When Worship Hurts: Homelessness, Healing & Hearing God | ft. Ricka Riley | EP131

Description:In this deeply transparent episode, Jess sits down with Ricka Riley — worship leader, psalmist, intercessor, and survivor — for one of the most powerful conversations of the season. Ricka opens up about worship beyond the microphone: sacrifice, surrender, dying to self, and learning that real worship begins where comfort ends.She shares her story of living homeless for three years, surviving verbal and physical abuse at home, navigating church hurt, and wrestling with anger toward God — all while serving, leading worship, and trying to stay faithful. Ricka also discusses her deliverance from 13 years of pornography addiction, how generational patterns show up in our lives, and what it means to break cycles for the sake of your bloodline.We talk psalmistry, prophetic sound, how to discern the heart of God, why setlists can’t carry the oil, and the difference between surviving and surrendering. In this episode we cover:• What worship truly is (and why it requires death)• Homelessness, shame, and spiritual survival• The difference between pain and dying to self• Prophetic worship vs. worship leading• Porn addiction & breaking sexual strongholds• Abuse, trauma, and emotional muzzling• Generational bondage and unfinished business• Navigating sexuality as a prophetic woman• Waiting for marriage & staying pureQuestion of the Episode:What part of Ricka’s story did you see yourself in?If this episode blessed you, share it, comment below, and show Ricka some love.Remember: Life could be much more simple… if you just ask. Connect With Our Guest:@rickathatsme🎙️ Need a place to be reminded you're not alone? The Safe Space is for creators who feel unseen, misunderstood, or ready to give up. Inside this Patreon-only community, you’ll find accountability, biblical wisdom, and encouragement to keep going when it gets hard. This isn’t just content, it’s a connection. A reminder that your voice matters, your gifts have purpose, and God is still writing your story.❤️If you're looking for a space to grow in faith and creativity with others who get it, this is it.Join us in The Safe Space:➡️patreon.com/JessAskSupport the Podcast:If you love what you hear on Jess Ask The Podcast and want to help us continue bringing you inspiring and insightful content, consider supporting us! Your contributions help us cover production costs, bring in amazing guests, and keep the podcast running smoothly.Ways to Support:Donate: You can sow a love seed by donating to our podcast. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference. Donate via Cash App: $jessaskthepodcastShare: Spread the word! Share our episodes with friends, family, and on your social media. Your support enables us to reach a broader audience.Engage: Follow us on social media, leave comments, and rate our podcast on your favorite platforms. Your engagement keeps our community vibrant and growing.Thank you for your support and for being part of the Jess Ask community!Podcast Network:BGTV Studios💥BGTV is a podcast studio of united voices coming together to spread the message of Jesus Christ💥Connect: BGTV LinkConnect With Us:Show Host:Jessica S. SmithWebsite: https://www.jessicassmith.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejessicassmithFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hellojessicassmithShow Producer:Desiree DanielleCreated 2 Create Book:You were created to create. Explore Desiree’s new book on faith, creativity, and partnering with the Holy Spirit.Order here: Purchase Your Copy!Website: https://www.desireedanielle.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/desireedanie11e/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/desireedanie11eMusic Producer:@kingchosen46 on IG & YouTubeTGFAD by King Chosen streaming on:YouTubeApple MusicSpotifyJess Ask The Podcast is the safe space where transparency meets transformation. Host Jessica S. Smith creates space for honest conversations about faith, purpose, personal growth, and the real journey behind success.🔔 Subscribe for new episodes every week.  JOIN THE SAFE SPACE — PATREON COMMUNITY  The Safe Space is a Patreon-only community for creators who feel unseen, misunderstood, or ready to give up. Biblical wisdom. Real accountability. People who get it.➡️ Join here: patreon.com/JessAsk  SUPPORT THE PODCAST  ✔ Sow a love seed via Cash App: $jessaskthepodcast✔ Share this episode with someone who needs it✔ Subscribe, like & comment — it helps us reach more people  PODCAST CREDITS  Host: Jessica S. Smith | jessicassmith.com | @thejessicassmithProducer: Desiree Danielle | desireedanielle.com | @desireedanie11eMusic: King Chosen | @kingchosen46Network: BGTV Studios | bgtvstudios.com