Have you ever been going through life and everything is nice and peaceful and then you hit a bump in the road called suffering? Today Monica talks with Julie Coleman about being surprised by suffering.

When it comes to suffering we all would rather take a pass. Today on Bridges Monica is joined by special guest, Julie Coleman, to discuss our perspective and how in the end it's all worth it.

When it comes to storms in our lives we are usually happiest when they are over. Today on Bridges Monica is joined by Julie Coleman to talk about the lessons we can learn from the storms of life.

Today in culture there is a whole lot of talking, but is anyone really listening? On this episode, Monica talks about The Fine Art of Listening and reclaiming the lost art of connection.

World renowned drummer Zoro joins Monica to share the story of his mother's love - his perseverance and the power of dreaming big. Zoro's Mom - Maria was single with 7 children. She was raising her children in Compton they were poor moving from place to place sometimes living in the car. But she held her head high, and her faith remained unshakeable she encouraged her children to dream BIG. When Zoro was 7 years old she tied her orange scarf around his neck and said "Someday son you will grow up and do "fantasmical" things". She was right that is exactly what Zoro did from gracing the stages of Hollywood's best to walking in a humility and faith that is unique and rare Zoro is an encouragement to everyone who hears his story. #perseverance #motherslove #dream #Mark9:23

Victoria Robinson says when it comes to abortion they lied to us. She says abortion was pushed as an easy way to solve an unplanned pregnancy with no ramifications but actually the impact of abortion can last for years for both women and men. Today Victoria talks with Monica about ways for post abortive women and men to find healing and wholeness after abortion. #healing #trauma #abortion #Romans8:28

Life is filled with ups and downs, but the key is trusting God in Every Season. Today's teaching is filled with encouragement holding tight to God's Word when everything around you seems to be falling apart. #trust #strong #foundation

Today Laine shares what gave her the faith to believe for the restoration of her 3 prodigal children healing. She had what she calls a “Saul to Paul” experience personally in my late 30s when God miraculously resurrected my 17-year-old dead marriage. This miracle was the anchor for my hope that God would do it again in my 3 children’s lives and He did! 1 Thessalonians 5:7  #miracle #families #prodigals

It's a parental nightmare when children turn their back on the Christian faith. Today's Bridges episode give parents of prodigals hope and keys to navigating the crisis. Romans 8:28 #prodigals #hope #crisis 

When you discover that your child has abandoned the Christian faith it can leave you in gut-wrenching shock and sadness. On today's episode of Bridges Laine Lawson Craft shares her personal story of prodigal children and helps parents understand that they are not to blame. Laine also offers tips and hope to parents and grandparents of prodigal children. Romans 8:1 #guilt #prodigals #shame

When your child suddenly turns away from everything you taught them about faith - it is a crisis. It's a season of "When Life Hurts". Today Laine Lawson Craft shares her personal story of her 3 prodigal children and offers hope and healing to other families experiencing a prodigal crisis. 2 Peter 3:9 #prodigals #crisis #faith 

If it seems like you've been waiting a long time and that nothing is happening today's episode is for you. God is working in our waiting, even when we can't see it. Romans 8:28 Episodes of Bridges Recommended For You: Freedom from Abuse & False Beliefs: http://apple.co/3xlrlpR / Spotify Finding God in Grief: http://apple.co/3J1IZS8 / Spotify Hope for the Mental Health Crisis: http://apple.co/3PJcEDj / Spotify How to Develop A Heavenly Perspective Today: http://apple.co/3PNywNY / Spotify Powerful Prayer for Supernatural Results: http://apple.co/3PJGqI2 / Spotify

If you or someone you know is stuck in addiction or abuse - you need to hear these freedom stories. Shakia and Jessie both became addicted and were abused. Today - they are free and so are their children. Freedom is God's idea and freedom is possible. #freedom #recovery #healthy

Jessie was introduced to drugs by her parents. She started using meth at a young age and ended up in a life of addiction and abuse. Her addiction became so bad they she lost custody of her daughter. Jessie has an amazing story of restoration with her daughter - and the life of freedom they are all living now. #addiction # abuse #freedom

Shakia was sexually molested by several family members at a young age. She numbed that pain with drugs and ended up addicted. Today on Bridges Shakia shares how the truth gave her a freedom story. Susan shares how a God given dream is bringing freedom to women and their children in miraculous ways. #freedom #truth #dreams

Louise lost a daughter to a tragic car accident. Today she shares her emotional journey of Finding God in Grief. 

Isolation, bullying, and depression are just a few of the ailments plaguing today's youth. The Hopeline.com offers faith-based crisis assistance to help youth get through their toughest times. 

When it comes to praying, many people don't know how to pray. Join Monica as she talks with Pastor Chuck Groover about powerful prayers. 

Students today face hostility and bullying in record numbers. Dr. Brooks Gibbs teaches students emotional resilience so we can raise our children to be strong adults.

Ever heard the saying "that person is so heavenly minded that they are no earthly good?" Monica's guest today says that is not true - she says that having a heavenly perspective helps in our everyday lives. Join us today to find out how the prospect of heaven helps us in the here and now.

The odds were definitely against Rodney and Gabby but the odds don't know Jesus. Together, they dared to believe God's promises, and they saw miracles that can't be explained away.

Julie says that you can transform your marriage even if your husband is checked out. Now that is some good news right there. Julie shares ways to improve your marriage that are easy and practical. You don't necessarily have to have years of counseling to have a thriving relationship. You can learn new habits that will help you find the love and joy you are looking for in your marriage.

Emotions are a gift - and they can also be stumbling blocks. Today on Bridges Julie talks with Monica about developing a healthy emotional life. You don't have to be weighed down by fear, anger, or resentment. You can be free to enjoy healthy emotions and healthy relationships. #healthy #emotions #anger

Lynsey lost just about everything but her faith. As she held onto her faith, she began to see God at work. She experienced several reversals but as she prayed one by one her dreams started coming true. She launched a business that is now prospering. She found true love in her second marriage and their blended family is thriving. Everything she lost was restored and she shares her story to help others find hope for the journey.

Blake lost his way as a student in middle school. The path Blake found was filled with darkness, alcohol, and drugs. He started that path so young and continued on that road for many years. Today on Bridges Blake shares his story and how he ended up finding and staying on the road to recovery.

Lynsey dared to forgive betrayal in her first marriage. While the marriage ended in divorce she found that forgiveness brought her hope for the future. Now Lynsey is in a new marriage and enjoys a life filled with hope and peace. Only God. Only forgiveness.

Lorraine's story is EXTREME forgiveness. She is a Mom to two beautiful daughters. One of her daughters was killed and the other sexually assaulted and left for dead. With God's help Lorraine found a place of forgiveness for the man who killed her daughter. She also led the man who murdered her daughter to Christ before he was executed. Her story teaches all of us the power of grace and forgiveness.

Heartbroken doesn't begin to describe the way that Jillian felt when she lost her husband unexpectedly. In this episode Jillian shares her story of loss and grief and how she bravely faces life as a young widow.

Nobody likes when people play favorites - unless of course you are the favorite. Interestingly enough the Bible addresses this and teaches us that we are to treat everyone the same. Whether a person is rich or poor - or accomplished or not. We are to treat everyone with dignity, honor, and respect. The book of James tells it like it is and gives us the wisdom we need for daily life.

If you want faith that is more than just "words only" the book of James is a great place to start. Today Pastor Corey Trimble and Monica open the book and James and talk about faith that is effective and makes a difference in people's lives.

If you want faith that is more than just "words only" the book of James is a great place to start. Today Pastor Corey Trimble and Monica open the book and James and talk about faith that is effective and makes a difference in people's lives.

Have you ever had a moment that changed the whole direction of your life? My guest - Sue McGray did and her story is just incredible. It all started with her forgetting her coat at someone's house. Little did Sue know that forgetting that coat would change the entire direction of her life. Truth is we all experience life changing moments. We just need to keep our eyes open and listen for His voice.

Blake's road to recovery was a long one. He started using drugs and alcohol when he was very young. He was steeped in addiction and unable to see a bright future. HIs Mom kept praying and there came a day that Blake determined to pursue recovery. He is now a spiritual leader and mentor for men pursuing recovery.

If your lifestyle is busy, this episode has your name written all over it. Today on Bridges we are talking about biblical rest. I invited Tika Scoles to join us today as we talk through biblical rest. This is your opportunity to leave busy behind and find the rest we need so badly.

If you have ever experienced trauma, betrayal, or something so big in your life that you just feel like you can't forgive, this episode is a must watch. Rebecca Alonzo joins Monica to tell her story of forgiving the man that murdered her mother.

Today is all about love and loyalty. Join me as I talk with Patricia Douglas about a young widow named Ruth. Despite the tragedy of losing her husband Ruth lives a life of love and loyalty. Even in the midst of trials - she maintains her character - and it is well rewarded.

In the midst of really hard times, it can be hard to understand the why or how. We may never get an answer to that but as we study Ruth today, we find that God honors our faith - love, and loyalty. In my conversation with Patricia Douglas today we talk about how God is always at work even when it doesn't seem like it.

There are so many of us whose lives have been affected by suicide. My guest on Bridges today tragically lost her son to suicide. While the pain never goes away Patti determined to find the courage to live and reach out to others. Patti's has traveled the country with her talk - The Empty Chair - and she's been able to help thousands of people. As you watch today's episode you will find the courage to help you move forward after an unthinkable loss.

On this episode of Bridges, powerful prayers for supernatural results. Monica is joined by Pastor Mike and Elizabeth Shreve to discuss their book "65 Promises from God for Your Child".

Elizabeth Shreve is no stranger to tears. She's faced many obstacles including a cancer diagnosis that was short on hope. Even though Elizabeth shed many tears - she also stood strong in her faith. That cancer diagnosis? She is now cancer free and living a life of triumph. Elizabeth's story will encourage you to new heights in faith - and prove that tears don't have to be the end of your story.

I've always thought of Motherhood as the most rewarding - but also the very toughest job. Today I talk with Tammy Whitehurst about being a Mom. Tammy says from "diapers to dates to depends" is a short journey so savor every moment of Motherhood. Even though no parent is perfect - our perfect Heavenly Father helps us as we lean on Him for strength and help. Of course, humor, dry shampoo, and caffeine can help in all stages of Motherhood. Today we celebrate Mom's and encourage one another because we all need hope for the journey.

Today Monica talks about blessings, peace, and persecution. Learn how you can be blessed when you rejoice in life's worst moments.

Discover how setting limits will set your free. Boundaries will give you the room to establish priorities and enjoy your life. No is a complete sentence and requires NO explanatio.

Join Monica as she shares God's plan for your spiritual growth and maturation with Pastors Dale and Joel Evrist from New Song Nashville.

In this broken world darkness and heartbreak abound. One of the many blessings that Jesus promises His followers is that the pure in heart will see Him. Keeping our hearts pure and protected is not a job for the faint of heart. But it is something we can all do by fixing our eyes on Him and staying in HIs Word daily. How are you protecting your heart? Are you quick to forgive and slow to become angry? In the challenges of everyday life are you taking a break to ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart and help you grow in faith. I've found that taking a faith break (even if it's short) to pray and ask God to show me my blind spots is very helpful. Sometimes it's a conflict with a friend that causes me grief. Other times it's resentment - but whatever "it" is He will help us identify it - repent - make it right with the other person (if that is feasible). As we let go of the hurts and distractions are hearts become pure - and the blessing for that is that we will see Him. Take a moment right now to think about seeing Him. Jesus - the son of God - interceding for you right now. The one who loves you so dearly He laid down His life for you. You are chosen and valued. He wants your heart protected so that you can fulfill your purpose and become all He intended for you. Please join me weekly and together we will find Hope for the Journey.

Most of us are familiar with popular speakers drawing larges crowds. After, all we've all seen auditoriums filled to capacity. But in Jesus day drawing large crowds wasn't easy. Yet for the Sermon on the Mount multitudes walked for days in the heat and through the sand just to listen. The Sermon on the Mount was radical and promised a new way of life and blessing to everyone that dared to follow. Join me today friends as we open the conversation on the blessings that come our way when we follow Christ regardless of the cost.

Most people are looking for the easy way out. The wise person considers long term. Today I sit down with Pastor Joan Evrist from New Song Fellowship and talk about the benefits of perseverance and how to build perseverance. You don't have to give up and settle. Join in the conversation today and learn how to envision and stay strong for the long haul. Perseverance is God's idea - and He will help you and me stay in the race and ultimately finish well.

Endurance . . . that staying power is so important in all of our daily lives. Without endurance we give up and stop short of God's best. For this episode, I asked my dear friend Pastor Joan Evrist to chat with me about endurance. Together, we will see how we build endurance with a strong prayer life and a community of faith. Don't give up - God hears and answers prayer. 

If anyone understands heartbreak it's Shanda Tripp and her daughter Hannah. Shanda's late husband - Pastor Robb Tripp passed away unexpectedly at just 57 years old. Then shortly thereafter Pastor Robb's Mom - the beloved Edith Tripp passed away too. The Tripp family had persevered through many heartaches - and on today's episode they share their story - and how they found healing in the midst of such tragedy.

It can be easy to lose hope. Unshakable hope may seem impossible. By faith though Unshakeable Hope is not impossible.  Are you facing situations that seem hopeless right now? Are you looking for ways to hold onto hope despite the circumstances? Here is some good news you can learn to walk in Unshakeable Faith despite the darkest of circumstances. We'll be talking today about true hope. We will chat about how to find hope and keep it no matter what life brings our way.  Join me every week for more Hope for the Journey.