Have you ever found yourself looking at someone who seems to excel effortlessly and thought, “Why can’t I do that like they do?” In today’s episode of Equipped To Be, titled “Stop Comparing Yourself: Ability vs. Aptitude”, we’re tackling a common struggle – the tendency to compare your hard-earned abilities to someone else’s natural aptitude.
It’s easy to feel discouraged when your progress doesn’t match their success, but understanding the difference between ability and aptitude can help you break free from the comparison trap. Let’s explore how you can stop measuring yourself against others and start celebrating your own unique strengths!
“Don’t make the mistake of thinking that just because something doesn’t come naturally, it’s not worth pursuing.” Connie Albers
Ability and Aptitude Defined
Ability and aptitude are often used interchangeably, but they mean two very different things. Ability is your current skill level or competence in performing a particular task. It’s something you’ve developed through practice, training, or experience. On the other hand, aptitude is your natural potential to do something well – it’s the talent or inclination you’re born with, even before formal training.
Think of it this way: ability is the result of hard work and dedication, while aptitude is an innate knack for something. Both are valuable, but they represent different aspects of personal growth. Understanding this distinction can help you appreciate your unique strengths without falling into the comparison trap.
Understanding the Difference Between Ability vs. Aptitude
Ability is what you can do right now because you’ve practiced, trained, or studied. It’s the skill you develop over time. On the other hand, aptitude is your natural potential to do something well. It’s the raw talent that doesn’t require as much effort.
Imagine this: You and your friend decide to learn how to juggle. You spend hours practicing, dropping the balls more often than not. Eventually, you get it, but it’s taken a lot of dedication. Your friend, however, picks up the balls and starts juggling almost immediately. They seem to ‘get it’ without much practice. That’s the difference – your friend has an aptitude for juggling, while you had to develop the ability.
One isn’t better than the other. Your ability represents your hard work and commitment. Your friend’s aptitude means they started a little ahead in that skill. Comparing the two is like comparing apples and oranges. It’s not fair to you.
Now, why am I telling you this? Because so often, we compare our abilities to someone else’s aptitude. We look at someone who seems naturally good at math, sports, or art and think, “I’ll never be as good as they are.” But guess what? Their natural aptitude doesn’t make your hard-earned ability any less valuable. Hence, we need to celebrate the unique wiring of others without comparing ourselves to them.
Stop Comparing Yourself: It’s a Trap
A few years ago, I was working on a project requiring much writing. I love to write, but it doesn’t always come naturally. I had to pray and put effort into making my words flow. But some of my fellow authors can write page after page without breaking a sweat. I found myself feeling frustrated and even a bit defeated.
But then I realized something – I was comparing my hard-earned ability with their natural aptitude. Instead of feeling down, I decided to focus on what I could control: improving my skills, little by little. That perspective change made all the difference.
Celebrating Your Unique Wiring
It’s easy to get caught in the comparison trap. We all do it. However, recognizing that some people have a natural inclination while others have to work hard helps you focus on what truly matters: doing your best.
Instead of thinking, ‘I’m not good at this,’ ask yourself, ‘How can I improve my ability?’ Your unique wiring is a beautiful blend of aptitudes and abilities. Use your strengths to push yourself forward, and don’t be afraid to work hard in areas that don’t come naturally.
This week, think about one ability you’ve worked hard to develop. Celebrate the progress you’ve made. Then, think about one area where you have a natural aptitude and find a way to use it more. When you focus on your personal growth, you’ll find that the comparisons fade into the background.
Wraping It Up
Remember, your value doesn’t come from how easily something comes to you or how you compare to others. It’s about doing your best and being true to your unique wiring. Whether you’ve developed your abilities through practice or discovered an aptitude along the way, both are valuable.
So, let’s commit together to stop comparing and start embracing the journey. Your best is more than enough. Keep growing and learning, and keep being you.
In this episode of Mom Overload: Stop Stress Before it Breaks You, we’re diving into what so many of us feel but rarely say out loud — mom burnout is real. Whether you’re juggling homeschool lessons, managing a busy home, or simply trying to keep up with life, the pressure can feel overwhelming.
But here’s the good news: you’re not alone and don’t have to stay stressed.
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath. You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s talk about how you can stop stress before it breaks you. There are simple, faith-filled ways to ease the pressure, regain your peace, and breathe again — even in the middle of motherhood’s busiest seasons.
I remember a season when I was homeschooling, running on little sleep, and feeling like I was failing my kids. One day, I broke down in tears in the laundry room. I sat on the floor, surrounded by piles of unfolded clothes, and whispered, “God, I can’t do this anymore.”
At that moment, I heard God whisper, “You don’t have to do it all.” I realized I didn’t have to be everything to everyone. I needed to give myself grace and lean into God’s strength instead of my own.
Why Moms are Stressed and Overloaded
Motherhood today feels heavier than ever. Between homeschooling, managing the house, keeping up with meals, schedules, emotional needs, and maybe even working or volunteering, moms constantly pour themselves out. We carry the weight of everyone’s needs and often put our own at the bottom of the list. We say yes when we want to say no, we hustle to meet every need, and we feel guilty if we stop to rest. No wonder we’re exhausted, emotionally drained, and teetering on the edge of burnout.
The more we try to juggle everything in our strength, the faster we wear ourselves down — and that’s exactly where burnout begins.
So, how do you know if you’re heading toward burnout? Let’s look at the warning signs many moms miss — and what they might be trying to tell you.
Recognizing the Signs of Mom Burnout
One of the hardest things about stress and burnout is that they sneak up on you. It’s not like one day you wake up and realize, “I’m burned out.” It’s more like a slow leak—you don’t notice it right away, but over time, the pressure builds until you’re emotionally and physically drained.
You might tell yourself this is just how motherhood is, but there are clear signs that you’re overloaded and need to change.
Let’s talk about some key signs that you might be on the edge of burnout:
Emotional Exhaustion– You feel like you have nothing left to give — not to your spouse, your kids, or even yourself.
Increased Irritability – You snap at your kids or spouse more easily over small things.
Trouble Sleeping – Even when you’re exhausted, your mind races and you can’t rest.
Lack of Joy – The things that used to make you happy now feel like obligations.
Feeling Like You’re Failing – No matter how much you do, it feels like it’s never enough.
Brain fog – trouble focusing, forgetting things, or feeling scattered.
Physical symptoms– headaches, stomach issues, and muscle tension that impact your daily productivity.
But here’s the truth: you are enough. Just showing up matters. Even when you’re tired and don’t have all the answers, being there is an act of love and courage.
💡 Scripture Encouragement: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28 (ESV)
Practical Strategies to Stop Stress Before Your Break
Recognizing burnout is the first step, but managing stress requires action. You don’t need to overhaul your entire life to feel better. Small, intentional changes can make a huge difference in managing stress and protecting your energy.
💡 Scripture Encouragement:“Cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7 (ESV)
Here are five practical strategies to help you regain balance:
1. Set Realistic Expectations
You are not a superhero, and you don’t have to be. Sometimes the stress we feel comes from expecting too much of ourselves.
If you don’t finish the whole homeschool lesson today, it’s okay.
If the laundry doesn’t get folded until tomorrow, everyone will survive.
If you have cereal for dinner one night, your kids will think it’s fun!
Example: Instead of thinking, “I need to get through this whole lesson plan today,” shift to, “My goal is to help my kids engage with learning — and if we don’t finish everything, that’s okay.”
I remember days when I felt utterly depleted emotionally and physically, but somehow, I’d find the strength to keep going. That’s the power of the Lord. It’s not glamorous; it’s steady and quiet, and it matters.
2. Create Margin in Your Day
A packed schedule leaves no room to breathe — and that’s a recipe for stress. You don’t need to fill every moment with activity.
Build in quiet time or downtime for yourself and your kids.
Give yourself permission to rest — it’s productive!
Try to keep a 15-minute buffer between activities to reset.
Example: Schedule “free time” into your daily homeschool routine. It helps you and your kids reset emotionally.
Reflection Question: Where can you create extra margin in your day this week?
3. Learn to Say “No” Without Guilt
Saying “no” isn’t selfish — it’s essential. You can’t do everything, and when you try to, you end up exhausted and resentful.
“That sounds great, but I can’t commit now.”
“Thanks for thinking of me, but my plate is full this week.”
“We’d love to join, but I need a quiet weekend at home.”
Example: If a friend invites you to a homeschool co-op that would add stress to your week, it’s okay to say no. You don’t have to justify it or feel guilty.
Reflection Question: What’s one thing you need to say “no” to this week?
4. Include Your Kids in Household Chores
You are NOT supposed to do it all. Get your children to help with age-appropriate tasks—it’s good for them to learn responsibility.
Let them fold towels — even if they’re not perfect.
Have them help with meal prep or clean-up after school work is done.
Ask your spouse to take over bedtime — even if it looks different than how you’d do it.
Example: Including your kids in meal prep and clean-up not only lightens your load but also gives them a sense of ownership and teaches valuable life skills.
5. Build in Self-Care (Without Feeling Guilty!)
Self-care isn’t selfish — it’s necessary. You cannot pour from an empty cup.
Start small:
10 minutes of quiet prayer in the morning.
A walk around the block after dinner.
Listening to worship music while doing dishes.
Example: If you feel overwhelmed during the day, pause and pray: “Lord, I feel overwhelmed. Please give me peace and help me trust that You are enough.”
Now that you’ve developed some strategies for managing stress, let’s discuss the next step: making these habits stick so you don’t slide back into burnout.
How to Prevent Mom Overload Before It Starts
Managing stress is necessary, but true peace comes from creating rhythms and boundaries that prevent stress from building up in the first place. Reducing stress isn’t about making the “perfect” schedule or life — it’s about finding a rhythm that allows you to thrive.
Jesus gives us a beautiful model for this. He served tirelessly but also took time to retreat and rest. He wasn’t in a constant state of hurry, and you don’t have to be either.
Let’s walk through some practical ways to establish a sustainable rhythm and prevent burnout before it starts: you don’t get it right. It’s recognizing that love is still present even on the hard days.
💡 Scripture Encouragement:“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10 (ESV)
1. Establish Healthy Boundaries
Setting boundaries is one of the kindest things you can do for yourself and your family. When you say “yes” to everything, you’re saying “no” to your peace and health.
Start setting boundaries around:
Your time – Guard your rest and personal time.
Your energy – Don’t overcommit to activities or obligations.
Your mental load – Stop carrying what isn’t yours to carry.
Example: If a friend asks you to volunteer at a church event, but you know it will create stress for your family, say: “I appreciate you asking, but I can’t commit to that right now.”
Saying “no” does not mean rejecting others—it’s a way to protect your capacity to serve your family well.
2. Limit Comparison and Perfectionism
One of the fastest ways to burn out is to compare yourself to other moms. Social media makes it look like everyone else is homeschooling perfectly, making organic meals, and raising kids who never fight. Let me tell you — that’s not real life!
Give yourself permission to live a life that works for your family, not someone else’s highlight reel.
If your homeschool day doesn’t look Pinterest-worthy, that’s okay.
If you’re not doing fancy crafts — guess what? Your kids will survive.
If you’re more of a “chicken nuggets and frozen peas” mom than a “from-scratch sourdough bread” mom, that’s just fine!
Example: Instead of feeling guilty because you’re not doing it all, remind yourself: “I’m doing what’s best for my family, and that’s enough.”
3. Stay Close to the Lord
When life gets busy, quiet time with God is often the first thing to go. But staying spiritually grounded is essential for managing stress and finding peace.
Make it simple:
Start your day with a short prayer.
Keep a Bible verse on a sticky note where you’ll see it during the day.
Turn on worship music while you cook or clean.
Invite God into your daily life — even in the small, mundane moments.
Example: If you’re feeling overwhelmed during the day, pause and pray: “Lord, I feel overwhelmed. Please give me peace and help me trust that You are enough.”
God isn’t asking you to do this alone — He wants to carry the load with you.
💡 Scripture Encouragement:“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” – Isaiah 26:3 (ESV)
4. Check In with Yourself Regularly
Burnout doesn’t happen overnight—it builds gradually. That’s why it’s essential to check in with yourself regularly to see how you’re feeling emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
Try this simple weekly check-in:
How am I feeling emotionally?
Am I getting enough rest?
Am I connecting with God?
What’s working well — and what needs to change?
Example: If you feel emotionally drained, it might be time to cut back on commitments or take a rest day from homeschooling. That’s not quitting — that’s being wise.
5. Build a Sustainable Rhythm (Not a Schedule)
Schedules are rigid, but rhythms are flexible. A rhythm gives you structure, but it also allows for life to happen.
Think of your day in terms of “flow” rather than a strict timetable:
Start the day with prayer and a quiet moment with God.
Create blocks of time for homeschooling, chores, and rest.
Build in intentional moments of connection with your kids.
End the day with gratitude — focus on what went right.
Example: Instead of stressing about a 9:00 a.m. start time for school, aim to start between 9:00 and 9:30. That gives you grace and flexibility.
When you create a rhythm that works for your family and stay connected to God’s peace, you’ll have more emotional margin, and burnout will lose its grip. In the closing, I’ll remind you of the key takeaways and encourage you to carry them into your week.
💡 Scripture Encouragement:“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1 (ESV)
Encouragement
Friend, I want you to hear me clearly—you are not failing, you’re not falling behind, and you’re not supposed to have it all together all the time. Mom overload, but stopping stress will keep you from breaking.
Motherhood is hard, and juggling the many tasks you are responsible for adds another layer of complexity, but you are not alone.
The truth is, you were never meant to do it all. God doesn’t expect you to be perfect — He expects you to lean on Him. And when you stop trying to hold everything together by your own strength, you make room for God’s grace to carry you.
So, if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, it’s time to stop striving and start surrendering. You don’t have to say yes to everything, have a spotless house, or have a perfect homeschool day. Your value as a mom isn’t measured by how much you accomplish but by the love you pour into your family.
Remember:
Say “no” without guilt. Ask for help without feeling weak. Rest without shame.
God has called you to motherhood, but He has not called you to burnout.
💡 Scripture Encouragement:“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)
Final Thoughts
If this message resonated with you, I encourage you to share it with another mom who may be feeling the weight of burnout. You’re not alone and don’t have to carry this alone. God has equipped you with everything you need for this season, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way.
Fight for your child and Win Back Your Prodigal! The battle belongs to the Lord. Today, Laine Lawson Craft joins me for an honest conversation about parenting a prodigal.
There’s a unique kind of heartbreak that comes when a child you love deeply walks away — from faith, from family, from everything they once held dear. As a parent, you feel the weight of their choices, the sleepless nights filled with worry, and the quiet prayers whispered through tears.
God sees your child, even in the darkness. He loves them even more than you do, and He is always working, even when you can’t see it. The road back may be long and messy, but restoration is possible. The same God who welcomed the prodigal son home with open arms is ready to do the same for your child — and He will give you the strength and wisdom to walk this path with faith and hope.
“We can take back what the enemy has stolen, but we must know the strategies to activate our victory.” Laine Lawson Craft
Acknowledge the Reality of Your Prodigal
Facing the truth about your child’s struggles is one of the hardest steps a parent can take — but it’s also the first step toward healing.
Admit the problem without denial or minimizing.
Understand that addiction and rebellion are complex and often stem from deep pain or unmet needs.
Recognize that this is a spiritual battle as much as a physical or emotional one (Ephesians 6:12).
Once you face the reality of the situation, you can begin to address it with wisdom and faith.
Respond to Your Prodigal with Love
When a child is caught in darkness, love — not judgment — is the bridge that can lead them home.
Resist the urge to lecture, criticize, or shame.
Model the love of Christ — unconditional and patient (Romans 5:8).
Let your child know you love them without enabling destructive behavior.
Responding with grace doesn’t mean you approve of their choices — it means you’re showing them the heart of God.
Engage in Spiritual Warfare Through Prayer
Prayer is not just a comfort; it’s a weapon in the spiritual battle for your child’s heart.
Pray specific, bold prayers for protection, healing, and deliverance (James 5:16).
Use Scripture as a weapon — declare promises of restoration and freedom (Isaiah 49:25, Jeremiah 31:16–17).
Ask others to join you in prayer and fasting.
Prayer realigns your heart with God’s will and invites His power into your child’s life. While prayer is powerful, prodigals need you st set healthy boundaries.
Set Healthy Boundaries
Love without boundaries leads to chaos — boundaries are an act of love, not rejection.
Love does not mean allowing destructive behavior.
Establish clear expectations and consequences (Galatians 6:7–8).
Be firm yet compassionate when enforcing boundaries.
Setting boundaries may feel hard, but it gives your child the structure they need to heal. Sometimes, you need to seek outside help.
Seek Professional and Spiritual Help
You don’t have to walk this road alone — God places people in your path to help you.
Encourage counseling or addiction recovery programs rooted in faith.
Find a Christian mentor or spiritual advisor for both you and your child.
Connect with other parents who have walked this path — community matters (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10).
Seeking help is not weakness; it’s wisdom and strength.
Fight the Enemy, Not Your Child
Addiction and rebellion may look like your child’s battle, but the real enemy is spiritual.
Understand that addiction is not just a moral failure but a spiritual stronghold (2 Corinthians 10:4).
Speak truth over your child — declare that they are not defined by their addiction but by their identity in Christ.
Recognize that the enemy seeks to steal, kill, and destroy — but God promises abundant life (John 10:10).
You can fight effectively and purposefully when you see the true enemy.
Leave Room for God to Work
Letting go is one of the hardest things a parent can do — but sometimes, it’s the only way for healing to begin.
Surrender control and trust God’s timing.
Allow your child to feel the consequences of their choices without rushing to rescue them (Luke 15:17).
Keep the door open for reconciliation, but let them come to the Father on their terms.
When you stop trying to control the outcome, you allow God to work miracles.
Conclusion: The Battle for Your Child is Spiritual
No matter how difficult things seem, the child we know and love is still alive on the inside. God is not finished writing your child’s story.
Remember that you are not alone, and this is not the end of their story.
Bio, Related Shows, and Links
Laine Lawson Craft, dynamic speaker and host of the top-ranked podcast Warfare Parenting, is the best-selling author of several books, including Spiritual Warfare and The Parent’s Battle Plan. She has been married for over thirty-seven years, Laine lives in Florida. As a mother and grandmother.
She has been featured on major media outlets, including FOX News, The 700 Club, CBN, CTN, TCT, and various radio programs and podcasts.
The Heart of Caregiving is found in the quiet, unseen moments — the late nights, the tired mornings, and the endless cycle of giving without expecting anything in return. Jess Ronne joins me today for an honest conversation on caregiving.
Caregiving is not just about meeting physical needs; it’s about pouring love, patience, and strength into someone else’s life, even when your cup feels empty.
Amid exhaustion and uncertainty, a quiet strength comes from knowing you are not alone. This is the heart of caregiving — a place where grit and grace meet, sustaining you through even the hardest days.
“The heart of caregiving is found in the quiet, unseen moments — the late nights, the tired mornings, and the endless cycle of giving without expecting anything in return. I know this because I’ve been there. Caring for my mom taught me that true strength isn’t loud; it’s found in the quiet acts of love and patience when no one is watching.” Connie Albers
The Heart of Caregiving
The heart of caregiving is found in the quiet, unseen moments — the late nights, the tired mornings, and the endless cycle of giving without expecting anything in return. I know this because I’ve been there. Caring for my mom taught me that true strength isn’t loud; it’s found in the quiet acts of love and patience when no one is watching. It’s in the middle-of-the-night wake-ups, the doctor’s appointments, the hard conversations, and the moments when you wonder if you have anything left to give. Caregiving is hard, holy work — and it changes you in ways you never expected.
The Challenges of Caregiving
Caregiving stretches you in every possible way — physically, emotionally, and mentally. There’s the exhaustion that comes from sleepless nights and long days. You pour out everything you have to meet someone else’s needs, often putting your own aside. And it’s not just the physical toll — it’s the emotional weight too.
It’s hard watching someone you love struggle. You wish you could fix it, make it better, take away the pain — but you can’t. The constant decision-making can be overwhelming. Did I do the right thing? Should I have spoken up more at that appointment? Am I doing enough? These thoughts can weigh you down, leaving you feeling like you’re never quite enough.
But here’s the truth: you are enough. Just showing up matters. Even when you’re tired and don’t have all the answers, being there is an act of love and courage.
Finding Strength in Grit
Caregiving requires grit — that daily resolve to keep going even when it’s hard. You show up, not because it’s easy, but because you love the person in front of you.
Grit is getting out of bed when you’d rather stay under the covers. It’s figuring out complicated medical instructions and staying calm when everything feels like it’s falling apart. It’s knowing that you might not see the rewards of your labor — but choosing to serve anyway.
I remember days when I felt utterly depleted — emotionally and physically. But somehow, I’d find the strength to keep going. That’s the power of grit. It’s not glamorous; it’s steady and quiet. And it matters.
Finding Peace in Grace
But grit alone isn’t enough. That’s where grace comes in. Grace is what carries you when you’re too tired to stand.
Grace means allowing yourself to be human. You don’t have to be perfect to be a good caregiver. You can get frustrated and feel exhausted and still be doing enough. Grace is knowing that it’s okay to take a break—that rest isn’t failure; it’s necessary.
It’s also about offering grace to the person you’re caring for. They might not always express gratitude. They might lash out because they’re hurting. Grace reminds you that they’re struggling too. And it helps you respond with patience instead of resentment.
Grace is forgiving yourself when you don’t get it right. It’s recognizing that love is still present even on the hard days.
The Scrared Calling of Caregiving
Caregiving is hard — but it’s also sacred. There’s something profoundly beautiful about loving someone through their hardest moments.
It’s easy to think of caregiving as a chore or an obligation. But it’s more than that. It’s an act of devotion. Every meal prepared, every hand held, every encouraging word — these are reflections of God’s love. Even when you feel unseen, God sees you.
You might not hear “thank you” as often as you’d like, but your work matters. You are standing in the gap for someone who needs you. That’s sacred.
When I was caring for my mom, there were moments when I felt invisible — like no one saw the hard work I was doing. But God saw. And He gave me strength when I had nothing left. That’s the gift of caregiving — you’re not doing it alone.
Practical Encouragment for Caregivers
I know firsthand how easy it is to neglect yourself when you’re focused on someone else’s needs. But you can’t give from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish — it’s necessary.
Prioritize Rest. Even if you can only grab 10 mins. of quiet, take it. Your body and mind need to reset.
Set Realistic Goals. You won’t get it right all the time, and that’s okay.
Ask for Help. People might not know you need anything, so be willing to ask. Lean on your community, family, and even professional support.
Conclusion: The Heart of Caregiving
The heart of caregiving is found in the tension between grit and grace — showing up when it’s hard and trusting that you are not alone. Caregiving will stretch you, challenge you, and sometimes break your heart — but it will also grow you in ways you never imagined.
If you’re in the middle of caregiving right now, I want you to know this: You are doing holy work. You are seen. You are enough. And you are not alone.
References, Related Shows, and Links
Jess Ronne is no stranger to caregiving. As the eldest of eleven siblings, Jess was responsible for their care during her upbringing. Her commitment to caregiving continued after she married and received the medical news that her son Luca would be born with significant disabilities requiring lifelong care.
She then faced the devastating news that her thirty-one-year-old husband was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, leaving her to raise four children alone. Her life took another remarkable turn when she met Ryan, a widower with three children. They blended two families and welcomed another child together.
Jess leads the Lucas Project, a nonprofit outreach organization committed to supporting individuals with special needs. Alongside her husband, Jess established Hope Farm, a residential facility that assists the needs of her son and other young adults with disabilities.
Milestones, Memories, and Moments: 5 Years of Equipped To Be. My how time flies. Let’s take a look at the Challenges that almost made me quit, the lessons I’ve learned, and the wins that kept me going.
When I first started Equipped To Be, I had no idea where this journey would lead. I simply wanted to encourage and equip parents, helping them navigate life with confidence and faith. But what started as a small step of obedience has turned into five years of life-giving conversations, shared wisdom, and stories of transformation.
Still, the journey hasn’t always been easy…
Lamentations 3:22-23 – “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” This reminds us that every day, every episode, every year is by God’s grace and mercy.
The Challenges: When I Wanted To Quit
Podcasting is an incredible way to connect with people, but let me tell you—it comes with its fair share of obstacles. I’ve faced seasons of slow growth, lost valuable team members, and wrestled with moments of doubt.
There were times I questioned if this was what God still wanted me to do. Times when I thought, Is anyone really listening? Is this making a difference?
But every time, God reminded me: faithfulness is the goal, not fast results.
And that faithfulness led to some of the most unexpected blessings…
💡 James 1:2-4 – “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” God uses challenges to refine and strengthen us—even in podcasting!
5 Lessons From 5 Years
If I could sum up everything I’ve learned in this journey, it would be these five lessons:
Consistency is key – Even when growth feels slow, the real impact comes in showing up. Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” God’s timing is perfect—even when growth feels slow.
You’re never really ready – “If I waited until I felt ready to launch, I’d still be waiting.” Ecclesiastes 11:4 – “Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap.” If we wait for the “perfect” moment, we may never start at all!
Faith over fear – Trusting God’s plan, even when results aren’t immediate. 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” Fear should never stop us from walking in our calling.
Serving over numbers – The shift from focusing on downloads to focusing on impact. Colossians 3:23-24 – “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” Impact is about obedience, not numbers.
It’s okay to evolve – “The podcast today is different from when it started, and that’s a good thing!” 📖 Isaiah 43:19 – “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” God grows and refines our calling over time.
💡 But beyond the numbers and downloads, what truly matters are the lessons learned along the way…
The Wins: The Most Impactful Moments
Despite the challenges, the impact of Equipped To Be has been undeniable. Over the past five years, I’ve received heartfelt messages from listeners sharing how an episode spoke directly into their lives—giving them the encouragement they needed in the exact moment they needed it.
Some episodes resonated deeply, becoming listener favorites. Others surprised me with their reach and impact. And every single conversation reminded me why this mission matters.
1 Corinthians 15:58 – “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
Let’s Celebtrate the Milestone, Memories & MomentsTogether
Whether you’ve been here since episode one or you’re just discovering Equipped To Be, I want to thank you for being part of this journey. This podcast wouldn’t be what it is without YOU!
“If you’re working on something—whether it’s raising kids, homeschooling, starting a business, or maybe even your own podcast—let me remind you: keep going.”
“It’s not about perfecting the journey—it’s about being faithful in the calling.”
Thank you for your support and messages and for being part of this journey.
We have some exciting things coming for Equipped To Be in year six! Stay tuned!
💬 Did this episode encourage you? I’d love to hear from you! Share your favorite Equipped To Be moment on Instagram or Facebook and tag me. Let’s celebrate together!
Final Encouragement Verse: Hebrews 10:36 – “You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.” Perseverance in our calling brings God’s blessings.
