Everyday Joy

EP 70. A two for one special today! Today we chat about wisdom, and today's guest Sharon who is an expert in Biblical Hebrew shares some of her own wisdom!  Get in touch! everydayjoy@positivemedia.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God.” — Isaiah 9:6 Christmas isn’t just about what happened then — it’s about what’s still true now.God is with us. In this special Christmas episode, Ash is joined by Jacquie and Shaylee for a heartfelt reflection on the year that’s been — the highs, the hardships, and the moments where God’s presence carried them through. Together, they reflect on: What it looks like to experience God with us in everyday life — not just at Christmas Celebrating joy while still acknowledging grief, exhaustion, and struggle Navigating new seasons: marriage, motherhood, health, rest, and change Learning to slow down, release control, and trust God’s provision Why discipline, rest, and honesty with God matter — especially when life feels overwhelming How God walks with us through anxiety, uncertainty, and growth, rather than removing us from it This conversation is raw, reflective, and deeply hopeful — a reminder that Emmanuel isn’t distant or symbolic. He is present in the middle of our mess, our joy, our exhaustion, and our becoming. As we remember the birth of Jesus, may this episode remind you that the same God who came as a child is still near — steady, faithful, and with you in every season. ✨ God with us. Always.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“We love because He first loved us.” — 1 John 4:19 In today’s episode, Ash is joined by Tiani to unpack one of the most foundational truths of the Christian faith — that our ability to love others flows directly from the love we’ve first received from God. Together, they reflect on what it looks like to love generously, sacrificially, and sincerely, even when life, relationships, and past experiences have made love feel complicated or costly. In this conversation, they explore: How understanding God’s love reshapes the way we love people Why love isn’t optional for Christians — even when it’s uncomfortable The difference between loving from obligation and loving from revelation How church and community are meant to look different because of love What to do when past hurt makes loving others feel risky Learning to receive love, not just give it This episode is honest, tender, and deeply encouraging. If you’ve ever found it hard to love people well — or hard to believe that you yourself are truly loved — this conversation will help realign your heart with the truth that God loved you first, and that His love is enough to transform how you live, love, and show up for others.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” — Psalm 145:18 In this episode, Ash is joined by Tiani for a heartfelt conversation about what it truly means to seek God in truth — not just with words, but with an authentic heart and a willingness to be transformed. Together they explore: How to genuinely “call on God” rather than waiting for Him to act on our terms Why nearness with God is a two-way relationship, not a one-way request line The difference between approaching God with our own agenda versus surrender How waiting on God cultivates trust, patience, and faith Why truth requires letting go of our plans and trusting God’s goodness The ultimate heart check: would God still be enough if He never answered another prayer? This episode is for anyone wrestling with unanswered prayers, learning to wait, or seeking to deepen their trust and surrender. Be encouraged to draw near, call on Him in truth, and trust that He is closer than you think.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ephesians 6:18Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Prayer doesn’t have to be polished.It doesn’t have to be long.And it definitely doesn’t have to wait until things fall apart. This conversation is a reminder that prayer is meant to be woven into everyday life — the good moments, the stressful ones, the joyful celebrations, and the quiet wrestles no one else sees. We talk about: Why God invites us to pray about everything, not just the “serious” stuff What it looks like to pray with the Spirit, not just from your own strength Praying for people in the moment, not just saying “I’ll pray for you” Interceding for others when you don’t know what to say And learning to stay connected to God throughout the day, not just in quiet time If prayer feels awkward, inconsistent, or hard — you’re not failing.You’re learning relationship. Sometimes prayer is powerful words.Sometimes it’s silence.Sometimes it’s stopping mid-day and saying,“Holy Spirit, I need you right now.” And that counts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Proverbs 11:25A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Have you ever been on the receiving end of generosity you didn’t expect — and it stayed with you? In this conversation, Ash and T unpack what it really looks like to live with an open hand. Not just with money, but with time, prayer, attention, and showing up for people. They chat about: Why generosity isn’t about being flashy — it’s about being available The small, everyday ways we can bless others How being generous often changes us more than the person we’re helping What it looks like to refresh others when you don’t feel full yourself And a season where Ash experienced unexpected provision when she needed it most This isn’t about pressure or doing more than you can handle.It’s about asking a simple question:“God, who can I bless today?” Because so often, refreshment comes when we least expect it — right in the middle of giving it away.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Lord watches over you — the Lord is your shade at your right hand.” — Psalm 121:5 In today’s conversation, Ash and guest Tee unpack what it really looks like to say yes to God — especially when obedience feels costly, uncomfortable, or terrifying. Through Psalm 121:5, they reflect on God as our keeper, protector, and defender — not as a backup plan, but as our primary source of strength and direction. Tee vulnerably shares her journey of responding to God’s call, laying her plans at the altar, and trusting Him step by step, even when the future felt uncertain. Together they explore: What it means for God to be your right hand — your strength, defence, and power Why obedience often comes with fear, grief, and surrender How peace can be a key indicator of God’s leading — even when the decision is hard The difference between wanting God’s will and actually saying yes to it Why calling doesn’t always come with clarity, but it always comes with God’s presence How to discern big decisions through Scripture, wise counsel, and prayer If you’ve been wrestling with a decision, sensing God’s nudge, or feeling torn between comfort and obedience, this episode is a reminder that God never asks you to go where His hand isn’t already holding you. May this conversation encourage you to trust the One who watches over you, goes before you, and remains faithful — even when your yes costs more than you expected.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” — John 10:11 Today, Ash and guest Kate Westwood explore one of the most comforting and confronting pictures Jesus gives of Himself: the Good Shepherd — the One who protects, pursues, provides for, and patiently leads us… even when we wander. Together they unpack: • Why Jesus calls Himself “the Good Shepherd” — and what that meant in ancient culture• The surprising truth about sheep: easily distracted, easily lost, and deeply dependent• Why recognising our own “sheep tendencies” helps us understand God’s grace• How Jesus doesn’t just guide us — He lays His life across the gate to protect us• The beauty of a Shepherd who knows us by name and knows what we need• How God pursues us even when we take the harder path or ignore His voice• Why shepherding also reflects how we care, pray for, and stand in the gap for others• How this whole week points to the heart of Christmas — Jesus coming near, giving Himself, and reconciling us to the Father This conversation ties together a rich week of episodes — from guarding our hearts, to the prophecies of Jesus’ coming, to the forgiveness He brings — ending with the reminder that He is good, He is faithful, and He is the One who leads us home. If you’ve been feeling lost, overwhelmed, distracted, or unsure of God’s nearness, may this episode anchor you again in the truth:Your Shepherd is close. He sees you, protects you, and knows exactly how to lead you. May it draw you deeper into wonder, gratitude, and joy as you walk with Him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins.” — Psalm 85:2 Today, Ash and guest Kate Westwood unpack a deeply personal, beautifully freeing truth: every single sin — past, present, and future — has been fully covered by Jesus. And because of that, we’re invited to live differently. As Christmas approaches, Ash shares how God has been gently convicting her about generosity, kindness and loving the people Scripture urges us not to overlook. Kate reminds us that while the world tells us to prioritise ourselves, God’s heart has always been for those in need — and for His people to reflect that heart. Together they explore: • How God uses conviction not to shame us, but to shape us• Why generosity is more than giving — it’s obedience and compassion in action• The subtle ways we drift into self-protection or “someone else will do it”• Why focusing on the attitude of your heart changes the actions of your hands• How God throws our sins into a “forgetful sea”… with a sign that says no fishing• Why the Christian life isn’t about trying not to sin — it’s about walking closely with Jesus• The freedom of admitting, “I wasn’t enough… and that’s exactly why Jesus came” If you’ve been wrestling with guilt, feeling far from God, or unsure how to walk out your faith in a practical way, Psalm 85:2 is your reminder: it is finished.You are forgiven, loved, and invited into a life of generous, wholehearted faith — the kind Jesus showed us first. SOAP Scripture - Verse, read it, read it again... underline and think about it!  Observation - What do you observe? Get curious about context, who wrote it, why? What do you think when you read it! Application - How does this apply to your life? Or what can I learn from what happened in these verses. Prayer - Pray about it, lift it to God, and ask for him to help you with whatever you are facing! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call Him Emmanuel.” — Isaiah 7:14 Today, Ash and guest Kate Willcox unpack one of the most profound prophecies in Scripture — a promise that would be fulfilled hundreds of years later through Jesus. Together they explore why this verse isn’t just a Christmas line… but a reminder of God’s intentionality, nearness, and miraculous power. Together they dive into: • How Isaiah’s prophecy cements the truth of who Jesus is — not just a good man, but God Himself• Why fulfilled prophecy strengthens our faith and reveals God’s character• The meaning of Emmanuel and what it really means that God chooses to be with us• How God makes Himself easy to find — through creation, moments of kindness, answered prayers, and everyday miracles• Why Jesus coming to earth shows the depth of the Father’s love and His desire to be close to us• How Christmas calls us to slow down, look for God, and ask, “Lord, would You show me who You are?”• The invitation to rediscover the wonder of the Christmas story — not sentimentality, but revelation• Why Jesus’ birth is the beginning of the rescue story that leads all the way to the cross This conversation is rich, hope-filled, and grounding. If you’re craving clarity, connection with God, or a renewed sense of awe this Christmas season, this episode will help you look again — and see that God has always been drawing near. May this prompt you to recognise His signs, celebrate His faithfulness, and rest in the truth that He is Emmanuel — God with us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  “The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will fulfill the promise…” — Jeremiah 33:14 Today, Ash and Kate Willcox dive into one of the most relatable parts of the Christian walk:What do you do when God has spoken, but life still looks nothing like the promise? Through honest conversation about identity, singleness, hope, heartbreak, and timing, they unpack what it really means to wrestle with God, wait well, and keep your eyes fixed on Him instead of the outcome. Together they explore: Why God’s promises are certain, but His timing is rarely what we expect How the people in Jeremiah’s day held onto a promise they never lived to see What it looks like to “fight for” a promise without trying to force it The difference between reminding God and doubting Him How hopelessness can sneak in when we shift our focus away from Jesus The temptation to make the promise the goal instead of knowing God What Kate has learned in her own story of singleness, waiting, and trust Why living as if the promise is true is actually an act of obedience How to keep your heart soft when the waiting feels long The freeing truth: God is after relationship, not just outcomes If you’re waiting for something — love, reconciliation, healing, direction, breakthrough — this episode will gently remind you that God is faithful, He is near, and He’s working in ways you can’t yet see. And more than anything…the promise isn’t the prize — His presence is.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23 Today, Ash and guest Kate Westwood unpack one of the most formative and practical verses in Scripture — and why guarding your heart matters more than ever in a world of constant noise, content, and cultural pressure. Together they explore: How what we watch, read, listen to, and scroll shapes our hearts, often without us realising Why guarding your heart isn’t just about personal conviction — sometimes it’s about simple obedience The difference between “I don’t feel convicted” and “Is this honouring to God?” How God lovingly exposes the subtle things that influence us — even the things we justify Why the attitudes we tolerate (bitterness, frustration, cynicism) form us just as much as the media we consume The sobering truth: your life will always overflow from whatever fills your heart The call to be countercultural — people who offer something different than the world around us The invitation to think on what is pure, lovely, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8) This conversation is honest, challenging, and full of grace. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, desensitised, or unsure why certain attitudes keep creeping into your life, this episode will help you pause, reflect, and realign your heart with God’s. May this prompt you to guard what’s precious, protect what God is forming in you, and live from a heart that’s healthy, whole, and rooted in Him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1 John 4:19 — “We love because He first loved us.” In today’s episode, Ash slows down a verse we’ve heard so many times we barely register it anymore. We’re called to love — not because people are easy, not because relationships are clean or convenient, but because God loved us first. Ash unpacks: What God’s love actually looked like: sacrificial, selfless, servant-hearted Why Jesus didn’t just heal people — He called them higher (“Go and sin no more”) The difference between emotional love and obedient, Christlike love Why unconditional love must include accountability, forgiveness, and grace How God’s love is proactive — He came to us first, long before we deserved it What it means to reflect that same kind of love in messy, real-life relationships Why bringing your flaws to Jesus is where transformation starts If you’ve been wrestling with how to love someone in your world — or feeling unworthy of love yourself — this episode will help you return to the foundation: God loved you first, and He loves you fully.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Psalm 145:18 — “The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.” In today’s episode, Ash digs into a verse we often skim but rarely unpack. God promises nearness — but He also gives a condition: call on Him in truth. So what does truth actually mean when life feels confusing, subjective, or overwhelming? Ash explores why closeness with God doesn’t start with perfection — it starts with honesty. Real, humble, bring-your-whole-self honesty. In this episode, Ash shares: Why truth can feel subjective if we’re not anchored in Scripture The danger of relying on feelings instead of God’s Word How calling on God “in truth” requires honesty, humility, and repentance How to come to God when you feel lost, tired, or spiritually flat Why spending time in the Word helps you recognise God’s voice The lie that God is distant — and what Psalm 145:18 reveals instead Why God often feels closest when we finally stop pretending If you’ve ever wondered why God feels far or how to hear Him clearly, this conversation will help you recenter your heart, rediscover truth, and draw near to the God who is already near to you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Relationships can be one of the hardest parts of life — whether at home, work, or church. In this episode, Ash dives into Romans 15:5 and explores how God gives us endurance and encouragement to carry the right attitude of mind toward others. Discover how to: Press into God for strength and daily encouragement Approach relationships with the love, compassion, and patience of Jesus Prioritize others without losing yourself Navigate differences in community, church, and workplace life Build harmony by leaning on God, not just your own effort If you’re looking to end the year with renewed perspective and a heart ready to love well, this conversation will help you press into God and embrace the joy of living in harmony with others.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.