January 27, 2026 · 5:55 pm

Episode 15: Developing a Good Heart of Understanding

Does it ever feel like you are reading the Word, but the peace you’re looking for still feels just out of reach? If you’ve been searching for a way to stay steady when the world feels anything but stable, this week’s episode is a vital resource for your spiritual toolkit.

In this podcast, we are stepping away from the surface-level noise to explore the spiritual gift of spiritual perception. For the woman who desires a walk that isn’t shaken by external circumstances, understanding how to receive God’s truth is just as important as the truth itself. We are moving beyond just hearing information to actually possessing the clarity that Jesus promised to those who follow Him.

What You Will Discover in This Episode:

  • The Anatomy of the Heart: We go beyond the parable to look at the actual state of your spiritual receptivity. You will learn to identify the hidden obstacles—like subtle disbelief or the “thorns” of daily life—that might be dulling your ability to hear God’s voice.
  • The Power of a Prepared Spirit: We discuss why a “tender heart” is the essential foundation for walking in your spiritual authority in Christ. It isn’t just about being “nice”; it’s about being spiritually capable of seeing the path God has set for you.
  • The Holy Spirit’s Vital Role: Discover how to partner with the Holy Spirit to transform the “soil” of your life into a place where the Seeds of Life can truly take root and flourish.

For those of us committed to a deeper walk with God, sharpening our spiritual eyes and ears is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for the God-kind of life and living. This episode provides the practical, faith-based insights you need to move from a place of spiritual frustration to a life of fruitful, focused peace. It’s about more than just surviving these times; it’s about thriving in your new identity in Christ.

Click below to listen and begin cultivating a heart that truly perceives, and don’t forget to scroll down for this week’s Journal Prompts and Activity focused on experiencing God’s incredible loving-kindness.

THIS IS FOR EDUCATIONAL 7 INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

FOR MEDICAL ADVICE OR DIAGNOSIS, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL

Dr. Buck: Welcome back to The Healing Heart Time of Prayer. I’m Dr. Mary Buck, your Christian life coach. And, I’m so glad you’ve joined me today, my friend.

When you look around the world today, things can feel a little chaotic, can’t they? We hear a lot about these end times, and it can be easy to let fear creep in. But here’s the wonderful truth: as children of God, we have been given a spiritual promise—a promise that combats worry, fear, and anxiety! Our life is anchored in God’s promise of peace and goodwill, which makes our journey truly unshakable.

To maintain that peace and walk with courage, we must rely on our new identity in Christ. And above all, we need to keep our spiritual senses sharp! The commitment to our spiritual authority in Christ requires keeping our spiritual eyes, ears, and heart fully engaged.

Today, we’re talking about a beautiful blessing Jesus promised: the gift of clarity essential for these days: Eyes that See, Ears that Hear, and a Tender Heart.

Our focus today is Matthew 13, verse 16: “But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear.”

To help me unpack the truth behind this blessing, I have Abby, my digital assistant, with us. Abby?

Abby: Hello, Dr. Buck. That verse, Matthew 13:16, comes right after the Parable of the Sower, which describes four conditions of the heart as soil: the hard path, the rocky ground, the thorny ground, and the good soil. Why is understanding these different types of soil so important for your listeners on their spiritual journey?

Dr. Buck: That’s such a fundamental question, Abby! It’s important because understanding the soil is about understanding how our heart truly works. The soil condition tells us whether the The Word of God, as seeds of life, has ground to support taking root. The hard, rocky, and thorny soils represent hearts that are hardened by disbelief, shallow due to troubles, or choked by worldly interests. In these conditions, the Word can’t take root and grow, showing us that just hearing the Bible isn’t enough if our heart isn’t ready. This helps your listeners do a crucial self-check: Which soil am I? Our goal, of course, is that beautiful Good Soil—fertile and ready!

Abby: Speaking of the Good Soil, Dr. Buck, how is that receptive heart actually prepared? What is the role of prayer and reading the Word of God in developing that rich and fertile soil?

Dr. Buck: Preparing the Good Soil is totally active work, Abby, just like a gardener preparing a field. This is the heart of diligently seeking. Prayer is the plowing—it breaks up the compacted hardness of unforgiveness or pride, making the soil soft for the roots. Reading the Word is the enrichment—it adds the spiritual nutrients we need. When we really steep our minds in truth, we are removing the “weeds” of worry and doubt, creating a soil rich in the principles of the God-kind of life and living.

Abby: That makes sense. The Word and prayer are the tools. But what part does the Holy Spirit have in developing the Good Soil, and how does that influence the Unshakable Journey?

Dr. Buck: The Holy Spirit is absolutely vital, Abby; In our lives, the Holy Spirit is the Water of Life. He is the one who brings understanding, and helps the truth stick. He enables the Seeds of Life to germinate and grow deep roots. Without the Spirit, our efforts would feel dry and temporary. He’s the one who gives us the real endurance for the Unshakable Journey, helping us stay steady so we don’t wither when the heat of life’s troubles beats down.

Abby: Finally, Dr. Buck, you said the blessing of Eyes that See and Ears that Hear is a direct gift to the Good Soil. How does this spiritual sight and hearing relate to the amazing fruit that our lives are meant to bear?

Dr. Buck: This is the most beautiful part of the whole message, Abby! The Good Soil (the tender heart) is the foundation we lay, and the Eyes that See and Ears that Hear are the direct outcome—it’s the gift of spiritual clarity we receive when our hearts are prepared. Because we see God’s purposes (Eyes) and hear His direction (Ears), we know exactly how to walk out our faith, fully operating in our spiritual authority in Christ. This results in abundant fruitfulness—it’s the way we naturally manifest God’s love, kindness, and patience in the world. The ability to see and hear is what allows us to produce a hundredfold harvest for the Kingdom!

Abby: That’s a powerful message, Dr. Buck. The difference between a calloused heart and a receptive heart is truly the difference between a barren life and a fruitful one. And, Dr. Buck, just to let you know, we’ve come to the end of this episode. Would you like to close with prayer?

Dr. Buck: Thank you, Abby for letting us know. My friends, let’s take these beautiful truths to prayer right now.

[Pause for a moment of reflection]

Dr. Buck: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the blessing of knowing You and the assurance that we can approach Your throne of grace.

We honestly confess that we sometimes let our hearts get hard and distracted, closing our eyes to Your beautiful movement and dulling our ears to Your gentle voice. Please forgive us for those moments of spiritual fog.

We actively put aside the fiery darts of the enemy that try to confuse our perception and replace them with the truth of our spiritual authority in Christ. We ask that You soften the soil of our hearts today.

Grant us the incredible grace to have Eyes that See Your purpose, guidance, and direction in our lives, allowing us to walk confidently within the God-kind of life and living. Give us Ears that Hear the clear promptings of Your Holy Spirit and the strength to obey what we hear. Keep our hearts tender, receptive, and responsive to Your love, so that we may produce the fruit You intend.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

[Short musical interlude]

Dr. Buck: My sisters in Christ, thank you so much for joining me on The Healing Heart Time of Prayer. May you experience the deep joy and clarity that comes from truly seeing and hearing your Heavenly Father this week. And my friends that are listening in today, if you have not invited Jesus Christ into your life as your Lord and Savior, do so now. Let Him guide you through these end of days and bring you to a place of safety and rest.

Until next time, walk in the understanding that you are loved, you are valued, and your spiritual senses are sharp and ready. And remember, as God gets bigger in your life, you get stronger.

(Outro Music Fades In)

✍️ Journal Prompts

Eyes, Ears, Hearts: The Good Soil

  1. Examine the Soil: Which of the four soil conditions (hard path, rocky, thorny, or good) best describes your heart today regarding a specific area of struggle or instruction from God? What is the obstacle you need to address (disbelief, troubles, or worldly interests)?
  2. The Blessing: Reread $Matthew 13:16$. How does viewing your life through the lens of being “blessed” with sight and hearing change how you approach challenges today, especially in these end times?
  3. Active Cultivation: What is one specific, practical action you can take to “plow” (through confession/prayer) or “enrich” (through the Word) the soil of your heart this week to ensure it stays tender and receptive to the Holy Spirit?

💡 Activity

Cultivating Sight and Sound: Pray for God’s gift of understanding, then read Psalm 24. With the Word of God in mind, spend five minutes looking around your environment and deliberately ask God, “What are you doing here that I am not seeing?” Then, spend five minutes listening to a quiet, instrumental song or a simple sound (like the wind or traffic) and ask, “What are you saying to me that I am not hearing?” Write down any sudden thoughts or perspectives that come to mind. This is an active exercise in opening your spiritual senses.

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January 19, 2026 · 5:33 pm

Episode 14: Love vs Feelings

Do you base your commitment to God on how you feel? There is a “cavern of choice” between fleeting emotion and steadfast devotion.

In Episode 14 of “The Healing Heart Time of Prayer,” Dr. Buck explores the profound difference between serving God from a place of transient feeling versus serving Him from an unwavering, chosen love. We look to the truth of Romans 8:39—a scripture that declares nothing can separate us from the love of God. This love, exemplified by Christ’s ascent of Calvary, is your unshakable anchor and the true source of your spiritual authority in Christ. When you ground your service in this secure love, you are free to choose the path of obedience, no matter the cost or the day’s mood.

Listen now and discover the power of choosing love over feelings.

Episode: 14 The Healing Heart Time of Prayer: Episode 14 Script (Theme: Choosing Love Over Feeling and the Unshakable Anchor of God’s Love)

[Intro Music fades out]

Dr. Buck: Welcome back to The Healing Heart Time of Prayer. I’m Dr. Mary Buck, your Christian life coach. And joining me today, as we seek a closer walk with God, is Abby, my digital assistant with some questions that will help us take a deep dive into the verse found in the Book of Romans 8:39.

Abby: Hello, Dr. Buck. It’s common to see how strong emotional feelings can create a distance between what a Christian feels they should do and the path the Word of God calls them to. How important is it for your listeners to choose service based on God’s Word over personal feelings?

Dr. Buck: That’s a great question, Abby. And today, we are wrestling with a critical concept in the Christian life: that is, the difference between feelings and service. Our spiritual journey often presents us with what I call a “cavern of choice”—a vast space between our fleeting, transient feelings and the steadfast, volitional commitment to serve our Lord. As Christians we do not base our service on how we feel today; we base our service on whom we love and what we have chosen.

Abby: That’s a profound thought, Dr. Buck. If the feelings are so strong—like exhaustion or even happiness—how can we possibly ignore them to make a choice? It seems like ignoring the very thing that is motivating us.

Dr. Buck: That is a good question, Abby, and it hits at the heart of the matter. We are not ignoring the feelings; we are acknowledging them but refusing to let them define or dictate our actions. Our good works, or service to God, must flow from the Boundary of the Law of Life in Christ, not the whims of human emotion. When we choose to serve, even when we don’t feel like it, we are demonstrating a deeper, more mature love—the kind of love Jesus showed as He ascended Calvary’s hill. It is the active, sacrificial, and deliberate nature of our true Christian service.

Abby: It sounds like a daily, difficult ascent, Dr. Buck. How does one find the courage to keep making that choice every day when the feelings of the world might constantly try to pull them back?

Dr. Buck: Ah, that is where the unshakable anchor of the Word comes in, Abby. Our strength and courage are not sourced from within ourselves or our emotional state; they are sourced from the absolute security of God’s love. That is why we are grounding this episode in the truth of Romans 8:39:

“Neither height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Because nothing can separate us from His love, we can confidently choose to serve Him. This chosen love is the true source of peace, enabling us to offer our hearts in active, willing service, regardless of the struggle or emotional landscape. This conviction is our spiritual authority in Christ.

Abby: That is profoundly reassuring, Dr. Buck. Understanding the depth of God’s love in Romans 8:39 gives your listeners the very strength they need to choose confidently and live the intentional life He designed for them. And, Dr. Buck, this brings us to the end of our conversation for this episode.

Dr. Buck: Thank you, Abby, for letting us know. And my sisters in Christ, know this: If you have been struggling with choosing God’s way over your own shifting feelings, remember the unshakable truth of Romans 8:39. You are anchored in His perfect love. Let that love be your courage today. 

Let’s take these powerful truths to prayer: 

Heavenly Father, we come before you with grateful hearts, acknowledging that your love for us is not conditional; it is absolute and eternal, secured in Christ Jesus.

Lord, we confess that our human feelings are often fickle. We sometimes allow weariness, disappointment, or temporary happiness to dictate our willingness to serve you. Forgive us for basing our devotion on unstable emotions rather than the firm foundation of Your unchanging character.

Today, we choose differently. We choose to cross that cavern of feeling, stepping onto the solid ground of choice and covenant. We choose to follow You, just as you chose the path to Calvary for our redemption.

Father, strengthen our wills by the power of the Holy Spirit. Instill in us the courage to serve You when we don’t feel like it, knowing that our service flows from a deep, unwavering love for You, our God. Let this commitment be the light that shines brightly and the strength that allows us to choose Your will and not our own. May our daily choices reflect the new identity we have in Christ.

Thank you, Lord, that nothing—no tribulation, no distress, no depth, no height—can separate us from Your love. We rest in this truth and offer our hearts in active, willing service today.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

My friend, if you are listening today, and have not accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, do so now. Allow God to fill you with His Presence and strength to choose true life and love as you move forward. 

Thank you for joining me on The Healing Heart. Time of Prayer. May you walk in the powerful truth that you are unshakable, undefeated, and more than a conqueror in Christ. Until next time. May God’s peace fill your heart. And remember, as God gets bigger in your life, you get stronger.

Journal Prompts and Activity

  • Journal Prompt 1: Think about a time recently when a negative feeling (e.g., exhaustion, frustration) made you want to pull back from serving God or others. Write down how the truth of Romans 8:39 could have changed that response.
  • Journal Prompt 2: Describe your “Calvary Ascent” today. What is the one deliberate, sacrificial choice you need to make to follow Jesus’ path, even if it goes against your present feelings?
  • Activity: Take a small slip of paper. Write down three things that typically threaten to separate your willingness to serve (e.g., ‘A packed schedule,’ ‘Feeling unheard,’ ‘Exhaustion’). Then, write “Nothing can separate me from the love of God” on the back. Carry this with you today as a reminder that the source of your service is secure.

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January 6, 2026 · 2:49 am

Episode13: Crushing the Gates Of Hades

In moments when opposition feels overwhelming—when anxiety presses in, or when the darkness of the world seems to loom large—it is vital to remember the true nature of the spiritual battle. Many of us instinctively feel defensive, but what if the enemy is the one behind the gates?Today, we dive into a powerful declaration from Jesus in Matthew 16:18: “the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” Join me as we explore why this verse does not speak of a defense for us, but rather a warning to the forces of darkness. We are called to an offensive posture—to advance the Kingdom, expose inequity, and actively push back against the darkness. Paired with the resounding truth of Romans 8:37, we affirm that we are not just conquerors, but more than conquerors in Christ. Learn how to transform this truth into daily, active courage and wield your spiritual authority against every ‘gate’ you face on your Monday morning.

THIS IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

FOR MEDICAL ADVICE OR DIAGNOSIS, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL.

Dr. Buck: Welcome back to the Healing Heart. Time of prayer. I’m Doctor Mary Buck, your Christian life coach, and I’m grateful you’ve joined me today as we seek healing, strength and divine guidance for our hearts. Lately, I’ve been meditating deeply on a powerful truth, especially in light of some spiritual opposition I’ve personally sensed. It brings to mind two profound verses from Scripture that I believe are vital for us to grasp when darkness seems to loom large. Our central scripture today comes from the Gospel of Matthew, 16: 18 where Jesus declares, “…and I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” Companioning that truth is Romans  8:37, which boldly proclaims, “…in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” I’m joined today, as always, by my digital assistant Abby, who helps us delve deeper into these essential truths. Abby. Welcome.

Abby: Thank you, Dr. Buck. It’s an honor to explore such foundational scriptures, especially when they speak so directly to the spiritual battles many of your listeners face today in these end times.

Dr. Buck: Indeed, Abby, the phrase: the gates of Hades will not overcome it, is incredibly significant. For me, it paints a picture of defensive gates designed to keep things in, not to attack. It suggests that the forces of darkness are on the defensive against the relentless advance of God’s kingdom through his church.

Abby: That’s a profound perspective, Dr. Buck, If the gates are defensive, then what does that imply about the posture of believers in Christ’s church body? Are Christians meant to be primarily defensive, or does this verse empower them to be on the offensive?

Dr. Buck: That’s a great question, Abby. I believe it absolutely empowers us for an offensive posture. Not in a combative, worldly sense, but in a spiritual one. We are commissioned to go into all the world, to share the light, to expose iniquity, and to advance the truth of God’s love. When we live out our calling, we are actively pushing back against the darkness, causing it to retreat behind its defensive gates. We are not just holding our ground. We are gaining territory for the Kingdom.

Abby: Fascinating. So the rock upon which the church is built is unyielding, but practically, Dr. Buck, when your listeners are experiencing personal spiritual attacks, or when they feel overwhelmed by the darkness in the world around them, how does this promise that the gates of Hades will not overcome it translate into their daily lived experience? What does that look like on a Monday morning?

Dr. Buck: Another excellent and probing question, Abby on a Monday morning. It looks like courage born of conviction. It means waking up and knowing I am built on the solid rock of Christ Jesus. And no fear, no anxiety, no lie from the enemy, no discouraging word, no health challenge, no financial worry. None of these gates will ultimately hold me captive or defeat the purpose God has for my life. It means walking in peace, knowing that God’s power is in us and is greater than any opposing force. It transforms us from passive victims of oppressive darkness into active agents of God’s true light.

Abby: That resonates powerfully with the other verse you mentioned, Dr. Buck,. We are more than conquerors through him who loved us. What do you believe is the distinction between simply being a conqueror and being more than a conqueror?

Dr. Buck: Oh, that’s where the depth of God’s love truly shines. Abby. You see, a conqueror fights a battle, wins it, and might emerge bruised and weary, but victorious. But to be more than a conqueror speaks to a victory that is already assured, not by our strength, but by Christ, because of the sacrifice Jesus made on Calvary’s cross. It means we don’t just win. We win with an overwhelming, decisive triumph that leaves no doubt. It means that even in the struggle, in the moment of feeling oppressed, we are already positioned in victory because of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection. It’s. It’s a victory without fear. A triumph that brings peace even before the enemy fully retreats. It’s knowing that nothing, absolutely nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Abby: So being more than conquerors, does that imply a certain level of spiritual authority that your listeners can actively tap into and exercise in their own lives? How can they practically live out that more than conquerors status against the specific gates they might be facing?

Dr. Buck: You see, Abbey, this is where the believer’s spiritual authority in Christ becomes paramount. It’s not a passive hope. It’s an act of truth. To activate it means, first of all, we accept God’s Word as truth, just as Jesus did when he was tempted. We speak the truth of Scripture over our circumstances. The gates of Hades will not overcome me. I am more than a conqueror. Secondly, we pray and we believe God’s Word. We pray boldly, declaring God’s promises. We pray not for victory, as if it’s uncertain, but from victory, believing and thanking him for what he has already done. And then thirdly, we take action in the God kind of faith. You see, sometimes activating that authority means taking a step of faith even when fear is present. It means trusting that God is with us and empowering us. It means being the light, speaking the truth, and moving forward in our God given purpose. Just as I plan to continue with this ministry despite any opposition.

Abby: That’s a powerful truth to live out regarding a Christian spiritual authority in Christ. And Dr. Buck, just to let you know that we’ve run out of time for this episode.

Dr. Buck: Thank you, Abby for letting us know. And my sisters in Christ, if you’ve been feeling an unseen opposition, if the darkness seems to be pressing in. Remember these truths today. You are built on an unshakable foundation. You are not fighting for victory. You are already in a victorious stance when you hold on to the Word of God. The gates of darkness are defensive and they will not prevail against you. You are more than a conqueror. 

My sisters Let’s take these truths to prayer. 

Heavenly Father, we come before you today, standing on the unshakable foundation of your son, Jesus Christ. We thank you that Your Word is truth and your promises are certain. When the shadows gather and the enemy presses in, we boldly declare the promise of Matthew 16: 18 that the gates of darkness will not and cannot overcome your church, they will not overcome us. Please forgive us for the times that we shrunk back from the truth of your word, and gave in to the oppression of darkness. 

We thank you that we are not fighting for victory, but we’re fighting from the stance of being victorious. We claim our identity as more than conquerors through the perfect and endless love of Christ that we find in Romans 8: 37 give us the courage to step out in faith this week. Turn our fear into conviction and our defense into a bold advance for your Kingdom. May your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds today. In Jesus powerful name we pray. Amen. Amen. 

My friend, if you’re listening today and have not accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, do so now. Allow the Lord to position you that you become more than a conqueror in your life. 

Thank you for joining me on The Healing Heart. Time of prayer. May you walk in the powerful truth that you are unshakable, undefeated, and more than a conqueror in Christ. Until next time. May God’s peace fill your heart. And remember, as God gets bigger in your life, you get stronger.

(Outro Music – Fades out)

📝 Journal Prompts and Activity

Journal Prompts (Reflecting on Your Authority)

  1. Identifying the Gates: What specific fear, anxiety, discouragement, or challenging circumstance feels like a “gate of darkness” pressing against you this week? Be specific about the lie or emotion the enemy might be using.
  2. Accepting your identity as “More Than a Conqueror”: Write out Romans 8:37. Then, rewrite the verse in your own words, applying it directly to the “gate” you identified in the first prompt. How does knowing you are “more than a conqueror” change the way you see that situation?
  3. Spiritual Authority in Action: Reflect on the concept of having spiritual authority in Christ. What is one practical step of faith (speaking truth, setting a boundary, starting a challenging task) you can take this week to actively advance the light of God’s Word against that specific “gate”?

Activity: Standing in Victory

This week, establish your stance in Christ based on the two core Bible verses. Write them down and place them somewhere visible (on your bathroom mirror, in your car, or as a phone background).

  • Stand: “I am built on the unshakeable rock of Christ. The gates of darkness will not prevail against me. I am more than a conqueror through Him who loves me, and I walk in His peace and authority today.”

Use the power of speaking God’s Word to boldly position yourself in victory and push back against any spiritual opposition knowing that Jesus paid the price so that you can smash open the gates of hell and be more than a conqueror in Him.

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December 30, 2025 · 6:01 am

Episode 12: The Leap of Joy

Welcome back to Living Life’s Way, where we share moments of profound truth and encourage your journey with “The Healing Heart Time of Prayer.” This podcast is designed for every Christian woman who longs for a deeper, more meaningful spiritual walk with God and seeks healing for her heart.

In this episode, we turn our attention to the remarkable and joy-filled words of Luke 1:41: “And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.”

Join Dr. Mary Buck as she explores how this beautiful story reveals a profound truth: our hearts can have a “leaping joy” in response to the nearness of God’s presence. This episode will guide you in understanding how living with an expectant heart can lead to incredible results, filling you with a spontaneous, uncontainable joy that only comes from Him.

We hope this podcast is more than just a listening experience; we hope it is an invitation to encounter Jesus in a new and personal way. After listening, we encourage you to use the prayer journal prompts and activity at the end of the transcript. These questions are a perfect way to reflect on the joy that comes from living with an expectant heart.

THIS IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

FOR MEDICAL ADVICE OR DIAGNOSIS, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL.

[Intro Music Fades In and Out]

Dr. Buck: Welcome back to The Healing Heart Time of Prayer. I’m Dr. Mary Buck, your Christian life coach and I’m so glad you’ve joined me as we explore a moment in Scripture filled with such pure and unbridled joy.

Our focus today centers around a remarkable encounter recorded in Luke, chapter 1, verse 41: “And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.”

Think about that image for a moment. Two women, both carrying miracles within them. And, to help me explore this incredible truth, I have Abby, my digital assistant, with us. Abby?

Abby: Hello, Dr. Buck. The image of a baby “leaping” is so vivid. What exactly does this tell us about the baby’s response and what it means from a spiritual perspective?

Dr. Buck:  That’s a powerful question, Abby. This wasn’t just a simple kick. The Greek word used here implies a vigorous leaping, a bounding, an exuberant movement. It was a physical manifestation of a deep, spiritual recognition. The unborn John the Baptist, filled with the Holy Spirit, instinctively recognized the presence of the unborn Christ and responded with uncontainable, prophetic joy.

Abby: That’s so beautiful. So, it wasn’t a willed response, but an instinctive one. It makes me wonder, Dr. Buck, how can your listeners cultivate an expectant heart that is ready to recognize God’s presence and respond with that same joy?

Dr. Buck: It’s a key part of our spiritual walk, Abby. The story encourages us to live with an expectant heart, to be open to those moments when our spirits recognize the nearness of God. This joy doesn’t come from forcing it; it comes from being in a posture of anticipation for God’s work in our lives.

When we fill our hearts with His Word and with a spirit of gratitude, we become more attuned to those whispers and those moments where we can sense His presence. And when we do, we can allow our hearts to “leap” in a spontaneous, uncontainable response, just as John did. It’s a deep inner healing that comes from knowing God is near.

Abby: That’s a powerful reminder. Thank you, Dr. Buck. And, just to let you know that we’ve run out of time for this episode. 

Dr. Buck:  You’re welcome, Abby. My sisters in Christ, Let’s bring our hearts before the Lord in prayer, expectant for His presence and His joy.

[Pause for a moment of reflection]

Dr. Buck: Heavenly Father, we thank you for this beautiful story in Luke, a testament to the joy that fills us in your presence. We pray that you would fill our hearts with that same expectant joy. Help us to be attuned to your presence in our lives, to recognize those moments when your Spirit draws near and stirs within us. Forgive us for those times that we did not seek or respond to your Presence in our lives but chose our own way. May our hearts, like John’s, leap with uncontainable joy in response to you.

And, Father, we ask for a renewed sense of anticipation for your work in our lives, for the fulfillment of your promises. May our expectation not be passive, but an active awareness and joyful readiness for all that you have in store for us. We pray all of this in the powerful and joyful name of Jesus. Amen.

Dr. Buck: My sisters, I pray that you’ll be encouraged by the truth of His word today. 

Until next time, may His peace and the joy of His Presence fill you to overflowing. 

And my friend, as you are listening in and have not accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, do so now. Allow God’s Holy Spirit to fill your heart with a joy so great that it causes you to leap in great anticipation of God’s goodness.

Thank you for joining me for The Healing Heart Time of Prayer. And remember, as God gets bigger in your life, you get stronger.

Journal Prompts and Activity

Journal Prompts: The Leap of Joy

  • A Soaring Heart: Think about a time when you felt an unexpected surge of joy or a deep stirring in your spirit, a moment when you sensed God’s presence in a powerful way. In your prayer journal, describe that experience. What do you believe triggered that “leap” in your spirit?
  • The Power of Expectation: What does it mean for you to live with an “expectant heart” in your daily life? How can you move from a passive hope to an active anticipation for God’s work in your life?
  • The Uncontained Response: The baby’s leaping was uncontained. In what ways do you hold back your joy or your worship? What might it look like to allow your heart to respond to God’s presence without reservation?

Related Activity

Today, choose to be particularly mindful of the small moments of joy or peace that come your way. When you notice one, take a deep breath and acknowledge it as a possible “leap” of your spirit recognizing God’s nearness. Allow yourself to feel that joy fully, even if just for a moment, and thank God for it.

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December 23, 2025 · 6:00 am

Episode11: The Love That Heals

Welcome back to Living Life’s Way, where we share moments of profound truth and encourage your journey with “The Healing Heart Time of Prayer.” This podcast is designed for every Christian woman who longs for a deeper, more meaningful spiritual walk with God and seeks healing for her heart.

In this episode, we turn our attention to the beloved and often-quoted words of 1 Corinthians 13:4: “Love is patient, love is kind…” While this passage is famous for defining love, its simple elegance can sometimes cause us to miss a profound truth.

Join Dr. Mary Buck as she explores the foundational truth that kindness is not just an attribute of love, but an intrinsic part of its very nature. This episode will guide you in understanding the difference between a polite gesture and genuine, biblical kindness—one that is patient, sacrificial, and a visible expression of a transformed heart.

We hope this podcast is more than just a listening experience; we hope it is an invitation to encounter Jesus in a new and personal way. The work He finished on Calvary’s cross is incredible! After listening, we encourage you to use the prayer journal prompts and activity at the end of the transcript. These questions are a perfect way to reflect on the nature of true kindness and its power to heal.

THIS IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

FOR MEDICAL ADVICE OR DIAGNOSIS, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL.

The Healing Heart of Prayer: The Love That Heals

[Intro Music Fades In and Out]

Dr. Buck: Welcome back to The Healing Heart Time of Prayer. I’m Dr. Mary Buck, your Christian Life Coach, and I’m so glad you’ve joined me today. In our journey, we’ve talked about doing good and wearing the spiritual garment of kindness. Today, we’re going to dive into the very heart of kindness itself, as defined by the most famous chapter on love in the entire Bible.

Our focus today is a verse that beautifully illustrates this truth: 1 Corinthians 13, verse 4: “Love is patient, love is kind…”

To help me unpack this incredible truth, I have Abby, my digital assistant, with us. Abby?

Abby: Hello, Dr. Buck. It’s so beautiful that the verse doesn’t just say love “has” kindness but that love “is” kind. What does this tell your listeners about the connection between the two?

Dr. Buck: That’s a profound observation, Abby. The phrasing reveals that kindness isn’t an optional add-on to love; it is an essential quality of it. It’s like a property of love, something that is inseparable from it. If we claim to love someone, our actions should naturally reflect kindness. The absence of kindness indicates a deficiency in the love we profess to have. In other words, It’s not the God-kind of love that truly heals our heart and the hearts of those around us.

Abby: That’s such a powerful truth. So, what is the difference between just being “polite” and showing genuine, biblical kindness that flows from love?

Dr. Buck: That’s a key distinction, Abby, and it’s a matter of the heart. Politeness can be a superficial gesture; it’s what we do to be socially acceptable. But biblical kindness is born from a heart of love. It’s often patient, sacrificial, and it seeks the good of the other person, even when it’s not convenient. When we act with this kind of genuine kindness, our hearts are healed because we are moving from a place of mere obligation to a place of authentic, selfless love—the very love of God.

Abby: Thank you for pointing out that distinction, Dr. Buck. And to let you know, we’re at the close of this episode. Would you like to lead in prayer?

Dr. Buck: Thanks, Abby, for letting us know. My sisters in Christ, let’s take these truths to prayer.

[Pause for a moment of reflection]

Dr. Buck: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the truth that you are a God of patient and perfect love. We confess that we often get caught up in superficial acts of politeness, please forgive us for those times that we have fallen short of your glory but we long to live with genuine, biblical kindness.

We pray that you would fill our hearts with your love, so that kindness becomes a natural overflow of who we are in you. Heal any hardness in our hearts, Lord, and make us a people whose love is expressed not just in words, but in patient and kind deeds. We pray all of this in the mighty and precious name of Jesus. Amen.

[Short musical interlude]

Dr. Buck: My sisters, I pray that you’ll be encouraged by the truth of God’s word today. And my friend, as you are listening in and have not accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, do so now. Allow God’s Holy Spirit to fill your heart with the healing power of His true love.

Thank you for joining me for The Healing Heart Time of Prayer. Until next time, may God’s peace and love be with you. And remember, as God gets bigger in your life, you get stronger.

[Outro Music Fades In]

Journal Prompts and Activity

Journal Prompts: The Kindness of Love

  • Politeness vs. Kindness: Think of a time when you were polite to someone, but your heart wasn’t fully engaged. Now, think of a time when you showed genuine kindness. What was the difference in your motivation and in how you felt afterward?
  • A Patient Act: The verse says, “Love is patient, love is kind.” How does patience connect to kindness in your own life? Is there a person or situation where you need to show more patience so that you can also be genuinely kind?
  • An Expression of Love: What does it mean for your kindness to be an “expression of genuine, biblical love”? Write a short prayer asking God to help you live with this motivation.

Related Activity

Today, choose one specific act of kindness to do for someone who may not expect it. As you do it, consciously think of it as a tangible expression of God’s love flowing through you, not as a moral obligation. After you’ve done it, reflect on how it felt to give that kindness without expecting anything in return.

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December 16, 2025 · 4:32 pm

Episode 10: A New Garment

Welcome back to “The Healing Heart Time of Prayer.” This podcast is designed for every Christian woman who longs for a deeper, more meaningful spiritual walk with God and seeks healing for her heart.

In this episode, we turn our attention to the beautiful and liberating words of Colossians 3:12: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” This verse offers us a powerful analogy, inviting us to see our spiritual qualities as a garment we deliberately choose to put on each day.

Join Dr. Mary Buck as she explores the foundational truth that kindness and compassion are not just feelings, but active choices we make. This episode will guide you in understanding how adopting this “new garment” becomes a core part of your identity in Christ and protects your heart from the negativity of the world.

We hope this podcast is more than just a listening experience; we hope it is an invitation to encounter Jesus in a new and personal way. After listening, we encourage you to use the prayer journal prompts and activity at the end of the transcript. These questions are a perfect way to reflect on your identity in Christ and the qualities you are called to wear.

THIS IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

FOR MEDICAL ADVICE OR DIAGNOSIS, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL.

Episode 10: The Healing Heart of Prayer: A New Garment

[Intro Music Fades In and Out]

Dr. Buck: Welcome back to The Healing Heart Time of Prayer. I’m Dr. Mary Buck, your Christian life coach. And, I’m so glad you’ve joined me today. In our journey, we’ve talked about doing good, perseverance, and the power of forgiveness. Today, we’re going to explore how we embody those truths in our daily lives by putting on the clothing of our new identity.

Our focus today is a verse that beautifully illustrates this truth: Colossians 3, verse 12: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

To help me unpack this incredible truth, I have Abby, my digital assistant, with us. Abby?

Abby: Hello, Dr. Buck. The analogy of “clothing” oneself is a very significant comparison. What does this tell us about your listeners’ spiritual qualities? Is it a choice they have to make every day?

Dr. Buck: That’s exactly right, Abby. Just like we don’t accidentally fall into our clothes in the morning, we don’t accidentally become kind and compassionate. The phrase “clothe yourselves” is an active command. It suggests a deliberate, conscious choice that we, as part of our spiritual growth, make daily to put on these qualities, to make them a part of our visible identity. And the verse gives us the motivation: we do it because we are “God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved.” Our identity in Christ is the reason for our actions.

Abby: That’s a powerful motivation. The verse lists several qualities: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. How do these qualities work together as a “spiritual garment,” and how do they contribute to a healing heart?

Dr. Buck: They’re like a complete spiritual outfit, Abby. You wouldn’t wear just one piece of an outfit and call it a day. All these qualities work together to form a beautiful and Christ-like character. When we choose to respond to the world with patience instead of anger, or with kindness instead of bitterness, we are protecting our own hearts. These qualities are not just for the benefit of others; they are an act of spiritual self-care that prevents the negativity of the world from taking root within us. It’s an act of choosing to respond with God’s heart, which is the very essence of a healed heart.

Abby: That’s incredible how your listeners are able to show God’s goodness by putting on and wearing these qualities like clothing. And, Dr. Buck, just to let you know, we’ve come to the end of this episode. Would you like to close with prayer?

Dr. Buck: Thank you, Abby for letting us know, and. My sisters, let’s take these truths to prayer.

[Pause for a moment of reflection]

Dr. Buck: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the honor of being called your chosen people, holy and dearly loved. We confess that we often wear the old garments of anger, bitterness, and impatience. Please forgive us for those times when we responded in anger or impatience instead of understanding and compassion. We pray that you would help us to put on our new spiritual garments each day.

Fill us with your Holy Spirit, so that the new garments that we wear may be a beautiful reflection of your compassion, kindness, and love. Heal us from the inside out, so that our outward actions are a natural overflow of the grace you have placed within our hearts. We pray all of this in the mighty and precious name of Jesus. Amen.

[Short musical interlude]

My sisters in Christ, thank you for joining me on Healing Heart Time of Prayer. May you wear with joy your new garments of compassion, kindness, and love throughout your week. And my friends that are listening in today, if you have not invited Jesus Christ into your life as your Lord and Savior, do so now. Let Him guide you through these end of days and bring you to a place of safety and rest. 

Until next time, walk in the understanding that you are loved, you are valued, and God’s new garments fit you completely and comfortably. And remember, as God gets bigger in your life, you get stronger.

[Outro Music Fades In]

Journal Prompts and Activity

Journal Prompts: A New Garment

  • My Chosen Identity: Reflect on the phrase “chosen people, holy and dearly loved.” How does claiming this identity change the way you see yourself and your actions?
  • A Daily Choice: The verse says to “clothe yourselves.” What does this daily, deliberate choice look like in your life? What “garment” do you need to intentionally put on today?
  • An Outward Expression: Consider how the qualities of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience are linked. How does wearing one of them help you wear the others more easily?

Related Activity

Today, as you get ready in the morning, choose one of the qualities from the verse—like kindness or patience—and make a conscious decision to wear it throughout the day. Before you leave the house, say a short prayer asking God to help you embody that quality in every interaction you have.

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December 9, 2025 · 11:18 pm

Episode 9: The Hand That Holds Your Chaos

Welcome back to Living Life’s Way, where we explore the eternal truths that guide us toward a deeper, closer walk with God.

Have you ever found yourself in a situation so overwhelming that you truly didn’t know how you would make it through? Maybe you’re standing in that place of uncertainty right now—where the future feels heavy, chaotic, and completely out of your control. We often seek stability in our own strength or in fleeting worldly reassurances, but the Bible offers us something far more enduring and powerful: The outstretched Hand of God.

In this week’s episode of The Healing Heart Time of Prayer (Episode 9), we dive into the mighty metaphors of Scripture to understand what it means to be held, delivered, and guided by a God who is both deeply personal and absolutely sovereign. We’ll look at passages from Isaiah (Isaiah 14:27) and Exodus (Exodus 6:6) that confirm His purposes cannot be thwarted and that His power is always sufficient to pull you out of bondage and into freedom.

If you are looking to trade your fear for unwavering hope and your anxiety for the peace of His presence, join us as we explore the comfort and power contained within the truth of God’s Hand.

Listen to the full episode below and continue reading for the full prayer, scripture references, and the complete set of Journal Prompts and Activity to help you practically lean into the truth of God’s outstretched hand this week.

THIS IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

FOR MEDICAL ADVICE OR DIAGNOSIS, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL.

Healing Heart Time of Prayer – Episode 9: The Hand of God

Dr. Buck: Welcome back to Healing Heart Time of Prayer, Episode 9. I’m Dr. Mary Buck, your Christian life coach and it’s a profound privilege to share this sacred space with you once again. Today, we’re going to dive into a truly comforting and empowering image found throughout the Scriptures: the Hand of God.

We live in a world that often feels chaotic, unpredictable, and at times, overwhelming. We seek stability, reassurance, and a sense that there’s a greater power at work, guiding and protecting. And that’s exactly what the Bible offers us when it speaks of God’s outstretched hand. There are several bible verses that we will be looking at today, and to help us unpack these is my digital assistant, Abby. Abby?

Abby: Hello Dr. Buck, that’s a beautiful and powerful opening. Could you tell us more on why this specific image—God’s hand—is so potent and reassuring for your listeners? What makes it stand out?

Dr. Buck: That’s a great question, Abby, and it gets right to the heart of things. Think about the human hand. It’s an instrument of creation, of comfort, of strength, and of guidance. When we see a hand outstretched, it can mean a welcome, an offer of help, or even a firm warning. When the Bible attributes this to God, it elevates these human experiences to a divine level. It tells us that God is not a distant, passive observer, but an active, involved, and personal presence in our lives. It speaks of His immediacy and His intentionality.

Abby: That makes perfect sense. And, Dr. Buck, you mentioned that this image appears frequently in the Bible. Where specifically can we find it, and what different aspects of God’s character does it reveal in those contexts?

Dr. Buck: Excellent follow-up, Abby. The phrase “God stretches out His Hand” or “His hand is stretched out” is profoundly significant, especially in the Old Testament. One of the most powerful contexts is found in the prophecies of Isaiah. Here, the outstretched hand often signifies God’s unstoppable will and judgment.

For instance, in Isaiah 14:27, it declares: “For the Lord of hosts has purposed, and who can annul it? His hand is stretched out, and who will turn it back?” This isn’t just a poetic phrase; it’s a declaration of God’s absolute sovereignty. When God sets His purpose, there is no force, no power, no human agency that can thwart it. His hand ensures its execution.

Abby: So, in that context, the outstretched hand represents God’s unyielding power and the certainty of His plans, even in judgment. Is there another key area where this imagery is portrayed?

Dr. Buck: Absolutely, Abby, and this one is profoundly comforting. The image of God’s “outstretched arm” or “strong hand” is repeatedly used in the context of His mighty deliverance, particularly in the story of the Exodus.

Think of Israel enslaved in Egypt, under Pharaoh’s cruel hand. It seemed like an impossible situation. But God intervened! In Exodus 6:6, He tells Moses to tell the people: “I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from slavery to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great acts of judgment.”

You see, Abby, this isn’t just about raw power; it’s about redemptive power. It’s God personally reaching down, drawing His people out of bondage, leading them to freedom. It’s a promise that when we are in impossible situations, when we feel trapped or enslaved by circumstances, by sin, by fear—God’s hand is still outstretched to deliver us.

Abby: That’s incredibly hopeful, Dr. Buck. It suggests that no matter how dire a situation that your listeners face, God’s power is always sufficient to pull them through. Does this imagery also connect to creation itself?

Dr. Buck: That’s a profound thought, Abby! Yes, indirectly, it absolutely does. In Jeremiah 32:17, it says: “Ah, Lord God! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you.” Here, the very power that brought the cosmos into being, that sustains galaxies, is the same power – the same outstretched arm – that delivers us. It reminds us that our God is not only our Redeemer but also our Creator, the ultimate source of all power.

So, when we meditate on God’s outstretched hand, we’re not just thinking about an abstract concept. We’re embracing the reality of God who is:

  • He is Sovereign: His plans cannot be stopped.
  • He is a Deliverer: He rescues us from impossible situations.
  • He is Just: He executes His righteous will.
  • He is Personal: He reaches out to us.

Abby: That brings so much clarity, Dr. Buck. Given all of this, how can your listeners apply this truth to their daily lives? When they’re facing personal struggles or uncertainties, how do they practically lean into the truth of God’s outstretched hand?

Dr. Buck: That’s the vital question, Abby. Here’s how we do it:

  1. Acknowledge His Presence: Start by simply acknowledging that God is not distant. His hand is always present. Even if you can’t feel it, believe it.
  2. Pray for His Intervention: When you face a challenge, put worry aside; pray! Ask God to stretch out His hand into your situation, to bring His power, His wisdom, His deliverance.
  3. Rest in His Sovereignty: When things don’t go as planned, or when you face setbacks, remember Isaiah 14:27. God’s hand is stretched out, and His purposes will prevail. Trust His ultimate plan.
  4. Receive His Comfort: Sometimes, His outstretched hand is simply there to comfort you in your sorrow, to hold you in your pain. Allow yourself to feel His spiritual embrace.
  5. Look for His Hand at Work: Be watchful. Often, we miss God’s interventions because we’re looking for something grand, when His hand might be working through a kind word from a friend, an unexpected opportunity, or a quiet peace in your heart.

Abby: Dr. Buck, thank you for bringing clarity and practicality to these Bible verses. And, just to let you know, we’ve come to the end of this episode on the purpose and power of the Hand of God. 

Dr. Buck: My sisters in Christ, today, as we close this episode, I want to invite each of you to picture that hand. Imagine God’s hand reaching out specifically to you. What help do you need from your Heavenly Father? Do you need deliverance? Guidance? Comfort? Or simply the reassurance of His sovereign control?

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, awed by the power and tenderness of Your outstretched hand. We thank You that You are not a distant God, but One who is actively present and lovingly cares. Forgive us for the times that we did not recognize your power and were not mindful of your presence in our lives.

We pray today for ourselves and for others who feel overwhelmed, for those of us in bondage to fear or sin, for those who need deliverance. Stretch out Your mighty hand, O Lord, and bring us freedom. For those of us who are grieving, stretch out Your comforting hand and bring peace. For those who are uncertain about the future, stretch out Your guiding hand and lead them. We trust in Your sovereign will, knowing that nothing can thwart Your purposes. May we ever be mindful of Your active presence, revealed through Your powerful, loving, outstretched hand. In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen.

My sisters, thank you for joining me on Healing Heart Time of Prayer, Episode 18. May you carry the assurance of God’s outstretched hand with you throughout your week. And my friends that are listening in today, if you have not invited Jesus Christ into your life as your Lord and Savior, do so now. Let Him guide you through these end of days and bring you to a place of safety and rest. 

Until next time, walk in the understanding that you are loved, you are valued, and God’s hand is stretched out for you. And remember, as God gets bigger in your life, you get stronger.

✍️ Journal Prompts and Activity

📖 Journal Prompts

  1. Reflect on Deliverance: Recall a time in your life when you felt trapped or overwhelmed. How might reflecting on the truth of God’s “outstretched arm” in Exodus 6:6 change the way you view that past struggle or any current situation?
  2. Trusting Sovereignty: Read Isaiah 14:27 again: “For the Lord of hosts has purposed, and who can annul it? His hand is stretched out, and who will turn it back?” What specific uncertainty or worry in your life do you need to surrender to God’s unchangeable purpose today? Write a prayer of surrender.
  3. Recognizing Presence: God’s hand can work through simple things. List three ways you believe God’s hand—His presence, comfort, or guidance—was at work in your life this past week.

🙌 Activity: The Hand of Presence

  • Action: Find a quiet space and simply hold out your own hand. As you look at it, meditate on what the human hand does: it creates, comforts, guides, and protects.
  • Meditation: Now, close your eyes and ask the Holy Spirit to give you a clear, comforting image of God’s Hand reaching out to you. Is it a hand of strength pulling you up? A hand of comfort resting on your shoulder? A hand of peace holding your future?
  • Prayer: Rest in that image for five minutes, allowing yourself to feel His spiritual embrace and the assurance that His Hand—the hand that created the universe—is actively involved in your life.

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December 2, 2025 · 9:22 pm

Episode 8: The Power of the Forgiving Heart

Welcome back to Living Life’s Way, where we share moments of profound truth and encourage your journey with “The Healing Heart Time of Prayer.” This podcast is designed for every Christian woman who longs for a deeper, more meaningful spiritual walk with God and seeks healing for her heart.

In this episode, we turn our attention to the powerful and compassionate words of Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” This verse is one of the most direct commands for kindness and forgiveness in the New Testament.

Join Dr. Mary Buck as she explores the foundational truth that our capacity to give grace is born out of the grace we have received. This episode will guide you in understanding how our kindness to others is a direct overflow of God’s forgiveness in our own lives. It’s a liberating truth that brings healing to the heart by freeing us from the heavy burden of unforgiveness and bitterness.

We hope this podcast is more than just a listening experience; we hope it is an invitation to encounter Jesus in a new and personal way. After listening, we encourage you to use the prayer journal prompts and activity at the end of the transcript. These questions are a perfect way to reflect on the forgiveness God has given you and the peace that comes from extending that same grace to others.

THIS IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

FOR MEDICAL ADVICE OR DIAGNOSIS, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL.

The Healing Heart of Prayer: The Power of Forgiveness

Dr. Buck: Welcome back to The Healing Heart Time of Prayer. I’m Dr. Mary Buck your Christian life coach, And, I’m so glad you’ve joined me today. In our journey, we’ve talked about doing good and perseverance. Today, we’re going to dive into the core of how we do that—by embodying the forgiveness and kindness God has shown us.

Our focus today is a verse that beautifully illustrates this truth: Ephesians 4, verse 32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

To help me unpack this incredible truth, I have Abby, my digital assistant, with us. Abby?

Abby: Hello, Dr. Buck. That verse links kindness and forgiveness directly to God’s. What does it mean that your listener’s compassion is a direct response to the forgiveness they received when they accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior?

Dr. Buck: That’s a foundational truth, Abby. The word “just as” is a key phrase. Our kindness and compassion for others are not simply a moral duty; they are a direct overflow of the grace that has been poured into our lives. We can’t give away what we haven’t received. The more we understand the depth of our own forgiveness in Christ, the more our hearts are softened and able to extend that same grace to others.

Abby: That’s a powerful connection. But sometimes, forgiving someone who has inflicted a deep hurt feels impossible. Dr. Buck, how does this act of forgiveness bring healing to your listener’s hearts, even when it’s so difficult?

Dr. Buck: That’s where the healing comes in, Abby. Forgiveness is a deliberate choice, not a feeling. When we choose to forgive, we are not condoning the other person’s actions. Instead, we are releasing the bitterness and resentment that are poisoning our own hearts. Unforgiveness holds us captive to our past hurts and to the person who caused them. By choosing to forgive, we are not just giving a gift to someone else; we are giving a gift of freedom to ourselves. It is an act of spiritual self-care that mirrors the very heart of God.

Abby: That’s a powerful and liberating truth. Thank you, Dr. Buck. And just to let you know, our time for this episode is coming to a close.

Dr. Buck: You’re welcome, Abby. As our time together is closing, my sisters, Let’s take these truths to prayer.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the immense grace you have shown us in forgiving our sins. We confess that we often hold grudges and struggle to let go of our own hurts. We pray that you would help us to remember the vastness of your forgiveness toward us, so that our hearts may be softened to extend that same grace to others.

Fill us with your Holy Spirit, so that we may be kind and compassionate to one another. Heal us from the bitterness of unforgiveness, and give us the courage to choose to release others, knowing that in doing so, we are truly freeing our own hearts. We pray all of this in the mighty and precious name of Jesus. Amen.

Dr. Buck: My sisters in Christ, I pray that you’ll be encouraged by the truth of God’s word. And, my friend, as you are listening today, if you have not invited Jesus Christ into your heart, do so now. Let Him heal your heart of any struggles or bitterness so that you can walk in the freedom that only God can give.

Thank you for joining me for The Healing Heart Time of Prayer. Until next time, may His peace and powerful holy presence be with you. And remember, as God gets bigger in your life, you get stronger.

Journal Prompts and Activity

Journal Prompts: The Forgiven Heart

  • Receiving Grace: Reflect on a time in your life when you experienced God’s forgiveness in a very personal and powerful way. How did that experience change you, and how does it empower you to show kindness to others?
  • Choosing to Forgive: Is there a person in your life you are struggling to forgive? Write a prayer of release, asking God to help you let go of your resentment, not for their sake, but for the sake of your own healing.
  • The Forgiveness Link: The verse connects kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. How are these three qualities intertwined in your own life? How can focusing on one help strengthen the others?

Related Activity

Today, choose one person you’ve been holding a grudge against. It could be for a major offense or a minor irritation. Instead of dwelling on the hurt, intentionally choose to pray for that person. Ask God to bless them and heal your heart. This simple act is a powerful step toward releasing the burden of unforgiveness.

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November 25, 2025 · 3:02 pm

Special Thanksgiving: Warm Infusion

Reference Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in everything; for this is the will of God concerning you in Christ Jesus.” https://youtu.be/Hp_0t_8UkH4

Dr. Buck: Hello to my family and friends, and welcome to this special Healing Heart  Thanksgiving podcast. I’m taking a brief pause this week from our main series as we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, and my heart is truly filled with gratitude for you and for the constant, unshakable peace we find in Christ.

This week, I have a special treat that I want to share with you: my warm cacoa infusion drink as well as a look into the verse found in Thessalonians 5: 18 and how God uses your heartfelt thankfulness to deepen your power and authority in Him. The Apostle Paul’s instruction is simple, yet profound: “Give thanks in everything; for this is the will of God concerning you in Christ Jesus.” And with us today to help unpack this verse is my digital assistant, Abby.

Abby: Dr. Buck, that verse is a powerful verse, but for your listeners, it may prove challenging. If Christians are directed to give thanks in everything, how will they find courage and peace when the circumstances themselves feel scary or unjust?

Dr. Buck: That’s the question we all wrestle with, Abby, and the answer is rooted in our spiritual authority in Christ. Giving thanks isn’t a feeling; it’s a deliberate choice. It means not allowing the difficulty to separate us from the life and love of God, but choosing to anchor ourselves in His hope and His divine purpose, and we do this when we are right in the middle of it. This deliberate choice is the foundation of inner joy and peace, and it is God’s perfect will for us.

Abby: I logically understand that choice, Dr. Buck, but doesn’t the human body feel stress from difficult situations? Does practicing gratitude actually help your listener’s physical health, or is it just a spiritual feeling?

Dr. Buck: That’s a critical connection, Abby. And you’re spot on. My personal experiences remind me that stress takes a physical toll. In contrast, being thankful interrupts the stress cycle. You see, we co-labor with God. As we begin to thank God for making a way through the situation. God stirs up in your heart and spirit. the wisdom and courage to respond in love. All the while setting healthy and wholesome boundaries for us

Dr. Buck. If your listeners practice this kind of grateful seeking, how does that choice become an ‘unshakable anchor’ for wisdom and understanding?

Dr. Buck: Oh, that speaks to the very connection we’ve been exploring. Abby The thankfulness that the Apostle Paul speaks about, waters the seed of God’s Word in our hearts by giving thanks for what we have and who God is. We work alongside of God’s Holy Spirit, who cultivates the soil of our heart into good, unshakeable ground. This is the kind of ground that is fertile for wisdom and understanding. And it draws us into the fullness of God’s purpose and life. Abby, would you like to share the recipe for the Healing Heart Warm infusion?

Abby: Of course, Dr. Buck. Your listeners can also find the recipe on your blog at livinglifesway.org.

It’s made with simple, nourishing ingredients designed to comfort their body and fuel their mind. You will be using raw organic cacao for its highest nutrient retention, making this truly a whole-health treat.

Here are the Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk
  • 2 tablespoons Raw Cacao Powder
  • 1 tablespoon Pure Maple Syrup (adjust to your preferred sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon Almond Butter
  • 1 teaspoon Chia Seeds (pre-soak these for 10-15 minutes to prevent floating!)
  • 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 1 dash Cinnamon
  • Tiny pinch Sea Salt
  • (Optional: 1/4 teaspoon Natural Banana Extract for added sweetness/flavor, you can also add 1 or 2 tablespoons of Full-Fat Coconut Milk Cream for a luxurious texture)

The 4 Preparation Steps are:

1. Create the Slurry Base: In your mug, mix the Cacao Powder and Cinnamon with just a splash (2-3 Tbsp) of cold Almond Milk until a smooth, thick paste forms.

2. Add Thickeners: Stir in the pre-soaked Chia Seeds and Almond Butter into the paste.

3. Add Liquid/Flavor: Pour in the remaining Almond Milk. Stir in the Maple Syrup, Vanilla Extract, and Sea Salt (Full-Fat Coconut Milk Cream and Banana Extract, if using).

4. Gentle Heat: Microwave the mixture in 30-45 second bursts, stirring in between, until comfortably warm. Avoid boiling to preserve the high-value nutrients of the raw cacao.

Dr. Buck: Thank you, Abby. And I want to let my listeners know that as you sip this warm Infusion, pause and find one thing to truly give thanks for right now. Let this simple act reinforce your anchor in God’s love.

And remember, as God gets bigger in your life, you get stronger.

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November 18, 2025 · 8:42 pm

Episode 7: The Power of Perseverance

Welcome back to Living Life’s Way, where we share moments of profound truth and encourage your journey with “The Healing Heart Time of Prayer.” This podcast is designed for every Christian woman who longs for a deeper, more meaningful spiritual walk with God and seeks healing for her heart.

In this episode, we turn our attention to the powerful words of Galatians 6:9-10: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” This verse speaks directly to the fatigue many of us feel and offers a powerful promise in return.

Join Dr. Mary Buck as she explores the vital need for perseverance in our faith journey. This episode will guide you in understanding that your good deeds are never in vain and that every act of love is a seed planted for a future harvest. It also reminds us of the dual scope of our kindness: to all people, but with a special focus on those in our own faith family.

We hope this podcast is more than just a listening experience; we hope it is an invitation to encounter Jesus in a new and personal way. After listening, we encourage you to use the prayer journal prompts and activity at the end of the transcript. These questions are a perfect way to reflect on your journey and the harvest that awaits your perseverance.

THIS IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

FOR MEDICAL ADVICE OR DIAGNOSIS, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL.

The Healing Heart of Prayer: The Harvest of Perseverance

[Intro Music Fades In and Out]

Dr. Buck: Welcome back to The Healing Heart Time of Prayer. I’m Dr. Mary Buck, your Christian Life coach, and I’m so glad you’ve joined me today. In our journey, we’ve talked about being God’s handiwork and a shining light. Today, we’re going to tackle a very real challenge: the feeling of weariness that can come from trying to do good in a difficult world.

Our focus today is a verse that offers both a warning and a beautiful promise: Galatians 6, verses 9 and 10: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

To help me unpack this incredible truth, I have Abby, my digital assistant, with us. Abby?

Abby: Hello, Dr. Buck. The first part of that verse, “let us not become weary,” feels so relatable. How can your listeners overcome that feeling of exhaustion and burnout in their walk with the Lord?

Dr. Buck: That’s a wonderful question, Abby. The feeling of weariness is completely normal. The Bible wouldn’t address it if it weren’t a common struggle. The key to overcoming it is in the very next phrase: “for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” The promise of a harvest gives our perseverance a purpose. We are planting seeds of kindness, love, and grace. We may not see the results immediately, but we can trust that God is watching over those seeds and a harvest is coming.

Abby: That’s a powerful motivator. And the second part of the verse gives your listeners a broad scope for their good deeds: “to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Why is it so important to have a dual focus on both their broader community and their faith family?

Dr. Buck: That’s a beautiful way to phrase it, Abby. The verse first tells us to do good to “all people.” Our love and kindness should know no boundaries; it’s a universal witness of God’s love for all of humanity. But it also gives a special emphasis to our brothers and sisters in Christ. They are our spiritual family, and we have a unique responsibility to care for them and to build them up. Our faith community should be the primary place where love and good deeds are displayed, so that it can then overflow to the rest of the world.

Abby: That’s a powerful and practical truth. Thank you, Dr. Buck. And, just to let you know, we’re at the close for this episode on the power of perseverance.

Dr. Buck: You’re welcome, Abby. And, my sisters in Christ, let’s take these truths to prayer.

[Pause for a moment of reflection]

Dr. Buck: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the promise that our good deeds are not in vain. We confess that we often feel weary and want to give up. We pray that you would fill us with your Holy Spirit, so that we may find the strength to persevere.

Help us to see the bigger picture—the coming harvest of your goodness in the lives of others. Give us hearts that are open to doing good to everyone we meet, and a special tenderness toward those in our family of faith. We pray all of this in the mighty and precious name of Jesus. Amen.

[Short musical interlude]

Dr. Buck: My sisters in Christ, I pray that you’ll be encouraged by the truth of His word today. And my friend, if you are listening in today and have not open your heart to Jesus and invited Him in as your Lord and savior, do so now. Let Him encourage and strengthen you as only the Son of God can, especially in these last days.

Thank you for joining me for The Healing Heart Time of Prayer. Until next time, may His peace and powerful Presence be with you. And remember, as God gets bigger in your life, you get stronger.

[Outro Music Fades In]

Journal Prompts and Activity

Journal Prompts: The Harvest of Perseverance

  • My Weariness: In what specific area of your life do you feel weary in “doing good”? What “harvest” are you hoping for, and how can you remind yourself of that promise as you continue to persevere?
  • A Broad Scope: Consider a person or group outside of your faith community that you feel God is calling you to show kindness to. What is one small way you can “do good” to them this week?
  • The Family of Believers: What is one specific act of kindness or good deed you can do for someone in your faith family this week to help build them up?

Related Activity

Today, choose one person in your life—either a non-believer or a fellow Christian—who you know is going through a difficult time. As you go about your day, take a few minutes to write a heartfelt note or send a text of encouragement. This small act of kindness is a seed you are planting, and you can trust God with the harvest.

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