When life gets hard—really hard—it can be tempting to throw in the towel. But today you're going to hear an incredibly powerful testimony of why you shouldn't.

Pastor Shawn Johnson talks about how he received a devastating brain disease diagnosis that left him wrestling with despair, doubt, and the desire to give up on everything, including his faith and his future. But through vulnerability, community, and choosing to worship even in the middle of his pain, Shawn discovered that joy can coexist with suffering.

He'll give you three reasons to keep fighting as well as seven strategies for resilience to help you hold on to hope when everything in you wants to let go. You'll learn how to balance vulnerability with strength, humility with courage, and faith with perseverance—so one day you can look back and say, "Thank God I didn't give up, because look what God has done!"

This was such a deeply meaningful conversation that I decided to end this episode by singing over you a song I wrote called "Take Me to the Cross," because that's the place we all need most.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/379

Enter to win the GIVEAWAY and read the episode TRANSCRIPT in the show notes.

Get my weekly email, Java with Jennifer, to be notified when a new podcast episode releases. Subscribe HERE.

Thanksgiving may come once a year, but thankfulness is for every day. So in this special edition of the 4:13, we're looking at what Scripture says about cultivating an attitude of gratitude—not just today, but always!

We hope you'll meditate on these verses and let them shape your perspective—no matter what season you're in—because there's an abundance of joy that comes from a heart full of gratitude!

So, while you're in the kitchen preparing a meal or driving to see friends and family, listen in and let us be your Thanksgiving soundtrack.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/378

Read the episode TRANSCRIPT in the show notes.

Get my weekly email, Java with Jennifer, to be notified when a new podcast episode releases. Subscribe HERE.

Empathy is often misunderstood, even maligned. But the truth is—it's one of the most powerful ways to experience healthier emotions and stronger relationships. True empathy isn't about coddling or rescuing; it's about understanding and care that respects God's truth and empowers personal responsibility.

Today on the 4:13, Bill and Kristi Gaultiere share biblical and psychological insights into what empathy really is. You'll discover what Scripture says about empathy, how Jesus models it, and why showing empathy to yourself isn't selfish, but essential. You'll also get practical steps for growing in empathy toward others and learn how receiving empathy can transform your walk with God.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/377

Enter to win the GIVEAWAY and read the episode TRANSCRIPT in the show notes.

Get my weekly email, Java with Jennifer, to be notified when a new podcast episode releases. Subscribe HERE.

People are hurting on a scale we've never seen before. They're dealing with an onslaught of issues like anxiety, grief, mental health struggles, and family troubles. Pastors and counselors want to help, but they've become inundated and can't meet every need.

It's a crisis that's expected to only become worse.

But what if the church stepped in? What if the body of Christ could bring healing to the hurting and take a load off of the already too-busy pastor and counselor?

Well, today on the 4:13, author and social researcher Shaunti Feldhahn shares a brilliant way for everyday people of faith to care for one another. You'll learn how to come alongside the hurting with empathy and grace, how to step into opportunities without burning out, and how your church can become a place where people don't just hear about hope, but experience it.

We may not all be licensed, professional counselors, but we do have something to offer, and it's much simpler than you may think!

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/376

Enter to win the GIVEAWAY and read the episode TRANSCRIPT in the show notes.

Get my weekly email, Java with Jennifer, to be notified when a new podcast episode releases. Subscribe HERE.

When you've been hurt or let down, or when you've failed over and over, it's easy to be way too hard on yourself and others. Maybe you've struggled to forgive yourself if you've blown it, or you can't forgive others if they have.

But my friend, there's hope! The gospel is anchored in grace, which means you can forgive others AND be gentle with yourself.

Today on the 4:13, author and pastor Micah E. Davis will reframe your understanding of forgiveness, distinguishing the practice of forgiveness from the difficult process it requires. He'll unpack why forgiveness isn't easy, how to move forward when the pain feels too deep to let go, and steps you can take to live in the freedom Christ offers.

So, if forgiveness feels out of reach—whether it's because you don't know how or because you simply don't want to—this conversation will give you the clarity and hope you need to take the next step toward peace, healing, and grace.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/375

Enter to win the GIVEAWAY and read the episode TRANSCRIPT in the show notes.

Get my weekly email, Java with Jennifer, to be notified when a new podcast episode releases. Subscribe HERE.

Do you ever feel like the problems in our world are just too big for you to make a difference?

Well, today on the 4:13, former Ohio governor and presidential candidate John Kasich will tell you why that's simply not true! Drawing from his own faith journey and years of public service, John shares how faith communities have incredible potential to bring hope and healing—even in a divided culture.

Through real-life stories and practical encouragement, you'll discover ways to move past cynicism, engage with your church or community, and take simple steps that truly matter. Because you really can make a difference, and it all begins with living out your faith right where you are.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/374

Enter to win the GIVEAWAY and read the episode TRANSCRIPT in the show notes.

Get my weekly email, Java with Jennifer, to be notified when a new podcast episode releases. Subscribe HERE.

Do you ever feel paralyzed when making decisions—especially when it's one that's really important? You just want to be sure you're making the right choice. But how do you know? And what if you're wrong?

Oh friend, I get it! Decision-making can be overwhelming, especially when paired with lots of uncertainty. But today, you're going to learn that you can make faithful, God-honoring decisions, regardless of how high the stakes.

Author Katie M. Reid joins us to explore the book of Judges—specifically the time of Deborah and the early judges—to give you confidence in making wise decisions. She'll unpack six biblical principles you can apply no matter what choices you face, and she'll help you find peace in making decisions, even when you don't have all the answers.

So, if you've been second-guessing your decisions or wrestling with what God is calling you to do, listen in! This conversation will give you both wisdom and courage for the journey ahead.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/373

Enter to win the GIVEAWAY and read the episode TRANSCRIPT in the show notes.

Get my weekly email, Java with Jennifer, to be notified when a new podcast episode releases. Subscribe HERE.

Have you ever wrestled with doubt and wondered if it meant your faith was slipping away? You're not alone! When we find ourselves torn between faith and uncertainty, it's easy to feel disappointed, disillusioned, and distant from God.

But what if doubt isn't a threat to your faith? What if it's an invitation to a deeper relationship with God?

Today on the 4:13, Niki Hardy will help you shift your perspective on doubt. She'll invite you to trade your need for certainty for the security of relationship, and she'll give you a simple, four-step conversation guide to help you bring your questions honestly before God in prayer.

You'll discover doubt doesn't have to be your faith's kryptonite! Oh no, it can be its superpower!

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/372

Enter to win the GIVEAWAY and read the episode TRANSCRIPT in the show notes.

Get my weekly email, Java with Jennifer, to be notified when a new podcast episode releases. Subscribe HERE.