Joni And Friends Ministry Podcast

Abigail Brown has been living with dystonia since the age of three. You may remember her Season 3 podcast episode where she shares about living joyfully with dystonia. Abigail is the founder of Silent Inspirations, a creative studio that offers stationery and home decor based on her original artwork.To encourage women who feel alone or stuck, whether because of a disability or other challenges, Abigail wrote her book, Unstuck: Moving from Resentment to Resilience While Living with Dystonia (using only her left thumb).KEY QUESTIONS:Do you feel stuck or isolated in some area of life?What blessings can you see in your life today?What negative thought patterns give you trouble? Ask God to help you displace them with praise!KEY SCRIPTURES:Psalm 139:14: “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”Romans 8:26: “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through

Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. And you can be part of making this vision a reality! When you volunteer with Joni and Friends, you will transform lives by delivering hands-on help and the love of Jesus Christ to the people we serve.Find volunteer opportunities near you!Join one of our Wheels for the World™ outreach teams!KEY QUESTIONS:What does God say “qualifies” a person to share the Gospel? How can you take part in welcoming people with disabilities into your church and community?Where might God be calling you to serve?KEY SCRIPTURES:John 9:1–3: “As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’ ‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned,’ said Jesus, ‘but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.’”Romans 10:15: “And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful a

Joni and Friends staff member Sarah Fuller returns to the podcast to share how, with three biological children of their own, she and her husband sensed God calling to also serve as foster parents. In conversation with Stephanie Daniels, Sarah tells how her whole family has taken part in loving and sheltering children in foster care, and welcomed a child with disabilities into their family permanently through adoption. Hear how God can use a faithful “yes” to weave his grace and redemption into stories of complexity and brokenness.Get your copy of Joni Eareckson Tada’s powerful autobiography! Hear more conversations about adoption and foster care:Creating a Peaceful Home: Parenting Wisdom from a Mother of Ten!: Do you know how to create lasting peace in your home? Laura Hernandez shares her story of raising ten children (biological and adopted), some living with hidden disabilities. Hear how Laura transformed from an overwhelmed do-it-all mom to a parent who leans on the Lord to create a peaceful, Christ-cente

Joni and Friends staff member Sarah Fuller joins Stephanie Daniels to share her story of God’s faithfulness in calling her into missions, special education, and disability ministry. As a mom, Sarah has invited her children into service opportunities—often volunteering with Joni and Friends—which has shaped their hearts and the trajectories of their lives. Sarah shares how God uses everything from childhood dreams to disappointments to deep experiences of grief to guide and direct the steps of those who love and trust him. Like Sarah and her family, you can have a life-changing experience volunteering with Joni and Friends!Explore volunteer opportunities!Learn more about our Joni’s House programs internationally and in the United States.And if you are interested in learning more about starting a disability ministry in your church, we invite you to explore the free resources we have available. Inspiring books mentioned in this episode:The Awesome Super Fantastic Forever Party – This beautifully illustrated, bib

Joni and Friends team member Randy Schwartz joins Stephanie Daniels to share about coming to faith as an adult, being a special needs dad and devoted husband, and learning to trust God with all aspects of life. When his younger son was born with spina bifida, Randy and his wife turned to Jesus, relying on his grace day by day.Listen to our Season 6 conversation with Dr. Benjamin Warf, a neurosurgeon at Boston Children’s Hospital, who has a passion for training the next generation of surgeons and improving access to quality care. Dr. Warf shares his story and encouragement for families—fathers in particular—who live with disability.More resources:Dig into God’s Word with Joni Eareckson Tada’s Bible reading plan!Discover books to disciple the children in your lifeLearn more about Joni and Friends Family RetreatKEY QUESTIONS:How can you depend on God’s strength for today instead of your own?Where have you seen God at work in your story? KEY SCRIPTURES:John 9:1–3: “As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth.

Learn more about Mandy Meehan and her faith journey while seeking to heal from fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, and other chronic conditions. KEY QUESTIONS:Do you entrust your physical, emotional, and spiritual weakness to God? Are you willing to talk about your struggles with a trusted person/people in your life? How can you rest in the Lord today, trusting in his biblical promises? KEY SCRIPTURES:Second Corinthians 4:7–9: “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” Proverbs 16:9: “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”  You make this podcast possible! Thank you for your support.Find all podcast resources and message our team. Follow Joni and Friends on  Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every

Learn more about Mandy Meehan and her faith journey while seeking to heal from fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, and other chronic conditions.Discover more inspiring stories of God’s faithfulness amid difficult chronic illnesses:Living with Chronic Illness | Joni and FriendsWhen Skies Aren’t Blue: A Doctor’s Journey to Hope Amid Chronic Illness | Joni and FriendsKEY QUESTIONS:Where have you seen God’s gracious hand at work through hard times in your life?How can you serve someone today, even as you face your own limitations?Are you willing to ask for help? (Give it a try!)KEY SCRIPTURES:Isaiah 40:29–31: “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”Roman 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according t

Struggling with mental health can be part of being human in a broken world. Disciples of Christ have never been promised a trouble-free life. As many faithful believers, including Joni Eareckson Tada, can attest, grappling with depression and other mental health challenges, and even crises, is often part of the Christian walk. Our guest today, Joni and Friends staff member Kali Lilienthal, shares her story of how God has worked through medical and mental health professionals, community, Scripture, and prayer to turn her season of difficulty with depression and anxiety into one of deepening faith in Jesus. Don’t miss this encouraging conversation, which will remind you that you and your loved ones are never alone, even as you walk through dark valleys. View Joni Eareckson Tada's New Life Painting---When a broken neck upended her plans at age 17, Joni Eareckson Tada thought life was over. She fell into a deep depression. And over decades, Joni’s paralysis and pain often made her feel like giving up. But God’s p

If you are struggling with cancer, grief, or chronic pain, the journey can be arduous and seem unending. During her most difficult seasons, most recently coping with cancer, Roberta has found peace in words from the Lord’s Prayer, “…Give us this day our daily bread.”Today, as you or those close to you face hardships—especially lasting ones—spend time centering your heart by trusting God to provide the daily bread of his love and presence today. Acknowledge your need for God and remember his promise to work in all things (even pain) for his glory and your good.As Roberta encourages, hold out your hands, palms open, and pray: “Give me this day my daily bread.”Find encouragement through Joni’s Daily DevotionalMORE RESOURCES:Facing Trials with Joy: Cancer and BeyondDiagnosed with Breast Cancer: Life After ShockKEY QUESTIONS:How has God worked in your life during a season of suffering?Knowing that God sees you and loves you, what struggle can you bring before him today, trusting him to work in it for your good and

Roberta Dunn has been active in the disability community as an advocate and parent leader since the birth of her twins more than 30 years ago. Sharing insights and challenging misperceptions of disability, Roberta has spoken nationally, regionally, locally—and across the coffee table—with thousands of parents, professionals, and individuals experiencing disability.Learn how to advocate for inclusion in your church and community!KEY QUESTIONS:What’s one thing in your life that you “just can’t handle”? Ask God to meet you in this pain point and show you the way forward.Look around your church or neighborhood… who in your midst needs help or encouragement today? What is your mission (as a Christ-follower, daughter/son, parent, friend)? Write it down and lift it up in prayer.KEY SCRIPTURES:James 1:2–4: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and com

Stephanie Daniels, host of the Joni and Friends Ministry Podcast is kicking off Season 7. Listen in each week to hear from our incredible line up of guests who bring their unique experiences and perspectives to encourage you right where you are.Whether you're interested in learning practical ways your church can welcome and embrace people living with disability, or you are personally facing a new disability or diagnosis, physical or mental health challenge, or serve as a caregiver, we're sharing encouragement and hope through your hardship!Join us for a weekly dose of encouragement beginning Thursday, May 8th. We'll see you soon!Do you have a comment or question? Send Stephanie a message! You make this podcast possible! Thank you for your support.Find all podcast resources and message our team. Follow Joni and Friends on  Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Chri

Crystal Keating has been part of Joni and Friends for over ten years helping the ministry answer thousands of calls, letters, and messages about disability, sharing resources, and holding fast to hope in Jesus through life’s greatest hardships. Her prayer for the Ministry Podcast is that each conversation will help listeners and their loved ones “bear much fruit” (John 15:8) in acts of love throughout the disability community.Tune in to Crystal Keating’s interview with Joni Eareckson Tada from season oneMore podcast episodes mentioned:Jerry SittserRandy AlcornRachel LeMaster Darby StricklandVicki ZoradiJamie StarkTracey MotodaMutual Friendship When Disability is InvolvedThriving with Spinal Muscular Atrophy During COVID-19Explore episodes from the past six seasons KEY QUESTIONS: In what new ways can your church and community welcome, include, and love people with disabilities?Times of transition can be difficult—how can you trust God and put your hope in him as you face a new beginning or a bittersweet ending

Do you find yourself feeling nostalgic, wistful, or drained going into Christmas? Perhaps frustrated, frantic, or lonely? Joni knows well that Christmas time doesn’t automatically induce joy, especially as you grapple with the challenges of disability, grief, or other hardships. This is why she invites you to think deeply about Christ’s coming, and his death on the cross, meditating on what this salvation message means to you personally. Because gratitude will prepare your heart to find joy and fulfillment in Christ’s coming, bringing light into the darkness, and joy that transcends the deepest of pain.Learn more at joniandfriends.org/christmasIf you need hope today, Joni and Friends can help:Sign up to receive encouraging daily devotionals written by JoniDownload Joni and Ken’s Bible-reading plan to journey with them through God’s WordTune in to Joni’s radio programsKEY QUESTIONS:How do you cultivate the Christmas spirit?Who in your life could use a word of encouragement this season?What (or whom) are you mo

Do you ever struggle to feel hopeful about your life? When suffering and pain get overwhelming, whether because of the challenges of disability, chronic pain, loss of a loved one, or even world events, hope can seem fleeting—or even impossible to find.Today, in every hardship you or your loved ones face, Jesus offers you hope and is faithful to provide what you need.RESOURCES TO HELP YOU FIND HOPE THROUGH HARDSHIP:· Order Joni’s book, Infinite Hope in the Midst of Struggles, for inspirational stories, hand-picked Scriptures, and breathtaking artwork that will stir hope in your heart. · Get your copy of Joni’s booklet, Hope: The Best of Things · For more Christ-centered encouragement from Joni, sign up to receive her daily devotional. KEY QUESTIONS:  · Where do you turn for hope when life feels grim?· How can you lean on Jesus today to find new hope?· Who in your life needs fresh hope—and how can you connect them to Jesus?KEY SCRIPTURES:  · Hebrews 6:19: “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and s

Carole Reitsma, loving wife to her husband Scott, and devoted mom to her adult son Scotty (who is now an ordained minister), came to faith at a young age, and in the midst of ongoing abuse. Through it all, God has shepherded Carole, leading her to wholeness through grace, and into ministry to others. She has been a pastor alongside her husband in an inner-city church, and for more than twenty-five years has provided Christ-centered counseling as a licensed marriage and family therapist. She is passionate about teaching Christians how to live authentic and emotionally healthy lives, rooted in the everlasting love of Jesus.Get your copy of Carole’s book, Relationship Road: Authentic, Emotionally Healthy ChristianityLearn more about Carole’s work at Relationship Road, helping people find a fulfilling relationship with Jesus. KEY QUESTIONS: Do you ever feel distant or burned out in your relationship with God?How has your pain prepared you to meet someone else in their suffering? KEY SCRIPTURES: John 14:27: “Peace

Jesus tells us our earthly possessions won’t last. We will outlive them, or they will outlive us. You can’t keep your things forever, and you can’t take them with you. However, according to Jesus, you can send your treasure on ahead. And that’s by giving of your treasure and thus setting your heart on the things that matter eternally. So how do you make the kind of investment Jesus recommends? Here are some places to start:Help a disabled person by volunteering with Joni and FriendsShare the Gospel with someone who doesn’t know JesusOffer a meal to someone who is hungryAs Randy puts it, “to open up your hands and freely give to help others is the key to a happy life.” So today, entrust your heart and your treasure to God, the Giver of all good gifts. Cling to Jesus, feasting on his promises and sharing them with others. Because every time you open your hands to give, or go out of your way to serve, you step into the good and happy life God designed you for.Randy Alcorn is the founder and director of Eternal P

Stephanie Daniels welcomes her good friend and colleague Mary Grace Burkey back to the podcast for a heartfelt conversation about two significant topics: marriage and disability. Mary Grace shares her story of meeting her husband Chad at a Joni and Friends Warrior Getaway, which supports Veterans and their families. Chad sustained a traumatic brain injury while serving overseas, which left him with a disability. When they decided to get married, Mary Grace became not only Chad’s wife, but also his caregiver. In this episode, Mary Grace shares about her marriage, caregiving, and how disability has challenged her and Chad to depend on Jesus in their weakness as they grow closer to one other.November is National Family Caregivers Month. Across the United States, nearly 53 million people serve as caregivers to family members, friends, and others in need of care. If you or someone you know is a caregiver in need of support, you’re not alone. Here are some resources that will meet you with encouragement and help:Jo

Stephanie Daniels welcomes her friend and co-worker, Mary Grace Burkey, to the podcast for a deep look at the unique needs of military families—and what you can do to support them. With 25 years of experience serving with Joni and Friends, Mary Grace began as a volunteer and now oversees our Texas-area Retreats & Getaways. Organizing multiple Warrior Getaways every year, she shares valuable insights into their life-changing benefits—respite, spiritual renewal, and healing—not just for Veterans, but for their entire families.Who in your life has served, or is currently serving, in the U.S. military? Many individuals live with the effects of visible and invisible injuries as a result of their military service. At Joni and Friends, we hold Warrior Getaways to honor and give back to these brave Veterans and their families.Consider attending a Joni and Friends Warrior GetawaySign up to volunteer at a Warrior GetawayGive to Joni and Friends to welcome more families to Warrior Getaway and our other Christ-center

Stephanie Daniels welcomes married couple Cedric and Michelle White to the podcast. Both pastors, authors, and counselors, Cedric and Michelle work together in ministry strengthening families through biblical counseling and coaching. They also understand firsthand the struggles that many Veteran families face—including PTSD and moral injury—through Cedric’s experience serving with the U.S. Navy. This Christ-centered couple shares about the journey that led them to care deeply for Veteran families. They will also give you encouragement and tips to help you and your church come alongside military families who may be struggling to find hope, healing, and belonging within the body of Christ. Learn more about Cedric and Michelle's ministry work, Healing Thine Hearts.You can connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.If you or someone in your family is a U.S. Veteran or currently serving in the military, Joni and Friends would love to welcome and honor you at a Warrior Getaway!Our Warrior Getaw

Do you have questions about God’s will for your life? Are you facing circumstances—suffering, disability, uncertainty—that lead you to the end of your rope? For these struggles, and all life’s moments and questions, the Bible is God’s gift to you and all believers. Joni invites you, right now, to let the Holy Spirit lead you deeper (or maybe for the first time) into the Word of God. Pray that he will meet you as you listen for his voice and seek out his will in and through your life.Join Joni and Ken on the adventure of reading through the Bible! Sign up to get our free Bible reading plan and monthly reflections from Joni. You can also sign up to receive Joni’s Scripture-rooted daily devotional.  KEY QUESTIONS:  Do you have a daily Bible-reading routine?How have you experienced God speaking to you through his Word (the Bible)?What does it mean that the Bible is “the sword of the Spirit” (and how can you faithfully wield its awesome power)? KEY SCRIPTURES:  2 Timothy 3:16–17: “All Scripture is God-breathed and