Her Solid Ground

Well friends, that’s a wrap on Season 3 of the Her Solid Ground podcast. And what better way to close us out than with some exciting news?! Tune in this week as Lisa welcomes a special guest to make a big announcement about next season and a few other fun things to come. We talk about purpose, the role discipleship plays in our transformation, and how we can discover who God is calling us to be. Whether you are a long-time listener or a newer podcast friend, you won’t want to miss this episode! Links:Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/hersolidgroundpodcast/Be. Ministries: https://www.instagram.com/be.ministrieswomen

Prayer is not a new topic here on the pod, but this week we are talking about living out one of the key teachings of Jesus – praying with others. Yes, with others. For many of us, this is a scary topic. You may even be thinking, “That’s just not my thing.” But scripture clearly instructs to not only pray for others, but to pray withthem. But how do we do that? What do we say? How do we find the courage? Tune in to this episode to hear Lisa and Hickory Creek’s own Kristy Lullo talk about the power of praying in community, what that can look like in real life, and practical steps we can take to grow in this area. Links:Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/hersolidgroundpodcast/

Happy Holy Week, listeners! For the last two seasons of the podcast, we’ve always done a special Easter episode. And although we didn’t originally plan it this way, each of these episodes have walked us sequentially through Easter Weekend. In our first season, we focused on Good Friday and what trials and suffering can teach us. In Season 2, we focused on Saturday and what it means to trust as we wait for God to move. So, it only makes sense that this year, we focus on Resurrection Sunday! Tune in this week as Lisa shares the hope we can find in the empty tomb and the victory we have in our risen Savior, no matter what we are going through. Jesus has overcome it all. Hallelujah! Links:Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/hersolidgroundpodcast/

This week’s episode was so much fun! And how could it not be? Lisa sits down with local comedian, author, and podcaster Tracy DeGraaf to talk about all the things – what it looks like to build a comedy career in your 40s, why laughter matters, and how Jesus and mammograms can literally save your life. Whether cracking jokes about her 5 sons or sharing her deep love for the Lord, Tracy is a walking testimony of joy, faith, and courage. Tune in to be encouraged and inspired!Links:Spring Ladies Retreathttps://cedarlakeministries.org/spring-ladies-retreat/?fbclid=IwY2xjawQfgqVleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFIbUhBRmZoamNsOTVvSTVtc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHob3sab1CG9cw1sJbcGDTGiGIRLlqTrPCOlK1mYR0lGd4ypZUuT8WRDrTlV8_aem_vawJUqezMbzEcLRXtBCfGALaugh Anyway Mom by Tracy DeGraafhttps://www.amazon.com/Laugh-Anyway-Mom-Hilarious-Motherhood/dp/1450500099Life Happens Laugh Anyway Podcasthttps://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-f3hsv-97ae38https://tracydegraaf.com/

A few episodes ago, we talked about balance and how that requires us to do the right things at the right time. However, what is “right” is unique to each of us. Sometimes, God humbles us to say the hard no. Other times, He might be challenging us to say the uncomfortable yes. This week on the pod, guest Jill Curtin talks about a time when God nudged her to say yes to something way outside of her comfort zone, the impact of that brave decision, and what discernment looks like in real life. How do we know when a prompting is from God? What does it look like to push past fear? When does our “no” become an act of disobedience? Tune in to this week’s episode to hear Lisa and Jill tackle these questions and more.Links:James Bible Studyhttps://hickorycreekchurch.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/635/responses/new

The word “testimony” feels a little daunting, doesn’t it? The Bible is clear—we are supposed to tell others about what God has done in our lives, but to wrap it up in a tidy story feels more than a little intimidating. What does God want us to share? Our whole life story? Our darkest moments? The day we got baptized? What if we don’t really have a major, life-changing event? Tune in this week as Lisa welcomes repeat guest and author Andi Rispens on the pod to talk about why we need to share our testimonies, how we can identify what our testimony actually is, and practical tips for sharing it in our everyday lives. Links:Gospel Fluency by Jeff Vanderstelthttps://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Fluency-Speaking-Truths-Everyday/dp/1433546035

Yes, it’s the grace episode! This recurring feature of the pod gives us the chance to revisit some past episodes and offer corrections and/or clarifications. Tune in as Lisa shares some of her missteps, a personal story, and the lessons she’s learned during Season 3 of the podcast. To help us LIVE IT OUT, we zero in on John 1:16 to see what scripture teaches us about the gift of God’s abundant grace—a gift we are called to share with others.Links:Blue Letter Biblehttps://www.blueletterbible.org/

It’s the thing we are all seeking: Balance. While most of us know we can’t do all the things, we certainly try, don’t we? Work, family, friendships, ministry, rest–-it all feels important. So how do we figure out a healthy way to juggle it all? This week on the podcast, Lisa welcomes guest Wendy Feigl to talk through some principles we can apply to help us find balance in all areas of our lives, from managing our kids’ sports commitments to caring for aging parents. As a wife, business owner, and self-proclaimed soccer mom, Wendy gives us a vulnerable peek into her journey and the valuable lessons God has taught her along the way.Links:Take Back Your Time by Christy Wrighthttps://www.amazon.com/Take-Back-Your-Time-Guilt-Free/dp/1942121563

Sometimes the chaos and noise of the world is too much, isn’t it? Whether you are trying to manage a trial in your own life or scrolling past another online debate, it is so easy for us to get stuck in the heaviness of it all and to forget the goodness of the Lord. In this week’s episode, Lisa encourages us to come up for literal air by embracing the beauty around us and the simple joys that can point us back to God. Taking a walk. Making a meal. Painting a door. God can use it all to renew our minds, reset our bodies, and speak to our hearts. While checking out isn’t the answer, intentionally leaning into the goodness of God always is.Links:My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers https://www.amazon.com/Utmost-His-Highest-Devotional-Journal/dp/1627077340/ref=pd_lpo_d_sccl_1/137-5799970-3893346?pd_rd_w=ebkm1&content-id=amzn1.sym.4c8c52db-06f8-4e42-8e56-912796f2ea6c&pf_rd_p=4c8c52db-06f8-4e42-8e56-912796f2ea6c&pf_rd_r=BE37CDXZX8Q515WZETQZ&pd_rd_wg=JBSKj&pd_rd_r=0565c035-0a32-4c38-9f1e-e1ad69d77a1d&pd_rd_i=1627077340&psc=1

What does it look like to sit in the tension of our personal desires and God’s desire for our lives? How do we “wait well,” while still fully trusting in God and His sovereign plan? We unpack this and so much more with this week’s podcast guest, Julie DeRuiter. Julie is a youth group leader, a high school teacher, a coach, and a proud aunt of 8 (with #9 on the way). She also happens to be single. Tune in this week as Julie gets real about singleness in the church, the importance of community, where she finds her identity, and how we can delight in the Lord at all times, even in our waiting.

This week we dive into a topic that can be a little tricky for women: Fasting. Although today’s world often pushes this idea as a health and fitness discipline, it is also a spiritual discipline that many people use to draw closer to the Lord. While certainly not a requirement for Christ followers, fasting is a concept found throughout the Bible, both in the Old and New Testament. In this episode, Lisa and Ali unpack this often misunderstood and misused practice. Tune in to learn what Biblical fasting is, what it isn’t, the why behind it, and ways we can still live it out as believers.

We are all hard on ourselves. Whether we label ourselves perfectionists or not, most of us have a mental checklist of standards we think we should live up to in all areas of our lives–as a woman of God, as a friend, as a wife or mom, or as a working professional. But what do we do when we don’t hit that standard? Do we bury ourselves in shame, or do we go to the Lord? This week on the pod, Lisa shares about her own struggle with perfectionism and how God has worked in her heart to not only help her accept her imperfections, but to see them as a gift. If you feel like you are falling short in any area of your life, this is the episode for you!

Welcome to the first episode of 2026! After taking a few weeks off to regroup from the holidays, we are back and excited to dig into God’s truth with you! Although we are well into January, most of us are still in organization and “fresh start” mode, whether that means reestablishing good rhythms or starting new ones. With that in mind, we invited guest Alicia Kavanaugh on the pod to share some of her organizational best practices with us. As Hickory Creek’s own Bible Study Coordinator, we knew she was the girl for the job. (Let’s just say spreadsheets are her jam!) Tune in this week to hear Lisa and Alicia talk about practical ways we can organize our chaos, while still staying true to the unique ways God has designed each of us (and our families) to operate. Links:Upcoming Women’s Bible Studies https://www.hickorycreekchurch.org/womens-bible-studiesThe Gospel Comes with a Housekeyhttps://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Comes-House-Key-Post-Christian/dp/143355786X

Merry Christmas, listeners! This week we wrap up our four-part series on Advent by focusing on the theme of love. And really, what better way to spend the week of Christmas than by reflecting on God’s greatest expression of love to us—the gift of His son, Jesus. This, of course, should also make us reflect on our love for Him. What is it about God that makes you love Him? What attributes of His character make you want to draw near? Tune in to our final episode of 2025 as Lisa shares what she personally loves most about God, as well as three ways God shows His love for us.

When we think about joy at Christmas, most of us think of twinkling lights, rosy cheeks, wrapped gifts, and hot cocoa. But is that the kind of joy that truly fills us, especially if we are dealing with not-so-festive feelings like grief and sadness? This week on the podcast, we welcome back Holly Williams to the show to discuss what Advent teaches us about true, Biblical joy. Tune in to hear Lisa and Holly explore how we can find the kind of joy that sustains in all seasons and what practical steps we can take if we are having a hard time feeling joyful at all. Links:Every Moment Holy: Volume IIhttps://www.everymomentholy.com/volume-2Untangle Your Emotionshttps://www.jennieallen.com/untangle-your-emotions

Christmas is in 17 days, are we feeling peaceful yet? Although peace is what most of us want to feel during the holiday season, we are usually too caught up in stress and chaos to actually experience it. If that is you, know that you are not alone. But here’s the good news: There are ways we can intentionally invite peace into our lives this Christmas season, even in the midst of shopping, wrapping, hosting, and doing all.the.things. Listen in this week as Lisa talks us through week 2 of our Advent series and gives us three practical ways we can position our hearts to experience peace—one of which may surprise (and challenge!) you.Links:7 Days of Peace verses:https://www.canva.com/design/DAG5pBODRgg/UGlqz-GWD_8PBcXJ3Qa7OA/view?utm_content=DAG5pBODRgg&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h44a9eac841

This past Sunday marked the beginning of Advent—a season observed by many Christians during the four weeks leading up to Christmas. Although there are many traditions around celebrating Advent, we’ve decided to bring it to the pod to help us prepare our hearts and maintain our focus on Jesus. Each week, we will unpack one of the four themes of Advent: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. Kicking off this week on Hope is special guest Melissa Kachin. A repeat guest and one of the co-leaders of Hickory Creek’s Advent study, Melissa gives us a great overview of what Advent is and how Hope can be our anchor, not just during the holiday season but in every season.Names of God 1) Yahweh (The LORD)This name highlights a powerful, eternal presence and a personal relationship. In Exodus 3:15, we read, “God also said to Moses, ‘...This is My name forever, and this is how I am to be remembered in every generation.’” Whenever you see “the LORD” in Scripture, it’s a reminder that God is not distant or detached but actively engaged with His people.2) Elohim (God, Creator)Right from the start of Scripture, God is introduced as Elohim, the supreme Creator. Genesis 1:1 states, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” This title conveys both power and creativity, reminding us that all things spring from the hand of the One who shaped the universe.3) Adonai (Lord, Master)Adonai demonstrates God’s rightful place of authority. In passages like Psalm 86:5, we see the kindness and lordship of Adonai. It’s a name that calls us to respect His sovereignty and trust in His goodness as we navigate daily life, looking to Him as our Master and guide.4) El Shaddai (God Almighty)When life feels overwhelming, the name El Shaddai offers hope and strength. In Genesis 17:1, God says to Abram, “‘I am God Almighty; walk before Me and be blameless.’” This name points to His all-sufficient power, assuring us that no challenge is too big for the Almighty One who carries us through.5) Jehovah Jireh (The LORD Will Provide)In the dramatic account of Abraham and Isaac, God revealed Himself as the Provider. Genesis 22:14 says, “And Abraham called that place The LORD Will Provide.” This name offers assurance that the same God who provided then is still at work in our circumstances today, meeting us right where we need Him most.6) Jehovah Rapha (The LORD Who Heals)Whether broken in body, mind, or spirit, God’s name as Healer invites us to seek restoration. In Exodus 15:26, He declares, “For I am the LORD who heals you.” Knowing Him as Jehovah Rapha kindles hope that there is no wound too deep for His healing touch.7) Jehovah Nissi (The LORD Is My Banner)The name Jehovah Nissi paints a picture of marching under God’s victory flag. Exodus 17:15 records Moses building an altar and naming it The LORD Is My Banner after a triumph in battle. It is an inspiring reminder that every victory is a testament to His might.8) Jehovah Shalom (The LORD Is Peace)In a world hungry for calm, Jehovah Shalom offers true peace. Judges 6:24 highlights Gideon building an altar to the LORD and calling it “The LORD Is Peace.” Even when life feels chaotic, we can rest in the assurance that real peace comes from walking close to Him.9) Jehovah Tsidkenu (The LORD Our Righteousness)This title underscores God’s unshakable goodness. Jeremiah 23:6 proclaims, “And this is the name by which He will be called: The LORD Our Righteousness.” It shows that the One who is perfectly just extends His righteousness to those who seek forgiveness and new life in Him.10) Jehovah Rohi (The LORD My Shepherd)Picture a shepherd guiding and protecting his flock, and you have a glimpse of this tender name. Psalm 23:1 opens, “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” It captures the comfort of belonging to a God who not only leads us but also cares for our every need with gentleness and grace.Isaiah 7:14  Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel. (God with us)Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.List from: https://biblehub.com/top10/names_of_god_and_their_meanings.htmLinks:The Advent Book:https://www.etsy.com/listing/170831012/the-advent-book-by-jack-kathy-stockman?gpla=1&gao=1&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_ps-a-books_movies_and_music&utm_custom1=_k_CjwKCAiAuIDJBhBoEiwAxhgyFjEpIn341sWqIcFXH4bXdxUgZlxvc06x56xzxvfkBkggV0OC-0101RoCoIoQAvD_BwE_k_&utm_content=go_21791667339_169566883678_716586690630_pla-314262775427_c__170831012_12768591&utm_custom2=21791667339&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21791667339&gbraid=0AAAAADtcfRKIabbMSUbmE_WsIEG_6Xi19&gclid=CjwKCAiAuIDJBhBoEiwAxhgyFjEpIn341sWqIcFXH4bXdxUgZlxvc06x56xzxvfkBkggV0OC-0101RoCoIoQAvD_BwE

This week’s heartwarming episode is one you don’t want to miss. Mom and advocate Lindsey Abbasy shares how raising a daughter with Down Syndrome has changed her life in all the best ways. From gaining a deeper understanding of what it means to be made in the image of God to making a guest appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Lindsay is a beautiful example of what it looks like to use your story for God’s glory. Listen in as Lisa interviews Lindsey about the early years with her sweet daughter, Olivia, and how that led her to work with Jack’s Basket, a nonprofit organization that delivers “baskets of joy” to families celebrating babies with Down Syndrome.Links:Jack’s Baskethttps://jacksbasket.org/Lindsay and Olivia on The Kelly Clarkson Show!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0QG2G063bc

As believers, we love talking about Jesus, goodness, and light. And, yes, God’s Word tells us to focus on such things. But there is another side of the spiritual realm that exists and that God warns us about in scripture. There is a battle raging in each of our lives as the enemy works hard to distract, divide, and destroy. Thankfully, God does not leave us defenseless. Tune in this week as Ali and Lisa discuss the realities of spiritual warfare and what God’s Word teaches us about standing firm against the enemy’s schemes to defeat us. (Spoiler alert: Jesus wins!)Links:Spiritual Warfare and Prayer article by John Piperhttps://www.desiringgod.org/messages/spiritual-warfare-and-prayer#:~:text=Not%20Against%20Flesh%20and%20Blood,asked%20him%20if%20he%27s%20kingStand Firm sermon serieshttps://subsplash.com/u/hickorycreekchurchil/media/l/n8mvbmz-stand-firmThe Armor of God study by Priscilla Shirerhttps://goingbeyond.com/resources/workbooks/armor-of-god-workbook-with-video-access/

For all the achievers out there, this episode is for you. After years of chasing (and winning) earthly accolades, including an Emmy and several Olympic weightlifting titles, it wasn’t until Janah Esquivel gave her life to Christ that she discovered true victory. Listen in this week as Janah gives her full testimony, how small steps of obedience ultimately led her into a life of total surrender and full trust in God and His amazing plans. As Janah explains, her strength and confidence are now found in Christ and what He did for her on the cross – a prize she didn’t have to earn and one that she will enjoy for all of eternity.Links:Living Hope:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9f2FXxDVO6wFollow us on Instagram!  https://www.instagram.com/hersolidgroundpodcast/

The Bible shows us very clearly: Jesus was all about relationships. In fact, during his time on earth, Jesus rebuked the religious elite because they were using the law and religious practices to exalt themselves, completely missing God’s heart for His people. Can we, as believers, fall into the same trap? Are we prioritizing moral checklists and good optics over intimacy with God and those He calls us to love? Tune in to this week’s episode as Lisa and Ali discuss some of the connotations around the word religion, how the good news about Jesus changes everything, and how we can be more intentional about forming a deeper connection with God and others.Links:Make Room lyric video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-fZR7olNYcPracticing the Way by John Mark Comer: https://www.amazon.com/Practicing-Way-Jesus-Become-like/dp/0593193822/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.dyuysjjhQJ0Txd1S_-UXaMMfFprLpOZJ9K7fvElHr3igCVNfB3PdAJt4-O29WCOc1cfpF3UItc2pr88gibRmuMrQ734BAhZKU1DWd_XkQs0B69CV9j2bu9aqfHTlC8nNg0RwL3blRwniOT-6YfXb88cTxB3v32FvzQ5AyUzZsl_L1V1HXZtLjBvTQ_lX3I1A-J8zAlZeSEzMsxz7wn2yTSwM873uOlqKHpcXcahhkgY.MWi9LexQHQ9SzXYNYV8Sto-duIf1l5uYpiBJuQ-XMRc&dib_tag=se&hvadid=693770179802&hvdev=c&hvexpln=67&hvlocphy=9021612&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=11026856104276352281--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=11026856104276352281&hvtargid=kwd-2239008167427&hydadcr=17840_13466956&keywords=practicing+the+way+by+john+mark+comer&mcid=188bca80434238af90896ad557069f5c&qid=1761243572&sr=8-1

God loves it when we serve Him. He loves our ministry efforts. He loves it when we spend our time and talents to further the Kingdom. But sometimes in all our doing for the Lord, we can lose sight of His heart and as a result, we can lose sight of His people. This week on the podcast, Ali and Lisa talk through one of the core values of Hickory Creek Church: “People over Production.” It’s not that production is bad, but when it comes to prioritizing, we need to follow the example of Jesus and always put His people first, both inside and outside the church. Tune in this week as Ali and Lisa both share times when they got it wrong, and how the shepherds in their lives gently pointed them back to what God cares about the most – His people.Link:Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/hersolidgroundpodcast/

Navigating a new season of life is always a little challenging, but it can be especially emotional when it comes to parenting. This week on the pod, we welcome Hickory Creek’s own Holly Williams, a faithful woman of God and a proud mom of three adult children. Tune in to hear Lisa and Holly discuss all things mid-life, the grief of launching big kids into the world, and the joy and beauty we can find by trusting in a God who is with us through it all.Links:Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/hersolidgroundpodcast/

This week, we take a hard look at pride and how it can sneak into our faith walks and relationships. Far too often we are so focused on sharing our perspective and being “right,” that we forget that we all have blind spots, and even more so, that God is always trying to teach us something. Can we be people who choose humility and love over proving our point? Listen in as Ali and Lisa talk about why having a learning posture before the Lord and others is so important, why it’s hard, and practical ways we can live it out. Links:Follow us on Instagram!  https://www.instagram.com/hersolidgroundpodcast/

This week on the pod, we are talking with local author and speaker Andi Rispens. As a Bible teacher and student, Andi has always had a passion for learning about God and studying His Word. However, it was a simple question posed to her during a class on spiritual formation that ultimately led her to a deeper, more honest relationship with God. (Spoiler alert: It all had to do with prayer!) Tune in to this week’s episode, “Bench Prayers,” to hear Lisa ask Andi about the “big question” she was asked, why it prompted her to write an entire book, and a refreshing look at how we can approach God in prayer.Links:Andi Rispens:  https://andirispens.com/Get Over Yourself by Andi Rispens:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DQF5QZ9C?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_A5SPAEQ4K1E0E9VRXXRG&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_A5SPAEQ4K1E0E9VRXXRG&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_A5SPAEQ4K1E0E9VRXXRG&peakEvent=5&dealEvent=0&skipTwisterOG=1&bestFormat=trueFor His Glory Retreat: https://newlifenewlenox.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2933713?fbclid=IwY2xjawNCk81leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEzYWE4clVaOG1iWjdTdDNwAR5eOj_vaH6H6TxHdJcGn7j0KFdBS1iklcFJRYl_p1Vx5A19RoLSRC5L2Npb4Q_aem_Q_F4Oz5CE_nIpMhaS0I52Q

If you’ve ever wondered what it means to “be in the world, but not of the world,” this week’s podcast is for you. Most of us like this concept in theory, but when push comes to shove, do we truly seek to honor the kingdom of God over our personal desires or earthly concerns? Tune in as Lisa and Ali unpack why this is challenging, what it means to have a Kingdom mindset, and steps we can take to align our hearts with God’s will and prioritize His purposes over our own agendas.Links:Seek Ye First lyrics: https://www.hymnal.net/en/hymn/ns/120Follow us on Instagram!  https://www.instagram.com/hersolidgroundpodcast/

Today on the pod, we welcome guest Caryn Haberkorn, a strong woman of faith and a long-time member of Hickory Creek Church. Caryn’s heart for the Lord has prompted her involvement in multiple ministries, but in this episode, we focus on her work with Safe Families for Children, a volunteer-driven nonprofit that provides hope and hands-on support to local families facing crisis situations. Listen in as Lisa and Caryn talk about God’s call to help those in need and what that could look like in our right-now lives.Upcoming Dates to RememberOctober 12: Safe Families visiting Hickory Creek ChurchNovember 2: Safe Families Training Links:Safe Families for Children: https://safe-families.org/Follow us on Instagram!  https://www.instagram.com/hersolidgroundpodcast/

Let’s be honest, being an adult is hard, especially when it comes to making choices. As followers of Jesus, we often feel the added pressure to make the “right choice.” We want to honor God, and we don’t want to do anything that goes against His will. But what happens when we don’t feel His prompting or have clarity on the next step? What if we choose the wrong path? In this episode of the pod, Lisa and Ali talk about hearing God’s voice, how much leeway God gives us in our decision-making, and what it looks like to follow God when we aren’t sure which way He wants us to go.Links:Ruth Bible Study by Kelly Minter: https://www.lifeway.com/en/product-family/living-room-series/ruth-loss-love-legacy?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22184459257&gbraid=0AAAAADG5DetyS-n7ErxheupDQJ5JNBWrb&gclid=CjwKCAjw2brFBhBOEiwAVJX5GN8fZiV8AbtQbWBP_SP80_5T4kPCVhS5UmLi1a7xJpPE8M3ZdBvzNxoC8Z0QAvD_BwEInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/hersolidgroundpodcast/

Welcome back, listeners! After taking the summer off, we are thrilled to be back and to kick off Season 3 of the Her Solid Ground podcast. We have so much goodness planned for our third round of the pod, but as you will learn in this first episode, we are switching things up a bit. Although you will still hear from Ali and Lisa A LOT, we will be changing up the format and adding some new voices to the mix that we know you will love. Tune in to this first episode to hear what prompted this new approach, why we often shy away from change, and how we can find peace and confidence in the One who never changes.Links:Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/hersolidgroundpodcast/

“No limits!” “You can do it all!” “You can achieve anything if you just put your mind to it and work hard enough!” These are the messages culture has been telling us our whole lives. These ideas sound good and even feel good, but they just aren’t Truth. Although we all work really hard to deny them, we do in fact have limitations. Here’s what’s even more true—God designed us that way. Yes, we are made in God’s image, but we aren’t God nor were we ever expected to be. We were created to need God and each other. In our last episode of the season, we talk about what it looks like to operate in God’s strength and the difference between reaching our potential and operating within our limits. Listen in as Ali shares a personal story about one of her limitations and the impact it has had on her soul, while Lisa launches us into summer break with some encouraging words.Links:Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hersolidgroundpodcast/Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer:https://www.amazon.com/Ruthless-Elimination-Hurry-Emotionally-Spiritually/dp/0525653090/ref=asc_df_0525653090?mcid=d3a03884a3af3452a555694881f4af9c&hvocijid=3059662168948666464-0525653090-&hvexpln=73&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=721245378154&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3059662168948666464&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9021604&hvtargid=pla-2281435175938&psc=1

When we talk about Easter, we tend to focus on Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday. And of course, these days are worth reflecting on—our Christian faith is built upon the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. But what about the day in between? What about Saturday? Most of us don’t dwell on that day. What if we viewed and treated it differently this year? What could that teach us? Tune in this week as Ali and Lisa talk about the space God left between grief and victory and how we can find peace in the waiting. 

What comes to mind when you hear the word “idol”? From a secular perspective, it is positioned as a positive thing (i.e., “Who is your next American Idol?”), whereas in scripture, it is a huge no-no. God commands us to never have idols and, of course, to never worship them. And while most of us aren’t likely bowing down to golden calves, if we get honest, we all probably have a few idols in our lives: money, our bodies, our careers and aspirations, our relationship status, celebrities, social media… even our homes and families can become idols if we aren’t careful. This week, Lisa and Ali define what idols are, what worship looks like, and how we can identify those red flags that indicate we may be placing other things above (or alongside) God—the only One who deserves our worship.Links:John Piper: What is an Idol? https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/what-is-an-idolNelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionaryhttps://www.amazon.com/Nelsons-Illustrated-Bible-Dictionary-Enhanced/dp/0529106221/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=30Z2YKIVRNG6J&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.citN1bDNsSKrkTmoJPTSuwd3SSb_5sPbo8mPg-Djc-K5RGpKoxs5OcBYqmP1CvaSh3OZu3NQ0Mdbic9YeaEQMhUGfTneSru5tJQMkPj3GklPzuJu2LAnTN5KxXJYIlm-8o7Fyt1sjeKJxIA6iHoMLGjAI3YB02joVW7UNex2yzmw159CuiHfoWowv6JrxQcRY1MzbZ4uE3EBdt9K0OHl6SsPYWOOLL4jAlkZ4Q6Are4.JnpIXh7mHUXrxy6Tyj5C_VvFZdZuQxor2aVS7LyKDgU&dib_tag=se&keywords=illustrated+Bible+dictionary&qid=1742931424&sprefix=illustrated+bible+dictionary%2Caps%2C99&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1

It’s time for a little grace! As many of you know, The Grace Episode is a recurring feature on the pod that gives Ali and Lisa the chance to revisit some past episodes to offer corrections and/or clarifications. Tune in this week as Lisa and Ali get honest about some of their missteps in the second half of the season, as well as a bonus discussion on the difference between grace and mercy.

We talk a lot about the highs and lows of our faith walks, but what about those middle places when we feel a little dry. For some reason, we may find ourselves feeling apathetic, maybe a little numb, and worst of all, God feels far away. Is this normal? Is this an indication that we are doing something wrong or should be doing something more? This week on the pod, Lisa and Ali get honest about dry seasons of faith—those moments when we aren’t quite sure what God is doing and may even begin to question if He is as near as He promises. (Spoiler alert: He is.) Tune in this week as we discuss what we can do in these seasons and what God might be teaching us.Links:Every Moment Holyhttps://www.everymomentholy.com/ Untangle Your Emotions by Jennie Allenhttps://www.amazon.com/Untangle-Your-Emotions-Naming-Knowing/dp/0593193415/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0 Get Over Yourself by Andi Rispenshttps://www.amazon.com/Get-Over-Yourself-Depends-because/dp/B0DQG5YNJ6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2P7ZJHGWVEX5D&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.xxgUXgWWlVXMyVOdbHavDvrH0wCTGigFDFyxWHNIKw3nJ9s3R-nK_OGc0npeuxs4WSfJJ1CJ_cW10lqn8jIGDuAP6F8yfJGh-XGjBQPyg7g.hdgv4WwPxK5gr_fX9tbbH4tK0pWcUmfl_EUL5a3jdKA&dib_tag=se&keywords=get+over+yourself+andi+rispens&qid=1741748991&sprefix=get+over+yourself+%2Caps%2C128&sr=8-1 Wiersbe Commentaryhttps://www.amazon.com/Wiersbe-Bible-Commentary-Vol-Commentaries/dp/0781445418/ref=asc_df_0781445418?mcid=7eb9ef4f33813326aaaca98871c62b74&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693380484655&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11010258165384793882&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9021612&hvtargid=pla-479336143564&psc=1 Lisa’s Facebook Posthttps://www.facebook.com/lisabonnemaspeaker/posts/pfbid02DFGv2NQMmbFdKoEbb2gnV2PZTygdpQfuWkWhaHSvSUZNaoDKm7qJEjTM2ocpteXol

As Christians, we know that serving is part of the gig. Loving our neighbor means helping our neighbor. But are we just as willing to ask for help or even accept help when it’s offered to us? We’re guessing the answer to that question is no. Far too often, we lean away from help because it feels too vulnerable or because we don’t want to admit that we need it. The truth is we all need support—that’s why God gave us each other. Tune is this week as Lisa and Ali chat about their own struggles with asking for help, why it’s important to be a receiver, and what scripture says happens when we try to do it all on our own.

Everyone loves to be encouraged. I mean, who doesn’t want someone speaking goodness over their life? But what is true encouragement? Is it all about compliments, agreement, and empowerment, or is there more to it than that? Is there a way to cheer each other on and sharpen each other at the same time? This week on the pod, Ali and Lisa unpack what the Bible teaches us about encouragement—what it is, what it isn’t, why we need it, and ways we can live it out.Link:Why is encouragement so important according to the Bible?https://www.gotquestions.org/Bible-encouragement.html

Drumroll please…. Welcome to Episode 50 of the Her Solid Ground Podcast! To celebrate this milestone, we decided to veer from our typical format and have a little fun. Tune in as Ali and Lisa interview each other about all the things—the early days of the pod, their favorite scriptures, and how they feel about some of life’s most pressing issues: Does fruit belong in dessert? Is an air-conditioner necessary for survival? Can Lisa ever answer a question without overthinking it? This light-hearted Q&A-style episode aims to give you an unfiltered peek behind the curtain while still pointing us all back to the One who deserves all the glory. Thank you, Lord. Here’s to 50 more!

We talk a lot on the pod about the importance of having relationships that not only encourage and support us, but that help sharpen and grow us as women of God. One way we can bring this type of accountability into our lives is to have a mentor. Although mentorship isn’t a new concept, we would bet that most of us aren’t really clear on how we get a mentor and what that relationship would even look like. Listen in this week as Lisa and Ali talk about their own experience with mentorship, why having a mentor matters, and practical steps we can take to find a mentor, become a mentor, or both!Links:Titus 2 Ministry:https://hickorycreekchurch.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/286/responses/new

After talking about anger for two weeks, it felt fitting to do an episode on forgiveness. If we truly want to experience freedom from feelings like anger and bitterness, we need to heed the words of Jesus—to not only pray for our enemies, but to forgive them as He has forgiven us. Listen in this week as Ali and Lisa talk about why forgiveness is hard and usually feels unnatural, but how it is absolutely necessary for the health of our hearts. Even in the hurt, we can choose to forgive out of obedience to Christ, trusting that He will heal us.Links:Untangle Your Emotions by Jennie Allenhttps://www.amazon.com/Untangle-Emotions-Bible-Study-Streaming/dp/0310171458/ref=asc_df_0310171458/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693674918115&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=808088877810583510&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9021612&hvtargid=pla-2273568150160&psc=1&mcid=e34645a19dbd3581a9d94220d77e2403Forgiving What You Can’t Forget by Lysa TerKeurst https://www.amazon.com/Forgiving-What-You-Cant-Forget/dp/0718039874/ref=asc_df_0718039874?mcid=8e47343663da399fbd3edc6f79fd3693&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693310578148&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9138372596136607700&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9021612&hvtargid=pla-995503471197&psc=1

Another episode on anger? Yep—and with good reason. We are banking on the fact that at some level, we all have anger issues. Last week, we learned that the feeling of anger isn’t a sin in and of itself. Even Jesus got angry. The tipping point is understanding the motive behind our anger and even more so, how we choose to deal with it. This week on the pod, Lisa and Ali give some healthy ways we can deal with our anger in the heat of the moment, or what Ali describes as “drive-by anger.” Lisa also shares a personal story about the verbal lashing she received from a total stranger and the surprising lessons God taught her through that experience.Links:Got Questions articlehttps://www.gotquestions.org/Bible-anger.html

Anger is a tricky emotion. As Christians, we typically don’t want to admit that it is something that we struggle with and feel. After all, isn’t peace the goal? But the truth is that we all get angry, and let’s be honest, most of us tend to excuse and justify it. Plenty of us have heard others—maybe even ourselves—claim “righteous anger,” but is that something we are even capable of as sinful humans, or is righteous anger something only Jesus can claim? In Part 1 of this two-part series, Ali and Lisa get real about anger—what is often behind it, whether or not it is a sin, and what the Bible teaches us about Jesus and why He really flipped those tables in the temple. Links:Wiersbe Bible Commentaryhttps://www.amazon.com/Wiersbe-Bible-Commentary-Vol-Commentaries/dp/0781445418Untangle Your Emotionshttps://www.amazon.com/Untangle-Emotions-Bible-Study-Streaming/dp/0310171458/ref=asc_df_0310171458?mcid=a32ae9a2daeb3424ac9ae99253652f78&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693674918115&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10300517288326280181&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9021612&hvtargid=pla-2273568150160&psc=1

How often do we as women find ourselves feeling like a “red hot mess,” trying our hardest to do all the things while never quite feeling like we are getting it right? In fact, Lisa and Ali often joke that this would be their band name (if they had any musical skills or aspirations). For most of us, this frazzled state of mind is more than a little relatable. But is this really where God wants us to stay? Are we all just red hot messes after all? In this episode, Lisa and Ali discuss their personal struggles with chaos and then look to scripture to find Biblical responses that can help us find peace and stability, even in the middle of our most hectic days.Links:Prayer Journal for Womenhttps://www.amazon.com/Prayer-Journal-Women-Scripture-Devotional/dp/1941325823/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=L94CHXJSFA1Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TngcSha4T0ry7yXZvCTW6FK8jjjsiT-TgdClhd08NazEyrCmr8g5fLf4k_kz7yfr5-2S4lr0gg6znhABb_oIn5a-YLCiOGe60vJl1z6xh_fgYzCSJQgnsWa9ANk5g_-AWcwSh3EY3WCFTmwx0TyOVh0RYXa4iyoI6V8Jo3qZ3B0vFTvTahNm0U8bp0-i-xlAA6ZBiLEoZKfbcYXP9zrmn9eceGvSLh1p5RJz0flu5kRbnt5UxBH820AOIWN2qMoEPI7qQOrcnELr-ST75yQ-wCs3P9rT9ArE-ntdU8zuJEE.q6_qO8SoPq22hvUcBeQnEwbyTYzqsyXVCFdjc4Np-Co&dib_tag=se&keywords=prayer+journal&qid=1737578936&sprefix=prayer+journal%2Caps%2C131&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1

We’ve all heard about the power of prayer, but is that our reason for praying? Do we only pray so that we get what we want? Should there be more to our prayers than simply stating our needs? This week, Ali and Lisa are tackling these questions and more in order to get to the heart of what God intends our prayer life to be. Instead of making prayer something we “should do” or “have to do,” let’s see what Jesus teaches us and how we can start looking at prayer as something we “get to do.”Links: When You Prayhttps://www.lifeway.com/en/product/when-you-pray-bible-study-book-with-video-access-P005837641?mcid=Adwords-sb-PLA-005837641&cmpid=pm:ggl:220725|oth|shopping|women|women|17853994734|womens_pmax:pla:na&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAst67BhCEARIsAKKdWOnoEiFwAog2IpgKk9gNO0nfOKI-f5K8kmxaveKmx3GUKQkCMeKWohcaAs5WEALw_wcB

As we head into a new year, a lot of us are planning, setting goals, and maybe even making some resolutions. This is all good, good stuff. We are big fans of intentionality here on the pod. However, as believers, we need to make sure our plans are grounded in the larger truth that God is the One in control and that it is His plan, not ours, that will prevail. This week on the pod, we are unpacking the concept of God’s sovereignty—what that means and why it is good news for us. We may not always fully comprehend or even agree with the ways of God, but what a comfort to love and serve a God who is bigger than our own limited understanding. If God is good, then His plan is not only good, it is better than anything we could ever come up with on our own. Links:“So Will I”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2U7ffUM5Ec

Most of us are in the thick of all things Christmas right now – decorating, baking, shopping, and doing our best to attend all the festivities. It’s all so much fun, but let’s be honest…it’s also a lot of stress, chaos, and activity. Some of us are already feeling the fatigue set in and when that happens, it's easy to get distracted and forget what this season is really all about. This week on the pod, listen in as Lisa and Ali remind us to not miss “the who” for “the what” this Christmas. In the midst of all of our preparations, let’s not miss out on enjoying the people in our lives that God has gifted us with and, most importantly, let’s not forget to enjoy the gift of His Son.
In the end, the details don’t matter. People matter. Jesus matters. May we allow that to be enough for us this Christmas.

This week, we welcome guest Melissa Kachin to the pod! Melissa is a wife, mom, and licensed therapist specializing in women’s issues and trauma recovery. She is also a member of Hickory Creek Church and leads and coordinates our Advent study. As we head into Christmas season, we wanted to lean on Melissa’s expertise to help us navigate all the feelings and expectations that usually come with the holidays. As Melissa says, Christmas doesn’t mean we leave all of our difficult emotions and nervous systems behind. Listen in as Ali, Lisa, and Melissa talk about practical ways we can manage our expectations this Christmas and how we can reset our focus in those moments when we feel overwhelmed, sad, or disappointed. 

As we get ready to celebrate Thanksgiving this week, we all know that our focus should be on gratitude. But what happens if that is not how we actually feel? Do we just go through the motions and offer superficial thanks to God, or is there a way to be honest about our true feelings and still honor God? This week on the pod, Lisa and Ali discuss what God has to say about lukewarm worship, whether or not gratitude is a feeling or a choice, and how we can position our hearts to be fully present this Thanksgiving, both with God and the people in our lives.Links:Wiersbe Bible Commentary https://www.amazon.com/Wiersbe-Bible-Commentary-Vol-Commentaries/dp/0781445418Links:Wiersbe Bible Commentary https://www.amazon.com/Wiersbe-Bible-Commentary-Vol-Commentaries/dp/0781445418

How many times have you heard: Judge not, lest ye be judged? Or, in common culture: Don’t judge others. But is that what scripture truly instructs? Many people are framing this idea around the words of Jesus in Matthew 7:1, but you might be surprised to know that this verse—and those that follow—are often misunderstood and misconstrued. Yes, Jesus gives some important information about whether or not we should be judging others, but let’s be sure we understand the fullness of His teaching. Tune in this week as Ali and Lisa take a closer look at scripture to answer the question: Can we judge others?Links:Got Questions articlehttps://www.gotquestions.org/do-not-judge.htmlPastor Scott’s Messagehttps://hickorycreekchurchil.subspla.sh/x5bhpxs

“Both/and" is a phrase we use often on the pod. It’s a way of thinking that acknowledges that ideas that appear to be opposites can both still be true at once. For example, as believers, we can find comfort and hope in the promise of eternal life and yet still feel deep grief when we lose someone we love. We find the idea of “both/and” to be especially true in the Kingdom of God, which is often called “upside down” compared to the ways of the world. This week, listen in as Lisa and Ali take a closer look at the paradoxical nature of God’s ways and even within God Himself. Links:Untangle Your Emotionshttps://www.amazon.com/Untangle-Emotions-Bible-Study-Streaming/dp/0310171458/ref=asc_df_0310171458/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693674918115&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=808088877810583510&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9021612&hvtargid=pla-2273568150160&psc=1&mcid=e34645a19dbd3581a9d94220d77e2403How We Feel apphttps://howwefeel.org/

The Grace Episode is back! This recurring feature of the pod gives us the chance to revisit some past episodes and offer corrections and/or clarifications. Tune in as Ali and Lisa discuss some of their missteps, as well as the personal lessons they’ve learned so far during Season 2. To help us LIVE IT OUT, this week’s episode also talks through Hebrews 4:16 and teaches us how we can humbly admit our shortcomings and still draw near to God’s throne of Grace with confidence.