The Joy Stories

Jessica Love

The Joy Stories a faith-filled podcast where real stories of resilience, and hope come alive. You will hear powerful stories of overcoming trials and finding victory through the valley. Life isn’t always easy, but even in the hardest moments, we can find joy in God’s promises with the power of gratitude. I want to encourage you and help you discover the true joy that awaits in your season.

  1. Episode 14: Trust the Whisper: Following God's Call with Kathy Izard

    Jun 11

    Episode 14: Trust the Whisper: Following God's Call with Kathy Izard

    What if the quiet nudge you've been feeling is God inviting you into something more? In this inspiring episode of The Joy Stories, I sit down with bestselling author, speaker, and retreat leader Kathy Izard for a powerful conversation about purpose, courage, and learning to trust God's voice. Kathy shares the remarkable story behind her books The Hundred Story Home, Trust the Whisper, and The Last Ordinary Hour, and how one unexpected encounter changed the trajectory of her life. What began as volunteering in a soup kitchen eventually led to the creation of Charlotte's first permanent supportive housing community for people experiencing chronic homelessness. A simple but powerful question from a formerly homeless man—"Where are the beds?"—became the whisper Kathy could no longer ignore. That whisper led her on a journey she never could have planned, transforming not only the lives of others but her own as well. Together, we explore what it means to hear God's gentle nudges, overcome fear and self-doubt, trust the unknown, and step into the purpose God has uniquely designed for each of us. We discuss "God dots," divine connections, unexpected callings, and how every chapter of our lives is preparing us for what comes next. In this episode, you'll discover: ✨ How God often speaks through whispers rather than loud signs✨ Why fear and self-doubt don't have to stop you from moving forward✨ The power of "God dots" and divine connections along the journey✨ Why it's never too late to begin a new chapter✨ How every season of life is preparing you for what's next✨ Practical encouragement for discerning and following your own calling I also share my own whisper story—how a season of surrender, silence, and sabbatical ultimately led to the creation of The Joy Stories podcast, and how God beautifully connected Kathy's story with mine through a series of unexpected "God dots." If you've ever felt a nudge you couldn't explain...If you've ever wondered whether God might be inviting you into something more...If you're standing at a crossroads, sensing a new direction, or longing for more purpose and joy... This conversation is for you. Listen closely. Take the next faithful step. And trust the whisper. Be encourage, have hope, and choose JOY. Connect with Kathy: https://www.kathyizard.com Email Jessica: connect@thejoystories.com Follow The Joy Stories on Instagram @thejoystories The Joy Stories website: https://www.thejoystories.com

    33 min

  2. May 14

    Episode 13: Joy in Community: Part 2

    In this deeply personal continuation of “Joy in Community,” Jessica shares how God used friendship, vulnerability, and honest community to bring healing during one of the most painful seasons of her life. After attending a women’s retreat centered around the theme “Radiant,” Jessica reflects on the powerful role godly women have played in pointing her back to Christ through seasons of heartbreak, shame, surrender, and healing. In this episode, she opens up about her and her husband’s hidden pain they carried for years, and the life-changing words spoken by a lifelong friend and prayer warrior that ultimately led her toward surrender and peace. This conversation is for anyone who has: struggled silentlywrestled with unanswered prayersbattled shame or isolationwondered if God still sees themor needed the reminder that they were never meant to walk through life aloneYou’ll be encouraged to let go of perfection, stop hiding in shame, and lean into the kind of honest, godly community where healing and joy can grow. Because sometimes God’s healing comes through the people He places beside us. Be encouraged, have hope, and choose JOY. The Joy Stories website: ⁠https://www.thejoystories.com⁠ Follow me on Instagram: @thejoystories ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thejoystories?igsh=MTFrbzk4cW9hb2M2OA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr⁠ Email: connect@thejoystories.com Scripture: Psalm 34:5: “Those who look to the Lord for help will be radiant with joy, no shadow of shame will darken their faces." Psalm 37:4: "Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." Philippians 4:7: "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Mark 9:24: “Lord, I believe but help my unbelief.” Song: "Author" by Brandon Lake and Nick Jonas https://open.spotify.com/track/49pVTawHCdwER1Y5w7Mgeb?si=d8d8abcca458424b

    18 min

  3. Apr 16

    Episode 12: Joy in Community

    In this episode of The Joy Stories, we explore the powerful truth that we were never meant to do life alone. God created us for relationship — not only with Him, but with each other. While modern culture encourages independence and self-sufficiency, Scripture teaches that believers are called to support, encourage, and strengthen one another. This episode highlights how Christian community, discipleship, and prayer support help us grow in faith and experience deeper joy. True, God-centered community is more than just social connection; it is a place where we are known, supported, encouraged, and strengthened in our faith. If you are searching for encouragement, deeper connection, and practical faith guidance, this episode will remind you that you don’t have to navigate life alone. Because true joy grows when life is shared.  Together, we talk about:• Why isolation can quietly weaken our spiritual lives• The difference between solitude and loneliness• The danger of trying to live a self-sufficient faith• How the enemy often uses lies to keep us disconnected• Why healing and transformation rarely happen alone• The beauty of having people who pray, encourage, and walk alongside us• What healthy, authentic Christian community truly looks like The Joy Stories website: https://www.thejoystories.com Follow me on Instagram: @thejoystories https://www.instagram.com/thejoystories?igsh=MTFrbzk4cW9hb2M2OA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Email: connect@thejoystories.com Scripture: Genesis 2:18-Not good for man to be alone, I will create a helper Jeremiah 17:5-Don’t put your trust in humans and turn away from God 1 Peter 5:8- Be alert of the enemy who looks for someone to devour Ephesians 6:10-Armor of God Exodus 17:12-Story of Moses and the two men who held his arms up Mark 2-The story of the 4 friends and the paralyzed man who they took to Jesus Galatians 6:2-Carry each other’s burdens Philippians 2:4-Look out for one another’s interest Hebrews 10:24–25 -Think of ways to motivate one another and encourage one another. 1 Thessalonians 5:11-Encourage one another and build one another up. Romans 12:15-Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Ecclesiastes 4:12-A triple braided cord is not easily broken Psalm 37:4-Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart Matthew 7:7-Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for Book Resources:  “Find Your People: Building Deep Community in a Lonely World” by Jennie Allen https://a.co/d/0e5c3BT8 “Relaxed: Walking with the One Who Is Not Worried About a Thing” by Megan Fate Marshman https://a.co/d/03O4yPvr Song: “Tear Off The Roof” by Brandon Lake https://open.spotify.com/track/1phLTiTxprKkjt4IjNDxuD?si=ecd774d88bb340a1 Links:  Men’s Fitness group, F3 https://f3nation.com/about-f3

    22 min

  4. Mar 26

    Episode 11: Dancing Through Fear: Finding Joy in the Midst of Cancer

    What does it look like to choose joy in the face of fear? In this deeply moving episode of The Joy Stories, Jessica sits down with her dear friend Lucy—a wife, mother of three, and “Dancing Queen” who has been courageously walking through a cancer diagnosis she calls “the element.” With honesty, warmth, and even humor, Lucy shares how her journey has transformed her faith from routine to deeply personal—shifting her view of God from distant to a constant companion and friend. Through late-night fears, painful treatments, and the unknowns of illness, Lucy reveals how she has learned to: Find light in life’s smallest momentsTurn pain into purposeInvite God into her fear instead of hiding from itAnd quite literally… dance her way through itFrom her children’s powerful words (“Hair or no hair, you’re still my mom”) to spontaneous moments of singing and dancing in hospital hallways, Lucy’s story is a beautiful reminder that joy is not the absence of suffering—it’s the presence of God within it. This episode is for anyone walking through fear, uncertainty, or hardship. Lucy’s message is clear and powerful: You are not alone. Your story has purpose. And even here… you can choose joy. “I hope you dance. I hope you sing. I hope you see the joy in everything.” If you want to follow Lucy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancing.through.fear?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Songs: "At The Cross": https://open.spotify.com/track/3BYjy9SgiD9BbBPdhOfRg5?si=c04cec279fe0451a "Be Not Afraid": https://open.spotify.com/track/2Po5VXHFACJdKdqsGk0aFC?si=a3e74026132943ba "Fear is a Liar" : https://open.spotify.com/track/6Z85UCEueQcgSyChlrEu5G?si=46e6d98ddf2f4e28 Email Jessica: connect@thejoystories.com Website: https://www.thejoystories.com

    40 min

  5. Mar 5

    Episode 10: When the Battle Feels Bigger Than God: Open My Eyes Lord

    Are you in a battle right now? Do you feel surrounded — by fear, anxiety, uncertainty, or circumstances you didn’t see coming? In this episode, we dive into 2 Kings 6:14–17 and the powerful story of Elisha and his servant. When an enemy army surrounded them, the servant panicked. But Elisha prayed a simple, profound prayer: “Lord, open his eyes.” The miracle wasn’t that the army disappeared. The miracle was that God revealed what was already there. Sometimes God doesn’t remove the battle immediately — He changes what we can see in the middle of it. If you’ve been feeling outnumbered, overwhelmed, or alone, this episode is for you. You’ll be reminded that: ·       You are not alone. ·       The Lord of Heaven’s Armies fights for you. ·       No prayer is too small. ·       No battle is too big. Let’s ask God to open our eyes. Scripture:  ·      2 Kings 6:14-17 (Elisha and his servant) ·      Philippians 4:13 (All things through Christ) ·      Numbers 22:31 (the LORD opened Balaam’s eyes) ·      Ephesians 1:16-18 (eyes of your heart may be enlightened) ·      Psalm 18:2 (The Lord is my rock and my deliverer) ·      Romans 8:31(If God is for us, who can be against us?) ·      John 16:33 (Take heart, I (Jesus) have overcome the world) ·      Matthew 19:26 (With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible) ·      Ephesians 6:10-17 (The Armor of God) Songs:  ·      Surrounded (Fight My Battles)”by Michael W. Smith https://open.spotify.com/track/73u7dTjaBTMyvs3KWOThGR?si=7e46f88339f347b5 ·      “Open the Eyes of My Heart” by Michael W. Smith https://open.spotify.com/track/4um6ZMnib1I7VuG3c6jGm5?si=0102942a740c4365 ·      “Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies)” by Chris Tomlin https://open.spotify.com/track/2VuwpxQR7rTPWkoLkpANdz?si=46d2a0c60afe43cb ·      “The Battle Belongs to You” by Phil Wickham https://open.spotify.com/track/3CwpNu67Qg1Mcl8WNtzUgo?si=90c7f4803fe94ef2   Connect with Jessica:  Website: https://www.thejoystories.com Email: connect@thejoystories.com Instagram: @thejoystories

    18 min

  6. Feb 12

    Episode 9: Trusting God With My Love Story | A Testimony of Faith & Timing

    Trusting God With My Love Story | A Testimony of Faith & Timing In this episode of The Joy Stories Podcast, Danielle shares her powerful Christian love testimony about trusting God with her heart, waiting on His timing, and surrendering control in her faith journey. What began as a solo bucket-list trip to Panama unexpectedly turned into a God-ordained love story. Through long-distance challenges, language and cultural differences, COVID shutdowns, visa delays, and seasons of deep uncertainty, Danielle learned how faith, prayer, and obedience prepared her for marriage. This episode is filled with encouragement for anyone waiting on love, navigating singleness, or learning to trust God through unanswered prayers. If you’re longing for a faith-filled relationship, seeking hope in the waiting, or wondering if God truly cares about your love story, this conversation is a reminder that God’s timing is perfect — and He can do exceedingly more than we ask or imagine. Scripture:  Matthew 6:26 “Look at the birds in the air. They do not sow or reap or story away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.  Are you not much more valuable to him than they?” Ecclesiastes 3:1-8~ “A Time for Everything” Matthew 17: 20 ~ The faith the size of a mustard seed Ephesians 3:20 ~”Now all glory to God, who is able, through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” Songs: “Oceans” by Hillsong: https://open.spotify.com/track/6FMS4sNzVVpEpfOnFx3Fdi?si=f3cab70eaa8a43cd  “Jireh” by Elevation Worship featuring Chandler Moore and Naiomi Raine https://open.spotify.com/track/1goiRWxiG3GTlODrdDZ7NR?si=0118198fd43340c3 Quote: “Just don't give up trying to do what you really want to do. When there is love and inspiration, I don't think you can go wrong” by Ella Fitzgerald

    35 min

  7. Jan 29

    Episode 8: Learning to Fly: When God Uses Love, Loss, and Grief for His Purposes With Children’s Author Erika Lopez

    Learning to Fly: When God Uses Love, Loss, and Grief for His Purposes With Children’s Author Erika Lopez In this episode of Joy Stories, Jessica sits down with children’s author and advocate Erika Lopez to share a powerful story of faith, grief, and unexpected purpose. After losing her mother to pancreatic cancer, Erika wrestled with anger, loss, and deep sorrow — until God began gently guiding her through writing, dreams, and meaningful signs. A vivid dream of flying with her mom inspired a bedtime story for her daughter that eventually became The Adventures of Amazing Grace, a children’s book about courage, friendship, and listening to your heart instead of fear. Erika also shares how her daughter’s dyslexia shaped the book’s design, leading her to advocate for inclusive, dyslexic-friendly children’s literature and representation for multicultural families. This episode explores joy beyond happiness, overcoming fear, discovering God-given gifts, and how even the hardest seasons can lead to something beautiful. Erika’s Instagram: ErikaLopez_author https://www.instagram.com/erikalopez_author?igsh=MWFuajY2a3Vnbmdycw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr  Many dyslexia and ADHD resources are available on my “Highlights”  Erika's Website: https://www.erikaferrarilopez.com/  The Adventures of Amazing Grace is available locally at Park Road Books, CLT Find, and That’s Novel. It is also available online: https://a.co/d/3OqmfhP  Podcast episode with our dyslexia journey: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/together-in-literacy/id1588755889?i=1000635409199 The Joy Stories website: https://www.thejoystories.com Jessica’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejoystories?igsh=MTFrbzk4cW9hb2M2OA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

    51 min

  8. Jan 15

    Episode 7: The Joy of Hearing God’s Voice: How to Discern & Listen with Confidence

    How do we know when God is speaking—especially when we’re facing big decisions? If you’ve ever asked, “God, is that really You?”—this episode will encourage you to slow down, listen closely, and trust that God still speaks because He deeply loves His children. In this heartfelt and Scripture-rich episode of The Joy Stories, Jessica walks listeners through how to recognize, discern, and respond to the voice of God amid the noise of our thoughts, culture, and spiritual opposition. Jessica also includes biblical teaching, practical steps, and her own deeply personal story of how God clearly called Jessica into speaking and podcasting, even when fear, doubt, and spiritual warfare tried to stop her. She also shares how God speaks and how discernment grows through prayer, Scripture, obedience, patience, and community.  Website: https://www.thejoystories.com Instagram: @thejoystories 10 Practical Steps For Discerning God’s Voice Pray First Ask God for wisdom and clarity. Prayer is relationship, not performance. Immerse Yourself in Scripture God’s voice will never contradict His Word. Scripture trains us to recognize truth.Listen Expectantly Silence and stillness are part of prayer. God often speaks in whispers, not noise.Discern Through Biblical Testing Ask:Does this bring peace or confusion?Does it align with Scripture?Does it lead toward godliness or sin?Rely on the Holy Spirit The Spirit guides, convicts, comforts, and directs—always in harmony with God’s Word.Surrender Personal Preference Discernment requires humility—seeking God’s will over what we want.Examine the Fruit God’s voice produces love, peace, humility, and faithfulness—not fear or confusion.Seek Godly Counsel & Community Like Samuel needed Eli, we often need wise, Spirit-led guidance.Practice Patience Discernment matures over time. Waiting is often part of God’s process.Learn to Truly Listen Remove distractions. Create margin. God speaks most clearly when we are still.SCRIPTURE: James 1:5 "Ask God for wisdom, and He will give it generously" John 10:8 & 27 “Others may speak, but the sheep do not listen to them.  My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” John 14:16 “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you.  He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth.” Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is alive and active" Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not lean on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” 1 Samuel 3:10“Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” Ezekiel 3:10 “Take into your heart all My words… and listen closely.” Jeremiah 29:12-13 “In those days when you pray, I will listen.  If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me” Psalm 139:17“How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered!" 1 John 5:14 “And we are confident that He hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases Him.  And since we know He hears us when we make our requests, we also know that He will give us what we ask for.” Song link: "You Can't Stop This" by Alex Warren: https://open.spotify.com/track/15ugBBMTmevxMc2WSbRULC?si=4d82c188120d407e

    39 min
See All (14)

4.9
out of 5
39 Ratings

About

The Joy Stories a faith-filled podcast where real stories of resilience, and hope come alive. You will hear powerful stories of overcoming trials and finding victory through the valley. Life isn’t always easy, but even in the hardest moments, we can find joy in God’s promises with the power of gratitude. I want to encourage you and help you discover the true joy that awaits in your season.

Information

  • Creator
    Jessica Love
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Jessica Love
  • Show Website
    The Joy Stories

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