HealingStrong's Around the Word

HealingStrong

Join us around the table with friends who love the Lord and want to dig deeper into God's Word. Hosted by Cheryl Collins and joined by friends of HealingStrong, this podcast is sure to peak your interest in learning more about God's Word, as discussions on each podcast are short, bite-sized morsels that help to go deeper and enjoy God's Word. Cheryl and the podcast team will discuss stories that build trust in God through the history of Joseph, Esther, Jehoshaphat, Daniel, Nehemiah, the Disciples, and of course, Jesus! These episodes encourage our faith in overcoming our fear, and who doesn't need strengthened faith?

  1. 1D AGO

    Episode 62 - The Daniel Series: Names That Stick And Names That Save

    In this episode, we reflect on Daniel 1:3–7, where Daniel and his friends are renamed by Babylon, illustrating how labels—though promising clarity—often steal identity, a pattern still seen today as culture assigns us names tied to our seasons or struggles. We explore how empires and cultures reshape people through new language, diets, and identities, contrasting this with the Hebrew names God gives that ground us in His grace and help amid hardship. Through candid reflections on labels like single, divorced, or lonely, we offer practical steps to reclaim our true identity: discovering the meaning of our names, recognizing “king’s tables” that pull us from trust, and replacing those influences with Scripture, prayer, and life-giving community. This conversation brings hope and strength for those navigating illness, grief, or change, encouraging us to embrace the names God gives over limiting labels and find steady identity amid pressure. Please take advantage of our FREE resources below to help you along your health and healing journey: The Bible App HealingStrong Bible Plans Support Group Directory Listen to Previous Episodes Holistic Curriculum - Participant Guide Refresh Your Spirit Support Our Mission - Donate Please visit our website at healingstrong.org to learn more about our mission and visit our groups tab to learn more about our community groups. HELP US GROW: Your donation enables us to continue offering this podcast and other resources for free supporting those facing cancer and chronic illness, caregivers and others. Every donation makes a big difference. Please donate here.

    8 min
  2. JAN 12

    Episode 61 - The Daniel Series: Guarding Your Heart From Idols

    In this episode, we explore how the heart drifts toward compromise by examining Exodus 20 alongside Daniel 1, revealing how a people called to exclusive allegiance slowly replace the living God with “little g” gods—good things like work, family, or comfort—that take first place and lead to exile.  Viewing the first commandment through the lens of rescue reframes obedience as a grateful response rather than duty, illustrated by Babylon’s siege and the desecration of temple treasures. Daniel and his friends model quiet resolve and firm boundaries amid pressure, challenging us to confront our own misplaced loves. We offer practical steps for a heart audit to identify idols, uncover fears, and reorder love through fasting, Scripture, Sabbath rhythms, and supportive friendships. This journey isn’t about shame but freedom—putting God first steadies life, fostering courage and lasting joy. If this message resonates, we would really appreciate it if you shared it, subscribed, and even leave a review to help others find hope. Please take advantage of our FREE resources below to help you along your health and healing journey: The Bible App HealingStrong Bible Plans Support Group Directory Listen to Previous Episodes Holistic Curriculum - Participant Guide Refresh Your Spirit Support Our Mission - Donate Please visit our website at healingstrong.org to learn more about our mission and visit our groups tab to learn more about our community groups. HELP US GROW: Your donation enables us to continue offering this podcast and other resources for free supporting those facing cancer and chronic illness, caregivers and others. Every donation makes a big difference. Please donate here.

    9 min
  3. JAN 5

    Episode 60 - The Daniel Series: When You Walk Through The Fire, You Are Not Alone

    In launching a new series on Daniel, we focus our time in Isaiah 43:1–2, where God affirms our identity as created, redeemed, and called by name—promises that transform how we face trials, offering His presence amid flames and floods that don’t consume us. We dive into the deeper meaning of “fear not,” grounded in redemption and intimacy, inviting us to lean on Scripture as a lifeline. Through the example of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego’s unwavering trust while in the furnace, we learn to stand firm in pressure, letting our identity shape our response whether deliverance is immediate or delayed.  This episode offers a hopeful, faith-filled path through every trial—listen, share, and join us in spreading courage and hope. Please take advantage of our FREE resources below to help you along your health and healing journey: The Bible App HealingStrong Bible Plans Support Group Directory Listen to Previous Episodes Holistic Curriculum - Participant Guide Refresh Your Spirit Support Our Mission - Donate Please visit our website at healingstrong.org to learn more about our mission and visit our groups tab to learn more about our community groups. HELP US GROW: Your donation enables us to continue offering this podcast and other resources for free supporting those facing cancer and chronic illness, caregivers and others. Every donation makes a big difference. Please donate here.

    7 min
  4. 11/24/2025

    UPDATES: A Holiday Pause, Resources, and January Expectations

    We are taking a brief holiday pause, then come back to listen in January for a new series on Daniel. Listen in as we share some updates across HealingStrong and what resources we have for you over this break season.  Listeners get resources for the break, an encouragement from Luke 1 for those waiting, and a chance to double their impact through a donation match. • January launch of a Daniel study focused on chapters 1–4 • new HealingStrong website to simplify groups and resources • return of I Am HealingStrong podcast in January with Jim Mann • year-end giving with gifts matched up to $50,000 going on now • recommendations for Matthew Healing in His Presence on YouVersion • Around the Word in 80 Days community Scripture reading • encouragement from Luke 1 about waiting and God’s faithfulness To help support our Ministries and free content, you can give online at healingstrong.org/donate and EVERY dollar will be DOUBLED from now until December 31st, 2025. Please take advantage of our FREE resources below to help you along your health and healing journey: The Bible App HealingStrong Bible Plans Support Group Directory Listen to Previous Episodes Holistic Curriculum - Participant Guide Refresh Your Spirit Support Our Mission - Donate Please visit our website at healingstrong.org to learn more about our mission and visit our groups tab to learn more about our community groups. HELP US GROW: Your donation enables us to continue offering this podcast and other resources for free supporting those facing cancer and chronic illness, caregivers and others. Every donation makes a big difference. Please donate here.

    6 min
  5. 11/10/2025

    Episode 58 - The Esther Series: Courage in Crisis (Esther 10 NIV)

    The story of Esther demonstrates God's sovereignty as He works behind the scenes, using ordinary people for extraordinary purposes to fulfill His redemptive plan. • Mordecai is elevated to second in command under King Xerxes, paralleling Joseph's position in Egypt • The book highlights how God elevates women in a culture where they were marginalized • Esther's courage, strength, and wisdom were instrumental in saving God's people • God's divine providence turns evil plans into protection for His people • Key lessons include being strategic rather than reactive when facing challenges • God works invisibly even when we don't immediately see His hand • The preservation of the Jews was essential to God's plan to bring the Messiah • Like Esther, we each have moments where our courage and obedience matter • God can use ordinary people with seemingly disadvantaged backgrounds Suggested Resources: BIBLE PLAN - Trusting God's Plan When You Don't See Him: Lessons From the Book of Esther PODCAST - Genesis to Revelation Bible Reading TOOLS - Refresh Your Spirit through God's Word Please take advantage of our FREE resources below to help you along your health and healing journey: The Bible App HealingStrong Bible Plans Support Group Directory Listen to Previous Episodes Holistic Curriculum - Participant Guide Refresh Your Spirit Support Our Mission - Donate Please visit our website at healingstrong.org to learn more about our mission and visit our groups tab to learn more about our community groups. HELP US GROW: Your donation enables us to continue offering this podcast and other resources for free supporting those facing cancer and chronic illness, caregivers and others. Every donation makes a big difference. Please donate here.

    13 min
  6. 11/03/2025

    Episode 57 - The Esther Series: The Tables Turn in a Divine Reversal (Esther 9:1-32 NIV)

    The tables turn dramatically for the Jewish people as what was meant to be their day of destruction becomes their day of victory and deliverance through Queen Esther and Mordecai's influence in the Persian court. • God turned what enemies meant for evil into good as Jews were allowed to defend themselves • Officials throughout the Persian Empire began helping the Jews out of fear of Mordecai • The Jews defeated 500 enemies in Susa, including Haman's ten sons who were later impaled • Throughout the empire, 75,000 enemies were defeated, yet the Jews took no plunder • Mordecai and Esther established the Feast of Purim as a permanent celebration • The Jewish people continue celebrating Purim to this day, commemorating their deliverance • God's promise to bless those who bless Israel and curse those who curse Israel remains unchanged • Writing down what God has done in your life creates important remembrances for future encouragement Find a journal and write down something God has done for you this week.  Suggested Resources: BIBLE PLAN - Trusting God's Plan When You Don't See Him: Lessons From the Book of Esther PODCAST - Genesis to Revelation Bible Reading TOOLS - Refresh Your Spirit through God's Word Please take advantage of our FREE resources below to help you along your health and healing journey: The Bible App HealingStrong Bible Plans Support Group Directory Listen to Previous Episodes Holistic Curriculum - Participant Guide Refresh Your Spirit Support Our Mission - Donate Please visit our website at healingstrong.org to learn more about our mission and visit our groups tab to learn more about our community groups. HELP US GROW: Your donation enables us to continue offering this podcast and other resources for free supporting those facing cancer and chronic illness, caregivers and others. Every donation makes a big difference. Please donate here.

    14 min
  7. 10/27/2025

    Episode 56 - The Esther Series: Turning the Tide Against Destruction (Esther 8:1-17 NIV)

    We explore Esther chapter 8, where divine providence unfolds as Mordecai rises to power and the Jewish people gain the right to defend themselves against annihilation. • Haman's estate is given to Esther, who then appoints Mordecai to manage it • King Xerxes gives his signet ring to Mordecai, symbolizing a transfer of royal authority • Esther risks her life again by approaching the king unbidden to plead for her people • The original death decree cannot be revoked, but a new edict allows Jews to defend themselves • The Jews' right to assemble and protect themselves represents hope in a seemingly hopeless situation • Many non-Jews begin identifying as Jews, showing a dramatic reversal of social status • Blue and white royal garments worn by Mordecai mirror today's colors of Israel's flag • Self-defense against life-threatening danger is affirmed as legitimate and God-approved • The story demonstrates how hope transforms communities from mourning to celebration Suggested Resources: BIBLE PLAN - Trusting God's Plan When You Don't See Him: Lessons From the Book of Esther PODCAST - Genesis to Revelation Bible Reading TOOLS - Refresh Your Spirit through God's Word Please take advantage of our FREE resources below to help you along your health and healing journey: The Bible App HealingStrong Bible Plans Support Group Directory Listen to Previous Episodes Holistic Curriculum - Participant Guide Refresh Your Spirit Support Our Mission - Donate Please visit our website at healingstrong.org to learn more about our mission and visit our groups tab to learn more about our community groups. HELP US GROW: Your donation enables us to continue offering this podcast and other resources for free supporting those facing cancer and chronic illness, caregivers and others. Every donation makes a big difference. Please donate here.

    14 min
  8. 10/20/2025

    Episode 55 - The Esther Series: Courage in the Face of Annihilation (Esther 7 NIV)

    Queen Esther displays remarkable courage as she reveals Haman's genocidal plot against the Jews during a second banquet with King Xerxes. The king's furious reaction and Haman's desperate attempts to save his life lead to a dramatic conclusion where justice is served in the most poetic way possible. • Esther strategically waits for the right moment to reveal her Jewish identity and Haman's evil plot • The king is shocked that his trusted advisor has planned to destroy his queen and her people • Esther demonstrates extraordinary courage by confronting her accuser face-to-face • King Xerxes storms out in rage, showing his genuine care for Esther beyond just her royal position • Haman falls on Esther's couch begging for mercy, which the king misinterprets as an assault • A royal eunuch points out the 75-foot gallows Haman built for Mordecai • In perfect poetic justice, Haman is executed on the very gallows he prepared for another • The story reads like a dramatic soap opera but carries profound lessons about speaking truth to power Suggested Resources: BIBLE PLAN - Trusting God's Plan When You Don't See Him: Lessons From the Book of Esther PODCAST - Genesis to Revelation Bible Reading TOOLS - Refresh Your Spirit through God's Word Please take advantage of our FREE resources below to help you along your health and healing journey: The Bible App HealingStrong Bible Plans Support Group Directory Listen to Previous Episodes Holistic Curriculum - Participant Guide Refresh Your Spirit Support Our Mission - Donate Please visit our website at healingstrong.org to learn more about our mission and visit our groups tab to learn more about our community groups. HELP US GROW: Your donation enables us to continue offering this podcast and other resources for free supporting those facing cancer and chronic illness, caregivers and others. Every donation makes a big difference. Please donate here.

    12 min
5
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

Join us around the table with friends who love the Lord and want to dig deeper into God's Word. Hosted by Cheryl Collins and joined by friends of HealingStrong, this podcast is sure to peak your interest in learning more about God's Word, as discussions on each podcast are short, bite-sized morsels that help to go deeper and enjoy God's Word. Cheryl and the podcast team will discuss stories that build trust in God through the history of Joseph, Esther, Jehoshaphat, Daniel, Nehemiah, the Disciples, and of course, Jesus! These episodes encourage our faith in overcoming our fear, and who doesn't need strengthened faith?