Joy in Hard Places: How to Find Fullness in a World of Emptiness 

finding joy in difficult seasons biblical encouragement Psalm 16

There are some voices you trust immediately—and Julie Barclay is one of them. I’ve had the privilege of knowing Julie personally from our time serving together at The Chapel in New Jersey, and I can tell you firsthand: what she shares comes from a place of deep authenticity, hard-won faith, and lived experience. Julie has … Read more

Be Strong and Courageous… Yes, You

Man standing on mountain cliff at sunrise with text “Be strong and courageous” Joshua 1:9, symbolizing faith and courage in difficult times

The Bible is filled with calls to courage. In fact, the command “Be strong and courageous” appears multiple times throughout Scripture, most famously in Joshua 1:9, but echoed again and again whenever God calls ordinary people to trust Him in uncertain circumstances. When we think about courage in the Bible, we often picture the dramatic … Read more

When Comparison Steals Your Joy (and What Identity in Christ Restores)

comparison and identity in Christ – quiet reflection through window

Comparison doesn’t usually show up as a loud declaration. For many believers, comparison and identity in Christ become quietly entangled before we even realize it. It’s quieter than that. It slips in while you’re scrolling, watching, observing—sometimes admiring—and before you realize it, something inside you shifts. Contentment fades. Confidence wavers. And questions you thought you … Read more

When Life Feels Heavy: Finding Peace Through Humility and Serving Others

When Life Feels Heavy: Finding Peace through Humility and Serving Others

There are seasons in life when even good things feel heavy. When you’ve done your best to simplify, slow down, and seek balance—but your soul still feels unsettled. I’ve been walking through one of those seasons lately. For the past year and a half, I’ve carried a quiet heaviness that’s hard to describe. It’s not … Read more

Emotional Resilience: 5 Practical Strategies for Tough Days

Image of Woman with arms open - 5 Practical Steps for Tough Days

Emotions can be fickle.  My mom taught me that.  When I was in my emotionally charged teen years, I remember my mom telling me not to trust my feelings.  As I matured, I learned that emotions can often completely mislead me. Unfortunately, emotions can also impact one’s ability to make quality decisions and engage in … Read more