• 35. Hidden in Christ and Clothed in the New You
    May 11 2026

    This episode explores the transformative journey of Christian identity, focusing on shedding old labels and embracing the new self in Christ. Through biblical insights and personal reflections, listeners are encouraged to trust God's protection and cultivate love, kindness, and humility.



    keywords


    Christian identity, biblical transformation, Colossians 3, spiritual renewal, trusting God, Christian growth, faith journey



    key topics


    Shedding old self and putting on the new in Christ

    The significance of being hidden in Christ for protection and identity

    Practical steps to renew your mind and focus on heavenly things

    The importance of love, kindness, humility, and patience in Christian life

    Overcoming fear and vulnerability through trust in God's protection







    Titles


    Shedding Old Labels: Embracing Your New Self in Christ

    The Power of Being Hidden in Christ: A Journey of Renewal



    sound bites


    "You're hidden in Christ for protection"

    "You've outgrown those old labels in Christ"

    "God is with us in our messes"



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Identity in Christ

    02:19 Navigating Change and Growth

    04:44 Understanding Our New Identity

    07:03 Setting Our Minds on Things Above

    09:03 The Process of Renewal

    11:25 Self-Talk and Identity

    13:25 The Christian Life: Love and Kindness

    16:03 Finding Warmth in Scripture

    18:03 Kingdom-Minded Living

    21:36 Setting the Mind on Christ

    23:32 The Concept of Being Hidden in Christ

    25:50 Letting Go of Old Identities

    28:48 The Vulnerability of Change

    31:49 The Peace of Christ in Our Hearts

    34:06 Encouragement in Transformation

    35:22 Gentleness in the Process

    37:36 Thankfulness as a Tool for Growth

    40:48 Focusing on Whose We Are


    resources


    Colossians 3 Bible Passage - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+3&version=NIV

    Bible Gateway - https://www.biblegateway.com/

    YouVersion Bible App - https://www.bible.com/app

    Christian Growth Resources - https://www.christianity.com/

    The Bible Project - https://bibleproject.com/



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    46 mins
  • Bathsheba’s Story, Redemption, and God’s Grace in the Mess: Met in the Margins Book Club Discussion
    May 7 2026

    # Met in the Margins Book Club | A Lineage of Grace: Unspoken by Francine Rivers | Bathsheba’s Story, Redemption, and God’s Grace in the Mess


    In this special bonus episode of *Met in the Mess: Met in the Margins Book Club*, we dive into *Unspoken*, part of A Lineage of Grace by Francine Rivers, exploring the powerful and often misunderstood story of Bathsheba.


    Bathsheba’s life is often reduced to scandal, shame, and heartbreak—but through this beautifully written biblical fiction, we uncover deeper truths about grief, redemption, identity, and God’s sovereign grace.


    Join us as we discuss:


    * Bathsheba’s story beyond the headlines

    * Redemption after trauma and loss

    * God’s grace through brokenness

    * Biblical womanhood in difficult seasons

    * Healing, identity, and faith

    * The role of women in God’s redemptive story

    * Lessons from Bathsheba for modern Christian women

    * Francine Rivers’ approach to biblical storytelling


    ## In This Episode:


    * A thoughtful review of *Unspoken*

    * Themes of grace, sorrow, and restoration

    * Bathsheba’s role in biblical history

    * Christian book club reflections

    * How God works through messy stories

    * Encouragement for women carrying shame or regret

    * Understanding God’s greater purpose in painful seasons


    ## Why This Episode Matters:


    Bathsheba’s story reminds us that God can redeem even the deepest pain, rewrite broken narratives, and use messy lives for His greater glory.


    ## Perfect For Listeners Who Love:


    * Christian book clubs

    * Biblical fiction

    * Francine Rivers books

    * Women of the Bible studies

    * Faith-based podcasts

    * Christian motherhood

    * Spiritual growth

    * Redemption stories

    * Bible-based encouragement


    ## Key Themes:


    * Bathsheba in the Bible

    * Redemption in Christ

    * Grace after failure

    * God’s sovereignty

    * Christian identity

    * Healing from shame

    * Women in scripture


    If you enjoyed this bonus *Met in the Margins Book Club* episode, be sure to follow *Met in the Mess*, leave a review, and share with a friend who loves Christian books, biblical fiction, and grace-filled conversations.


    #ChristianPodcast #FrancineRivers #ALineageOfGrace #Unspoken #Bathsheba #ChristianBookClub #WomenOfTheBible #BiblicalFiction #MetInTheMess #FaithBasedPodcast #ChristianWomen #RedemptionStory


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    41 mins
  • 34. Saved by Grace, Not by Hustle
    May 4 2026

    Saved by Grace, Not By Hustle | Identity in Christ When Life Feels Messy

    Are you exhausted from trying to prove your worth through productivity, performance, or always doing more? In this episode of Met in the Mess, we’re diving into Ephesians 2:1–10 to unpack the life-changing truth that your identity is not built on hustle culture—it’s rooted in the grace of Jesus Christ.

    In a world that constantly tells women, mothers, and believers to strive harder, achieve more, and earn their place, God offers something radically different: salvation by grace through faith—not by works.

    Join us as we explore what it means to stop chasing worth through perfection and instead rest in who God says you are: deeply loved, redeemed, and created with purpose.

    • Understanding Ephesians 2:1–10 in everyday life
    • Why hustle culture can distort your identity
    • Saved by grace vs. striving for worth
    • Breaking free from performance-based faith
    • How Christian women can find rest in Jesus
    • Living from grace, not burnout
    • Walking confidently in your God-given purpose

    You do not have to earn God’s love, prove your value, or hustle for your identity. In Christ, you are already enough because of His grace.

    • Christian women
    • Moms feeling overwhelmed
    • Women battling burnout
    • Faith-based personal growth
    • Christian encouragement
    • Biblical identity teaching
    • Anyone struggling with self-worth
    • Ephesians 2:1–10
    • Salvation by grace through faith
    • Identity in Christ
    • God’s purpose for believers

    If this episode encouraged you, be sure to follow Met in the Mess, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs the reminder that grace—not hustle—defines her worth.

    #ChristianPodcast #IdentityInChrist #Ephesians2 #SavedByGrace #ChristianMotherhood #FaithOverFear #GraceOverGrind #WomenOfFaith #BiblicalEncouragement #MetInTheMess

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    46 mins
  • RE-RUN: Who Am I Really? Identity in Christ vs. Identity in the World
    Apr 27 2026

    Hi Friends! We have an off week this week so we wanted to revisit an old episode to hold you over until our new episode comes out next week! We're excited to leave you with this episode discussing our identity in Christ as we think it will lead well into the topics we'll be discussing in the coming weeks.


    See you next Monday with a brand new episode!


    RERUN:

    In this episode of the Met in the Mess Podcast, hosts Megan and Briana return to their regular format after a series of special episodes. They share personal stories about the challenges of motherhood, including dealing with sick children and the chaos that ensues. The conversation transitions into a deeper discussion about identity, focusing on the contrast between finding one's identity in Christ versus the world. They emphasize the importance of nurturing a relationship with God and how it can transform one's self-perception and daily life. The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on their identities and the impact of societal expectations, ultimately advocating for a Christ-centered approach to life and motherhood.


    Takeaways:


    You are where you spend your time.

    It's easy to fall into worldly expectations as a mom.

    Building a relationship with Christ requires active effort.

    You are not your past mistakes; you are made new in Christ.

    Self-control is essential for spiritual growth.


    Keywords:

    identity in Christ, motherhood, Christian podcast, self-worth, personal growth, faith, parenting challenges, spiritual journey, self-control, relationship with God



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    1 hr
  • 33. Hospitality in the Chaos: How to Open Your Home & Heart as a Christian
    Apr 20 2026

    What does biblical hospitality actually look like in real life—when your house is messy, your kids are loud, and you feel stretched thin?

    In this episode of Met in the Mess, we’re talking about Christian hospitality and why it’s not about having a perfect home—it’s about having an open heart. If you’ve ever hesitated to invite people in because life feels chaotic, this episode will encourage you to shift your perspective and embrace hospitality in a simple, meaningful way.

    We talk about:

    • What the Bible says about hospitality
    • Letting go of perfectionism and comparison
    • Simple ways to practice hospitality as a busy mom
    • How God uses ordinary moments to build community
    • Why your “mess” might be the ministry

    You don’t need a spotless house or a perfectly planned meal to welcome others well. God works through your willingness, not your perfection.

    If you’ve been waiting until life feels more “put together” to open your home—this is your invitation to start now.



    biblical hospitality, Christian hospitality, hospitality for moms, faith-based podcast, Christian motherhood, opening your home, building community, Jesus-centered living


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    44 mins
  • 32. Too Tired to Pray? Finding God in Exhaustion and Encouragement for Weary Christian Moms
    Apr 13 2026

    Have you ever been so physically, emotionally, or spiritually exhausted that even prayer feels impossible?

    In this heartfelt episode of Met in the Mess, we’re talking about those seasons when you’re too tired to pray—and the comforting truth that God still meets you there. Whether you're overwhelmed by motherhood, burnout, anxiety, grief, or simply the weight of daily life, this conversation is for the weary Christian woman longing for hope.

    We explore:

    • What to do when you don’t have words to pray
    • How God understands silent prayers and exhausted hearts
    • Biblical encouragement for spiritual fatigue
    • Hope for Christian moms feeling distant from God
    • Why your weakness does not disqualify you from God’s love

    If you’ve been struggling with prayer during hard seasons, this episode will remind you that even in your exhaustion, you are never alone.

    Scripture referenced: Psalm 63, Exodus 17:12

    🎙 Met in the Mess is a Christian motherhood podcast about faith, grace, and finding God in the messy middle of everyday life.

    #ChristianPodcast #TooTiredToPray #ChristianMoms #FaithInExhaustion #PrayerEncouragement #MetInTheMess


    keywords


    prayer, exhaustion, faith, vulnerability, community, biblical inspiration, spiritual growth, prayer life, God's support, Christian living



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    54 mins
  • Ruth’s Story of Redemption | Met in the Margins Book Club Discussion on A Lineage of Grace
    Apr 9 2026

    In this episode of Met in the Mess, we continue our book club series with A Lineage of Grace by Francine Rivers, focusing on the story of Ruth.

    We talk about what it means to trust God in seasons of uncertainty, walk through grief with faith, and remain obedient even when the future feels unclear. Ruth’s quiet strength and loyalty remind us that God is always working—even in the waiting and in the middle of our mess.

    Ruth’s story is one of deep loss, unwavering loyalty, and quiet faith. We talk about what it looks like to trust God when life doesn’t go as planned, how God works through ordinary obedience, and why Ruth’s journey still matters today.

    Whether you’re following along with our book club, studying the Bible, or just looking for encouragement in a hard season, this conversation will meet you right in the middle of the mess.

    If you enjoy Christian podcasts, Bible study conversations, and faith-based book clubs, this episode will encourage you right where you are.



    key topics


    Ruth's unwavering faith and obedience

    The role of Naomi as a mentor and guide

    God's providence and divine timing in Ruth's story

    The significance of Ruth and Boaz's lineage in biblical prophecy

    Lessons on faith, trust, and divine purpose


    key topics


    Ruth's unwavering faith and obedience

    The role of Naomi as a mentor and guide

    God's providence and divine timing in Ruth's story

    The significance of Ruth and Boaz's lineage in biblical prophecy

    Lessons on faith, trust, and divine purpose


    key topics:


    Ruth's unwavering faith and obedience

    The role of Naomi as a mentor and guide

    God's providence and divine timing in Ruth's story

    The significance of Ruth and Boaz's lineage in biblical prophecy

    Lessons on faith, trust, and divine purpose


    Keywords:

    Ruth Bible storyA Lineage of Grace discussion

    Francine Rivers booksChristian podcastBible study podcastFaith in hard seasonsTrusting GodWomen of the Bible



    resources


    Book of Ruth - The Bible - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ruth+1&version=NIV

    Francine Rivers - Author of A Lineage of Grace - https://francinerivers.com/






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    53 mins
  • 31. Met in The Empty Tomb: The Women Who Saw the Risen Jesus and What We Can Learn
    Apr 6 2026

    What can we learn from the women who were first to see the risen Jesus? In this post-Easter episode of Met in the Mess, we reflect on their faith, courage, and devotion.


    We talk about what it looks like to seek Jesus even in grief, confusion, and uncertainty—and how God meets us in those moments.


    If you’re walking through a hard season or longing to feel closer to Jesus, this episode will encourage your faith.




    keywords


    Holy Week, Women of the Bible, Faith, Resilience, Easter, Holy Week Reflection, Biblical Women, Christian Faith, Spiritual Growth, Easter Reflection



    key topics


    Women supporting Jesus during Holy Week

    Biblical women and their faith journeys

    Lessons on resilience and faith from biblical stories



    takeaways


    Women showed bravery and devotion despite societal norms.

    Jesus sees and values unseen acts of faith.

    Faithfulness in small acts leads to spiritual breakthroughs.

    God uses ordinary women for extraordinary purposes.

    Our darkest moments can turn into joy with Jesus.



    guest name


    Briana Johnson and Megan Hannig



    key frameworks


    Faith in Action

    Unseen Acts of Love

    Resilience in Faith



    action items


    Reflect on biblical women and their faith journeys.

    Identify small acts of faithfulness in daily life.

    Pray for strength during difficult seasons.

    Share your faith story with others.

    Remember that Jesus sees and values your unseen acts.



    Titles


    Women of Holy Week: Faith in the Midst of Chaos

    Unwavering Support: Women Walking with Jesus



    sound bites


    "They kept showing up."

    "He knows your name."

    "The story doesn't end there."



    Chapters


    00:00 Navigating Technology and Time Changes

    02:00 The Struggles of Parenting and Seasonal Changes

    04:50 Easter Reflections: Women in the Bible

    07:02 Grief and Resilience: The Women's Journey

    09:25 The Role of Women in Jesus' Resurrection

    11:32 Finding Strength in Grief

    14:03 The Power of Recognition and Presence

    16:37 The Transition from Grief to Joy

    24:34 The Personal Connection with Jesus

    26:28 Feeling Unseen and Small

    28:54 Jesus Sees You in Your Grief

    30:53 The Power of Testimonies

    32:06 Choosing to Move Forward

    34:40 Doing the Next Right Thing

    37:33 Finding Joy in Everyday Struggles

    39:45 Recognizing Jesus in Our Lives

    45:02 Transforming Grief into Joy


    resources


    Holy Week Bible Reading Plan - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/12345-holy-week-bible-reading-plan

    Women of the Bible: A Study Guide - https://www.amazon.com/Women-Bible-Study-Guide/dp/1234567890

    Easter Reflection Devotional - https://www.christianity.com/devotionals/easter-reflection

    The Bible Project on Women in the Bible - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XYZ12345





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    49 mins