This is a very merry episode of the 4:13 Podcast today because … it's Christmas, and we want to sprinkle a little extra joy into your celebration!

We're talking about the wonder and joy of Christmas—but also the mess of Christmas, because let's be real, it can get a little messy, right? So, we'll laugh together, share a few stories, and remind your heart that Jesus shows up right in the middle of the mess to bring you hope and peace!

And to top it off, we're ending this episode with a very special song called "HOPE (Behold Emmanuel)" for you to carry with you throughout this Christmas season. So, be sure to listen until the very end.

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We are deeply relational people, longing to be connected and known. That's how we were created! Yet despite having endless ways to connect these days, loneliness is on the rise.

So today on the 4:13, author Alli Patterson addresses the loneliness epidemic and breaks down how you can build relationships that actually nourish your soul! But here's the best part…

Alli went straight to God's Word to learn what the Gospels reveal about Jesus and His relationships. And what she discovered is fascinating!

She'll walk you through the five essential relationship types Jesus built during His ministry—from His inner circle to the big crowds—and show you why each one matters. You'll see how Jesus intentionally cultivated His relationships and how those same relational rhythms can transform our lives today.

So, if you've been craving deeper, healthier relationships, get ready! This conversation is rich with insight and will give you a practical blueprint to begin.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/381

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Are you feeling overwhelmed by out-of-control thoughts, consuming worry, or the nagging weight of guilt? Well, I've got good news: Your thoughts don't have to control your life! Instead, you can tame those thoughts, and here to help you do it is "America's Pastor," Max Lucado.

Through Scripture and biblical wisdom, Max will teach you how to renew your mind and change your thinking—one thought at a time. He tackles common thought struggles like anxiety and guilt, and he offers practical tools to help you rewire those unruly thought patterns, including a tool for identifying UFOs!

Wait… UFOs? Yep! Just listen in, and you'll see what I mean. 😉

This conversation will equip you to take every thought captive and discover the peace that comes from a mind anchored in God's truth.

Oh friend, there's no one quite like Max to bring gentle and profound clarity to our lives, so get ready to tame your thoughts and transform your life.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/380

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When life gets hard—really hard—it can be tempting to throw in the towel. But today you're going to hear an incredibly powerful testimony of why you shouldn't.

Pastor Shawn Johnson talks about how he received a devastating brain disease diagnosis that left him wrestling with despair, doubt, and the desire to give up on everything, including his faith and his future. But through vulnerability, community, and choosing to worship even in the middle of his pain, Shawn discovered that joy can coexist with suffering.

He'll give you three reasons to keep fighting as well as seven strategies for resilience to help you hold on to hope when everything in you wants to let go. You'll learn how to balance vulnerability with strength, humility with courage, and faith with perseverance—so one day you can look back and say, "Thank God I didn't give up, because look what God has done!"

This was such a deeply meaningful conversation that I decided to end this episode by singing over you a song I wrote called "Take Me to the Cross," because that's the place we all need most.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/379

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Thanksgiving may come once a year, but thankfulness is for every day. So in this special edition of the 4:13, we're looking at what Scripture says about cultivating an attitude of gratitude—not just today, but always!

We hope you'll meditate on these verses and let them shape your perspective—no matter what season you're in—because there's an abundance of joy that comes from a heart full of gratitude!

So, while you're in the kitchen preparing a meal or driving to see friends and family, listen in and let us be your Thanksgiving soundtrack.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/378

Read the episode TRANSCRIPT in the show notes.

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Empathy is often misunderstood, even maligned. But the truth is—it's one of the most powerful ways to experience healthier emotions and stronger relationships. True empathy isn't about coddling or rescuing; it's about understanding and care that respects God's truth and empowers personal responsibility.

Today on the 4:13, Bill and Kristi Gaultiere share biblical and psychological insights into what empathy really is. You'll discover what Scripture says about empathy, how Jesus models it, and why showing empathy to yourself isn't selfish, but essential. You'll also get practical steps for growing in empathy toward others and learn how receiving empathy can transform your walk with God.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/377

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People are hurting on a scale we've never seen before. They're dealing with an onslaught of issues like anxiety, grief, mental health struggles, and family troubles. Pastors and counselors want to help, but they've become inundated and can't meet every need.

It's a crisis that's expected to only become worse.

But what if the church stepped in? What if the body of Christ could bring healing to the hurting and take a load off of the already too-busy pastor and counselor?

Well, today on the 4:13, author and social researcher Shaunti Feldhahn shares a brilliant way for everyday people of faith to care for one another. You'll learn how to come alongside the hurting with empathy and grace, how to step into opportunities without burning out, and how your church can become a place where people don't just hear about hope, but experience it.

We may not all be licensed, professional counselors, but we do have something to offer, and it's much simpler than you may think!

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/376

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When you've been hurt or let down, or when you've failed over and over, it's easy to be way too hard on yourself and others. Maybe you've struggled to forgive yourself if you've blown it, or you can't forgive others if they have.

But my friend, there's hope! The gospel is anchored in grace, which means you can forgive others AND be gentle with yourself.

Today on the 4:13, author and pastor Micah E. Davis will reframe your understanding of forgiveness, distinguishing the practice of forgiveness from the difficult process it requires. He'll unpack why forgiveness isn't easy, how to move forward when the pain feels too deep to let go, and steps you can take to live in the freedom Christ offers.

So, if forgiveness feels out of reach—whether it's because you don't know how or because you simply don't want to—this conversation will give you the clarity and hope you need to take the next step toward peace, healing, and grace.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/375

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