PODCAST · religion
The Encouragement Well
by Rachel Haywood
This show is for every woman who’s tired, overwhelmed, overlooked, or unsure of her purpose. Here, we get real about faith in life’s messiness—illness, heartbreak, family struggles, and hard seasons. Through testimony, scripture, transparency, and a whole lot of Holy Spirit, each episode aims to pour hope into the cracks you didn’t even know you had. You'll feel like sitting with your Spirit-led friend who tells the truth, points you to Jesus, and reminds you of who you really are. If you’re ready to walk boldly, believe again, and breathe again, come sit at the well. There’s room for you.
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25
Prayer as a Weapon, Not a Performance- Learning to pray with power without trying to sound perfect.
In this opening episode of Series 6- The Praying Woman: Covering, Consecration & Surrender, Rachel invites listeners to release the pressure of “performing” in prayer and return to honest communion with God. If you have ever felt intimidated by prayer, compared your words to someone else’s, or wondered if your simple prayers were enough, this episode is a reminder that prayer does not have to sound perfect to be powerful. God is not looking for polished words. He is looking for a surrendered heart.Rachel reflects on how God meets us where we are, how Jesus taught His own disciples to pray, and why the posture of our hearts matters more than the performance of our words. This episode encourages you to come boldly, pray honestly, and trust that God hears the whisper, the cry, the journal entry, the car prayer, the kitchen prayer, and the prayer you barely had strength to say.Scriptures referenced: Hebrews 4:16, Luke 11:1, Matthew 6:5–6, Isaiah 64:6, James 5:16, Ephesians 6:18.00:00 Intro03:31 When Prayer Feels Intimidating08:50 Prayer Was Never Meant to Be a Performance15:08 Scripture Shows Us Bold, Honest, Imperfect Prayers18:26 How to Begin Praying With Authority in Your Real Voice21:58 Your Posture in Prayer is What Matters Most26:49 Closing Encouragement28:23 Prayer30:26 Outro
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24
Purpose in Seasons of Pause and in Seasons of Pain
In this heartfelt episode of The Encouragement Well, Rachel Haywood speaks to the woman who feels paused, hidden, tired, or tender from a painful season and wonders if her purpose is still intact. Through Scripture, honest reflection, and encouragement rooted in faith, this episode reminds listeners that purpose is not lost because life got quiet, and calling is not canceled because life got hard.Rachel reflects on Hagar, Hannah, Psalm 23, Ephesians 2:10, John 15:4, and Zechariah 4:10 to remind women that God sees them in the wilderness, meets them in their pain, restores their souls, and helps them take the next faithful step. This conversation is for the woman who is healing, waiting, rebuilding, or learning how to walk with God at a different pace.If you have been wondering whether your pause means you have been put away, or whether your pain has disqualified you, this episode is a gentle reminder: God is still leading, still restoring, and still holding your purpose in His hands. 00:00 EPISODE 24 — Purpose in Seasons of Pause and in Seasons of Pain05:01 When Purpose Feel Paused11:47 Pain Doesn't Pause Your Purpose15:27 The Shepherd Restores You So You Can Keep Walking22:45 What God Develops in the Pause and in the Pain31:32 What Purpose Can Look Like in Seasons of Pause and in Seasons of Pain34:59 Walking Out Purpose Right Here40:47 Closing Encouragement42:28 Prayer44:27 Outro
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23
Your Calling Isn’t Cancelled (Even If Life Got Messy)
Episode 23: Your Calling Isn’t Cancelled (Even If Life Got Messy)Have you ever looked at your life and thought… this is not how I thought this would go?In this deeply honest and hope-filled episode, we’re talking about the quiet fear so many of us carry—the feeling that we’ve missed our moment. That somewhere between motherhood, responsibilities, unexpected life turns, and just trying to survive… our dreams got delayed, and maybe even left behind.But what if that’s not the end of your story?In this conversation, we unpack the lie of “I missed it” and replace it with truth rooted in God’s Word. Through personal reflection and real-life testimony—including a 10-year journey back to pursuing higher education—we explore how God uses detours for development, how nothing in your story is wasted, and what it looks like to rebuild your life with Him—without shame.This episode is your reminder that your calling is not fragile. It hasn’t been canceled. It hasn’t expired. And it hasn’t passed you by.You are still called. You are still chosen. And your story is still being written. ✨📖 Scriptures referenced:Romans 8:28Psalm 37:23–24Lamentations 3:22–23Joel 2:25If you’ve been feeling behind, uncertain, or like it’s too late… this episode will meet you right there—and gently call you forward.00:00 TEW EPISODE 23 — Your Calling Isn’t Cancelled (Even If Life Got Messy)01:44 I Missed My Moment03:48 God Uses Detours06:10 Rebuilding with God07:20 Still Called, Still Chosen10:26 Closing Encouragement 11:06 Prayer11:57 Outro
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22
Becoming Who God Called You to Be (Even If It Scares You)
What do you do when the very thing you prayed for… finally happens—but you don’t fully feel like yourself inside of it?In this deeply personal and faith-filled episode of The Encouragement Well, Rachel opens up about her 7-year journey of praying, pushing, and persevering toward her calling—only to face rejection, closed doors, and seasons that felt like she was moving backwards instead of forward.But what if those seasons weren’t setbacks… but setups?Through honest storytelling and powerful biblical connections, this episode explores what it really means to become—to step into who God called you to be, even when it feels uncomfortable, unfamiliar, and yes… a little scary.✨ In this episode, you’ll be encouraged to:Reframe rejection and delay as redirectionUnderstand the purpose of “wilderness” seasons (Exodus 13:21; Exodus 14:13)Navigate identity shifts when your role changes but your confidence hasn’t caught upEmbrace the refinement process without losing yourself (Isaiah 48:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17)Move forward even when fear is present (Joshua 1:9; 2 Timothy 1:7)With anchor scriptures like Isaiah 43:19, Exodus 3:11–12, Joshua 1:9, and 2 Timothy 1:7, Rachel reminds you that God is not confused about who you are—and He hasn’t brought you this far without purpose.If you’ve been feeling stretched, uncertain, or caught between who you used to be and who you’re becoming… this conversation is for you.🤍 Reflection to carry with you:What has God already shown you about who you are in this season?What is He asking you to trust Him with right now?What would it look like to take one faithful step forward today?0:00 Intro02:03 The Prayer That Changed Everything06:05 When God Calls You Forward, Not Back08:59 You Are Not Losing Yourself… You’re Being Refined12:20 “Wait… Who Am I Now?”15:37 The Nervousness is Part of the Process18:41 Closing Encouragement 19:48 Prayer20:45 Outro
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21
What Obedience Looks Like in Real Life
Episode 21: What Obedience Looks Like in Real LifeObedience isn’t always loud, bold, or obvious. Sometimes it’s quiet… uncomfortable… and unseen.In this episode, we’re talking about what obedience to God really looks like, not the polished version, but the lived, everyday version.If you’ve been trying to follow God but it doesn’t feel clear…If you’ve been saying yes in private while questioning everything…If obedience feels more stretching than empowering…This conversation is for you 🤍We explore:✨ The tension of obedience when it doesn’t make sense✨ The cost of following God .....and the fruit it produces✨ Biblical examples like Noah, Abraham, Esther, and Peter✨ How to walk in obedience in everyday life✨ Why your small yes matters more than you think📖 Anchored in:Luke 16:10Proverbs 3:5-6Galatians 6:9🎶 Featuring: Yes - Shekinah Glory✨ Your quiet obedience is not overlooked. God is building something through it—even now.
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20
Who’s Pouring Into You? — Finding Yourself Again in Motherhood
In this honest and faith-filled episode of The Encouragement Well, we sit with the mom who has been pouring into everyone else and quietly feeling empty herself.If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Where did I go?”—this conversation is for you.Together, we talk about the weight of constantly giving, the quiet grief of missing parts of yourself, and the truth that you are not lost—you are becoming. Through the lens of Scripture and the heart of Jesus, this episode reminds you that God is not erasing who you are… He is refining, deepening, and strengthening what He already placed inside of you.You’ll be encouraged to:🤍 Recognize when you’ve been pouring without being filled🤍 Release guilt around missing parts of yourself🤍 Respond to the Holy Spirit’s gentle nudges toward restoration🤍 Make space for God to pour back into you🤍 Reconnect with the woman He created you to beJesus meets us in our emptiness—not to leave us there, but to fill us with living water.Scriptures ReferencedBook of Isaiah 43:19 — “Behold, I am doing a new thing…”Second Epistle to the Corinthians 5:17 — “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation…”Gospel of John 4 — The Woman at the WellTake a deep breath, settle in, and allow God to meet you right where you are.00:00 TEW Episode 20- Who’s Pouring Into You? — Finding Yourself Again in Motherhood01:58 The Constant Pouring04:22 The Version of Me I Miss06:33 The Truth (God's Perspective)10:25 Who’s Pouring Into You?12:25 Finding Yourself Again (Practical + Hopeful)14:41 Closing Encouragement16:13 Prayer17:31 Outro
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19
What Easter Teaches Us About Parenting Through Hard Seasons: Raising Teens Without Losing Your Mind or Your Faith
In this special Resurrection Sunday episode, we’re talking about how Easter speaks directly into one of the hardest seasons of motherhood… raising teens.Because sometimes it feels like you’re losing connection, losing control, or losing your footing altogether.But what if this season isn’t the end…What if it’s the beginning of something deeper?In this episode, we explore:✨ Good Friday Parenting – when it feels heavy and confusing✨ Silent Saturday Parenting – when nothing seems to be changing✨ Resurrection Parenting – learning to trust God with your childPlus a simple, faith-filled survival guide to help you stay connected, speak life, and pray with purpose.If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or stretched in this season… this episode is for you.📖 Scriptures Referenced:Luke 23Matthew 27:62–66Matthew 28:5–6Galatians 6:9Proverbs 18:21Ephesians 4:29James 5:161 Thessalonians 5:17Reflection Questions-What am I trying to control right now that God is asking me to surrender?-Where might God be working in my child’s life… even if I can’t see it yet?You are not alone in this… and this is not the end of the story 🤍00:00 TEW Episode 19- What Easter Teaches Us About Parenting Through Hard Seasons: Raising Teens Without Losing Your Mind or Your Faith01:59 Good Friday Parenting04:30 Silent Saturday Parenting07:32 Resurrection Parenting 09:54 A Little Survival Guide13:06 Closing Encouragement16:03 Prayer17:57 Outro
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18
Raising Kingdom Kids in a Culture Going Left- Planting Faith Foundations in a Shifting World
In Episode 18 of The Encouragement Well, Rachel Haywood talks about what it means to raise Kingdom kids in a culture that is constantly shifting. This episode is for the mom who feels the weight of wanting to prepare her children well, stay rooted in truth, and parent with intention in a world full of competing voices.Anchored in Isaiah 54:13, this conversation explores how culture influences our children through media, school, relationships, and everyday messages, while reminding us that God’s truth does not change. Rachel shares encouragement on being the first discipler in the home, building a faith that can withstand pressure, teaching discernment instead of just rules, calling God’s promises over your children, and trusting that the seeds you plant in faith will grow.If you’ve ever asked, “Lord, am I doing enough?”—this episode is for you. You are not raising your children alone.Scriptures referenced: Isaiah 54:13, Romans 12:2, Hebrews 13:8, Proverbs 22:6, Matthew 7:13–14, Deuteronomy 6:6–7, Matthew 7:24–25, Ephesians 6:11, Philippians 1:9–10, 1 Thessalonians 5:21, Lamentations 3:22–23, John 10:10, Galatians 6:7, Psalm 127:3.00:00 TEW Episode 18 Raising Kingdom Kids in a Culture Going Left- Planting Faith Foundations in a Shifting World02:14 The Culture is Loud… But Truth is Steady07:14 It Starts at Home — You Are the First Discipler11:51 Building a Faith That Can Withstand Pressure15:08 Teaching Discernment, Not Just Rules17:28 Grace for the Parent Who Feels Like They’re Getting It Wrong20:04 Calling God’s Promises Over Your Children22:54 What Are You Planting?25:38 Closing Encouragement26:52 Prayer28:09 Outro
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17
When Mom Guilt Tries to Steal Your Joy - How to Reject Shame and Embrace Grace
When Mom Guilt Tries to Steal Your Joy- How to Reject Shame and Embrace GraceMom guilt is something every mother experiences—but not every mother talks about.In this episode of The Encouragement Well, we’re having an honest conversation about the weight of mom guilt, where it comes from, and how it quietly steals our joy. Together, we’ll uncover the difference between conviction and condemnation, recognize the voice that sounds like us but isn’t, and expose how comparison, pressure, and unrealistic expectations keep us stuck in cycles of guilt.Most importantly, we’ll shift our focus back to truth—learning how to reject shame, renew our minds, and embrace the grace that God has already given us.This episode is your reminder that you were never called to be a perfect mom—you were called to be a present one. And through God’s grace, you can release the pressure, reclaim your joy, and walk confidently in the role He specifically chose you for. If you’ve ever gone to bed feeling like you didn’t do enough… this one is for you.Scriptures Referenced:Romans 8:1John 10:10Revelation 12:102 Corinthians 10:12Psalm 139:14Matthew 11:28–30Psalm 103:14Hebrews 4:16Romans 12:22 Corinthians 10:5Isaiah 40:11Reflection Questions:Where have I been believing guilt instead of truth in my motherhood?What standard have I been holding myself to that God never gave me?What would it look like for me to receive God’s grace in this season instead of striving for perfection? Let’s Stay Connected:You can connect with us on Instagram and Facebook at The Encouragement Well for continued reflection, Scripture, and honest conversations rooted in faith.If this episode encouraged you, share it with another mom who may need this reminder today 🤍00:00 Intro01:04 The Voice That Sounds Like You… But Isn’t04:11 The Comparison Trap06:56 The Mental Load & Unrealistic Expectations10:00 Grace is the Standard, Not Perfection11:57 Replacing Guilt with Truth14:15 Closing Encouragement 15:18 Prayer16:30 Outro
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16
Motherhood & Mercy: Grace for the Messy Days
TEW Episode 16 — Motherhood & Mercy: Grace for the Messy DaysMotherhood is beautiful—but it can also be exhausting, stretching, humbling, and sometimes overwhelming. In this episode of The Encouragement Well, Rachel opens the fourth series, Motherhood, Growth, and Emotional Strength, by talking honestly about the messy days of motherhood and the mercy God offers us in the middle of them.Many mothers quietly carry guilt, comparison, and the pressure to get everything right. But Scripture reminds us that God never asked mothers to be perfect—He offers something far better: His mercy, renewed every morning.In this episode, Rachel reflects on the reality of imperfect motherhood, the refining work God often does in us through parenting, and the grace that allows us to grow instead of living under condemnation. Through biblical encouragement and stories of mothers throughout Scripture—including Sarah, Hagar, Rebekah, Jochebed, Naomi, Hannah, and others—listeners are reminded that messy moments do not disqualify us. Instead, they are often the very places where God meets us with compassion and strength.If you have ever wondered whether you are enough as a mother, this conversation is a reminder that your children do not need a perfect mother—they need a mother who keeps turning back to God’s grace.Motherhood may stretch you in ways nothing else can. But it will also grow you in ways nothing else can. And in every messy day, every tired moment, every “I don’t know if I’m doing this right” feeling—God’s mercy is still there.Lamentations 3:22–23Psalm 103:13Malachi 3:3Romans 8:1Hebrews 4:162 Corinthians 3:17Matthew 6:4Galatians 6:92 Corinthians 12:9Isaiah 40:29Take a moment to reflect on these questions after listening:• Where might you be being too hard on yourself in this season of motherhood?• What expectations have you placed on yourself that God may not actually be asking of you?• What would it look like to truly accept God’s mercy today instead of replaying yesterday’s mistakes?• How can you extend grace to yourself the same way God extends grace to youYou can connect with us on Instagram and Facebook at The Encouragement Well for continued reflection, Scripture, and honest conversations rooted in faith.Until next time, drink deeply from His grace and stay rooted in Him.00:00 Intro04:02 The Reality of Messy Motherhood07:28 Giving Yourself the Grace God Already Gives You10:41 God Sees the Work No One Else Sees13:19 When You Feel Like You're Not Enough16:01 Mothers God Met in the Mess22:11 Reflection Questions23:32 Closing Encouragement25:14 Prayer26:36 Outro
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15
Protecting Your Marriage From Quiet Drift
In marriage, not all struggles are loud.Sometimes distance forms quietly—through busyness, unspoken hurts, or simply the slow shift from intentional connection to routine. In this episode of The Encouragement Well, Rachel talks about quiet drift—the subtle way couples can begin living parallel lives instead of shared ones.With honesty, practical wisdom, and Scripture, this conversation explores how to recognize the early warning signs of drift and how to intentionally reconnect with your spouse before distance becomes disconnection.You’ll hear about:• What quiet drift really looks like in a marriage• Why even loving couples can slowly grow apart• Gentle questions to help you recognize warning signs• Practical ways to rebuild connection and closeness• Why spiritual intimacy anchors a strong marriageIf you’ve ever felt a subtle distance in your relationship—or simply want to protect the closeness you have—this episode offers encouragement and hope.Because distance noticed is distance that can be healed.Scriptures referenced in this episode:Revelation 2:4–5Hebrews 2:1Song of Solomon 2:15Ecclesiastes 4:9Ephesians 4:2–3Colossians 3:14Matthew 19:6John 15:4Joel 2:25Lamentations 3:22–2300:00 Intro 02:25 What Quiet Drift Actually Looks Like04:18 Why Drift Happens07:11 Warning Signs You Might Be Drifting09:56 HOW TO RECONNECT INTENTIONALLY13:14 SPIRITUAL INTIMACY — THE ANCHOR15:07 Closing Segment16:13 Prayer18:38 Outro
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14
Fighting Fair: Conflict Without Carnage
Fighting Fair: Conflict Without CarnageConflict in marriage isn’t the problem. How we handle it is.In this episode of The Encouragement Well, Rachel Haywood welcomes licensed counselor and Board Certified Christian Counselor Kayla Whittle, M.Ed., for an honest and faith-rooted conversation about learning to fight fair.Together, they discuss:• Why conflict gets a bad reputation• What healthy disagreement actually looks like• Common destructive patterns couples fall into• The power of repair and apology• How to invite God into growth instead of expecting perfectionRooted in Mark 10:9 and Ephesians 4:2–3, this episode reminds us that protecting what God has joined together requires humility, patience, and intentional connection.Guest:Kayla Whittle, M.Ed., BCCCLifeBack Counseling CenterGO Church – East Coweta CampusLearn more at mygochurch.comIf this conversation encouraged you, share it with a sister who needs it.Until next time, drink deeply from His grace and stay rooted in Him. 🤍00:00 TEW Episode 14- Fighting Fair-Conflict Without Carnage00:44 Why Does Fighting Fair Matter?02:28 Why Does Conflict in Mariiage Get a Bad Rep?03:14 Is Conflict Normal?03:59 What Does "We Never Fight" REALLY Mean?04:40 What Role Does God Have in Marital Conflict?05:26 How Do You Define Healthy Conflict?06:26 What Do Most Couples Misunderstand About Fighting?06:51 What's Happening Beneath the Surface?07:46 Common Unhealthy Fighting Patterns09:37 What Does Fighting Fair Look Like?14:55 Repair After a Disagreement16:20 Healthy Apologies17:12 One Takeaway about Fighting Fair17:36 Healthy Disagreement Stems 24:36 Jesus as the 3rd Cord in Your Marriage29:53 Kayla Whittle's Ending Encouragement32:23 Prayer
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13
When Marriage Feels Heavy or Uncertain
Episode 13: When Marriage Feels Heavy or UncertainMarriage isn’t always roses, unicorns, and rainbows. Sometimes it feels heavy. Sometimes it feels uncertain. And sometimes the weight isn’t loud — it’s quiet, stretching, and hard to name.In this episode of The Encouragement Well, we’re talking honestly about what to do when marriage feels heavy but not broken… uncertain but not over. When you’re trying to love well without losing yourself. When covenant feels costly. And when you need to anchor your heart in Christ so the season doesn’t consume you.We walk through what Scripture says about:• Finding God near in seasons of heaviness (Psalm 34:18, 2 Corinthians 4:8–9, Isaiah 43:2)• Trusting God when you don’t know what’s next (Proverbs 3:5–6, James 1:5, Psalm 62:5–8)• Loving without over-functioning or losing yourself (Galatians 6:5, Matthew 11:28–30, Ephesians 4:2–3)• Choosing covenant intentionally, even when it feels costly (Colossians 3:12–14, 1 Corinthians 13:4–7, Hebrews 10:23)• Understanding wilderness seasons and how God meets us there (Hosea 2:14–15, Lamentations 3:22–23, Romans 8:28)This episode is not about pretending everything is fine. It’s not about minimizing real hurt. And it’s not about “pray harder and smile more.” It’s about walking through complicated seasons with wisdom, boundaries, faith, and hope.If your heart has felt stretched lately… if you’ve quietly asked, “Are we okay?” … this conversation is for you.Share this episode with a sister who may be fighting for her marriage quietly. Sometimes encouragement looks like reminding someone they’re not alone.Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook at The Encouragement Well for continued reflection, Scripture, and honest conversations rooted in faith.Until next time, drink deeply from His grace and stay rooted in Him. 🤍00:00 TEW Episode 13- When Marriage Feels Heavy or Uncertain01:57 When the Weight Is Real05:33 When You Don’t Know What’s Next10:19 Loving Without Losing Yourself14:44 When Covenant Feels Costly18:20 God in the Wilderness Seasons20:53 Closing Encouragement21:42 Prayer23:01 Outro
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12
Love Worth Choosing Every Day Together on Purpose.
Marriage isn’t sustained by grand gestures — it’s sustained by daily decisions.In this episode of The Encouragement Well, Rachel Haywood explores what it means to choose your husband and your covenant intentionally. Rooted in Scripture and real-life application, this episode reminds wives that marriage is sacred, joyful, and worth protecting.From delight and desire to strength, dignity, humility, forgiveness, and grace — this conversation encourages you to love on purpose.📖 Scriptures Referenced:Genesis 2:18–25Ecclesiastes 4:9–12Song of Solomon 1:15–16; 2:10–13; 4:7; 7:10Proverbs 5:18–19Proverbs 31:10–12, 25–27Ephesians 5:21, 28–291 Peter 3:71 Corinthians 13:4–7; 16:14Colossians 3:12–15Malachi 2:14–16Proverbs 4:23Amos 3:3Psalm 127:1Lamentations 3:22–23Romans 8:1James 1:20Ruth 1:16–170:00 Choosing Love on Purpose01:08 Love That Delights Not Just Endures03:36 Seen, Desired, and Cherished 06:22 A Marriage That Grows in Wisdom09:15 Strength, Dignity, and Mutual Honor 11:49 When Love Is a Daily Decision14:20 Guarding the Gift God Gave Us15:34 Walking Together with Intention16:59 Grace for the Days We Get It Wrong 19:15 Closing Blessing: Choosing Each Other Again21:17 Prayer22:53 Closing
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11
Loving Your Husband Without Losing Yourself
TEW Episode 11 | Loving Your Husband Without Losing YourselfWhat if loving your husband well never required you to disappear?In this heartfelt episode of The Encouragement Well, host Rachel Haywood speaks directly to the woman who loves deeply, gives freely, and serves faithfully—but quietly wonders where she went along the way.This conversation is not about pulling away from marriage, choosing independence over covenant, or becoming guarded or self-focused. Instead, it is an invitation to something far more sacred: learning how to love your husband without abandoning the woman God created you to be.Together, we explore the difference between godly submission and emotional over-functioning, how women slowly lose themselves without realizing it, and why Scripture never calls women to self-erasure in the name of faithfulness. We look at marriage through a biblical lens that honors covenant and wholeness—where two whole people walk together under God’s authority.Through Scripture, teaching, and personal reflection, this episode reminds us that real, God-honoring love does not consume identity—it refines it. Loving your husband well should never require shrinking, silence, or chronic depletion. It invites you to show up anchored in Christ, secure in identity, and rooted in truth.If you’ve ever felt torn between honoring your marriage and honoring yourself…If you’ve ever carried guilt for needing rest, clarity, or space…If you’ve ever wondered whether losing yourself was just “part of marriage”…This episode is for you.—Scripture Referenced in This Episode• Genesis 2:18• Psalm 121:1–2• Proverbs 4:23• John 10:10• Ephesians 5:21• Matthew 11:28–30—Reflection QuestionsTake these questions to prayer and allow the Holy Spirit to guide your reflection:• Where in my marriage do I feel most like myself—and where do I feel myself shrinking?• Am I practicing godly submission, or have I taken on responsibilities God never asked me to carry?• What might it look like to love my husband from a place of wholeness rather than exhaustion?• Where is God inviting me to release control and trust Him more deeply in my marriage?• What guardrails do I need to put in place to stay spiritually, emotionally, and personally anchored?You don’t need to answer all of these at once. Let God lead you to the one He wants to tend to right now.—If this episode encouraged you, consider sharing it with a sister who may need this reminder. You’re not meant to navigate marriage, identity, and faith alone.Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook at The Encouragement Well for continued Scripture, reflection, and honest conversations rooted in faith.Until next time—drink deeply from His grace and stay rooted in Him.I’ll meet you back here soon, right at The Encouragement Well. 🤍
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10
Christian Marriage in Real Life (Not the Highlight Reel)
Christian Marriage in Real Life (Not the Highlight Reel) | The Encouragement WellChristian marriage isn’t a highlight reel—it’s holy work.In this episode of The Encouragement Well, Rachel Haywood speaks honestly and biblically about what marriage really looks like when faith is sincere, love is deep, and life is still hard. This conversation is for the woman who loves Jesus and is married, but sometimes wonders why marriage feels more challenging than she expected.Together, we explore the gap between covenant love and curated images, what Scripture actually teaches about marriage, why conflict doesn’t mean failure, and how inviting God into the tension transforms struggle into sanctification. You’ll be reminded that marriage is not sustained by feelings or perfection—but by covenant, perseverance, humility, and the presence of God.This episode includes:• A biblical perspective on marriage beyond social media expectations• Scripture-centered encouragement for marriages in difficult seasons• A reminder that fighting for your marriage is not failing—it’s faithfulness• A personal reflection on choosing covenant when marriage feels strained• A prayer for the marriage God is building, not just the one you imaginedWhether your marriage feels strong, stretched, or somewhere in between, this episode offers hope, truth, and gentle encouragement rooted in God’s Word.🎧 Listen, reflect, and share with a sister who may need the reminder that real love is faithful love.Until next time—drink deeply from His grace and stay rooted in Him.Scripture References Featured in This Episode:• Genesis 2:24 — God’s original design for marriage as a covenantal union• Matthew 19:4–6 — What God joins together is meant to remain joined• Mark 10:8–9 — Covenant over convenience• Ephesians 5:25, 31–32 — Marriage as a reflection of Christ’s sacrificial love for the Church• 1 Corinthians 7:10–11 — God’s heart for reconciliation and preservation of marriage• Romans 12:9–10 — Sincere love and honoring one another above self• Ephesians 4:2 — Humility, patience, and bearing with one another in love• 1 Corinthians 13:7 — Love that endures through difficulty• Proverbs 15:1 — The power of gentle, wise speech• Ecclesiastes 4:12 — A cord of three strands is not quickly broken• Psalm 127:1 — Marriage built by the Lord, not human effort alone• 2 Corinthians 3:18 — Ongoing transformation and spiritual growth• Hebrews 10:24 — Encouraging one another toward love and good works• Hebrews 12:11 — Refinement through difficulty• Ephesians 6:12 — Spiritual warfare and the unseen battle surrounding marriage• James 5:16 — The power of fervent, righteous prayer
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9
Losing Friendships You Thought Were Forever
Losing Friendships You Thought Were ForeverHow to Process Endings and Release Bitterness With GraceFriendship loss can feel confusing, invisible, and incredibly painful—especially when there’s no closure.In Episode 9 of The Encouragement Well, we talk about the heartbreak of losing friendships you never expected to end, the ache of unanswered questions, and the tender work of healing without hardening your heart.This episode explores:Why friendship loss cuts so deeplyHow rejection affects our sense of worthWhat Scripture teaches us about betrayal and griefWhy forgiveness doesn’t mean excusing the hurtHow God sometimes ends relationships as protectionHow healing through Jesus reaches emotional wounds tooIf you’re navigating the loss of a friendship, struggling to forgive, or learning how to trust God when the ending doesn’t make sense—this episode is for you.Come sit at The Encouragement Well and be reminded:You are not weak for grieving.You are not behind in healing.And God is still very near.💛 If this episode blessed you, consider following the podcast and leaving a review—it helps other women find encouragement when they need it most.
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8
Grief That Doesn’t Follow a Timeline
Grief doesn’t come with an expiration date.In this episode of The Encouragement Well, we hold space for women who are still grieving long after others have moved on—women carrying loss quietly, faithfully, and often without understanding or validation.Together, we explore why grief isn’t healed by staying busy or forcing yourself forward, but by presence—by beholding Jesus, who is fully acquainted with sorrow and never rushes pain. We talk about lifelong grief, unseen grief, and the gentle work of the Holy Spirit who comforts without pressure.This episode is for you if:Your grief doesn’t match the world’s paceYou’re mourning a person, a season, a dream, or the life you once hadYou’ve felt pressure to “move on” before your heart is readyYou need permission to grieve without shameYou want to learn how prayer, presence, and beholding Jesus soften grief over timeYou are not behind. Your grief is not late. And you are not walking through it alone.🤍 Healing may not come all at once—but God is near, patient, and faithful to walk with you for as long as it takes.
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7
Healing From Hurt You Didn’t Deserve
This episode is for the woman who was hurt in ways she did not deserve—betrayal, abandonment, rejection, or misunderstanding that you didn’t cause… but you’re still carrying.In Episode 7 of The Encouragement Well, we talk about why undeserved hurt lingers, how Jesus understands betrayal personally, and why prayer isn’t performance—it’s relationship. We also walk through the Lord’s Prayer as a healing pattern (pause, rejoice, ask, yield), and how the Holy Spirit helps restore what was shaken and reshape our desires toward holiness.If you’ve been asking, “Where was God when this happened?”—this one is for you.Scriptures referenced include: Psalm 34:18, Matthew 26, Luke 22:61, Isaiah 53, Matthew 6:8, Psalm 46:10, Romans 12:1, Galatians 6:2, and Isaiah 61.
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6
Healing From Silent Battles Nobody Knows You’re Fighting
This episode of The Encouragement Well is for the woman who looks okay on the outside, but is fighting quietly on the inside.Some battles don’t have words. Some pain isn’t visible. And some struggles are carried silently because explaining feels too heavy, too vulnerable, or too exhausting. In this episode, we talk honestly about the silent battles so many women carry — chronic illness, anxiety, grief, unanswered prayers, emotional exhaustion, and pain that has gone unseen for far too long.Through Scripture, reflection, and transparency, this episode gently reminds us that God is not distant from quiet suffering. He is near to the brokenhearted. He sees every silent tear, every unspoken prayer, and every moment you held it together when you wanted to fall apart. Healing may not happen overnight, but God is faithful to meet us daily and walk with us toward restoration.✨ In this episode, we explore:• Why silent battles can feel heavier than visible ones• How shame and isolation keep us disconnected from healing• God’s nearness in quiet pain• The woman with the issue of blood and what her story teaches us• Practical, gentle steps toward healing and rest• Why healing doesn’t begin with perfection, but with honesty📖 Scriptures referenced include:Psalm 34:19, Psalm 147:3, Isaiah 53, Mark 5, Matthew 11:28, Jeremiah 17:9If you’ve been smiling while suffering, functioning while fighting, or carrying pain no one knows about — this episode is a safe place to land. You are not weak. You are not forgotten. And healing is possible.Come sit at the Well. 🤍
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5
Unshakeable Faith During Seasons of Uncertainty
Unshakeable Faith During Seasons of Uncertainty | Episode 5What do you do when life feels unstable, the answers aren’t clear, and the waves just keep coming?In this episode of The Encouragement Well, we walk together through what it means to cultivate unshakeable faith during seasons of uncertainty. Drawing from Scripture, personal transparency, and powerful biblical examples, this conversation reminds us that faith doesn’t require predictable circumstances — it requires a steady anchor.Together, we explore:What unshakeable faith really is (and what it isn’t)How to stay focused on Christ when storms rageWhy choosing faith over fear and fixing is essentialPractical, biblical ways to grow and cultivate faith dailyHow to model faith for our children and those watching usHow to rest in Christ’s love and receive His peace even when life feels overwhelmingWhether you’re in the middle of a storm, standing at the edge of one, or simply learning how to trust God more deeply, this episode will help you stand steady, rooted, and held.✨ Unshakeable faith isn’t about calm circumstances — it’s about a constant God.📖 SCRIPTURE REFERENCES USED IN EPISODE 5Hebrews 11:1Matthew 14:22–33Proverbs 3:5–6Colossians 2:6–7John 10:27Hebrews 10:25Ecclesiastes 4:12Romans 8:28Hebrews 11:8Genesis 6:22Isaiah 55:112 Timothy 1:7
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4
Carrying the Promise Through the Storm (Mary’s Faith)
🎙️ Episode 4 | Carrying the Promise Through the Storm (Mary’s Faith)As we move closer to Christmas, this episode is for every woman — the one who is weary from doing all the things, and the one who is joyful and grateful but wants to stay rooted. Whether you’re carrying a heavy season, a hopeful one, or a little of both, this time at the Well is for you.In this episode of The Encouragement Well, we look at Mary’s story not as a polished nativity scene, but as the journey of a real woman navigating joy, uncertainty, responsibility, and faith. Mary teaches us that faith isn’t just something we cling to in storms — it’s something we cultivate in every season of life.Through Scripture, reflection, and personal testimony, this episode explores what it means to say yes to God without a roadmap, to carry something holy through imperfect circumstances, and to trust God whether life feels peaceful or complicated. Mary’s steady faith reminds us that God is near — in the waiting, in the celebrating, and in the becoming.✨ In this episode, we talk about:• Faith in joyful seasons and storm seasons• Mary’s courage in saying yes without certainty• Carrying responsibility, calling, and hope at the same time• Trusting God when life feels full, heavy, or unclear• Cultivating steady faith during the Christmas season📖 Scriptures referenced include:Luke 1:26–38, Proverbs 3:5–6, Galatians 4:4, Luke 2:1–7, Luke 2:19, Psalm 46:10, James 1:2–4, Isaiah 41:10, Romans 8:28Whether you’re tired, thankful, uncertain, or content — you are welcome here.Come sit at the Well. 💗
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3
God Didn’t Forget You, Sis (Feeling Unseen)
Feeling unseen or overlooked?Episode 3 of The Encouragement Well reminds the weary woman that God has not forgotten her. Through the story of Hagar and the name El Roi — “the God who sees” — this episode explores hidden seasons, spiritual exhaustion, and the comfort of being fully known by God. With Scripture, worship, and heartfelt encouragement, this episode invites you to rest in God’s nearness and trust His purpose in the unseen.
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2
Encouragement for the Woman Who Feels Empty
This episode speaks directly to the woman who feels empty, stretched thin, or quietly running on fumes. Through personal reflection, biblical examples of Hannah and the Woman at the Well, and practical steps for reconnecting with God, this episode offers hope for anyone who feels depleted. If your cup has felt cracked or dry, come sit at the Well and be reminded that emptiness is not failure — it’s an invitation for God to fill you again.
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1
The Calling I Tried to Outrun
In this first episode of The Encouragement Well, Rachel shares the powerful—and literal—wake-up call that began her journey into obedience. After hearing unexplained knocking three nights in a row, she sensed God calling her into ministry… and she ran. Through illness, friendship loss, job challenges, and deep exhaustion, she learned she may have been living in the “belly of the whale,” just like Jonah. In this honest, faith-filled conversation, Rachel opens up about surrendering, stepping into her purpose, and saying yes to God—fully, loudly, and boldly.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
This show is for every woman who’s tired, overwhelmed, overlooked, or unsure of her purpose. Here, we get real about faith in life’s messiness—illness, heartbreak, family struggles, and hard seasons. Through testimony, scripture, transparency, and a whole lot of Holy Spirit, each episode aims to pour hope into the cracks you didn’t even know you had. You'll feel like sitting with your Spirit-led friend who tells the truth, points you to Jesus, and reminds you of who you really are. If you’re ready to walk boldly, believe again, and breathe again, come sit at the well. There’s room for you.
HOSTED BY
Rachel Haywood
CATEGORIES
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