The Art of a Messy House Where Faith Meets Real Life, and There’s Always Room AT THE TABLE

Jennifer Kosuda

The Art of a Messy House is a faith-filled podcast for women navigating everyday moments and messes. Host Jen—wife, mom, teacher, and author—shares stories, biblical truth, and encouragement to help you grow spiritually through the ups and downs. You’ll hear stories of faith, resilience, motherhood, and healing woven with Scripture, truth, and heartfelt conversation that remind you to look to and for God. Whether your hair is done or undone, your heart full of doubts or dreams, you are welcome here. Let’s walk this journey together in grace, truth, and transformation...AT THE TABLE.

  1. 06/30/2025

    #101: God's Presence & Your Purpose: A Guide to Overcoming Distraction

    Are you distracted by what’s happening around you when God is inviting you to fix your focus on Him? This episode is a gentle but powerful reminder that purpose doesn’t pause... even in the unknown. You were never meant to figure it all out on your own. You were created to walk in step with the One who goes before you, beside you, and within you.   In this episode, before we break for summer, I’m sharing what it means to become captivated by hope, even when the season feels messy, unfamiliar, or uncertain. We discuss transitioning from distraction to divine direction, from fear to faith, and from striving to resting in the presence of the Lord. Through stories, scripture, and Spirit-led reflection, this episode is a call to return to the One who already has the plan… and just wants your "Yes!"   This is for the one who feels overwhelmed by the noise, unsure of what’s next, or like you're being called into a new thing you don’t yet understand.   Here’s what I cover in this episode: How purpose is found in God’s presenceWhat it looks like to go from being prisoners of pain to prisoners of hopeA vision of sitting in the boat with God, and letting Him move you forwardHow to walk in righteousness without striving for perfectionThe difference between half-healing and complete healing, and how to release the crutches we cling toHow God uses even the distractions, delays, and storms to shape shields of protectionSpirit-led practices to help us focus in a world full of distractionsReflective questions to help you walk in healing and hope… right where you are This episode is especially close to my heart, not just because of the message, but because it came from a place of deep surrender. It’s a reminder that even in the middle of uncertainty or new beginnings, we can choose to pause, fix our eyes on Jesus, and trust that He’s guiding every step, even when the path ahead feels hazy. God is our sun and shield. You don’t need to force what God is already guiding. He’s not asking you to be perfect. He’s asking you to be present. You’re not behind. You’re being led. You’re not stuck. You’re being set apart. Some scriptures that anchored this episode: Zechariah 9:12, Psalm 84:10–12, Exodus 33:14–15, 2 Corinthians 5:21, 2 Corinthians 12:10, Ephesians 2:8–9, Psalm 1:1–3, Matthew 6:33, Isaiah 43:2, Philippians 4:13, James 1:2–4, 1 Peter 5:6–11, Psalm 46:10, Micah 6:8, Acts 1:9, John 11:25, Philippians 4:8, Ephesians 6:11–17, Psalm 18:1–3, 35–36, Psalm 24:3–6, 2 Timothy 1:6–7, 1 John 4:17, Romans 3:22, Genesis 15:1 Living Fearless Guided Journal (by Jaime Winship) If this episode reminded you of a truth your heart needed, share it with a friend who feels stuck in the “how.” You’re not walking into the unknown alone—God is already there. Keep your eyes fixed forward, friend.  There’s more ahead. ♡ Connect with Jen Kosuda ⁠NEW BOOK: Loved to the Beat of My Father's Heart Instagram Website YouTube Linktr.ee (for books & more)

  2. 06/23/2025

    #100: Walk in Authority: Unlocking Generational Blessings with Rebekkah Mauney and Jessica Williams

    Are you unknowingly carrying the weight of someone else’s story? The pain they passed down, the mindset they modeled, the cycles they never broke? In this special 100th episode, I’m joined by two dear friends, Rebekkah Mauney and Jessica Williams, for a powerful conversation on inheritance, healing, and spiritual authority. Together, we discuss what it really means to break free from generational curses, claim the blessings available to us through Christ, and walk boldly in the authority we’ve already been given. This episode isn’t just about theory. It’s full of real-life testimonies, hard-won lessons, and practical encouragement. Whether you’ve struggled with emotional healing, been stuck in the same spiritual cycles, or are learning to discern what blessings you're meant to carry forward, this one’s for you. Here’s what we cover: What it looks like to break generational cycles with Jesus at the center.The truth about spiritual authority in Christ—and why the enemy responds to it, not our begging.How to model healing for the next generation, even if you’re still in progress.The importance of forgiveness, fasting, and scripture as tools for freedom.Personal stories of bold faith, obedience, and miraculous healing moments.Why freedom is our inheritance, and how to pray from a place of victory, not defeat.This episode is especially close to my heart, not just because it's number 100, but because it serves as a reminder that we don’t have to carry old pain into new places. We’re allowed to hand it to God, step out in faith, and declare a new legacy. Some scriptures we mentioned or reflected on in this episode: Genesis 17:7, Psalm 91, Psalm 90:1, Ephesians 6, Matthew 17:21, John 5:6, Revelation 12:11, James 5:16, Exodus 34:7, Psalm 115:12-14   If this episode blessed you, would you share it with someone who might need to hear it too? Or post a takeaway on social and tag us, because sharing our testimonies is one more way we declare freedom over our families and future.   Let’s keep walking in truth, boldness, and blessing... together. ♡ Connect with Rebekkah Mauney Instagram YouTube ♡ Connect with Jessica Williams Instagram Website YouTube ♡ Connect with Jen Kosuda NEW BOOK: Loved to the Beat of My Father's Heart Instagram Website YouTube Linktr.ee (for books & more) To celebrate our 100th episode and the release of my new book, "Loved to the Beat of My Father's Heart," we're giving away 3 copies! Head over to Instagram for Tuesday's post [@theartofamessyhouse] for full details on how to enter. Don't miss your chance to win!

  3. 06/16/2025

    #99: Walking in the Blessing: Freedom is our Inheritance with Andrea Brown

    Are you clinging to what once was, when God is calling you to rise and step into what is? This episode is a sacred invitation to shift your mindset, heart posture, and focus from what has held you back to what has been waiting for you all along: healing, freedom, and the inheritance that’s already yours in Christ. I’m joined again by my friend Andrea Brown for a spirit-led conversation about what it means to actually live like freedom is your birthright. Together, we explore what it means to move from being entrapped by our past, our pain, our patterns, our pride, into a life fully entrusted to God. We break down the power of spiritual healing, what it means to pick up your mat and walk, and how Jesus still meets us with the same life-changing question today: Do you want to be made well?  This is a conversation for the weary, the waiting, and the ones who feel like they’re still lying next to the healing. Here’s what we cover in this episode: The real meaning of inheritance, and why it includes freedom, not just forgivenessWhy Jesus asks questions he already knows the answers to (and how that reveals our hearts)The spiritual paralysis we don’t talk about enough, and how to break free from itHow to discern the difference between rest and retreating in fearThe importance of community, confession, and prayer when you’re stuck in the “in-between”What it practically looks like to walk by faith after you’ve taken the first step You don’t need to wait for permission to step into healing. Jesus already handed it to you. You’re not too far gone. You’re not disqualified. And you’re not doing this alone. Scriptures that grounded this episode: John 5:1–9, Zechariah 9:12, Psalm 84:11, Genesis 15:1, Matthew 6:33, Ephesians 1–2 *CORRECTION: John 5:5-9 was read directly. It did not start at verse 1. If this conversation stirred something in you, we’d love to hear from you. Share this episode with a friend who needs a reminder that freedom is their inheritance, or send us a DM to let us know how we can pray for you during this season. God is always at work—even in the quiet. ♡ Connect with Andrea Brown Instagram Seed for the Soul podcast Website ♡ Connect with Jen Kosuda Instagram Website Linktr.ee (for books & more) ♡ Thank you for joining me in this episode. If you enjoyed this message, please consider sharing or writing a review to help spread this message of hope.

  4. 06/09/2025

    #98: Why am I Stuck? (Confess, Repent, and Transform)

    Have you ever felt like you’re standing in quicksand—desperate to move forward but stuck in the same place? In this episode, I delve into that feeling, examining how hidden compromises and worldly lies can entrap us in cycles of guilt, shame, and spiritual paralysis. However, there is a way out, and it begins with bringing everything into the light. We’ve all been there, stuck in patterns of doubt, distracted by life’s demands, or clinging to what’s comfortable instead of stepping out in faith. In today’s episode, I revisit David’s posture in the Psalms, how confession, repentance, and transformation can guide us out of the mess. Through my personal journey with anxiety, limiting lies, and the power of truth-telling, I'll share how I found freedom and invite you to do the same. Here's what I cover: Reasons we get stuck—and how small compromises lead to bigger struggles.Why true transformation starts with confession and a posture of repentance.The power of truth-telling: how sharing our testimonies can heal us and help others.How to identify the distractions and lies that derail us—and how to uproot them.A personal journey through anxiety, false narratives, and finding identity in Christ.Practical steps to pick up your stone (like David) and move forward with what God has already placed in your hands.The importance of slowing down, journaling, and being still with God to recognize what He’s entrusted to us. Freedom is our inheritance—and we are free indeed. You don’t have to do it in your own strength. God is greater than your excuses, your fears, and your failures. He is greater than your highs and your lows. He’s already equipped you with everything you need to move forward. Let’s step out in faith together. Some of the scriptures that grounded this episode: Psalm 119:11, Psalm 16:2, Psalm 81:10, Ephesians 1-2, James 5:16, Ephesians 5:8-13, John 14:6, Revelation 12:11, 1 Samuel 17:50, Ephesians 4:15 If today’s episode spoke to you, share it with a friend or join our community in praying bold prayers. For every moment holds an opportunity or an excuse; we decide. Let’s walk this journey together—step by faithful step. Pray, step, believe. ♡ Connect with Jen Kosuda Instagram Website ⁠YouTube⁠ Linktr.ee (for books & more)   ♡ Thank you for joining me in this episode. If you enjoyed this message, please consider sharing or writing a review to help spread this message of hope.

  5. 06/02/2025

    #97: Entrapped to Entrusted: Real Stories of Faith in Action with Jessica Rogers and Alyson Perez

    Have you ever felt stuck, questioning if you’re equipped for what’s ahead, or even the next step? We’ve all been there—the doubt, the hesitation, the feeling of not being “ready.” But what if God has already placed in your hands what you need to step into His calling today? In this episode of the "AT THE TABLE" series, I'm sitting down with Jessica Rogers and Alyson Perez to unpack the shift from feeling entrapped by limitations to recognizing what God has already entrusted to us. Together, we share vulnerable stories of trusting God in the most challenging moments, from stepping out in prayer when it feels uncomfortable to surrender. These testimonies remind us that God’s power shows up when we bring what’s in our hands, no matter how small, and trust Him to do the rest. Here's what we cover: How to move from a “one day” mindset to a “day one” mindsetReal-life stories of stepping out in faith even when you feel unpreparedHow a simple act of obedience can become a powerful testimonyWhy asking “What is in your hand?” can change everythingThe importance of standing in the gap for others—and how community prayer can move mountainsHow God equips us not just spiritually, but with the practical skills we need for the tasks He’s called us toWhat has God already placed in your hands today? Remember, you don’t have to have it all figured out to step forward in faith. God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called. Surrender the doubts, open your hands, and trust Him to do extraordinary things through your obedience. Some of the scriptures that grounded this episode: Exodus 4:1-6, Psalm 81:10, Exodus 28:3, Isiah 61:1, Hebrews 4:16, 1 Peter 2:9, Exodus 4:5   If today’s episode spoke to you, share it with a friend or join our community in praying bold prayers over your own Moses moments. Let’s walk this journey together, faithful step by faithful step. ♡ Connect with Jessica Rogers  Peaceful Home Organizing  ♡ Connect with Jen Kosuda ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Website⁠ YouTube ⁠Linktr.ee (for books & more)⁠ ♡ Thank you for joining me in this episode. If you enjoyed this message, please consider sharing or writing a review to help spread this message of hope.

  6. 05/26/2025

    #96: Leading with Curiosity and Love, Not Assumption (Who is at Our Table - part 3)

    Have you ever found yourself jumping to conclusions—only to realize later that what someone needed most was simply to be seen? In this episode—part three of our "Who Is at Your Table?" series—I’m discussing what it means to lead with curiosity and love instead of assumption. From motherhood moments and classroom pivots to grocery store grace, I’m sharing the lessons God’s been gently teaching me about slowing down, checking in, and creating safe spaces for others to feel known and valued. I’ll be honest—this didn’t always come naturally to me. But over the years, God has gently slowed me down, taught me to notice, and helped me trade reactive words for intentional ones. In this episode, I’m sharing what that journey has looked like in my classroom, my home, and my own heart. You’ll hear a story about a friend who taught me the power of a simple “How are you?” and a vulnerable moment in a grocery store that reminded me how quickly we can assume—and how much it means when someone chooses to lead with love instead. Together we'll explore: Why slowing down to see is never time wastedHow to ask questions that build connectionParenting through curiosity instead of frustrationWays I’ve learned to pivot (even when plans are in place!)12 takeaways that help me create safe spaces for sharingWhat it means to be part of a team—in our homes, classrooms, and communitiesThroughout, I’ll share scripture, stories, and reminders that we don’t have to have it all figured out. We just need to be open to God’s leading, to gentle pivots, and to seeing others through His eyes. Some of the scriptures that grounded this episode: Psalm 51:10, 1 Peter 5:7, James 1:19, Ephesians 4:3 + 4:15, Psalm 133:1, Romans 8:1, 1 Corinthians 13:7, Hebrews 6:19–20 If your heart needs the reminder that shame silences, but love lifts, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about how to pause, pray, pivot, and lead with love, right where we are. Next up: I’ll be sitting down with two dear sisters to talk about what it means to steward what’s already in our hands—how we can trust God even when we don’t feel equipped, and what it looks like to move forward anyway. ♡ Connect with Jen Kosuda Instagram Website YouTube Linktr.ee (for books & more) ♡ Thank you for joining me in this episode. If you enjoyed this message, please consider sharing or writing a review to help spread this message of hope.

  7. 05/19/2025

    #95: Finding and Cultivating Safe Spaces (Who is at Our Table - part 2)

    Have you ever wondered where true flourishing begins, and who helps cultivate it in your life? In this episode, I invite you back to the conversation on safe spaces, intentional community, and the transformative power of inviting the right people “to your table.” Together, we’ll take a closer look at what it really means to find and create places where you can rest, release, and rejoice in God’s presence, and why those spaces matter so much for our personal growth. If you’re searching for a deeper connection, longing for meaningful community, or feeling the ache of loneliness in an overly busy, screen-driven world, this episode is for you. We’ll walk through honest reflections and practical wisdom on how to pray for, grow, and even become the kind of person who bridges the gaps we see around us, turning our grumbles into gratitude and our longing into action. Let’s press in to discover what safe, faith-centered spaces look like and how each of us can help bring them to life. Here’s what you’ll find in this episode: A recap on the concept of “flourishing” and why safety is the foundation, especially in God’s presence.Reflection on the question “Who is at your table?” and how to discern the people who uplift, challenge, and support you in your walk with Christ.The vital difference between living with rigid expectations and living with expectancy—letting God surprise us with His provision.Conversations about loneliness and the opportunity for each of us to “be a bridge” for others, turning dissatisfaction into creative solutions that invite community.Encouragement to pray specifically and expectantly for the people, mentors, and groups God wants to provide.Stories from my own journey, including how God led me to start a small group (even when I didn’t feel equipped), and what happened when I said yes.The importance of leading with love and curiosity, not assumption, as the groundwork for cultivating safety and healing in our relationships.Simple ways to foster safe spaces include practicing presentness, making intentional time for others, and creating time for meaningful conversations away from screens.Inspiration from scripture and real-life examples about owning your purpose, breaking cycles of shame, and helping others experience grace and belonging. As you reflect on this episode, I invite you to ask: Who are you inviting into your life, and what kind of space are you helping to create for others? Consider what God has already placed in your hands, and let’s pray for the eyes to see—both the people and opportunities He’s providing right now. Share this conversation, journal your thoughts, or take a practical step toward cultivating that safe space you’ve been yearning for. And don’t miss our next conversation, where we’ll dive even deeper into real-life examples and actionable takeaways to help you flourish in a faith-driven community. You are already loved, seen, and known by God. Let’s step forward, together, to make that truth felt by others. Ready for a deeper, more connected life? Let’s begin—right at the table God’s prepared for us.   Mentioned Scripture and References 1 Thessalonians 5 49 Loneliness Statistics: How Many People are Lonely? Psalm 46:1 John 16:33 James 4:8 James 4:7 Galatians 5:22-23 Matthew 7:7 Philippians 4:6-7 Isaiah 9:6 Ephesians 4:15 John 3:16 Proverbs 20:7    ♡ Connect with Jen Kosuda Instagram YouTube Website Linktr.ee (for books & more)   ♡ Thank you for joining me in this episode. If you enjoyed this message, please consider sharing or writing a review to help spread this message of hope.

  8. 05/12/2025

    #94: Flourishing (Who is at Our Table - part 1) with Grace Paik

    Have you ever questioned what it really means to flourish, especially when life feels more like a wilderness than a blooming garden? You're not alone. In this episode, I sit down with my friend Grace Paik to unpack how flourishing isn’t just a byproduct of perfect seasons but a deep-rooted journey that happens right in the messy, uncertain, in-between places. We share honestly about navigating transition, reframing what it means to “bear fruit,” and finding purpose in both rest and community. If you’ve been yearning for deeper connection, encouragement, and a practical shift in mindset for your current season, this episode is for you. Too often, we chase productivity, measure ourselves against our own timelines, or feel isolated, even in this age of constant digital connectivity. I invite you to lean into this conversation as Grace and I reflect on our personal journeys: what stunted our growth, how we learned to release control, and why creating safe, authentic spaces for vulnerability and faith is key to true flourishing. You’ll hear real talk about why rest can feel hard (and yet so necessary), how playing and pursuing joy fit into our spiritual walk, and the special role community holds in helping us see ourselves through God’s eyes. What we covered in this episode: Redefining flourishing: It’s not about everything looking perfect on the outside; true flourishing starts with being rooted in God’s presence, even in seasons that feel bare or pruned.How spiritual practices like pausing, gratitude, and declaring God’s promises anchor us amid daily challenges.Grace’s vulnerable story of moving from burnout and independence to a season of rest, release, and rediscovery, including letting go of old definitions of success and learning to play again.How God gently peels back what no longer serves us so we’re open to what He wants to give.Honest talk about the obstacles to thriving: timelines, pride, distraction, and the myth that we have to “do it all.”Why community, especially faith-centered sisterhood, provides vital encouragement, new perspective, and hope.A practical challenge to look for fruit in unexpected places—even in the waiting or the wilderness, and trust that nothing is wasted with God.How can you make space for rest, community, and a new kind of joy this week? What would it look like to allow God to gently redefine “flourishing” for you, not by comparison, but by grace and trust in His provision? I invite you to reflect on Psalm 52:8 and what it would mean to be “like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God”, rooted, expectant, and nourished even in seasons that look barren from the outside. Let’s keep the conversation going. Take a moment today to pause, surrender your timelines, and reach out to someone who can walk with you in this season. If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend or share your reflections in our community. Together, let’s create safe spaces where we can rest, release, and rejoice—knowing God is faithfully nurturing us toward true flourishing, right where we are.   Mentioned Scripture and References Propel Women Cohorts Christine Caine Psalm 52:8 Isaiah 54:17   ♡ Connect with Jen Kosuda Instagram Website Linktr.ee (for books & more)   ♡ Thank you for joining me in this episode. If you enjoyed this message, please consider sharing or writing a review to help spread this message of hope.

5
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

The Art of a Messy House is a faith-filled podcast for women navigating everyday moments and messes. Host Jen—wife, mom, teacher, and author—shares stories, biblical truth, and encouragement to help you grow spiritually through the ups and downs. You’ll hear stories of faith, resilience, motherhood, and healing woven with Scripture, truth, and heartfelt conversation that remind you to look to and for God. Whether your hair is done or undone, your heart full of doubts or dreams, you are welcome here. Let’s walk this journey together in grace, truth, and transformation...AT THE TABLE.