• 77. Q&A: How Do I know God's Will?
    Feb 5 2025

    Today, we’re tackling a question that can leave many of us feeling stuck or paralyzed: How do I know God’s will?

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
    • Why fear of making the wrong choice can paralyze us.
    • The truth about God’s guidance—He isn’t waiting to punish you for a misstep!
    • Biblical principles and scriptures to help you trust God’s leading.
    • How figures like Paul, Joseph, and Ruth stepped forward in faith before knowing the outcome.
    • The key mindset shift: God’s will is not about perfection, but relationship and trust.

    Referenced Episodes for Deeper Study:
    If you want to deepen your understanding of God’s Word, check out these episodes:
    • Episode 5: The Main Thread Throughout the Bible (w/ Courtney Bailey)
    • Episode 26: Deeper Insight from the Bible (w/ Gordon Ferguson on gender roles)
    • Episode 42: How to Interpret the Bible (Exegesis & Hermeneutics)
    • Episode 45: Navigating Cultural Biases (w/ Dr. Jeanie Shaw)

    Struggling With Decision-Making or Wanting more Clarity?
    If you’re feeling stuck in uncertainty, I’d love to help. Book a free Discovery Call here: bit.ly/curiousforchristdiscovery

    Key Takeaways From This Episode:
    • God’s will is not a tightrope. If you’re seeking Him, He will guide and redirect you. (Romans 8:28)
    Fear is not from God. Perfect love drives out fear. (1 John 4:18)
    You don’t have to have all the answers. God equips you as you go. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
    Move in faith! Paul didn’t wait for clarity—he just obeyed, and God led him (Acts 16:6-10).

    Let’s Connect!
    • Join the conversation in our Facebook group: bit.ly/curiousforchristcommunity
    • Leave a review and share your thoughts—what part of today’s episode resonated with you?

    Until next time, keep seeking, keep trusting, and know that God is leading you.

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    11 mins
  • 76. Seek God First by Overcoming Temptation and Strengthening Your Daily Walk
    Jan 31 2025

    In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into a topic we all wrestle with: temptation and how to seek God first, especially when emotions or distractions pull us away.

    If you’ve been feeling disconnected from God, anxious, or overwhelmed by temptation, this episode is for you.

    Key Takeaways
    1. Recognize Temptation Early
    Temptation starts small but can grow if left unchecked.
    • Scripture: “Each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.” — James 1:14-15
    • Practical Tip: Journal your thoughts and reflect on moments when you felt tempted. Identify patterns and ask God for guidance in those areas.
    2. Be Proactive and Prepared
    God always provides a way out of temptation.
    • Scripture: “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” — 1 Corinthians 10:13
    • Action Step: Memorize scripture and pray in moments of temptation, asking God to strengthen your resolve.
    3. The Power of Accountability
    Walking with others in faith helps us overcome struggles.
    • Scripture: “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
    • Reflection: Who can you trust to walk alongside you? Pray for God to bring that person into your life.
    4. Confess, Pray, and Stay in the Light
    Confession and prayer bring healing and help us stay close to God.

    “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9
    “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” — Matthew 26:41
    • Reminder: Temptation isn’t sin. It reveals areas of weakness where God can work to strengthen you.
    5. Rest in God’s Strength
    True victory over temptation comes from relying on God, not your own strength.
    • “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” — 2 Corinthians 12:9
    • Encouragement: Lean into God’s grace when you feel weak, and let His power carry you through.

    Journal Challenge
    This week, set aside 5 minutes a day to journal moments when you felt tempted. Reflect on these questions:
    • What triggered your reaction?
    • How did you feel in the moment?
    • What could you have done differently to lean on God?
    Remember, this is not about guilt—it’s about aligning your thoughts with God’s truth and growing stronger in Him.

    Call to Action
    If this episode encouraged you:
    • Share it with a friend who needs it.
    • Join the conversation in our Facebook group or leave a comment with your insights.
    • Ready to grow deeper in your faith? Book a Discovery Call with me to take the next step in your journey.

    Thank you for listening!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    12 mins
  • 75. Q&A: How Do I make God a Priority in my Life?
    Jan 29 2025

    In today’s episode of Curious for Christ, I dive into a question that many believers wrestle with: How do I make God a priority in my life? This episode explores the challenges of balancing our busy lives with our desire to deepen our relationship with God. I offer insights and practical steps to help you realign your priorities, trust God more deeply, and make Him the center of your life.

    Key Topics Covered:
    • Understanding why we feel distant from God and how to address the disconnect
    • The importance of shifting our mindset from fitting God into our lives to building everything around Him
    Matthew 6:33 and how seeking God first aligns everything else
    • Practical steps to prioritize God each day, including starting your day with prayer, anchoring your day in Scripture, and evaluating your priorities
    • The role of community, Sabbath rest, and building habits that align with God’s purpose

    Actionable Steps:
    1. Start Your Day with God: Set aside the first moments for prayer or Bible reading. Even 10 minutes can make a big difference!
    2. Anchor Your Day with Scripture: Keep God’s Word front and center by reading or meditating on a verse throughout the day.
    3. Pray Throughout the Day: Invite God into every part of your day, from work to relationships.
    4. Evaluate Your Priorities: Reflect on how you’re spending your time and if it aligns with God’s purpose.
    5. Build Community: Surround yourself with people who encourage you to keep God first.
    6. Incorporate Sabbath Rest: Set aside intentional time to rest and reconnect with God.

    Encouragement:
    God is already pursuing you, and prioritizing Him is about responding to His invitation. In the stillness, trust, and surrender, He fills our hearts with peace and directs our steps.

    Resources Mentioned:
    • Free Guide: Anchor Yourself in God’s Word — Get practical tips for using Scripture in your quiet time.
    Discovery Call: Need direction to find clarity and confidence in your life? Schedule a Discovery Call with me to clarify your next step in God’s purpose.

    Call to Action:
    Thank you for joining this episode of Curious for Christ! If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who might need it too. Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. Have a question? Email me at hello@alexandraalvarezcoaching.com with the subject: Question.

    Continue to seek Him with all your heart. Trust His timing, and live a life full of purpose and love, knowing He is always with you!

    Until next Week!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    14 mins
  • 74. Find Peace Through Biblical Meditation and Mindfulness with Virginia Lefler
    Jan 24 2025

    In this episode, we explore the transformative practice of Biblical meditation with Virginia Lefler. Virginia shares how meditation helps us connect with our own heart with God, going beyond the surface level of our minds to find deeper resolution, peace, and healing. Virginia has identified six simple yet powerful steps of Biblical meditation to guide you as you practice.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:
    • What Biblical meditation is and how it helps us connect more deeply with our own heart with God, fostering healing, resolution, and peace.
    The six steps of Biblical meditation:

    1. Retreat – Find a quiet place to focus, just like Jesus did.
    2. Read – Read a scripture aloud to absorb God’s word more deeply.
    3. Reflect – Contemplate the scripture, letting the Holy Spirit highlight what stands out to you.
    4. Request – Pray for wisdom to understand God’s heart and look for His invitation in the scripture.
    5. Respond – Identify your emotions and feelings, then share them with God in prayer.
    6. Remember – Take something from the meditation to carry with you, helping you stay connected to God throughout your day.

    • How Biblical meditation can bring emotional resolution, and a closer connction with God.
    • A guided meditation practice to help you begin integrating these steps into your daily life.

    Scriptures and Bible Verses Mentioned:
    Isaiah 55:11
    “So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”
    Philippians 4:6-7
    “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

    Free Guide: Anchor Yourself in God

    If you’re looking to declutter your heart and create space for a deeper relationship with God, I’ve created a free guide to help you meditate on scriptures that bring peace, strength, and comfort. Download the Anchor Yourself in God Guide to begin your journey toward greater peace and connection with God.

    Connect with Virginia Lefler:

    Virginia offers a wealth of wisdom and support for those looking to deepen their spiritual practice. You can connect with her and explore more on her website

    Words of Encouragement:

    Virginia’s approach to Biblical meditation emphasizes the importance of moving beyond our minds to connect with our hearts and God. It’s through this deeper connection that we find healing and peace, as we open ourselves to God’s presence and His transformative word. Remember, this practice is not about perfection—it’s about meeting God where you are and allowing His truth to guide you to resolution and growth.

    Thank you for tuning in! Please spread the word and share this episode with someone whom you think might benefit from it!

    May this episode inspire you to practice Biblical meditation and deepen your relationship with God’s heart, leading to lasting peace and healing.

    Much love!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    34 mins
  • 73. Q&A: Are My Prayers Powerful?
    Jan 22 2025

    Have you ever wondered, Are my prayers powerful? Maybe you’ve prayed for something and it feels like nothing is changing, or you’re questioning whether you’re “praying right.” You’re not alone in this struggle. In today’s episode, we unpack why prayer might feel powerless at times, what truly makes prayer powerful, and how to pray with confidence and faith, no matter where you are on your journey with God.

    Key Takeaways from the Episode

    1. Why Do Prayers Feel Powerless Sometimes?
    • Unrealistic expectations: We expect immediate results, but God’s timing is not ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).
    • Disconnected relationship: Prayer is meant to be a conversation, not a transaction (John 15:5).
    • Doubt and fear: Worry can overshadow faith (James 1:6).
    • Distractions: Life’s noise can drown out our focus on God.

    2. What Makes Prayer Powerful?
    • God’s Presence: Prayer connects us with Him; it’s about relationship, not results (Luke 5:16).
    • The Holy Spirit: The Spirit intercedes when we don’t know what to pray (Romans 8:26).
    • Faith and Surrender: God’s power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
    • God’s Will: Prayer aligns us with God’s plans, which are always best.

    3. How to Pray With Power (5 Practical Steps):
    1. Pray Scripture: Anchor your prayers in God’s Word (Philippians 4:6-7).
    2. Be Honest: Share your fears, doubts, and desires with God (1 Peter 5:7).
    3. Create Space to Listen: Prayer is as much about listening as it is talking.
    4. Pray With Others: There’s strength in corporate prayer (Matthew 18:20).
    5. Trust God’s Timing: Even when answers seem delayed, He is working.

    4. Encouragement for the Listener:
    • Your prayers don’t need to be perfect—God treasures your sincerity.
    • Even when it feels like nothing is happening, trust that He is working behind the scenes.
    • Like Hannah in 1 Samuel 1, waiting on God often leads to His greater purposes.

    Reflection & Application
    • Take Action This Week: Choose one practical step to deepen your prayer life, such as praying a scripture or sitting quietly with God.
    • Reflect: What’s one area of your life where you’re struggling to trust God in prayer? Bring it to Him honestly.

    Closing Prayer

    “Lord, thank You for hearing our prayers, no matter how small or uncertain they feel. Help us to trust Your timing and rest in Your presence. Strengthen our faith and remind us that Your power is made perfect in our weakness. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

    Connect With Me
    • Join the conversation in our Facebook group.
    • Share this episode to someone who may benefit from it, leave a review, and reach out with your thoughts and prayer requests! My email is: hello@alexandraalvarezcoaching.com.

    Thank you for listening! Remember, prayer is one of the most powerful ways to connect with God—keep showing up, and trust that He is always at work!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    13 mins
  • 72. Overcome Anxiety by Being Anchored in God's Word: 5 Practicals Steps
    Jan 17 2025

    Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, struggling to find peace in the midst of life’s challenges? You’re not alone, and God’s Word has real answers for your heart.

    In this episode of Curious for Christ, I share a personal story that triggered anxiety and old doubts about God’s protection. Through that experience, I rediscovered the power of God’s promises in Scripture, especially 1 Peter 5:7: “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” Together, we’ll explore five practical steps to anchor yourself in God’s Word when anxiety feels like it’s taking over.

    In this Episode, you'll Learn How to:
    1. Replace anxious thoughts with biblical truth.
    2. Meditate on key scriptures to calm your heart.
    3. Pray through your anxiety and surrender your fears to God.
    4. Shift your focus through gratitude.
    5. Seek community and support when the weight feels too heavy.

    If you’ve been looking for peace that transcends circumstances or a way to reframe your thoughts with biblical truth, this episode is for you.

    Free Resource: Anchor Yourself in God
    Need extra support? Download my Anchor Yourself in God guide, filled with handpicked scriptures for peace, strength and comfort. Use it to meditate, pray and grow closer to God.
    Click here to download your free guide now!

    Want to Take the Next Step Toward Lasting Peace?
    I’d love to walk with you on this journey. If you’re ready to overcome anxiety, deepen your faith, and anchor your life in God’s promises, let’s explore how coaching can help you.
    Book a free discovery call here: Curious for Christ Discovery Call

    Scriptures Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
    1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
    Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
    Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
    Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
    Matthew 18:20 – “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

    Stay Connected:
    • Follow the podcast for more episodes that encourage and equip you in your walk with Christ.
    • Share this episode with a friend who might need to hear it.

    God’s peace is real and available to you—even in the midst of anxiety. Much love!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    14 mins
  • 71. Q&A: Is it Wrong to Desire Something When I Doubt it is God's Will?
    Jan 15 2025

    In this episode, we explore how to reconcile your desires with God’s will when you feel unsure or doubtful. We’ll uncover biblical truths, practical steps, and encouragement to approach your desires with trust and faith.

    Key Points

    1. The Heart of the Question:
    • This isn’t just about desire but about trust, surrender, and identity.
    • Common struggles include fear of disappointment, doubts about worthiness, and control issues.

    2. What Does the Bible Say About Desires?
    • God reshapes our desires when we seek Him (Psalm 37:4, Matthew 6:33).
    • Even Jesus surrendered His will to God (Luke 22:42).
    • Trust that God works in you to fulfill His purposes (Philippians 2:13).

    3. How to Approach Desires With Faith:
    • Pray honestly: Bring your desires, fears, and doubts to God (Philippians 4:6-7).
    • Surrender control: Trust God’s goodness and His plans for you.
    • Examine your desires: Identify deeper needs like love or security and seek fulfillment in God.
    • Wait on God’s timing: Trust His perfect timing as seen in Genesis 21:1-2.

    4. Encouragement:
    • Your desires aren’t wrong—they are an invitation to trust God.
    • Doubt, when brought to Him, can deepen your faith (Proverbs 3:5-6).

    5. Practical Takeaways:
    • Pray with open hands: “Lord, I trust You to guide me.”
    • Journal: Reflect on your desires and their root causes.
    • Seek wise counsel: Talk with mentors or faith-filled friends.
    • Be patient: Watch for God’s work in your heart and life over time.

    Connect with Me:
    Join my Facebook Group and schedule a Discovery Call with me for deeper support.

    Conclusion:
    God knows your heart and desires. Trust Him to align your dreams with His best plan.

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    13 mins
  • 70. Feeling Anxious at the Start of a New Year? Recognize Your Triggers and Overcome Them with God's Peace
    Jan 10 2025

    The start of a new year often brings excitement, but it can also spark uncertainty and anxiety. In this episode of Curious for Christ, I dive into the root causes of anxiety and share how you can recognize your triggers and overcome them through God’s peace. Using practical steps and biblical insights, you’ll learn to surrender your worries and rely on God for strength and calm.

    What You’ll Learn:
    1. What is Anxiety?
    • Anxiety is a response to stress but often stems from trying to control the uncontrollable.
    • Common triggers include overwhelming responsibilities, people-pleasing, fear of failure, loneliness, and overthinking.
    Key Verse: 1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
    2. Recognizing Your Anxiety Triggers:
    • Reflect through journaling, asking yourself key questions like:
    • Am I avoiding deeper issues?
    • Am I overly consumed by others’ opinions or problems?
    • Pay attention to recurring stress patterns.
    Key Verse: Matthew 6:33 – “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
    3. 5 Steps to Overcome Anxiety:
    • Step 1: Shift Your Focus to God
    Start your day with prayer or scripture.
    Isaiah 26:3 – “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.”
    • Step 2: Surrender Control
    Pray, “Lord, I release this situation into Your hands.”
    Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything…but present your requests to God. And the peace of God…will guard your hearts and minds.”
    • Step 3: Take Captive Every Thought
    Replace anxious thoughts with God’s truth.
    Joshua 1:9 – “Be strong and courageous…for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
    • Step 4: Be Present in the Moment
    Trust God with tomorrow’s worries.
    Matthew 6:34 – “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.”
    • Step 5: Build Healthy Habits
    Create a routine that includes time with God and set boundaries to reduce overwhelm.
    4. God’s Promise of Peace:
    God’s peace doesn’t remove problems but gives strength to endure them.
    Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

    Action Step:
    - Identify one anxiety trigger this week, bring it to God in prayer, and ask Him to replace your worry with His peace.
    - Need Help with Discipleship? Are you struggling with anxiety or a lack of peace? Do you desire to connect with God and learn to trust Him more deeply? I’d love to walk with you on this journey. Click HERE to connect with me, and let’s take the next steps together.


    Closing Prayer:
    “Lord, I give You my anxiety. I surrender this situation into Your hands. I trust that You will bring peace and guidance. Help me focus on You and Your will for my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.”

    Thank You for Listening!
    If this episode blessed you, share it with a friend and subscribe to Curious for Christ. May God’s peace fill your heart this week. Until next time!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    14 mins