith? What would it look like to lay that at God's feet today?Who in your life is above your maze, someone who can see what you can't? Are you actually listening to them when they speak?Where have you been tempted to quit? How close might you be to the breakthrough?📖 Scripture FocusProverbs 3:5-6 — "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and he will make your paths straight."Genesis 50:20 — "You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good."Psalm 37:23 — "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord."2 Corinthians 12:9 — "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."James 1:2-4 — "The testing of your faith produces perseverance."Isaiah 43:19 — "See, I am doing a new thing. I am making a way in the wilderness."Romans 8:28 — "All things work together for good."Jeremiah 29:11 — "I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you, not to harm you."Psalm 119:105 — "Your word is a lamp to my feet, a light to my path."Proverbs 16:9 — "A man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps."🙌 Join the MovementIf this episode met you right where you are, share it with someone who's in the middle of a detour and doesn't know why. That's how this community grows.Subscribe, follow, and stay connected:Website: www.crazyunbelievablefaith.comInstagram: @crazyunbelievablefaithBecause the life God calls you to isn't always easy, but it is always worth it.
🎙️ Episode OverviewHave you ever made a decision, convinced it was God leading you only to wonder later if it was just your own emotions talking? Brian and Kersha Owen get real about the messy, often confusing space between spiritual discernment and emotional impulse. From roller coaster moments building their house to learning to "ask all the questions" before reacting, this episode is a practical and honest look at how to tell the difference between God's voice and your feelings.🔥 What You'll LearnWhy emotions are powerful but not always spiritual — and why that distinction mattersHow Brian and Kersha use a two-week discernment process before making major decisionsThe difference between being a "thermostat" vs. a "thermometer" in your emotional lifeHow God speaks differently to different people (audible impressions, feelings, visions, nature) — and why that's okayThree discernment filters every believer should ask before acting on a feelingWhy spiritual maturity means leading your emotions rather than being led by themThe role of community and wise counsel in confirming God's direction💬 Memorable Quotes"Emotions are powerful, but not always spiritual."— Brian Owen"Spiritual maturity means leading emotions, not being led by them."— Kersha Owen"Feelings are indicators, not decision makers. God's voice remains steady — emotions fluctuate."— Kersha Owen"Be the thermostat in the room, not the thermometer. We set the temperature."— Kersha Owen"If one day we hear yes and the next day we hear no — we know our emotions are in the way."— Brian & Kersha Owen"Emotions are God-given, not God-led by default."— Brian Owen🛑 Reflect + ApplyThis week, try Brian and Kersha's discernment process:Pause before reacting — ask yourself: is this God or is this me?Pray over the decision for a full week. If the answer shifts day to day, your emotions are likely in the driver's seat.Seek wise, spiritually connected counsel in week two. Don't expect an immediate answer — just invite others to pray with you.Run it through the three filters: Is this biblical? Does it reflect Jesus's character? Will it produce spiritual fruit?This week's prayer:"Holy Spirit, lead me beyond my feelings and into Your presence."📖 Key ScriptureJeremiah 17:9 — "The heart is deceitful above all things..." A reminder that our feelings, however strong, aren't always a reliable compass. That's why discernment matters.🙌 Join the MovementIf this episode stirred something in you, don't keep it to yourself — share it with someone who needs to hear it. That's how this community grows.And if you're ready to go deeper — beyond weekly episodes — the Crazy Unbelievable Faith Inner Circle is coming. Founding members get:Monthly live gatherings with Brian & KershaDirect message access to your hostsExclusive content not available anywhere elseFounding member recognition as the community launchesFollow us and stay connected:Website: www.crazyunbelievablefaith.comInstagram: @crazyunbelievablefaithSubscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs it today.
Am I Going Crazy?

Am I Going Crazy?

2026-02-2520:06

In this high-energy and hilariously honest episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen dive into the moments when God’s instructions feel less like a divine plan and more like a lapse in Sanity. We’ve all been there: sitting with a thought so big, so out of left field, or so inconvenient that our first instinct is to crawl back under the covers. Brian opens up about his "multi-window" brain and the trial of shoveling snow, while Kersha reflects on the daunting reality of writing books when you don't even identify as a writer. The Owens get refreshingly real about the "Fear of Looking Foolish" and how the opinions of others can become a literal cage for our calling. From the absurdity of marching around Jericho to the modern-day "irrational" nudge to help a stranger, this episode explores why God’s assignments often feel unrealistic before they ever feel anointed. Whether you’re facing a "Year of Patience" or a task that feels miles beyond your resources, Brian and Kersha provide a roadmap for moving from "Am I crazy?" to "I am obedient." 🔥 What You'll Learn: The Irrationality of the Call: Understand why God’s instructions often sound crazy before they become undeniable—and why He rarely calls those who feel "sane" or qualified. The Patience Test: Brian shares his struggle with the "Year of Patience" and recommends the YouVersion plan: "I’m Just a Guy: Without Patience" (Link below). The Foolishness Filter: Discover why faith often looks foolish before it looks faithful, and how to overcome the paralyzing fear of being judged by others. Identity vs. Assignment: Learn how to find your identity in the One who gave the assignment rather than the task itself. Abundance vs. Scarcity Mindset: Explore the shift from "I don't want to run out" to "God can do exceedingly abundantly more." The "One Percent" Rule: Break down massive, terrifying callings into manageable "baby steps," understanding that growth happens daily. Testing the Source: Get practical tools for seeking wisdom: Does the person giving you advice have "fruit on their tree"? The Pain of Disobedience: Reflect on the weight of standing before God one day and explaining why fear kept you from your purpose. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "Faith often looks foolish before it looks faithful." Brian: "God rarely calls people who feel qualified or sane about the assignment." Kersha: "I don't want to get to heaven and God say: 'So you didn't write that book?' and I have to say, 'You're right, I was afraid.'" Brian: "What would you do if you knew you wouldn't fail? God’s in your corner." Kersha: "Obedience requires courage, not certainty." Brian: "If they don't pay your bills or your mortgage, their opinion shouldn't stop your obedience." Kersha: "God built my identity. I need to find it in Him, not in what I do." Brian: "Iron sharpens iron, and there are sparks included in that." Kersha: "God’s calling often sounds irrational before it becomes undeniable." Brian: "You don't eat the elephant all in one bite; it’s one bite at a time." Kersha: "Who are you afraid will judge your obedience?" Brian: "1% better today is going to multiply. The ripple effect will happen." Kersha: "Growth doesn't happen in a day, but it happens daily." Brian: "If God is for us, who can be against us?" 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself What is the "crazy" thing you feel God asking you to do that you’ve been dismissing as your own imagination? Are you staying stuck because you're more afraid of looking foolish to people than you are of being disobedient to God? When you look at your "circle of counselors," do they have the spiritual "fruit" on their trees that qualifies them to speak into your calling? Are you operating out of a scarcity mindset (fear of running out) or an abundance mindset (trusting God to provide more)? What is one "baby step"—just 1% of the total task—that you can take this week to move toward what God has whispered to you? If you knew for a fact you could not fail because God was backing you, what would you start doing this afternoon? Is your need for "certainty" actually just a mask for a lack of courage? 📖 Featured Resources: YouVersion plan "I’m Just a Guy: Without Patience". Check it out here: https://www.bible.com/en/reading-plans/64707 Scripture Focus: Hebrews 11:1 - Faith is the confidence in what we do not see. Ephesians 3:20 - God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly more than we can ask or imagine. Romans 8:31 - If God is for us, who can be against us? Proverbs 11:14 - In an abundance of counselors, there is safety. James 1:5 - If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God. Judges 6:12-16 - The story of Gideon, who felt unqualified yet was used by God. Exodus 14:15-22 - Moses leading the Israelites through the Red Sea. 🙌 Join the Movement Stop waiting for the assignment to make sense to your logic and start letting it make sense to your faith. Brian and Kersha challenge you to take one bold, "foolish" step this week. Remember that God provides the strength for the step you are currently taking. You don't need the whole map; you just need to trust the Guide. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for our weekly emails and get exclusive updates on our Spring 2026 launches! 📩 Got a "crazy" faith story? Reach out and let us know how you're stepping out this week. 🎧 Love the show? Subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone who needs the courage to look "foolish" for God. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn't always easy, but it is always worth it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this deeply vulnerable and practical episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen tackle one of the most common struggles believers face: How do I know if it's really God's voice or just my own thoughts? With raw honesty, Kersha shares the story of sitting in church when she heard "I want you to write me a book"—and her immediate response of looking around thinking, "Cool. For them." This isn't just a theological discussion; it's a masterclass in discerning divine prompting from personal fear, assumption, and misinterpretation.The Owens get refreshingly real about the six-month delay between hearing God's call and mustering the courage to speak it out loud, the repeated nudges that wouldn't go away, and the confirmation that came through unexpected sources. From writing a book to launching a podcast to making major life decisions, Brian and Kersha walk listeners through their personal framework for testing whether something is truly from God. This episode is both a challenge to stop rationalizing away what God is asking and a practical guide for anyone who's ever wondered: Did I really just hear from Him?🔥 What You'll Learn:Recognizing God's Voice: Discover how to distinguish between divine prompting and your own thoughts, fears, or assumptions—and why repeated nudges are often God's way of getting your attention.The Delay Between Hearing and Obeying: Understand why many believers hear God's call but take months (or years) to act on it, and how delayed obedience is still disobedience.When God's Assignments Feel Unreasonable: Learn why God's voice often feels unrealistic before it feels anointed, and how obedience usually comes before clarity and understanding.Seeking Confirmation: Explore the importance of asking for divine confirmation when you feel God is calling you to something, and how confirmation can come through unexpected people and circumstances.God's Thoughts Are Higher: Discover how Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us that God's ways transcend our logic, resources, and readiness—and why that's actually good news.Discernment Filters: Get practical tools for testing whether a prompting is from God: Does it align with Scripture? Does it reflect Jesus's character? Does it require faith or just comfort?The Difference Between Fear and Wisdom: Learn how to tell if you're dismissing God's voice because it scares you or because it truly contradicts Scripture—and why that distinction matters.💬 Memorable Quotes:Kersha: "Have you ever felt God ask you to do something, and your first thought was: Did God really just ask me that, or am I making it up?"Kersha: "I heard: I want you to write me a book. And I literally looked around the room and was like, oh my gosh, someone's going to be an author. Cool. For them."Kersha: "It took me about six months to muster up the courage to even speak it out loud that God had asked me to write a book."Brian: "Delayed obedience is still disobedience."Kersha: "He wanted my obedience, and then He wanted us to walk the path so we could write about the things that He had us walk through."Brian: "If it's repeatedly coming back, share it with someone. There's a reason it keeps coming up."Kersha: "God often calls us beyond our logic and resources and readiness."Brian: "Obedience usually comes before clarity."Kersha: "Not every thought is divine, but God's voice carries a distinct tone."Kersha: "God's voice is consistent with His Word and His character."Kersha: "Are you dismissing God's voice because it scares you or because it truly contradicts Scripture?"Brian: "God reveals the next step, not the whole staircase."Kersha: "God calls ordinary people into extraordinary obedience."Kersha: "Faith grows when you move before you feel ready."🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfWhat is something you feel God has been nudging you to do, but you've been rationalizing it away?Have you been experiencing repeated thoughts or promptings about something? Could this be God trying to get your attention?Are you delaying obedience because you're waiting for perfect clarity, or are you willing to take the next step even without seeing the whole staircase?When you test a prompting against Scripture, does it align with God's Word and reflect Jesus's character of love, humility, and service?Are you dismissing what you're hearing because it scares you and stretches you beyond your comfort zone, or because it genuinely contradicts biblical truth?Do you have wise, faith-filled people in your life who you can share these promptings with to seek confirmation and accountability?Is there noise in your life—busyness, distractions, anxiety—that's making it harder to hear God's voice clearly? What needs to be quieted?Scripture Focus:This episode is anchored in these key biblical truths about hearing and obeying God's voice:Isaiah 55:8-9 - God's Thoughts Are Higher: A reminder that God's ways and thoughts transcend our human logic, and His assignments often feel unrealistic before they feel anointed.John 10:27 - My Sheep Hear My Voice: The promise that Jesus's sheep recognize and follow His voice—we are equipped to hear Him when we're walking in relationship with Him.Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust the Lord, Not Your Understanding: The call to trust God's wisdom above our own reasoning, especially when His direction doesn't make logical sense.James 1:5 - God Gives Wisdom Generously: The assurance that when we lack wisdom to discern God's voice, we can ask Him and He will give it freely.Hebrews 11:8 - Abraham Obeyed Even Without Knowing: The example of Abraham who went in obedience even though he didn't know where he was going—faith before full understanding.Luke 5:4-6 - Peter Casts the Nets Again: Peter's obedience to Jesus's seemingly illogical instruction led to a miraculous catch—sometimes obedience defies our expertise.Psalm 119:105 - God's Word Is a Lamp to Our Feet: God's guidance is like a lamp that lights the next step, not a floodlight that reveals the entire path ahead.🙌 Join the MovementIf you've been sitting on something God has asked you to do, this episode is your wake-up call. Brian and Kersha invite you to stop rationalizing away the divine nudges and start stepping out in obedience—even before you have perfect clarity. God doesn't need you to understand the whole plan; He just needs your yes. Test it against Scripture, seek confirmation from wise counsel, and then move. Faith looks foolish in the beginning, but obedience always leads to breakthrough.💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and stay updated on the exciting things coming in the Spring and Summer of 2026, including the upcoming book launch!📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear what God has been nudging you to do—and how you're learning to discern His voice.🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help someone else stop second-guessing God's call and start walking in obedience.Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn't always easy, but it is always worth it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this special father-daughter episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian Owen sits down with his teenage daughter Jacelyn for an unscripted, refreshingly honest conversation about dating, identity, and faith in today’s world. With Kersha away for this one, Brian steps into the driver’s seat as he and Jacelyn tackle one of the most relevant topics for young believers: why pursuing purpose must come before pursuing romance. This isn’t a lecture—it’s a real conversation between a dad and his daughter about what it looks like to trust God’s timing in relationships.With humor, vulnerability, and a few playful jabs (Jacelyn doesn’t hold back on roasting Dad), Brian and Jacelyn explore why identity in Christ must come before intimacy, how the pressure of social media distorts modern dating, and why loneliness is a feeling—not a calling. From the “checklist” they’ve created together to Jacelyn’s own self-evaluation process for whether she’s ready to date, this episode is packed with practical wisdom, biblical truth, and the kind of raw family dialogue that proves faith doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be real. Whether you’re a teenager navigating relationships, a parent guiding your kids, or an adult re-evaluating your approach to love, this episode will challenge you to chase God first and trust Him to write your love story.🔥 What You’ll Learn:Identity Before Intimacy: Understand why you don’t date to discover who you are—you date from knowing who you are in Christ. When people merge their identity into a relationship too early, they lose sight of who God is calling them to become.Purpose Over Preference: Learn why alignment matters more than attraction. The “triangle concept”—God at the top, husband and wife at the base—shows that the closer each person gets to God, the closer they get to each other.Holiness in the Process: Discover why how you date is as important as who you date. Is God at the center of your dating life, or is it driven by lust, loneliness, or social status?Loneliness Is a Feeling, Not a Calling: Explore how the fear of being alone drives people into unhealthy relationships—and why God’s promise is that you are never truly alone.The Power of the Checklist: Hear how Brian and Kersha challenged Jacelyn to create a list—not of surface-level wants like height and eye color, but of character traits rooted in faith that she’s also developing in herself.Setting Boundaries and Self-Evaluation: Learn how the Owen family has established dating guidelines rooted in both physical and spiritual maturity, and how Jacelyn’s own self-evaluation process has kept her grounded.Trusting God’s Timing: Understand why rushing into relationships short-circuits what God has planned—and why His “Forever Book” already has your love story written.The Social Media Trap: Hear Jacelyn’s perspective on how social media amplifies pressure, creates unrealistic expectations, and often leads couples to grow around an image rather than growing in faith.💬 Memorable Quotes:Brian: “You don’t date to discover who you are. You date from knowing who you are in Christ.”Jacelyn: “Loneliness is a feeling, not a calling.” (referencing Psalm 68:6)Brian: “How you date is as important as who you date.”Brian: “Chemistry can start it, but a calling sustains it.”Jacelyn: “They didn’t want to grow into who God was calling them to be. They just grew into ‘I really just want this one person.’”Brian: “Don’t chase love and hope God blesses it. Chase God and trust Him to bless your love.”Jacelyn: “God’s Forever Book—He wrote your names together before the beginning of time.”Brian: “They fell in lust before they fell into love.”Jacelyn: “Is it out of the deepest part of my heart? Is it pure? Kind of like how Christ loves the church.”Brian: “People like the idea of something. They don’t like the actual work that goes into it.”🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfAm I seeking a relationship to fill a void or avoid loneliness—or am I dating from a place of wholeness and identity in Christ?Have I taken time to develop my own purpose, gifts, and calling before pursuing romance?What does my “checklist” look like? Am I focused on surface-level qualities, or am I building character traits in myself that I also want to see in a future partner?Is social media shaping my expectations about relationships in unhealthy ways? Am I chasing an image or chasing alignment?Am I willing to trust God’s timing—even when loneliness feels overwhelming and everyone around me seems to be in a relationship?Do I have a network of godly voices speaking into my life—friends, mentors, family—who can help me stay grounded as I navigate dating?When I pray about a potential relationship, am I truly listening for God’s direction—or am I trying to make my own plans work?Scripture Focus:This episode is grounded in practical application of these key biblical principles:You Are Complete in Him (Colossians 2:10): A reminder that wholeness and identity come from Christ—not from a romantic relationship. You don’t need someone else to make you complete.Fearfully and Wonderfully Made (Psalm 139:14): God has intentionally and purposefully crafted who you are. Knowing this truth is the foundation for approaching relationships from a place of security, not insecurity.Do Not Be Unequally Yoked (2 Corinthians 6:14): The call to pursue alignment in relationships—spiritually, emotionally, and in purpose—rather than settling for attraction alone.The Lord’s Purpose Prevails (Proverbs 19:21): Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it’s God’s purpose that prevails. Trust His plan over your own timeline.God Sets the Lonely in Families (Psalm 68:6): Loneliness is a feeling, not a calling. God promises to place you in community and never leave you alone.Trust in the Lord (Proverbs 3:5–6): Trust God with all your heart in your relationships—don’t lean on your own understanding of timing or attraction.Delight in the Lord (Psalm 37:4): When you delight in the Lord, He gives you the desires of your heart—because your desires become aligned with His.🙌 Join the MovementIf you’re a young person navigating the pressure of dating in today’s world—or a parent trying to guide your kids through it—this episode is your reminder that God’s plan is worth the wait. Brian and Jacelyn invite you to stop chasing love and start chasing God. Build your identity in Christ. Make your checklist. Set your boundaries. Trust the Author of your story, because He’s already written it in His Forever Book.🔗 Resources & Voices MentionedThroughout the conversation, Brian and Jacelyn reference several voices and artists who are influencing young believers today. Check them out below:Sadie Robertson Huff – Faith-based encouragement, identity, and purposehttps://www.youtube.com/c/SadieRobertsonAlly Schnacky – Gen Z faith conversations, confidence, and bold truthhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCbDhjYocBWYPTqoUONCPRAJWLKRS Worship – Worship music focused on intimacy with Godhttps://www.jwlkrs.com/Avery Anna – Music exploring faith, emotion, and authenticityhttps://www.averyannamusic.com/💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the...
In this timely and deeply practical episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen tackle one of the most countercultural truths for believers: saying no is not a lack of faith—it's an act of faithfulness. As they kick off 2026, the Owens get refreshingly honest about the trap of overcommitment, the exhaustion of trying to be everywhere and do everything, and the freedom that comes from understanding biblical capacity. This isn't just another productivity conversation; it's a spiritual examination of what happens when we say yes to things God never asked us to do.With their signature blend of vulnerability and practical wisdom, Brian and Kersha unpack the "big rocks" analogy, the importance of protecting your yes by learning to say no, and why burnout is not a fruit of the Spirit. From navigating the chaos of raising five kids to building a house while homeschooling, the Owens share real-life examples of how capacity grows—but only when we're honest about our limits. This episode is a permission slip to stop running on empty and start operating within the healthy boundaries that allow room for miracles, margin for the Holy Spirit, and the peace that comes from obedience rather than overextension.🔥 What You'll Learn:Capacity vs. Overcommitment: Understand how saying no to certain things doesn't decrease your faith—it increases your effectiveness in the areas God has truly called you to.The Big Rocks Analogy: Learn how to prioritize the most important things first (your big rocks) and let the smaller commitments fill in around them, rather than spreading yourself thin across everything.Burnout Is Not a Fruit of the Spirit: Discover why exhaustion, anxiety, and constant busyness are warning signs that you've overcommitted—and how to course-correct before you crash.The Filter System for Decisions: Explore Brian and Kersha's hierarchy of priorities—God first, marriage second, immediate household third—and how this filter helps them say no to good things in favor of the best things.Leaving Margin for Miracles: Understand how saying yes to everything leaves no space for the Holy Spirit to work, move, or speak—and why margin is essential for witnessing God's power.Healthy Boundaries Reduce Anxiety: Learn how establishing clear boundaries and protecting your capacity can dramatically reduce stress and create space to breathe, rest, and hear from God.Capacity Grows Over Time: Hear Kersha's perspective on how capacity doesn't double overnight—it grows incrementally as you faithfully steward what God has given you in each season.💬 Memorable Quotes:Kersha: "Saying no to certain things doesn't decrease our faith. It decreases our effectiveness."Brian: "Burnout is not a fruit of the Spirit."Kersha: "It's okay to say no to the bonfire at the neighbor's house because you're already tired and you have a big day tomorrow."Brian: "Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty." (Zechariah 4:6)Kersha: "If you're so exhausted at night that you can't pray, you need to be saying no more than yes."Brian: "Saying no to certain things is an act of faith."Kersha: "The countercultural idea is you say yes to everything, but the godly idea is yes to everything leaves us no margin for miracles."Brian: "Let your yes be yes and your no be no." (Matthew 5:37)Kersha: "What am I saying yes to that God never asked me for?"Brian: "My capacity grew immensely because I had to learn to say no and protect what mattered most."🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfAre you overcommitted and overextended right now? What would it look like to honestly assess your current capacity?What are your "big rocks"—the non-negotiable priorities that should be filling your container first before anything else gets added?Are you experiencing burnout, exhaustion, or constant anxiety? If so, what commitments do you need to say no to in order to protect your peace?Is saying no difficult for you because you're a people pleaser? What would it look like to value God's approval over others' expectations?What are you saying yes to that God never actually asked you to do? How can you create space to discern His true calling from cultural pressure?Are you leaving margin in your life for the Holy Spirit to speak, work, and move? Or is your schedule so packed that there's no room for miracles?What healthy boundaries do you need to establish this year to protect your family, your faith, and your effectiveness in the areas God has called you to?Scripture Focus:This episode is grounded in practical application of these key biblical principles:Not by Might, but by My Spirit (Zechariah 4:6): A reminder that effectiveness and fruitfulness come from God's Spirit, not from our exhausting efforts or overcommitment.Let Your Yes Be Yes and Your No Be No (Matthew 5:37): The call to have clear, honest boundaries and to honor our commitments without overextending ourselves.The Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23): A check on whether our daily lives are producing peace, joy, and kindness—or anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout.Stewardship and Faithfulness: The biblical principle that we are called to be faithful stewards of the time, energy, and capacity God has given us—not to waste it on things He never assigned.🙌 Join the MovementIf you've been running on empty, overcommitted to things that drain rather than fill you, this episode is your permission slip to say no. Brian and Kersha invite you to step back, reassess your capacity, and prioritize the big rocks that God has placed in front of you. The world says yes to everything; God invites you to say yes to Him and no to the rest. Create margin for miracles, space for the Holy Spirit, and boundaries that protect the peace God has promised.💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and stay updated on the exciting things coming in the Spring and Summer of 2026, including our upcoming book launch!📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear what you're saying no to this year in order to protect your yes.🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help someone else learn the freedom of biblical boundaries and the power of a well-protected yes.Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn't always easy, but it is always worth it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this fiery and faith-filled conclusion to their three-part series, Brian and Kersha Owen bring "God's Plan vs. The American Dream" to a powerful close. Recording once again from a remote destination, they tackle one of the most challenging questions believers face: How do we take faith steps when the math doesn't work? This isn't just theological theory—it's a real-world challenge to stop praying about what God has already told you to do and start obeying. The Owens get refreshingly honest about the "broke man mindset," the trap of praying instead of obeying, and the transformative question: What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail? This episode serves as both a mirror and a roadmap. Brian and Kersha expose the comfortable patterns that keep us stuck—the idolization of possessions we never use, the association with people who hold us back, and the fear of failure that our culture has wrongly taught us to avoid. But they don't leave listeners in conviction; they offer a way forward through intentional steps, healthy tension, and the courage to move before you see the outcome. With their signature blend of vulnerability and fire, the Owens challenge the community to ask: Do you want this year to be a repeat of last year, or are you ready for crazy, unbelievable faith? 🔥 What You'll Learn: When the Math Doesn't Math: Discover how God's economy operates on a completely different system than our bank accounts, and why financial limitations don't limit His provision. The Broke Man Mindset: Identify the difference between scarcity thinking and true stewardship, and how idolizing possessions can keep you from actually using what God has given you. Prayer vs. Obedience: Understand the critical distinction between praying for clarity and praying about something God has already told you to do—and why the latter is just spiritual procrastination. The Power of Association: Learn how the people around you can either propel you forward or pull you back like crabs in a bucket, and why changing your circle might be necessary for growth. Faith That Moves Before It Sees: Explore the biblical model of obedience that steps out while the water is still in front of you, trusting God to part it as you move. Growth Through Tension: Reframe failure and discomfort as essential ingredients for growth rather than signs you're on the wrong path. The Insanity of Repetition: Challenge the definition of insanity (doing the same thing expecting different results) and discover what small, daily efforts can produce a fruitful year. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "Faith looks risky until you see what God was building." Brian: "God's bank account is much larger than our bank account. He lives on a much different economy than we do." Brian: "I would say, hey, let's drive my work vehicle because gas is covered instead of our nice vehicle that's in the garage... Why do we have that? It's worse than a scarcity mindset—it's a broke man mindset." Kersha: "What has God already told you to do that you keep praying about instead of obeying? Why are you praying for something that He's already told you to go do?" Brian: "Prayer is not a substitute for obedience. Prayer is an act that we do that ties us closer to the Holy Spirit." Kersha: "Do you want the year this year that you're in to be a repeat of last year? If you don't, what small things are you willing to change?" Brian: "You can't say that your faith didn't work if you're not actually putting it to use. The only way a gym doesn't work is if you don't put it to use." Kersha: "What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail?" 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself What has God already told you to do that you're still praying about instead of obeying? Are you stuck in a "broke man mindset," idolizing possessions you never actually use or enjoy? When the math doesn't math in your life, do you trust God's economy or do you spiral into scarcity thinking? Are there people in your life who are holding you back like crabs in a bucket? What would it look like to create healthy distance or find new associations? What would you do this year if you knew you couldn't fail? What's the first small step toward that vision? Are you praying for clarity while avoiding the things that would actually give you clarity (time in the Word, seeking wise counsel, taking action)? Do you want this year to be a repeat of last year? If not, what small daily efforts are you willing to commit to? Scripture Focus: This episode brings the series to a close with practical application of these key biblical truths: Faith Over Sight (2 Corinthians 5:7): The foundational call to live by faith, not by what we can see or calculate. Seek First the Kingdom (Matthew 6:33): The promise that when we prioritize God's kingdom, all the things we need will be added to us. Be Doers, Not Hearers Only (James 1:22): A direct challenge to stop merely listening to God's word and start actively obeying it. Peter Walking on Water (Matthew 14:22-33): The ultimate example of stepping out in faith while the water is still in front of you, trusting Jesus to hold you up. 🙌 Join the Movement If you've been stuck in the cycle of praying instead of obeying, this episode is your wake-up call. Brian and Kersha invite you to stop waiting for the math to work and start trusting the God who specializes in impossible equations. The American Dream promises comfort and control, but God's plan offers something the world can't produce: a peace that guards your heart and a purpose that moves heaven. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and stay updated on the exciting things coming in the Spring and Summer of 2026, including our upcoming book launch! 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear how this series has impacted your walk and what you're committing to step out in faith on. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help someone else move from safe faith to crazy, unbelievable faith. 🙏 Closing Prayer: "Lord, give us faith that moves before it sees, courage that obeys before it understands, trust that steps out while the water is still in front of us. We don't want safe faith. We want crazy, unbelievable faith. In Jesus' name, Amen." Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn't always easy, but it is always worth it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this thought-provoking and deeply personal episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen return for the second installment of their series exploring the friction between the "American Dream" and God’s ultimate design for our lives. Recording from a remote destination, they unpack the reality that while the world promises success through control and calculated outcomes, faith often requires the exact opposite: a total surrender of our blueprints in exchange for His guidance. This isn't just a discussion on theology; it’s a challenge to look at the "inputs" of our lives and ask if they are feeding our souls or hushing the fruit of the Spirit within us.The conversation centers on the uncomfortable tension between wanting clarity and offering surrender. Brian and Kersha get honest about the "information constipation" that keeps us stagnant and the "rebellious tendency" to delay the very things God has called us to do. From the hard-earned wisdom of mentors to the lighthearted (yet pointed) analogies of perfectionism and "the right containers," this episode serves as a roadmap for anyone feeling stuck in the "99% surrender" trap. It is a powerful reminder that while obedience may look foolish to the world, it is the only path to a peace that guards the heart and a power that flows from the authority of Christ.🔥 What You’ll Learn:Surrender vs. Clarity: Discover why faith feels risky when we prioritize having a clear map over having a surrendered heart to the One who knows the end from the beginning.The Cost of Delay: Understand the heavy weight of "delayed obedience" and how procrastinating on God’s call is, at its root, a form of disobedience.Redefining Success: Learn to distinguish between having an "amount of money" and having a "quality of life" by looking at the marriages and relationships of those ahead of you.The Trap of Partial Surrender: Explore why being 99% of the way there is still a failure to fully trust, and why "partial surrender" is actually a form of rebellion.Looking Up, Not Out: Shift your perspective from keeping up with "the Joneses" to finding your "True North" by looking heavenward instead of at material status symbols.God’s Strategic Foolishness: Unpack the biblical truth that God often uses things the world deems "foolish" to shame the wise and accomplish His greatest purposes.Equipping the Called: Gain encouragement from the reality that you don’t need to be perfectly equipped to start; God provides the tools and the paving as you take the first step.💬 Memorable Quotes:Kersha: "Faith always feels risky because we want clarity and God just simply wants our surrender." Brian: "Delayed obedience is still disobedience... it paralyzes people sometimes." Kersha: "Partial surrender is still rebellion. It’s like going 99% of the way—it’s still failure." Brian: "God cannot steer a parked car. Taking those obedience steps... they might seem infant, but you have to crawl before you walk." Kersha: "The humanly aspect is that we're guaranteed to be born, pay taxes, and die. But when God lays something on your heart, what He says is done." Brian: "Just because somebody looks successful from the outside, they may be totally broken on the inside. They might be on their third marriage." Brian: "They make fun of your journey, but then they relish in your fulfillment. Are you willing to do the work they did to get what they have?"🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfAre you currently holding back your "yes" because you are waiting for clarity that God has already replaced with a call to surrender?Is there a specific task or "house plan" God has put on your heart that you have been delaying? What would it look like to act on it today?When you look at people 5 or 10 years ahead of you, are you looking at their bank accounts or the quality of their marriages and peace?In what areas of your life are you "99% surrendered"? What is that final 1% that you are still trying to control?Are your daily "inputs" (media, social circles, habits) pulling the fruits of the Spirit out of you or hushing them up?How can you shift your focus this week from "looking out" at your neighbors to "looking up" toward your True North?Scripture Focus:This episode provides a practical application of several key biblical principles:Hearing the Shepherd (John 10:27): The reminder that Christ’s sheep hear His voice and follow without the need for endless debate or analysis.The Definition of Lordship (Luke 6:46): A challenge to the listeners: "Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say?"The Wisdom of the Foolish (1 Corinthians 1:27): How God uses the "foolish" things of the world—like unconventional career moves or simple obedience—to shame the wise.The Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23): A check on whether our daily environment is cultivating kindness, joy, and humility.The Great Commission & Kingdom Building: The overarching call to build God’s kingdom here on earth while heading toward our final destination.🙌 Join the MovementIf you’ve been chasing the American Dream only to find it leaving you empty, or if you’re struggling to take that first step of obedience, this episode is your invitation to let go. Brian and Kersha invite you to move past "information constipation" and into a purpose-driven faith that moves heaven. Stop waiting for the perfect "container" or the perfect plan—just start moving, because God can’t steer a car that’s stayed in park.💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and stay updated on the exciting things coming in the Spring and Summer of 2026, including our upcoming book launch!📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear how this series is impacting your walk.🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help someone else trade their need for control for God's perfect peace.Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this fiery and thought-provoking episode, Brian and Kersha Owen challenge listeners to examine whether they're truly following Jesus—or following Jesus plus the American Dream. What begins as a discussion about resolutions versus intentions quickly becomes a deep dive into the tension between cultural expectations and God's calling, asking the uncomfortable question: Are you chasing comfort or chasing God?Between stories of buying boats they couldn't afford, the pressure to "keep up with the Joneses," and Brian's confession about building a house that never felt like home, this episode delivers both brutal honesty and biblical truth that Crazy Unbelievable Faith is known for. Brian and Kersha unpack the danger of seeking God's approval on our blueprints rather than surrendering to His plans, the difference between chasing God's calling versus chasing God Himself, and why real faith requires stepping into uncomfortable waters. They challenge listeners to evaluate whether they're storing up earthly treasures or heavenly ones, whether their eyes are fixed 20 feet ahead or fixed above, and whether they're willing to let God stretch them in the areas they're holding onto most tightly.With powerful imagery of light defeating darkness and Peter stepping onto the water, Brian and Kersha remind us that God doesn't call us to comfort—He calls us to faith. This isn't just about rejecting materialism; it's about surrendering our timelines, our money, our comfort zones, and our carefully constructed plans to a God who sees the bigger picture. It's about being counter-cultural in a world that worships success, and choosing to follow Jesus even when it costs us everything we thought we wanted.🔥 What You'll LearnJesus vs. Jesus + The American Dream: The critical distinction between genuine faith and the comfortable Christianity that adds God's blessing to our own plans while keeping control of our comfort, money, and timeline.The Joneses Mindset: Why society's pressure to have the boat, the big house, and the picture-perfect life is a "monopoly mindset" that sets us up for stress, debt, and chasing things that ultimately don't satisfy.Uncomfortable Waters: Why God's calling will always push you into discomfort, and how the absence of being stretched or challenged might be a sign you're following your own plans rather than His will.Chasing God's Calling vs. Chasing God: Brian and Kersha's most profound question—are you hyper-focused on what God wants you to do, or are you longing to be closer to who God is? The distinction changes everything.Earthly Treasures vs. Heavenly Treasures: A fresh look at Matthew 6:19-21 and why placing our security in material things, career success, or societal approval leaves us vulnerable to loss and disappointment.Eyes Fixed Above, Not Ahead: The difference between looking 20 feet in front of you (keeping your gaze on outcomes and goals) versus looking up to God (keeping your gaze on Him and trusting His direction).God's Timeline, Not Yours: Why surrendering to God's timing is one of the hardest parts of faith, and how financial and material pressures can reveal what we're truly holding onto.Light Defeats Darkness: Brian's powerful illustration of how light shining from above can penetrate any darkness, while light reflecting up can only illuminate the ground—and why the direction of our focus matters.The Broader Picture: Why Christians can get so hyper-focused on one piece of God's calling that they miss the fullness of what He's inviting them into, and how stepping back reveals the bigger puzzle.What God Wants to Break Down: The uncomfortable truth that whatever you're clinging to most tightly is exactly what God wants to stretch you on—whether it's a house, a job, a relationship, or your sense of security.💬 Memorable QuotesKersha: "Let's be real. Are we really following Jesus, or are we following Jesus plus the American dream?"Brian: "Are we following Jesus plus the American dream? Is it this overlapping? Like I'll do God's will as long as we're staying comfortable?"Kersha: "Society puts these things on us that you need the boat, you need the nice big house. It's a keeping up with the Joneses mindset. Who's Jones? I don't know. Who are they?"Brian: "We have 13 plus years that's been fed to you to go to school, get good grades, get a good job, and you'll be comfortable. You'll be happy. But we know a lot of people—we have gone through unhappy seasons having walked that path."Brian: "Am I chasing the material things or am I chasing the things that God has put in my life?"Kersha: "Are we chasing earth or are we chasing heaven?"Kersha: "If we're living for God, he's going to call us into uncomfortable waters. He's going to call us into doing uncomfortable things."Kersha: "Are you doing things that aren't making you uncomfortable? And is it really God's will for you?"Kersha: "Or is it: God, bless my plans. Approve of my blueprints. Don't touch my comfort. Don't touch my money. And don't touch my timeline."Kersha: "If that's the way in which you're coasting through life, then you really are trying to say, I will follow Jesus plus the American dream, rather than I will follow Jesus."Kersha: "I had my eyes fixed 20 feet in front of me rather than my eyes fixed above me."Kersha: "I think that we have to determine, are we chasing God's calling or are we chasing God?"Brian: "Are we just going to stay surface level in 2026? No. We're going there."Brian: "Are we chasing God's call on my life? Or am I chasing God? Am I longing to be closer to him as a whole, or am I longing to be closer to him in this one little slice of his call?"Kersha: "His calling is much broader than the thing that he's asking you to do."Brian: "It's important for us as Christians to assess and reflect—what are we doing? Are we chasing the American dream? Are we chasing God's plan? Or are we chasing both?"Kersha: "Make sure that your eyes aren't fixed in front of you. They're fixed above you."Brian: "The light coming this way can only hit the ground and reflect up. The light shining down can cast into any form of darkness."Kersha: "Light defeats darkness. As long as we're looking for it."Kersha: "It's like we think, oh my gosh, this world is caving in. This challenge, this job, this scenario. I don't think I'm ever going to get out of it. People can get out of it. There is a way. It's just being focused on God, his path. But it's also allowing it to be in God's timeline."Brian: "God will stretch you and whatever you're holding onto, he's going to try to break down to show you you're holding on to that."Brian: "I remember the night that I first laid my head down, I—it didn't feel like my home. It felt like his. But that's okay."Kersha: "Are you chasing the American dream? Are you chasing God's will? Or are you chasing both?"Kersha: "Which is: God, I will take up my latte and I will follow you instead of take up my cross and follow you."🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfAre you following Jesus, or are you following Jesus plus the American Dream? What's the difference in your life?When was the last time God called you to do something that made you genuinely uncomfortable? Did you obey, or did you negotiate with Him to stay comfortable?What are you holding onto most tightly—your comfort, your money, your timeline, or your plans? Is God asking you to surrender it?Do you pray "God, bless my plans" or "God, I surrender to Your plans"? What does your prayer life reveal about who's really in control?Are you chasing God's calling (what He wants you to do) or chasing God ...
For today’s episode we are replaying some of our favorite guest moments from the show. 💻 Visit https://crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to other resources mentioned in today's show.📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you.🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help other people experience the same encouragement you just received.Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn't always easy, but it is always worth it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this raw and humorous year-end reflection, Brian and Kersha Owen hit pause on the holiday chaos to ask the question most people avoid: Are you part of the 2% who finish well, or the 98% who just finish? What begins as a slightly rushed Christmas Eve recording quickly becomes a rallying cry for intentionality, self-reflection, and choosing to stand out rather than blend in.Between stories of parking in "the back 40" at Target, too much complimentary ice cream on vacation, and a hilarious on-the-fly moment where Brian admits Kersha's brain "doesn't process like his," this episode delivers both the wisdom and the authenticity Crazy Unbelievable Faith is known for. Brian and Kersha unpack the power of daily habits, the danger of self-judgment, and why most people wait until January 1st to start what they could begin today. They challenge listeners to pick 1-3 areas for growth, stop analyzing themselves to a tee, and remember that growth happens daily—but not in a day.With Paul's words from 2 Timothy echoing through the conversation—"I have fought the good fight"—Brian and Kersha remind us that as long as there's air in our lungs, we should be growing, stretching, and refusing to coast through life. This isn't just about New Year's resolutions; it's about becoming the black sheep who stands out for God's kingdom rather than the white sheep who blends into mediocrity.🔥 What You'll LearnThe 2% vs. 98% Principle: Why only 2% of people truly finish well, and how you can join them by being intentional about your year-end reflection and New Year planning.Black Sheep or White Sheep? Brian's powerful reframe of what it means to "stand out" versus "blend in"—and why being the black sheep for God's kingdom is exactly where you want to be.Growth Happens Daily, But Not in a Day: The crucial mindset shift that transforms how you approach personal development, goal-setting, and lasting change.Stop Analyzing, Start Acting: Kersha's challenge to quit self-judging and instead focus on 1-3 specific areas where you want to see growth—and give yourself grace along the way.Failure Is Feedback: Why the Owens teach their children that failure means you're trying, and how reframing setbacks as learning opportunities changes everything.The Power of Relationships: Why 2026 should be the year you intentionally expand your network, ask "Who do you know that I should know?", and open doors for others.Fighting the Good Fight: Brian's conviction from 2 Timothy 4:7—"I have fought the good fight"—and why you should refuse to coast or become complacent as long as there's air in your lungs.What Is God Saying About Your Tomorrows? The importance of sifting through the noise to truly hear the Holy Spirit speak to you about your future and calling.💬 Memorable QuotesBrian: "Do you want to be the 2% or the 98%? Are you part of the 2% that really try to finish well?"Kersha: "We had to park in the back 40 at Target. The holiday rush is REAL."Brian: "I was making notes and she's like, 'This doesn't seem very authentic,' which is totally true."Kersha: "He's still holding onto them. His grip..."Kersha: "My brain doesn't process like yours."Brian: "Wednesday, December 24th, 2025. Brian has a speechless moment."Brian: "I definitely don't want to be the white sheep and blend in. I do want to be the black sheep and stand out."Kersha: "Do you want to be vanilla and just coast through life? Or do you want to be the chocolate which stands out?"Brian: "It was complimentary ice cream. There's also consequences to the complimentary ice cream. Weight gain."Brian: "Why do people wait until January 1st to start their weight loss initiatives? I'll just start it when you start it."Kersha: "Growth happens daily, but not in a day. It has to be intentional."Brian: "It's like eating the elephant. I have to eat the whole elephant instead of it being one bite at a time."Kersha: "I've never eaten an elephant."Brian: "I have fought the good fight. I don't want to say that until the end of my life. There's still air in my lungs."Kersha: "Stop analyzing yourself to a tee. Find a couple of areas that you want growth, then focus on those areas."Kersha: "Don't look at missing the target as though you failed. Look at missing the target as though you won because there was growth along the way."Brian: "Failure is good. It means you're trying."Kersha: "Take the word 'can't' out. Matthew McConaughey grew up where his dad would get him in trouble for saying that word."Brian: "What's his name? That guy? Oh my gosh. Texas. Matthew McConaughey. Welcome to my mind."Brian: "That's the definition of insanity—doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results."Brian: "Who is it that someone knows that you should know? The only way you can do that is by having a conversation—coffee, lunch, whatever."Kersha: "What is God saying to you today about your tomorrows?"🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfAre you part of the 2% who finish well, or the 98% who just finish? What would it look like for you to finish this year strong?When was the last time you took intentional time to reflect on your wins, losses, and challenges from the past year?Do you want to be the white sheep who blends in, or the black sheep who stands out for God's kingdom? What does standing out look like for you in 2026?What are 1-3 specific areas where you want to see growth in the coming year? (Remember: don't try to dissect yourself to a tee!)Are you self-judging and staying planted in quicksand? What would it look like to give yourself grace and take the first step forward?What daily habits and routines do you need to establish to support your growth? Remember: growth happens daily, but not in a day.How do you currently view failure? Can you reframe it as feedback and a sign that you're trying?What relationships are causing you to stay in neutral or go in reverse? Who do you need to surround yourself with in 2026?Who is it that someone in your network knows that you should know? When will you have that coffee or lunch to ask?Are you waiting until January 1st to start something you could begin today? What's stopping you from taking action right now?When you set goals and miss the target, do you beat yourself up or recognize the growth along the way?What is God saying to you today about your tomorrows? Are you creating space to truly hear the Holy Spirit speak?📖 Biblical Principles FocusThis episode centers on the biblical call to finish well, live intentionally, and refuse complacency as long as God gives us breath:Principle of Finishing Well (2 Timothy 4:7): "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." Paul's declaration becomes Brian's life motto—that we should be striving and growing until the very end. This isn't about perfection; it's about persistence, intentionality, and refusing to coast through life. As long as there's air in our lungs, we should be fighting the good fight.Principle of Intentional Reflection (Lamentations 3:40, Psalm 139:23-24): "Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord." "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts." The episode's call to year-end reflection echoes the biblical practice of self-examination—not for condemnation, but for growth and realignment with God's purposes.Principle of Daily Faithfulness (Luke 16:10, 1 Corinthians 15:58): "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much." Kersha's insi...
In this refreshing and transparent episode recorded from a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean, Brian and Kersha Sprite share raw reflections on what it means to truly take your eyes off yourself and serve others well. Broadcasting from their family vacation—an honorary trip to celebrate Brian's late grandfather who loved cruises—they unpack powerful lessons about cultural humility, intentional parenting, and the transformative power of servant-hearted living.From teaching their children to speak basic Spanish in Mexican shops to witnessing extraordinary service from their waiter Aldrin who literally cut up everyone's steak, this episode is filled with practical examples of what it looks like to go "90%" toward others rather than expecting them to come to you. Brian and Kersha challenge the American tendency to expect the world to cater to us while refusing to adapt to others, revealing how this self-centered mindset bleeds into every area of life—especially parenting and the holiday season.Whether you're navigating close quarters with family during the holidays, raising teenagers through introspective seasons, or simply trying to be more present in a world that constantly demands your attention, this conversation offers a timely reminder: the dishes can wait, but the opportunity to serve and love others can't.🔥 What You'll LearnThe 90% Principle: Why we need to be willing to go 90% toward others all the time, and how this posture changes everything from international travel to family dynamics.Cultural Humility in Action: The powerful moment when a Mexican shop owner thanked Brian and Kersha for teaching their children basic Spanish phrases and being respectful—and why this small act of humility led to better deals and a memorable teaching moment.The Waiter Who Changed Everything: How Aldrin, their cruise ship waiter, modeled extraordinary service by cutting up everyone's steak and treating them as human beings, not just customers—and what parents can learn from his approach.Identity from Obedience, Not Introspection: Why Jesus constantly redirected His attention to the Father's will rather than looking inward, and how this principle helps teenagers (and adults) break free from the mental loops of puberty and anxiety.The Holiday Season Challenge: Why Christmas is the perfect time to practice taking your eyes off yourself, especially when you're in close quarters with family and tempers can flare.First World Struggles and Gratitude: Teaching children perspective by acknowledging that many people never leave their state or city, while your family is blessed to experience international travel.The Cheese Sandwich Hug for Emotional Seasons: How pressing in during your child's struggles—rather than sending them to their room—creates the foundation for lifelong trust and open communication.Where to Find Servant Hearts: Brian's challenge to observe your surroundings and identify who is serving, encouraging, and loving others—because if you look for it, you'll find it.💬 Memorable QuotesBrian: "God shared specifically about taking our eyes off ourselves."Kersha: "We want people to cater to us, but we don't want to cater to others, but then we still want to be catered to."Brian: "He stopped me and he thanked me, because the children were also saying gracias and de nada and por favor. He said, 'You have a beautiful family. Thank you so much for teaching your children how to customize to other native languages and to be respectful and meaningful.'"Kersha: "We can't always just expect others to come to us. We need to be willing to go the 90% all the time, all the time."Brian: "If we are out serving others and loving on others, then they feel our energy and our presence, and that is important for our children to learn."Kersha: "You're very blessed. We're very fortunate to be where we are, what we're doing. Because not everybody gets that experience."Brian: "Identity comes from obedience, not introspection."Kersha: "Sometimes as parents, we just want to be like, go to your room. I don't have the time or the intention to give your emotions right now."Brian: "When your child is struggling through those seasons, press in and don't pull out."Kersha: "He wasn't just serving us our dinner, he was serving us as human beings and trying to be as helpful and generous with his time and his effort as possible."Brian: "He made this experience way better than I could have ever, ever imagined."Kersha: "Just take your eyes off yourself and go say hi to somebody. Just encourage someone. Just learn about other people."Brian: "I challenge you wherever you're at. If you're out to dinner, if you're out with family, just step back for a second and observe things. And where can you find those servant people around you?"Kersha: "Because if you look for it, you'll find it. If you choose to not look for it, it's not going to be there."Brian: "A challenge is what can you do to be more servant hearted?"🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfWhen was the last time you adapted to someone else's culture, language, or preferences rather than expecting them to adapt to you?Are you willing to go 90% toward others, or do you find yourself constantly expecting others to meet you halfway?What "first world struggles" are consuming your mental energy that could be redirected toward gratitude and service?How are you teaching your children perspective about privilege and the importance of serving others?During the holiday season, when you're in close quarters with family, are you pressing in or pulling away when tensions rise?Are you running your day, or is your day running you? When was the last time you intentionally slowed down to serve someone?Who in your life models extraordinary service like Aldrin the waiter? What can you learn from them?Are you trying to find your identity through introspection, or are you finding it through obedience to God's will?What does "pressing in" practically look like when your child (or spouse, or friend) is struggling emotionally?This week, where can you step back and observe who is serving, encouraging, and loving others around you?📖 Biblical Principles FocusThis episode centers on the heart of Christ-like service and the radical call to put others before ourselves:Principle of Servant Leadership (Philippians 2:3-4): "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." The episode's core message—taking your eyes off yourself—is the essence of Christ-like humility.Principle of Cultural Humility (1 Corinthians 9:19-23): "I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some." Paul's missionary approach mirrors Brian and Kersha's willingness to learn Spanish and adapt to other cultures rather than expecting others to cater to them.Principle of Going the Extra Mile (Matthew 5:41): "If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles." The "90% principle" reflects Jesus's teaching to exceed expectations and serve sacrificially.Principle of Grateful Living (1 Thessalonians 5:18): "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Brian and Kersha's emphasis on teaching their children to be grateful for travel opportunities reflects Paul's call to gratitude.Principle of Christ's Example (John 13:12-15): "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should ...
In this heartfelt and transparent episode, Kersha sits down with her soon-to-be 15-year-old daughter, Jacelyn, for an honest conversation about what intentionality in parenting truly means from a teenager's perspective. What begins as a mother-daughter chat quickly transforms into a masterclass on building trust, creating safe spaces for vulnerability, and raising kids who feel genuinely loved—not just managed.Jacelyn opens up about what makes her feel seen and valued, from car conversations and nail salon trips to hunting with dad and those "cheese sandwich" bear hugs during emotional moments. Kersha shares the behind-the-scenes work of parenting—learning to let go, encouraging unique parent-child bonds, and leading from the front by apologizing first. Together, they unpack the difference between lecturing and listening, the power of pressing in during hard seasons rather than pulling away, and why teenagers need a trusted adult they can be vulnerable with—whether that's a parent, mentor, or God Himself.🔥 What You'll LearnThe Love Language of Time: How one-on-one moments—whether it's dinner dates, gym sessions, or hunting trips—communicate "you matter" louder than any words.Listen, Don't Lecture: Jacelyn's candid plea to parents everywhere: "I'm not looking for a sermon. I just want you to listen to me." Why creating space without judgment builds the trust bond.The Cheese Sandwich Hug: A powerful parenting tool for emotional seasons—refusing to let kids isolate during struggles and instead pressing in with love (even when they resist).Letting Go to Let Grow: Kersha's journey of releasing the need to be part of every moment and encouraging unique father-daughter (and mother-daughter) connections.Raising Adults, Not Kids: The intentional decision to teach reflection, apologize first, and model grace so children learn to extend it to themselves and others.The Wind Metaphor: Jacelyn's beautiful explanation of faith—"God is like the wind. You can feel Him, but you can't see Him."Open Communication as a Lifeline: Why teenagers need to be honest with their trusted adults, and how parents can create realistic expectations that make home feel safe.💬 Memorable QuotesJacelyn: "It makes me feel loved, makes me feel like, oh, my parents actually care about me because I've seen people who their parents just shove them off into a corner."Kersha: "Sometimes as parents, we kind of just get caught up in the day and the days run us instead of us running the day."Jacelyn: "Just sitting in the car and having just deep, meaningful conversations just shows that you actually care what I'm thinking about and what I'm feeling."Kersha: "Listen. Listen to your children."Jacelyn: "Mom, I'm not looking for a lecture. I just want you to listen to me."Kersha: "God worked on my heart and said, no, let that be their thing and it's okay for them to have that thing."Kersha: "Sometimes as parents, we just want to be like, go to your room. I don't have the time or the intention to give your emotions right now."Kersha: "When your child is struggling through those seasons, press in and don't pull out."Kersha: "Be intentional with your children, be into the things that they're into and pull them into the things that you're into. And that builds a mutual respect and a mutual foundation."Jacelyn: "You need to be honest with your parents, and you need to be open with them because if you aren't, they will never know what you're going through."Kersha: "Parents can't help lead their children unless they know really honestly the depth of what they're going through."Jacelyn: "Find someone that you can be authentic with and don't feel that you'll be judged by."Jacelyn: "Even when you don't say anything, He hears your tears."Jacelyn: "God is like the wind. You can feel Him, but you can't see Him."Kersha: "We as parents, seek forgiveness. We apologize first. We set that example. We lead from the front."🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfAre you running your day, or is your day running you? When was the last time you had intentional, one-on-one time with each of your children?Do your kids feel like they can talk to you without getting a lecture? Are you listening to understand, or listening to correct?What unique "things" does each of your children have with you? What about with your spouse? Are you encouraging those bonds or trying to be part of everything?During your child's emotional seasons, are you pressing in or pulling away? What does "pressing in" practically look like in your home?Are you modeling the behavior you want to see? Do your children see you apologize first, extend grace, and laugh at your own mistakes?If you're a teenager listening: Who is your safe person? Have you opened up to someone you trust about what you're really going through?Are you creating realistic expectations that allow your children to feel safe and comfortable at home?📖 Biblical Principles FocusThis episode centers on the heart of parenting as discipleship and the power of intentional relationships:Principle of Intentional Investment (Deuteronomy 6:6-7): "These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." Everyday moments—car rides, dinners, gym sessions—become sacred opportunities to build trust and teach truth.Principle of Leading by Example (1 Corinthians 11:1): "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." Kersha's emphasis on apologizing first and modeling grace reflects Paul's call to lead from the front in humility.Principle of Safe Spaces (Proverbs 18:13, James 1:19): "To answer before listening—that is folly and shame." "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." The episode's core message—listen, don't lecture—is grounded in biblical wisdom about the power of truly hearing someone.Principle of God's Omnipresence (Psalm 139:1-4, Matthew 28:20): Jacelyn's reflection that "even when you don't say anything, He hears your tears" echoes the psalmist's assurance that God knows us intimately and is always present, even when we can't see Him.🙌 Join the MovementIf you're a parent feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of daily life, let this episode be your reminder that the dishes can wait, but the conversations can't. Intentionality doesn't require perfection—it requires presence. We challenge you this week to carve out one-on-one time with each of your children. Put down your phone, silence the lecture in your head, and just listen. Ask them what makes them feel loved. And if you're a teenager, take the brave step of opening up to someone you trust. Your story matters, your feelings are valid, and you are deeply loved.💻 Visit https://crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to other resources mentioned in today's show.📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you.🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help other parents and teens experience the same encouragement you just received.Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn't always easy, but it is always worth it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use ...
In this deeply courageous and transparent episode, Brian and Kersha are joined by Logan Burchett, a guest they met by divine appointment at a local restaurant. What started as a simple server-customer interaction blossomed into a profound conversation about the battles young men face today. Logan opens up about his journey from a childhood of faith to an "existential crisis" fueled by atheistic influences, eventually spiraling into multi-substance addiction and a harrowing struggle with pornography.Brian and Kersha help navigate the darkest parts of Logan’s story, including a traumatic experience with grooming and exploitation during his early teen years. They discuss the dangerous desensitization caused by social media, the reality of "spiritual progress rather than spiritual perfection," and the scientific and spiritual rewiring of the mind through tools like EMDR and scripture. From the powerful visual of the "dirty cup" in Matthew 23 to the grace found in taking life "one day at a time," this episode is a testament that no matter how much "mud" is in your life, the clean water of the Holy Spirit can wash it away.🔥 What You’ll LearnThe "Cup" Analogy: Logan’s defining realization from Matthew 23—why cleaning the outside of the dish (appearance/reputation) means nothing if the inside is full of greed and self-indulgence.The Trap of Desensitization: How early access to smartphones and pornography numbs us to reality, distorts relationships, and acts as a gateway to deeper spiritual disconnect.Grooming Awareness: A sobering look at how predators operate not just online, but in person—and why we must teach the next generation to trust their "red flags."Progress Over Perfection: The AA principle that releases us from the shame of failure: we aren't demanding immediate perfection, but daily spiritual growth.Rewiring the Brain: Kersha breaks down how trauma impacts the mind and how therapies like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can help "reprogram" triggers.The 24-Hour Rule: The practical application of "do not worry about tomorrow"—finding sobriety and peace by focusing solely on the grace needed for today.💬 Memorable QuotesLogan: "If you pour clean water into a cup full of mud and muck, eventually all of that will be washed... which is just a really good example of the Holy Spirit cleansing us."Brian: "Definitely step out of your comfort zone because you never know at the end of that conversation what a doorway can open for someone else."Logan: "A godless world is not a freeing world."Kersha: "Everyone is guilty until you prove yourself innocent... your guard is always up... but if you're not willing to let your guard down and take that risk to a degree, you just don't know the connections like this."Logan: "We truly connect with people, not with our strengths, but in the vulnerability of our weaknesses."Logan: "I have to proclaim my forgiveness for him... If not, I'm just gonna continue to let the effects rule my life."Logan: "We claim spiritual progress rather than spiritual perfection."🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfAre you focused on polishing the outside of your "cup" (social media image, career, reputation) while ignoring the "mud" on the inside?Is there a "secret sin" or addiction you are managing like a job, hoping no one notices the cracks in the foundation?Have you become desensitized to things that used to shock you? How is your media consumption affecting your view of others?Are you holding onto unforgiveness toward someone who hurt you? Is that lack of forgiveness keeping you in prison, not them?Are you trying to tackle the worries of next year, or are you willing to trust God for the strength to get through just the next 24 hours?Who is in your support group? Do you have a "sponsor" or spiritual mentor you can call when the urge to slide back arises?📖 Biblical Principles FocusThis episode is anchored in the concept of internal purification and daily reliance:Principle of Internal Cleansing (Matthew 23:25-26): The anchor verse for Logan. Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for cleaning the outside of the cup while the inside remains full of greed. It is a call to deal with the heart first, and the behavior will follow.Principle of Daily Grace (Matthew 6:34): "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself." Logan’s recovery mantra of taking it "one day at a time" aligns perfectly with Jesus' command to live in daily dependence.Principle of Renewal (Romans 12:2): The discussion on changing thoughts to change actions reflects Paul’s command to be transformed by the renewing of your mind.🙌 Join the MovementIf you are struggling with addiction, secret shame, or the weight of past trauma, let Logan’s story be your evidence that you are not too far gone. You don't have to be perfect today; you just have to make progress. We challenge you this week to find your "clean water"—whether that’s a support group, a therapist, or diving back into the Word—and start pouring it into your life until the mud washes away. You are defined by your Creator, not your past actions.Helpful Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Teen and Young Adult Drug Abuse Support Groups – The Full Circle Program (North Kansas City).💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to other resources mentioned in today's show.📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you.🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received.Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this raw and incredibly vulnerable episode, Brian and Kersha sit down with guest Dustin Johnson to navigate a story that truly defines "Crazy Unbelievable Faith." Dustin shares his testimony of the last two and a half years—a relentless "one-two punch" season that included multiple job losses, a severe battle with his wife’s postpartum depression, a miscarriage, and financial uncertainty. This isn't a story of overnight success; it is a real-time look at how a family survives when the transmission blows, the insurance denies the claim, and the world says, "you aren't worth it."Brian and Kersha unpack the concept of "praising in the valley," discussing why true growth happens in the low points rather than the mountaintops. They dive deep into the reality of mental health within marriage, the vital necessity of community when you want to isolate, and the peace found in "daily bread." From the vision of God as a "wrecking ball" clearing the way for new foundations to the reminder that our value is defined by our Creator—not our paycheck—this episode is a lifeline for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the waves of life.🔥 What You’ll LearnThe "Valley" Principle: Why the mountaintop offers a great view, but the valley is where the flowers grow and new life is born.The Wrecking Ball: Dustin’s powerful vision of God tearing down the "buildings" (idols) of our lives to clear the ground for a stronger foundation.Navigating Postpartum: An honest, necessary conversation about the toll of postpartum depression on the entire family unit and the importance of communication.The "Daily Bread" Mindset: How to shift from worrying about the future to trusting Jehovah Jireh for just enough provision for today.Identity vs. Income: Learning to separate your self-worth from your employment status, especially when the world undervalues you.The Strength of Vulnerability: Why we connect with others through our weaknesses, not our strengths, and why you cannot isolate during a crisis.The "Duck" Analogy: The reality of looking calm on the surface (faith) while paddling furiously underneath (navigating life's logistics).💬 Memorable QuotesDustin: "We truly connect with people, not with our strengths, but in the vulnerability of our weaknesses."Brian: "Without hope in the future, we lack power in the present."Dustin: "It's in the valley where the flowers and the new life is born... you don't see the animals down there eating the vegetation on the mountaintops."Kersha: "There is no testimony without a test... God calls us to praise in the valley, not just on the mountaintops."Dustin: "Two things determine value: Who's the creator, and how much is someone knowledgeable willing to pay for the creation? ... You have to become a man who is so secure in what his Creator thinks of him that he knows he's winning even when he's losing."Dustin: "I feel like God's saying, 'I need you to let go of control. I need you to let Me knock down a lot of these buildings because there's something new that I need to build.'"Brian: "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face... and you’ve been punched in the face a few times."🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfAre you currently standing on a mountaintop or walking through a valley? If you are in the valley, what "flowers" (growth) are you missing because you're too focused on the climb out?Is there a "building" or idol in your life that God is trying to take a wrecking ball to? Are you resisting Him or letting Him rebuild?How do you derive your value? If you lost your job today, would your identity crumble, or is it rooted in your Creator?Are you operating on "Daily Bread" faith, or are you consumed by the worries of next month and next year?In your marriage or relationships, are you communicating your needs hourly during crises, or are you suffering in silence?Who is in your "village"? Do you have people who will sharpen you and tell you what you need to hear, not just what you want to hear?Are you isolating yourself in your struggle, or are you willing to be vulnerable to let others support you?📖 Biblical Principles FocusThis episode leans heavily on scripture to find anchors in the storm:Principle of Provision (Matthew 6:25-27): The central theme of the episode. "Look at the birds of the air... are you not much more valuable than they?" A reminder that worry cannot add a single hour to your life.Principle of Perspective (Psalm 73:1-17): Brian highlights the shift in the Psalmist's heart, noting that "without hope in the future, we lack power in the present."Principle of Daily Dependence (Matthew 6:11): The discussion on the Lord's Prayer emphasizes asking for "daily bread"—trusting God for the immediate need rather than hoarding for the future.Principle of Vanity vs. Value (Ecclesiastes): Dustin references Solomon’s teaching that everything is "hevel" (meaningless smoke) outside of our relationship with God and others.🙌 Join the MovementIf you feel like you’ve been taking hit after hit—financially, emotionally, or spiritually—this episode is your reminder that God is still writing your story. Dustin’s journey is a testament that your current chapter is not your conclusion. We challenge you this week to stop hiding your "limp." Reach out to your community, share your valley, and watch how your vulnerability becomes someone else’s survival guide. You are valuable not because of what you produce, but because of Who created you.💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to the resources mentioned in today's show (including the book The Men We Need).📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you.🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received.Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this special Thanksgiving episode, Brian and Kersha hit pause on the usual teaching topics to embrace the spirit of the season—gratitude. They pull back the curtain to honor the "village" that makes Crazy Unbelievable Faith possible, acknowledging that no great mission is accomplished alone. From the pivotal conversation with Larry Levine that sparked the podcast’s inception to the behind-the-scenes wizardry of Chris Decker and the marketing team, the couple highlights the importance of recognizing those who pave the way. Brian reflects on the power of connections—referencing guests like Chris Robinson, Jerry Anderson, and the Bryant family—while Kersha expresses deep appreciation for the obedience required to launch this platform. They discuss the "ripple effect" of saying yes to God, the beauty of acting as a "hub" for relationships, and the story of Hunter Murray’s radical transparency. This isn't just a list of thank-yous; it’s a heartfelt look at how community, forgiveness, and stepping out in faith weave together to create something bigger than ourselves. It’s a reminder to look for the "glass half full" during the holidays and to value the people God places on your path. 🙌 Join the MovementIf you are entering this holiday season feeling overwhelmed or just needing a recharge, this episode is your reminder that you are part of a larger community. Brian and Kersha’s expression of gratitude is an invitation for you to audit your own circle and give thanks for the people sharpening you. This is a call to stop walking alone and start embracing the "hubs" and connectors in your life. Your journey of faith is richer when shared, and your obedience could be the key to someone else's breakthrough.💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to the resources mentioned in today's show (including books by Chris Robinson, Raya Z, and the Bryant Family).📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you.🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received.Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this challenging and candid episode, Brian and Kersha flip the script—literally swapping seats in the studio—to tackle the messy, necessary work of growth through community. After debating the "thermostat wars" of fall in Kansas City, the couple dives into the concept of "Iron Sharpening Iron." Brian shares stories from his recent elk hunting trip (where he tried, and mostly failed, to stay unplugged), while Kersha opens up about the unexpected loneliness she felt while he was gone. This isn't just a chat about friendship; it’s a deep dive into breaking out of the self-absorbed "bubbles" we live in—like the "head down" mentality at the grocery store. They discuss why true growth requires friction, why "sweeping things under the rug" destroys relationships, and the modern definition of illiteracy: the inability to unlearn and relearn. From the "compliment sandwich" to the danger of churches that only affirm you, this episode is a blueprint for stepping out of your comfort zone. It’s a must-listen for anyone tired of surface-level interactions and ready to embrace the "sparks" that refine us.🔥 What You’ll LearnThe "Bubble" Breaker: How to stop living a self-absorbed life in public spaces (like the grocery store) and start seeing the people around you.The Friction Factor: Why "Iron Sharpening Iron" isn't soft—it involves sparks, friction, and necessary conflict to produce growth.The Modern Illiteracy Trap: Understanding why the ability to "unlearn and relearn" is the most critical skill for the 21st century.The "Sweep it Under the Rug" Danger: Why avoiding conflict leads to tripping over mountains of resentment later, and how to handle confrontation with love.The "Hub" Mentality: How to become a connector of people rather than just a consumer of relationships.The Narrow Road Check: How to tell if your community (or church) is helping you grow or just keeping you comfortable on the "wide road."The Failure Reframe: Why failure isn't a dead end, but a necessary step in learning (using the "cheer stunt" analogy).💬 Memorable QuotesBrian: "Illiteracy today is not the inability to read. It's the inability to learn, unlearn, and relearn something."Kersha: "I experienced a loneliness I hadn't experienced in a really long time... it's like half of my soul was missing."Brian: "When iron sharpens iron, there are sparks, there is friction, there is conflict."Kersha: "If you are attending a church where your ideology is just being confirmed... you are on the road to the very wide where everybody is going."Kersha: "Failure is the ability to pick up and learn... if you miss the ball, you try again."Brian: "You don't know whose life you impact through a 'Hi, how are you?' or just a smile."Kersha: "By making that bridge, taking your eyes off of yourself... you are sharpening that other person."🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfWhen you run errands (grocery store, bank), are you in a "bubble"? What is one way you can acknowledge someone's existence today?Who are the 5 people of influence in your life? Are they sharpening you, or just agreeing with you?How do you handle conflict? do you "sweep it under the rug" to keep the peace, or do you address it to clear the air?What is something you have had to "unlearn" recently in order to grow?Are you acting as a "Hub"? Who is someone you know that needs to be connected to someone else you know?When was the last time you received criticism? Did you view it as an attack, or as a tool for sharpening?Are you walking the "wide road" of comfort, or the "narrow road" of growth and challenge?📖 Biblical Principles FocusThis episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including:Principle of Growth (Proverbs 27:17): The central theme of the episode: "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Growth requires contact, friction, and the presence of others.Principle of The Narrow Path (Matthew 7:13-14): Kersha’s challenge regarding church and community reminds us that the easy, comfortable road (affirmation only) is wide, but the road to life (growth and challenge) is narrow.Principle of Speaking Truth (Ephesians 4:15): The discussion on conflict resolution points to the biblical mandate of "speaking the truth in love," rather than letting resentment build up.Principle of Transformation (Romans 12:2): The concept of "unlearning and relearning" aligns with the call to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind," rather than conforming to the patterns of the world.🙌 Join the MovementIf you have ever felt stuck in a routine, afraid of conflict, or just isolated in a crowd, this episode is for you. Brian and Kersha’s honest conversation is a timely challenge to audit your circle and your habits. This is a call to stop avoiding the friction and start embracing the relationships that make you better. Your journey of faith isn't about being comfortable; it's about being sharpened, refined, and used by God to impact others.💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to the resources mentioned in today's show.📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you.🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received.Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this practical and revealing follow-up, Brian and Kersha tackle Part 2 of the "Blind to the Blessing" series: finding your true energy source. After identifying the "blinders" (distractions, comparison) that block us, this episode asks: what do you do when you're depleted? This isn't just about feeling tired; it's a deep dive into the practical ways we refuel our faith and life. Brian and Kersha use their (chaotic) home life as a "case study," sharing personal stories about a 3-day fast (and a tempting Shake Shack run), the challenge of finding a "quiet place" in a house of seven, and the life-changing power of setting boundaries. From "bookending" the day with God to the difference between "YOLO" culture and a sustainable pace, this episode is a blueprint for restructuring your life. It’s a must-listen for anyone feeling depleted, drained by surface-level interactions, or struggling to find time for God amidst the chaos. This is a powerful reminder to stop running on empty and plug into your true Source.🔥 What You’ll LearnThe Fasting Focus: How to find focus during a fast (even when delivering Shake Shack) and fix your eyes on your true Source.The "Pray in the Bathroom" Strategy: How to find a "quiet place" for prayer, even if it's the car or the bathroom, amidst a chaotic house.The "Bookending" Tactic: How to protect your energy by giving God the first part of your morning and the last part of your night.The Power of "No": Learn why saying "no" to good things is essential for protecting your pace and avoiding depletion.The "YOLO" vs. "Restructure" Mindset: Understand the difference between living "120 mph" (YOLO) and restructuring your life for meaningful, purposeful living.The "Physically Present" Problem: Why it's worthless to be "physically there but mentally not" and how to be fully present.Extroverted Introverts: How to identify if you're an "extroverted introvert" who gets energized by deep connection but drained by surface-level talk.💬 Memorable QuotesKersha: "Me trying to live my life at a certain pace is not healthy for me and it depletes me."Kersha: "I wanna teach my children, it's okay to say no."Brian: "If you're only gonna physically be there, why spend the time, effort, energy to make yourself there?"Kersha: "I'm not ashamed to say I pray everywhere I can get silence, which sometimes is in the bathroom."Brian: (On fasting) "...fixing my eyes on God that he is my source."Kersha: (On people) "If it's just surface level conversation, it... can deplete us very quickly."Brian: "...restructuring life of how do you want to live, not just what do you want to do."🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask YourselfWhen you feel depleted, what is your go-to energy source? Is it sustainable, or is it just a quick fix?Where is your "quiet place"? (The car? The bathroom? A closet?) How can you carve out 5 minutes of silence in that place today?Do you "bookend" your day? What is one small step you can take to give God the first 10 minutes of your morning?What one thing do you need to say "no" to this week to protect your energy and mental health?Are you living a "YOLO" (120 mph) life or a "restructured" life? What does "how you want to live" look like versus "what you want to do"?Where are you "physically present but mentally not"? How can you be fully engaged in one specific interaction today?Are you an "extroverted introvert"? What kinds of conversations drain you, and what kinds energize you? How can you seek out more of the latter?📖 Biblical Principles FocusThis episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including:Principle of Source (Proverbs 4:25): The discussion of Brian's fast points to the mandate to "Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you," making God the primary source of energy.Principle of Boundaries (Matthew 5:37): The conversation on "the power of no" is a practical application of "Let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No,'" setting healthy, God-honoring limits.Principle of Comparison (2 Corinthians 10:12): The recap of "don't dare compare" reminds us that comparing ourselves to others (their pace, their things) is unwise and a major source of energy depletion.Principle of Rest (Matthew 11:28-30): The entire theme of avoiding depletion and finding a sustainable pace points to Jesus' call: "Come to me, all you who are weary... and I will give you rest."🙌 Join the MovementIf you have ever felt drained, depleted, or just plain "run over by a train," this episode is for you. Brian and Kersha’s honest chat is a practical and timely challenge to audit your energy sources. This is a call to stop, identify what drains you, and intentionally plug into what (and who) refuels you. Your journey of faith isn't about running at 120 mph; it's about learning to run at God's pace, fueled by His strength.💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to the resources mentioned in today's show.📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you.🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received.Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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