• 83. Q&A: How can I Feel Confident in God when I was never Encouraged Growing Up?
    2025/02/26

    Welcome to Curious for Christ Q&A! Today, we’re answering a powerful question: “How can I feel confident in God when I was never encouraged the way I needed growing up?”

    If you struggled with a lack of encouragement or love growing up, you may question your ability to feel confident in God. But the good news is—God can restore what was missing and build a confidence in us that isn’t tied to our past but rooted in Him.

    1. How Our Upbringing Shapes Us
    • Our childhood shapes how we see ourselves and relate to God.
    • Proverbs 22:6 reminds us that patterns learned early in life stick with us: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
    • These patterns can affect how we trust God and feel about ourselves.

    2. God’s Truth Rewrites Our Story
    • God’s truth is greater than the story shaped by our upbringing.
    • Psalm 27:10 – “Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.”
    • Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
    • Healing and confidence come when we allow God to reshape our hearts and minds.

    3. How to Build Confidence in God
    1. Recognize the Lies – Identify the false beliefs from your past.
    2. Recognize God at Work – See where God is moving in your life (Philippians 1:6).
    3. Replace Lies with God’s Truth – Meditate on Scriptures that affirm your worth in Him (Isaiah 43:1).
    4. Take Small Faith Steps – Confidence grows through action (James 2:17).
    5. Surround Yourself with Encouragers – Find people who reinforce God’s truth in your life.

    Closing Encouragement:
    • You are not bound by your past.
    Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

    Call to Action:
    If this episode resonated with you, take time to reflect, pray, and step into the confidence God is building in you. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement.

    See you next week!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey.

    Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!

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    10 分
  • 82. Trust God with Your Finances: Overcoming Anxiety of Money
    2025/02/21

    In this episode of Curious for Christ, we dive into overcoming the anxiety around money and trusting God’s provision. Financial stress isn’t just about the numbers—it’s rooted in trust and identity.

    Key Points:
    Fear of Not Having Enough: Jesus reminds us that God provides for us, just as He does for the birds of the air (Matthew 6:25-26). Trusting God overcomes the fear of insufficiency.
    The Pressure to Work Harder: God’s provision isn’t about our performance. Trust in Him, even when we can’t see how (Philippians 4:19).
    Money as Identity: True peace comes when we find our worth in Christ, not our bank account (1 Timothy 6:6-10).
    Striving vs. Abiding: Money won’t bring lasting peace—abiding in Christ does (John 15:4-5).
    Overcoming Past Financial Trauma: Trust God to heal past financial wounds and break free from cycles of fear (Isaiah 41:10).

    Trusting God to Break the Anxiety Cycle:
    This week, start your day by sitting with God—read one scripture from today’s episode and ask Him to guide you toward freedom from financial worry. It doesn’t have to be perfect every day. Lean into the truth that God is with you and will provide exactly what you need. Share how God has guided you this week in the Curious for Christ Facebook community or by joining the newsletter. Email me back and let me know what God is speaking to you!

    Call to Action:

    - Join the Curious for Christ Community and book a free Discovery Call to build a foundation of faith.
    - Pray for God’s guidance and release from financial anxiety, trusting Him as your provider.


    Until next time!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    15 分
  • 81. Q&A: How do I Hear God's Voice over My Own or Satan's?
    2025/02/19

    Welcome to Curious for Christ! Today, we’re diving into a question many of us struggle with: How do we hear God’s voice over our own or Satan’s? If you’ve ever felt confused or wondered if you’re listening to the right things, this episode is for you.

    1. The Desire Beneath the Question
    Your desire to hear God’s voice shows a longing to follow His will. But uncertainty often creates doubt. How do we discern between God’s voice, our own, and the enemy’s?

    2. Three Voices Competing for Our Attention
    God’s Voice: Brings peace, aligns with Scripture, encourages, and leads with love.
    Our Own Voice: Driven by emotions, insecurities, and doubt.
    Satan’s Voice: Creates confusion, fear, and urgency.

    3. How to Tune in to God’s Voice
    Scripture: God never contradicts His Word. (Hebrews 4:12)
    The Fruit Test: What fruit does this thought produce? (Galatians 5:22-23)
    Stillness & Prayer: Quiet your heart to hear God’s gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:11-13).
    Community & Counsel: God often speaks through others (Proverbs 11:14).
    Obedience: Clarity often follows obedience.

    4. When God Feels Silent
    Silence doesn’t mean absence. Trust that God is working beneath the surface. (Psalm 46:10)

    5. Final Encouragement
    If you’re struggling to hear God, you’re not alone. It takes discernment, but God wants to speak to you. Make time to listen and trust He is leading you.

    Next Steps:
    - If you need guidance or are looking for a mentor, I’d be happy to help you on your journey. Schedule a free 15-minute discovery call with me at bit.ly/curiousforchrist-discovery to see how spiritual growth and coaching might be the next step for you.

    - Be sure to check out episodes 74, 67, 59 and 49 for more on cultivating stillness, Sabbath rest, digital detox, and biblical meditation as powerful tools to hear God's voice and experience His peace.



    Thank you for listening! Share this episode with a friend, and remember—God is a God of clarity. Keep seeking Him, and you will hear His voice.

    See you next time!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    12 分
  • 80. Surrendering your Desire for a Husband to God's Will - A Valentine's Day Special
    2025/02/14

    Does the desire for a husband ever feel overwhelming? Do you find yourself wondering if marriage will finally bring the love, security, or fulfillment you long for?

    In this special Valentine’s Day episode, we’re diving into what it means to surrender your desire for a husband to God’s will. I share my own story of growing up without a model of love, how God taught me what true love is, and what I’ve learned about trusting His plan in relationships.

    If you’ve ever wrestled with waiting, struggled with disappointment, or wondered if God has a plan for your love life, this episode will encourage you. Surrendering isn’t about losing—it’s about stepping into something greater.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
    - The deeper reason behind the desire for a husband

    - Why no human relationship can complete you—only God can

    - What surrendering your desire to God actually looks like

    - How waiting isn’t just about patience—it’s about transformation

    - Practical steps to trust God’s timing and prepare your heart for His best

    Key Scriptures Mentioned:
    Psalm 23:1 – “The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing.”

    Isaiah 55:9 – “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

    Proverbs 15:22 – “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisors they succeed.”

    Resources & Next Steps:
    - Want to dive deeper into what God is doing in your life? Book a free 15-minute Discovery Call with me at BIT.LY/curiousforchristdiscovery. We’ll talk about your desires, God’s timing, and how you can step into His plans with confidence.

    - Share this episode! If this message encouraged you, send it to a friend who needs to hear it. Let’s spread the truth about God’s love and timing!

    - Subscribe & Review: If you’re enjoying Curious for Christ, take a moment to subscribe and leave a review—it helps more people find the show and grow in faith!


    Let’s walk this journey of surrender and trust together. God’s love for you is perfect, and His plans are greater than anything you could imagine!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    8 分
  • 79. Q&A: What Would Life Be Like If God Was a Priority?
    2025/02/12

    In this episode of Curious for Christ, we’re painting a picture of what shifts when we truly prioritize God. We often feel scattered, anxious, and overwhelmed—but is that how life was meant to be? When God is at the center, everything changes. Peace replaces pressure. Faith conquers fear. Purpose overtakes busyness. We see our struggles through His eyes, and life no longer feels like chaos.

    Together, we’ll explore how aligning our daily lives with God’s design brings lasting peace, order, and joy. We’ll reflect on key scriptures, ask the hard questions, and consider how to step into the life God intended for us.

    What Shifts When God is First?
    Peace Over Pressure – No more striving, just trust in His plan. (Matthew 6:33)
    Faith Over Fear – Bold steps replace hesitation. (2 Timothy 1:7)
    • Purpose Over Busyness – Work becomes an offering, not a burden. (Ephesians 2:10)
    Authentic Relationships – Love freely, set boundaries without guilt. (1 John 4:18)
    A Renewed Mindset – See success, struggles, and time through His perspective. (Romans 12:2)

    Key Scriptures to Meditate On:
    • Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
    • Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
    • Jeremiah 29:11 – “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
    • Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest…”
    • Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

    Reflection Questions:
    • What would shift in your life if God was truly first?
    • Where do you find yourself getting distracted or sidetracked?
    • What’s currently pulling you away from walking closely with Him?
    • How can you take one step today toward aligning your life with God’s priorities?

    Want to Go Deeper?
    If this episode resonated with you and you’re ready to make God a true priority, I’d love to hear from you! Send me an email at hello@alexandraalvarezcoaching.com and share where you are in your journey.

    For more practical steps, check out these past episodes:
    • Episode 37: Prioritizing Bible Reading
    • Episode 75: How I Make God a Priority
    • Episode 76: Seeking God First by Overcoming Temptation

    Thank you for being here today. Until next time, stay Curious for Christ!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    13 分
  • 78. Turning Pain Into Purpose: The Way of Jesus with Dr. Robert Carrillo
    2025/02/07

    In this episode of Curious for Christ, we sit down with Robert Carrillo to explore his powerful journey from hardship and violence to finding purpose and spiritual growth through the way of Jesus. Robert shares how his early experiences in gangs and exposure to violence shaped his desire to make the world a better place. Through his testimony, we see how God’s transformative power can take pain and turn it into purpose.

    In this conversation, Robert discusses spiritual maturity, the importance of connecting with God, and practical steps for growing in your faith. If you’ve ever struggled with doubt, felt distant from God, or wondered how to deepen your relationship with Him, this episode is filled with wisdom and insight that will inspire and encourage you.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:
    • Robert’s personal faith journey, including key moments that shaped his relationship with God.
    • Insights on the biggest struggles churches face today regarding spiritual connection and maturity.
    • What spiritual maturity means and key steps to grow as a disciple of Jesus.
    • Advice for those feeling spiritually stuck or wrestling with their faith.
    • How serving others can help heal and deepen your connection with God, along with lessons learned from Robert’s work with HOPE worldwide.
    • Practical tips for strengthening your faith, even if you’re battling self-doubt, anxiety, or trust issues.

    Resources:
    • Learn more about The Way Ministry: https://www.thewayministry.global/
    Connect with Robert Carrillo on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewayministry.global
    • Learn about HOPE worldwide and discover how you can make a difference: https://www.hopeww.org/

    Scriptures Shared in the Episode:
    1. Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
    • Robert reflects on how stillness allows us to hear from God and deepen our connection with Him.
    2. Luke 10:38-42 (The Story of Mary and Martha) – “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed…”
    • A lesson on prioritizing our relationship with God over distractions and busyness.
    3. Matthew 28:19 (The Great Commission) – “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…”
    • The call to spiritual maturity through discipleship and spreading Jesus’ message.
    4. Matthew 5:48 – “Be perfect (fully mature), therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
    • Robert discusses how spiritual maturity is about growing in Christ, not achieving perfection.
    5. The Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) – A model for prayer, trust, and dependence on God.

    Call to Action:
    If this episode resonated with you, make sure to subscribe to the Curious for Christ podcast and leave a review! Share this episode with anyone who might benefit from Robert’s story and insights on turning pain into purpose.

    If you desire a deeper connection with God and want to align your life with His will with confidence and clarity, I invite you to a free 15-minute conversation with me to explore whether Spiritual Growth Coaching is right for you. Book a time to connect at bit.ly/curiousforchristdiscovery.

    Stay curious, keep seeking, and let God transform your life!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    32 分
  • 77. Q&A: How Do I know God's Will?
    2025/02/05

    Today, we’re tackling a question that can leave many of us feeling stuck or paralyzed: How do I know God’s will?

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
    • Why fear of making the wrong choice can paralyze us.
    • The truth about God’s guidance—He isn’t waiting to punish you for a misstep!
    • Biblical principles and scriptures to help you trust God’s leading.
    • How figures like Paul, Joseph, and Ruth stepped forward in faith before knowing the outcome.
    • The key mindset shift: God’s will is not about perfection, but relationship and trust.

    Referenced Episodes for Deeper Study:
    If you want to deepen your understanding of God’s Word, check out these episodes:
    • Episode 5: The Main Thread Throughout the Bible (w/ Courtney Bailey)
    • Episode 26: Deeper Insight from the Bible (w/ Gordon Ferguson on gender roles)
    • Episode 42: How to Interpret the Bible (Exegesis & Hermeneutics)
    • Episode 45: Navigating Cultural Biases (w/ Dr. Jeanie Shaw)

    Struggling With Decision-Making or Wanting more Clarity?
    If you’re feeling stuck in uncertainty, I’d love to help. Book a free Discovery Call here: bit.ly/curiousforchristdiscovery

    Key Takeaways From This Episode:
    • God’s will is not a tightrope. If you’re seeking Him, He will guide and redirect you. (Romans 8:28)
    Fear is not from God. Perfect love drives out fear. (1 John 4:18)
    You don’t have to have all the answers. God equips you as you go. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
    Move in faith! Paul didn’t wait for clarity—he just obeyed, and God led him (Acts 16:6-10).

    Let’s Connect!
    • Join the conversation in our Facebook group: bit.ly/curiousforchristcommunity
    • Leave a review and share your thoughts—what part of today’s episode resonated with you?

    Until next time, keep seeking, keep trusting, and know that God is leading you.

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    11 分
  • 76. Seek God First by Overcoming Temptation and Strengthening Your Daily Walk
    2025/01/31

    In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into a topic we all wrestle with: temptation and how to seek God first, especially when emotions or distractions pull us away.

    If you’ve been feeling disconnected from God, anxious, or overwhelmed by temptation, this episode is for you.

    Key Takeaways
    1. Recognize Temptation Early
    Temptation starts small but can grow if left unchecked.
    • Scripture: “Each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.” — James 1:14-15
    • Practical Tip: Journal your thoughts and reflect on moments when you felt tempted. Identify patterns and ask God for guidance in those areas.
    2. Be Proactive and Prepared
    God always provides a way out of temptation.
    • Scripture: “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” — 1 Corinthians 10:13
    • Action Step: Memorize scripture and pray in moments of temptation, asking God to strengthen your resolve.
    3. The Power of Accountability
    Walking with others in faith helps us overcome struggles.
    • Scripture: “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
    • Reflection: Who can you trust to walk alongside you? Pray for God to bring that person into your life.
    4. Confess, Pray, and Stay in the Light
    Confession and prayer bring healing and help us stay close to God.

    “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9
    “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” — Matthew 26:41
    • Reminder: Temptation isn’t sin. It reveals areas of weakness where God can work to strengthen you.
    5. Rest in God’s Strength
    True victory over temptation comes from relying on God, not your own strength.
    • “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” — 2 Corinthians 12:9
    • Encouragement: Lean into God’s grace when you feel weak, and let His power carry you through.

    Journal Challenge
    This week, set aside 5 minutes a day to journal moments when you felt tempted. Reflect on these questions:
    • What triggered your reaction?
    • How did you feel in the moment?
    • What could you have done differently to lean on God?
    Remember, this is not about guilt—it’s about aligning your thoughts with God’s truth and growing stronger in Him.

    Call to Action
    If this episode encouraged you:
    • Share it with a friend who needs it.
    • Join the conversation in our Facebook group or leave a comment with your insights.
    • Ready to grow deeper in your faith? Book a Discovery Call with me to take the next step in your journey.

    Thank you for listening!

    Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement.

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    12 分