The Priority Now Podcast

Podcast Lead: Amy Donathan — counselor, Founder of Hope & Healing

What if we stopped asking, "When will life finally get easier?" and started preparing ourselves for the reality that hard things will come—and trusting that God will meet us in them?

In this episode of the Priority Podcast, the team talks honestly about what it means to trust God when the next hard thing comes. Trials are not necessarily signs that something has gone wrong or that God is disappointed in us. Scripture reminds us that we will experience trouble, but we can also know that God is present, faithful, and working even when we cannot see what He is doing. God does not waste our pain. What feels like an interruption may become a divine opportunity for growth, deeper intimacy with God, and Kingdom purpose.

The conversation gets practical, too. From writing down anxious thoughts and grounding your body to reaching out to trusted friends, staying connected to God's Word, borrowing hope from the faith of others, and learning to distinguish what you feel from what is true, this episode offers a toolbox for walking through difficult seasons. Amy also shares vulnerably about the stillbirth of her son, Mark, and how God eventually used that devastating experience to help her walk alongside another grieving mother. Her story reminds us that we may not see the purpose of our pain immediately—but we can trust that God is with us in the middle of it and that our stories can become a source of hope for others.

Key Takeaways

• Hard things are part of life. Jesus didn't promise His followers a trouble-free life. He promised His presence and reminded us that He has overcome the world. Preparing our hearts for trials can help us respond differently when they come.
• God does not waste our pain. We may not understand why something is happening, and what happens may not feel good—but God can use even painful experiences for growth, transformation, deeper relationship with Him, and Kingdom purposes.
• You can question God and still trust Him. Questions, lament, grief, and confusion are not evidence of a lack of faith. The Psalms model how to bring our deepest questions honestly to God.
• Feelings are real, but they aren't always facts. "I feel alone" and "God is near" can coexist. When our emotions and God's Word seem to conflict, we can choose to anchor ourselves in what God says is true.
• Don't isolate in the hard seasons. God created us for community. Trusted friends and small groups can become the hands and feet of Christ when we are hurting—and our own stories can become a source of hope for someone else.
• Take the next right step. You don't have to have everything figured out before you begin trusting God. Sometimes faith looks like opening your Bible, taking a shower, listening to worship music, calling a friend, writing down your thoughts, or simply taking one more step.
• Ask a different question. Instead of remaining stuck in "Why is this happening to me?", consider asking, "Who are You being for me right now?" and "What does it look like to walk with You through this?" Those questions can shift our attention from self-pity toward God's character and purpose.

Scriptures Mentioned

• John 16:33 — Jesus promises that we will have trouble in this world, while reminding us to take heart because He has overcome the world.
• Romans 8:28 — God works all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
• Psalm 34:18 — The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
• Isaiah 41:10 — God promises His presence, strength, help, and sustaining hand.
• Psalm 86:15 — God is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.
• Romans 8 — The Holy Spirit intercedes for us when we do not know how to pray. The episode also affirms that nothing can separate us from God's presence and love.
• James 5:16 — The importance of confessing our sins to one another and experiencing the support of Christian community is discussed.
• Matthew 5:4 — Jesus' teaching that those who mourn are blessed is connected to the way suffering can lead us into a deeper search for God.
• The Psalms — The team points to the Psalms as a biblical model for honestly asking questions such as "How long, O Lord?" and "Why have You forsaken me?" as part of lament, worship, healing, and surrender.

Books & Resources Mentioned

• Craig Groeschel's newest book — Referenced in the opening conversation regarding the value of recognizing that some difficult seasons are simply part of life rather than evidence that something is necessarily wrong with us. The specific book title is not identified in the transcript.
• GriefShare — An illustration from GriefShare is referenced to describe the difference between the limited "frame" we see in the middle of suffering and God's broader perspective.
• Bible App / Verse of the Day — The team encourages listeners to use simple daily practices such as opening the Bible app and reading the verse of the day when they don't know what else to do.
• Worship Music — Worship is encouraged as a practical way to remain spiritually connected to God during difficult seasons.
• Journaling — Writing down thoughts, feelings, trials, and evidence of God's work is presented as a practical tool for processing difficult experiences and recognizing growth over time.

A Tool for the Hard Days

When the next hard thing comes, you don't have to have it all together.

You can take one small step.

Write down what you're thinking.
Name what you're feeling.
Find what is true.
Open God's Word.
Take a breath.
Call someone you trust.
Ask God, "Who are You being for me right now?"
And hold on to the truth that He is with you—even when you don't feel Him.

You may not be able to see the whole story from where you are standing. But God can. And He is not wasting your story.

Reflection: What is one truth about God's character that you need to hold onto in the hard thing you're facing right now—and what would it look like to take one small step of trust today?

 

Music Credit:

We Love Traveling, AurbanniAudio/Jamendo

ASLC-492B099F-7606E97FC8

 

Podcast Lead: Leslie Davis — counselor, co-founder of The Vision-Driven Marriage

Comparison is one of the enemy's quietest traps. It often begins with innocent observation but quickly grows into feelings of inadequacy, insecurity, and discouragement. In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Carmen, Leslie, Amy, and Carla unpack why comparison is so destructive, how it steals our gratitude and creativity, and why God never intended us to measure our story against someone else's highlight reel.

Together, the team explores the difference between healthy discipleship and unhealthy comparison, reminding us that every believer has a unique calling, a unique story, and a unique Kingdom assignment. Through personal stories, biblical truth, and practical encouragement, you'll be challenged to shift your eyes from the lives of others back to the One who is faithfully writing your own story. Whether you've struggled with comparison in ministry, motherhood, leadership, business, or everyday life, this conversation will encourage you to rest in God's timing, trust His design, and embrace the gifts He has uniquely entrusted to you.

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Key Takeaways

• Comparison distorts reality. We often compare our private struggles with someone else's carefully edited public image, leading to shame and feelings of inadequacy. Helpful reframe: instead of asking “why don’t I have what she has?” ask “what story might God be writing in my life that I don’t know yet?”

• Healthy discipleship is different from comparison. Following faithful examples should draw us closer to Christ—not make us question our worth.

• Your story matters. God is uniquely writing your testimony, and your life experiences are part of His Kingdom purpose.

• Comparison shifts our focus away from Jesus. When our eyes leave Christ, we become discouraged by God's timing, our gifts, or the assignments He's given us. Helpful reframe: Instead of asking “why is her life better?” ask “Am I being faithful with what God has entrusted to me?”

• Faithfulness—not visibility—is God's measure of success. Many of the most impactful ministries happen quietly, unseen by others but fully known by God.

• Gratitude protects our hearts. Thankfulness helps us recognize God's unique gifts and keeps comparison from stealing our joy, peace, and creativity. Helpful reframe: When comparison rises, stop and ask yourself, “What has God uniquely given me in this season?”

• Your Kingdom assignment is personal. Rather than asking why someone else's ministry or life looks different, ask whether you are faithfully stewarding what God has entrusted to you.

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Scriptures Mentioned

• Revelation 12:11 – "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony."

• Galatians 6:4–5 – Test your own work rather than comparing yourself with others.

• 2 Corinthians 10:12 – Those who compare themselves with themselves are not wise.

• 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 – Rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances.

• The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1–12) – Blessing is defined by Christ through humility, faithfulness, and perseverance—not worldly success.

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Books & Resources Mentioned

• Experiencing God by Henry Blackaby (referenced throughout the discussion on hearing God's voice and following His leadership).

• **Bible Studies by **Kristi McLelland (referenced regarding living from abundance rather than scarcity).

• Christine Caine – Referenced as an example of remembering that every visible ministry has an unseen story of faithfulness and perseverance behind it.

• Brandon Lake – Mentioned for the lyric describing believers as "the ink in the pen of the Author," illustrating God's authorship of our stories.

• Elisabeth Elliot – Referenced near the close of the conversation as an example of surrendering every circumstance back to God with gratitude.

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Reflection

Where has comparison quietly been stealing your joy, your gratitude, or your confidence in God's calling?

This week, ask the Lord to help you shift your eyes back to Him. Thank Him for the story He's writing in your life, trust His timing, and remember that faithfulness—not comparison—is the measure of a life well lived for His Kingdom.

 

You can find Leslie at The Vision-Driven Marriage

 

Music Credit:

We Love Traveling, AurbanniAudio/Jamendo

ASLC-492B099F-7606E97FC8

Caring Without Collapse: Compassion Fatigue & Caregiver Burnout

with Hosts Carmen Halsey Mangini, Amy Donathan, Carla Powderly, and Leslie Davis

Episode Description

Podcast Lead: Carla Powderly

What happens when caring deeply for others begins to drain your soul instead of fuel your calling?

In this honest and deeply encouraging episode of Priority Podcast, Carla Powderly leads a heartfelt conversation with Carmen, Leslie, and Amy about compassion fatigue and caregiver burnout. Together, they unpack the emotional, spiritual, and physical toll of constantly pouring into others—whether in ministry, motherhood, caregiving, counseling, marriage, or leadership.

Through personal stories, Biblical wisdom, and practical encouragement, this conversation reminds Christian women that they were never meant to carry every burden alone. Jesus modeled compassion with boundaries, rest, and dependence on the Father—and we are invited to do the same.

If you’ve been feeling emotionally numb, physically exhausted, resentful, overwhelmed, or guilty for needing rest, this episode offers gentle permission to pause, breathe, and remember: you are not the Savior. You are deeply loved by Him.

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Key Takeaways / Key Points

• Compassion fatigue and caregiver burnout are similar—but different.

  • Compassion fatigue is like an oversaturated sponge absorbing too much pain.

  • Caregiver burnout is like a drained battery with no energy left.

• Emotional numbness, irritability, resentment, mental fog, and isolation can all be warning signs that your soul and body need care.

• Jesus modeled healthy rhythms of rest, prayer, and withdrawal from constant demands.

• Asking for help is not a weakness—it is part of God’s design for community and sanctification.

• Boundaries are not selfish; they help us continue loving others faithfully and sustainably.

• The guilt we feel when stepping back often reveals deeper beliefs about identity, worth, and responsibility.

• God meets us compassionately in our limitations, just as He did with Elijah, Moses, and others throughout Scripture.

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Scriptures Mentioned

• Ecclesiastes 1:9 – “There is nothing new under the sun.”

• 1 Kings 19 – Elijah’s exhaustion under the broom tree

• Exodus 17:8–13 – Aaron and Hur holding up Moses’ arms

• Galatians 6:2 – “Bear one another’s burdens…”

• Examples from the life of Jesus withdrawing to pray and rest:

  • Mark 1:35

  • Luke 5:16

  • Matthew 14:23

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Books & Resources Mentioned

• Try Softer — by Aundi Kolber
  A compassionate, trauma-informed approach to emotional and spiritual health.

• Emotionally Healthy Spirituality — by Peter Scazzero
  A foundational resource on spiritual formation, emotional maturity, and healthy boundaries.

• Boundaries — by Henry Cloud and John Townsend
  A classic Christian resource on learning when to say yes and when to say no.

• Uninvited — by Lysa TerKeurst
  Encouragement for women struggling with rejection, overcommitment, and striving.

Find Carla Powderly

• CarlaPowderly.com
  Connect with Carla and explore additional counseling and encouragement resources.

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Reflection & Encouragement

Where in your life might God be inviting you to rest, receive help, or release a burden you were never meant to carry alone?

Friend, caring for others is beautiful Kingdom work—but even Jesus stepped away to pray, rest, and be renewed. You do not have to prove your worth through exhaustion. God sees your limits with compassion, not disappointment. May this episode remind you that rest is not failure—it is faithful dependence on the One who truly carries it all.

 

MUSIC CREDIT

Good Mood by AurbanniAudio

ASLC-492B3150-EA6596F4CA

Podcast Lead: Amy Donathan — counselor, speaker, and founder of Hope and Healing and Life Counseling & Life Coaching

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Episode Description

What lies have quietly shaped the way you see yourself… and even the way you see God?

In this deeply honest and hope-filled conversation, Amy shares how childhood wounds, painful experiences, and unhealed beliefs can quietly become the filter through which we live our lives. From feelings of rejection and inadequacy to striving and perfectionism, the ladies around the Priority Podcast table unpack how these lies affect our relationships, ministry, identity, and ability to step fully into God’s calling.

Together, they explore the freedom that comes when we bring those hidden beliefs into the light of Christ. Through personal stories, Biblical truth, practical encouragement, and compassionate conversation, this episode reminds listeners that healing is possible, that shame does not have the final word, and that God’s truth is stronger than every lie we carry.

If you’ve ever wrestled with thoughts like “I’m not enough,” “I’m too much,” “I always mess things up,” or “God must be disappointed in me,” this episode offers gentle hope and practical next steps for replacing those lies with truth rooted in Scripture.

For Christian women seeking to leverage their previous hurts and God-given gifts for the Kingdom and the sake of others, this conversation is both an invitation and a reminder: you do not have to carry those lies anymore.

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Key Takeaways / Key Points

• Lies often begin forming early in life, stemming from wounds, unmet needs, rejection, trauma, disappointment, or painful experiences.

• Hidden beliefs become “core beliefs” that shape how we respond in relationships, ministry, work, and even our walk with God.

• Pain points and emotional overreactions can reveal underlying lies that still need healing.

• Bringing lies into the light breaks shame and isolation and opens the door for healing and freedom.

• God does not condemn us for our wounds or struggles—He invites us to surrender them to Him.

• Replacing lies with God’s truth requires intentional renewal, not just awareness.

• Authentic Christian community creates safe spaces where healing, honesty, and transformation can happen.

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Scriptures Mentioned

• Proverbs 23:7 — “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.”

• Ephesians 5:13 — “When anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible.”

• Ephesians 1:4–5 — Our identity in Christ was established before the foundation of the world.

• Hebrews 12:2 — Jesus endured the cross “for the joy set before Him.”

• Philippians 2:13 — God works in us to will and to act according to His purpose.

• Isaiah 49 — God has inscribed us on the palms of His hands.

• Romans 8:1 (Referenced conceptually) — “There is therefore now no condemnation…”

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Resources Mentioned

• Hope and Healing and Life Counseling & Life Coaching — Amy’s counseling and coaching ministry hopeandhealinglifecoach.com

• FB: Hope and Healing Christian Life Coaching

• IG @‌hope_and_healing325

• Email: amydonathan@hopeandhealing.faith

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Memorable Quotes From This Episode

“We’re not meant to carry these lies. We’re meant to lay them down at the cross.” Amy Donathan:

“Your life reflects what you truly believe.” Amy Donathan

“The cross covered it all.” Carla Powderly

“God isn’t waiting for you to fix yourself before He walks with you.” Amy Donathan

“It’s not enough to lay down the lie—you must replace it with God’s truth.” Carman Halsey-Menghini

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Reflection & Encouragement

What is one lie you may have unknowingly carried for years—and what truth from God’s Word needs to replace it today?

Friend, healing often begins with honesty. Jesus is not intimidated by your wounds, your questions, or your story. The same Savior who carried the cross for the joy set before Him sees you with compassion, tenderness, and purpose. You do not have to stay trapped behind the bars of the lies of the enemy. His truth brings freedom, and His presence walks with you every step of the journey.

Welcome to the relaunch of Priority NOW Podcast—now Priority Podcast—a space created for Christian women who are ready to step into freedom, healing, and purpose.

In this powerful introductory episode, host Carmen Halsey-Mengini is joined by Amy Donathan, Carla Powderly, and Leslie Davis—three experienced counselors and coaches with a shared passion: helping women leverage their life experiences for the sake of the Kingdom. Together, they unpack the heart behind this podcast relaunch and the deep need for practical, Christ-centered tools that meet women right in the middle of real life.

This conversation sets the tone for what’s ahead—honest discussions about shame, comparison, grief, lies we believe, and the barriers that keep us stuck. With warmth, wisdom, and truth, these women remind us that nothing is beyond redemption, healing is possible, and we were never meant to walk alone.

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Key Takeaways

• God can use your story—even the painful parts—for His glory and the good of others

• There is a difference between guilt (“I did something bad”) and shame (“I am something bad”)—and freedom begins when we recognize it

• Healing often happens in community—through people willing to step into your story and walk alongside you

• Many of the struggles we face (comparison, lies, burnout) quietly keep us from living out our calling

• True transformation requires more than inspiration—it requires practical tools and intentional action

• Replacing lies with God’s truth is essential for lasting freedom

• Nothing is beyond hope—through Christ, even what feels broken can be restored

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Scriptures Mentioned

• “They triumphed… by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” — Revelation 12:11

• “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free…” — Galatians 5:1

• “I was blind, but now I see.” — John 9:25

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Books & Resources Mentioned

• Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller

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Where to Find Us

• Carmen Halsey-Mengini IBSA.org

• Amy Donathan Hope and Healing Life Coach

• Carla Powderly Carla Powderly Therapy

• Leslie Davis The Vision-Driven Marriage

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Reflection & Encouragement

What is one area of your life where shame, comparison, or a lie has kept you quiet or stuck?

Bring that gently before the Lord today. Ask Him to replace it with His truth—and consider who He might be inviting you to walk alongside, or whom He’s inviting to walk with you.

Freedom isn’t just possible—it’s promised. And you don’t have to get there alone.

 

MUSIC CREDIT

Good Mood by AurbanniAudio

ASLC-492B3150-EA6596F4CA

Today we continue the conversation with Jennifer Smith about what we can do after the Priority Conference is over to continue to draw closer to God and each other.  There is always something we can do to serve God until we draw our last breath.  Jennifer shares some ideas on how we can be on mission right where we are.  She encourages us to see the mission field in a broader light.  What if your mission field is the church down the street that needs help with Vacation Bible School?  Or what if a church plant in your local association needs help with music or set up?  These examples are just a few ways God opens opportunities for us to serve on mission right where we are.

Carmen reminds us that creating a culture of evangelism starts with each one of us.  We are reminded to walk in obedience and listen when God is speaking to us.  When we work together in a spirit of cooperation, it isn't for our own glory, but God gets the glory!  

Priority Now Podcast is hosted by Carmen Halsey and produced by Pat Scarbrough.

Jennifer Smith joins us today at the table to have a conversation that touches on many aspects of our daily walk with Christ.  Jennifer is from Jacksonville Illinois and attends Lincoln Avenue Baptist Church.  She has spent a significant part of her life serving on mission both here and abroad.  She currently is serving as the Chaplain Coordinator for Disaster Relief.  

During our conversation today you will hear Jennifer share how she learned the value of community through the professional opportunities she experienced in foreign countries.  She was able to serve on the mission field as part of those communities while learning their cultures and sharing the love of Christ.  Jennifer also serves the Illinois Baptist Women community through Priority by encouraging us with prayer prompts and leading breakout sessions.

Through our conversation today we hear about the importance of obedience.  There is an opportunity for every woman listening to join in the fellowship of Christ and serving on whatever mission field God has placed you in if you follow God's prompting in obedience.  There is joy in serving together and Carmen reminds us that we are better together.  We hope that you listen to our conversation with fresh ears and then apply that to what God is telling you so you can follow in obedience.

Carmen Halsey is the host of our podcast and today our podcast producer Pat Scarbrough joins the conversation as well.

Today we are joining Carmen at the table with returning guest Jill Finley.  They are joined today by Patty Wysong who serves as a key partner in the Priority Now Blog.  Patty comes to our table from Cornerstone Church in Marion Illinois, and she shares some of her story as a child on the mission field in Ecuador through some wilderness years to arrive right where God intended for her to be.

Patty leads out as the volunteer editor of the Priority Now Blog, and she shares the blog got started and how you can be a part of the writing community.  As part of the annual Priority Conference, there has been a Writer's Workshop that helped develop women writers to use their gift to encourage others and create a culture of evangelism through the written word.  

As the conversation remains focused on how we are called to create a culture of evangelism in our daily lives, we also hear how Jill has a heart for others to hear the Gospel.  

The resources mentioned today include:

Where to find the PriorityNOW Blog , how to subscribe, and how to submit entries to be considered for publication.

Jeff Iorg message to the Southern Baptist Convention can be found here.

 

Today our table is full with an encouraging conversation about discipleship and evangelism with Jill Finley and Alyssa Merritt.  Jill serves on staff at Bethel in Troy Illinois as recently celebrated her 24th year there.  Alyssa is married to the Family Pastor, and they serve at Tabernacle in Decatur Illinois.  

Today when they sit down with Carmen, you will get to know a little more about Jill and Alyssa while getting a glimpse into their heartbeat for Jesus that is demonstrated through how they serve.  If you have ever thought, "I don't know how to reach the next generation", you should listen to these ladies share not only the importance of reaching others but practical ways that they are putting this into practice.  

Carmen shares about the North American Mission Board evangelism resources that are available.  Coming out of the Priority Conference this year, we have been highlighting this tool.  You can contact Carmen for more information, or you can download it directly from the NAM website.  

We really enjoy sitting at the table and having these conversations and pray that you are enjoying them as well.  

Production note:  Our upload today is audio only.  We want everyone to have access to the podcast without having to search too hard for it, and uploading the video was complicating our desire for that.  We are still going to upload our video version, but it will be featured on our upcoming YouTube channel.  We will release that information this month and you can catch up on the extended video versions of all our podcast episodes.

Jill and Mindy join Carmen at the table today to talk about what it means to be Resourced.  Carmen explains that all our life experiences have been preparing us for what God has planned for us.  God has a plan for you to serve and He will use what you are experiencing to bring glory to His name.  Jill and Mindy both talk about the time they spent waiting for God to direct them to the next thing He had planned for them.  In the midst of all these things, we can't forget the importance of discipleship.  Join us at the table as we discuss resources, discipleship, and so much more.

 

Resource mentioned in this podcast:

Kristi McLelland