When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to forget that you are never truly alone. In this heartfelt episode of Joy in Every Step, Elder Sarita Bernadette reminds you of God's unwavering presence and His commitment to move on your behalf. Whether you're on the mountaintop or struggling in the valley, beloved, God cares for you—and His joy awaits in every step.

You’ll discover how biblical truths anchor us firmly in hope, even in the midst of uncertainty. From the powerful story of King Jehoshaphat’s battle in 2 Chronicles to the comforting promises of Jesus in Matthew 28, this episode offers practical encouragement rooted in Scripture. Gain insight into how your brain’s resilience and the spiritual practice of pausing can transform anxiety into trust. Elder Sarita shares personal anecdotes that make faith’s journey relatable and real—showing you that, with God's help, you can arise, stand still, and watch Him move.

New episodes every Friday

In this episode:
Biblical strategies for overcoming challenges
Neuroscience of resilience and grit
The importance of prayer, fasting, and trust in God

Scripture Reference:
2 Chronicles 20:17 NRSVue

Key Takeaway:
When we face overwhelming obstacles, we must remain steadfast and take a position of faith. As believers, we put our trust in God and His divine intervention.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your constant presence and unwavering love. As we journey through life's challenges, remind us that we are never alone. Strengthen our faith to trust in Your promises and to find joy in every step we take. Guide us with Your wisdom and fill our hearts with peace. May we stand firm in faith, knowing that You are always near. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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Are past mistakes and guilt holding you back from experiencing the fullness of God's joy? The resurrection of Jesus is more than a historical event—it’s a divine invitation to walk freely into new life, unbound by the grave clothes of shame, fear, or guilt. When Lazarus emerged from the tomb, he was wrapped head to toe in grave cloths—symbolic of old habits, sins, and limitations. But Jesus’ command to "unbind him and let him go" reminds us that God’s power can free us from what keeps us tied down.

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The Hidden Power of Unwrapping Your Spiritual Grave Clothes

In this episode:
• The episode explores the significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• It examines the historical and spiritual implications of the resurrection.
• The resurrection offers hope and transformation for believers.

Scripture Reference:
Ephesians 4:22-24 NLT

Key Takeaway:
Because of the Resurrection, we can be spiritually transformed. We "take off" the old self and "put on" our new selves. We leave the past behind. Our new nature is based on our identity in Christ.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of new life through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to shed every grave cloth—the doubts, fears, and sins that hold us back. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit to walk boldly in the joy and freedom You have provided. Remind us always that we are not alone; You are with us in every step. May we find joy anew each day, trusting in Your everlasting love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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When Jesus rose, he didn’t just defeat death; he opened the door for new life for all of us. It’s a powerful reminder that hope is always alive, even in our darkest moments.

New episodes every Friday

This episode explores the significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, its historical and spiritual implications, and how it offers hope and transformation for believers. Sarita shares biblical insights, historical evidence, and personal reflections on the power of the resurrection.

In this episode:
• The episode explores the significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• It examines the historical and spiritual implications of the resurrection.
• The resurrection offers hope and transformation for believers.

Scripture Reference:
Romans 6:4 NLT

Key Takeaway:
Just as Christ was resurrected by God's glory, believers are raised to live transformed and victorious lives in Him.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, and for the hope that the resurrection brings us each day. Lord, may we walk in Your joy and trust Your power to renew us. Help us to see life through heaven’s perspective and to embrace our new identity in You. Thank you for caring for us, for being close, and for the joy that is available in every step. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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*New episodes every Friday*

Beloved, as we reflect on Holy Week, we are anchored in the unchanging truth of God’s profound mercy. Jesus’ sacrifice was the ultimate act of divine compassion—God cares, God is close, and there is joy in every step of our walk with Him.

In this episode:

• The significance of Holy Week and Jesus’ final days on earth 
• The Biblical foundation of mercy and divine compassion 
• How God’s mercy reveals His character and His plan for us 
• Practical ways to reflect mercy in everyday life 
• Encouragement to approach God with confidence in times of need 

Scripture References:
Hebrews 4:15–16 (NRSVue)

Key Takeaway:
God’s mercy meets you exactly where you are—offering grace, understanding, and access to Him.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your abundant mercy that surrounds us each day. As we reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus, move us to show mercy and compassion to others. Help us approach Your throne with confidence, knowing that You understand our struggles and our desire to be healed. Pour out Your Spirit upon us, that we may walk in Your divine love, comforted and renewed. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Key Takeaway:

• There is JOY in knowing God is personally present and fighting for His Children. 

Key Takaway:

• As believers, we must live with spiritual vigilance, courage, and strength, rooted in faith rather than fear.

Key Takeaways:

• Fear is less about the present and more about the stories we tell ourselves
• Biblical fight against fear is proactive, not passive
• Trust in God's sovereignty dispels the illusion of control
• Worship and gratitude are powerful tools against fear
• God’s presence is a safe harbor through every valley and storm
• Our weakness invites God's strength—fear reveals our need for divine backing
• Faith grows strongest when exercised in fear-filled moments
   

• How fear opens the door for the enemy to wreak havoc in our lives—and how to close it with faith.
• The truth about God's sovereignty versus the enemy's claims, especially in difficult times.
• Practical ways to replace fear with God's peace, anchored in Scripture like 2 Timothy 1:7, Isaiah 41:10, and 1 Peter 5:7.

This episode is perfect for anyone battling anxious thoughts or feeling distant from God's closeness. It offers hopeful insight that you are never alone—God cares for you, and joy is always within reach, even in the valleys. Elder Sarita brings decades of wisdom, teaching us that understanding God's true nature empowers us to stand firm, enjoy abundance, and walk boldly in faith.Let this message encourage your heart today: you can replace fear with trust, knowing that God's love is bigger than any challenge you face. Remember, divine joy is found in every step—mountaintops, valleys, and everyday moments alike.Join us for a warm, scripture-anchored reflection that will renew your hope, inspire courage, and remind you of God's unshakeable presence. Keep finding joy in every step.

3 John 1:2 NRSVue

Takeaways

• Healing is a promise from God for believers.
• Emotional healing is part of our spiritual journey.
• God's compassion is evident in our grief.
• Jesus cares deeply for our well-being.
• We can find hope even in our darkest moments.
• Lamenting is a valid expression of our emotions.
• David's journey reflects our struggles with despair.
• Trusting in God's character brings peace.
• We can cry out to God in our distress.
• God hears our prayers and is present in our struggles.

Takeaways

• Emotional healing is part of God's promise for wholeness.
• Peter's story illustrates the power of redemption after regret.
• Running towards healing is essential, as shown by Peter.
• Jesus' conversation with Peter emphasizes the importance of love and leadership.
• The Canaanite woman's persistence teaches us about faith and healing.
• We have a right to pursue emotional healing as children of God.
• Healing can come through various means, including prayer and therapy.
• Generational healing is vital; we should pass down healing, not trauma.
• God opens doors to healing, but we must be willing to walk through them. 
•  Healing is a journey that requires effort and commitment.

You’ll hear a compelling story from Elder Sarita’s own life—her experience in a high school classroom where a Black history lesson became a defining moment. She shares how learning about Carter G. Woodson’s vision of “the history of the world void of bias” inspired her and can inspire you too. This episode reminds us that your journey, no matter how simple or complex, is part of a divine blueprint.

We break down how God works in the quiet, everyday moments and how He uses our history—personal and collective—to remind us that we are not alone. Elder Sarita explores the biblical truth in Ephesians 1:11, emphasizing that “God works out everything in conformity with His will”—including your story. Whether you’re walking on mountaintops, crossing valleys, or simply living your daily life, there is joy and purpose in every step, because God cares deeply about your history and future.

If you’ve ever felt overlooked or your steps seem small, remember—your life is creating a legacy today. Perfect for anyone seeking encouragement that their story matters in God’s grand plan, this episode will fill you with hope, purpose, and the reassurance that you are making history—right now.

Philippians 1:6 NRSVue I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work in you will continue to complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.

Takeaways

• There is JOY in knowing God finishes what He starts.
• The obstacles we face can serve a greater purpose.
• Trusting in God's timing is essential for spiritual growth.
• Esther's story exemplifies courage in the face of fear.
• Jeremiah's calling shows the importance of divine confidence.
• God's promises are always fulfilled in His timing.
• All things work together for those who love God.
• Spiritual growth often comes through challenges and obstacles.
• God's word will accomplish its purpose and never return empty.
• We must rely on God's power, not just our own efforts.
• Understanding God's sovereignty helps us navigate life's difficulties.

Takeaways

• We must pause to assess our alignment with God's plans.
• God equips us for our divine assignments.
• Waiting on God is essential for spiritual growth.
• Trailblazers are those who pave the way for others.
• Phoebe was a significant figure in the early church.
• Our presence can represent Christ to others.
• God's wisdom is available to those who ask.
• Comparison can hinder our progress in faith.
• Focus on godliness rather than worldly comparisons.
•  There is joy in serving and clearing paths for others.

Takeaways

• God's timing isn't the same as ours.
• Kronos refers to measured time, while Kairos refers to opportune moments.
• We often live in a state of urgency, but Kairos moments shape our lives.
• Patience is essential in the process of seed, time, and harvest.
• We must trust God's timing and plans, even when they seem slow.
• Waiting is an active process that involves prayer and seeking God.
• We should work with what we have while waiting for God's timing.
• Joseph's story exemplifies faithfulness and patience in waiting.
• God's timing is impeccable and aligns with His divine plans.
•  Everything happens at the right time according to God's purpose.

Takeaways

• Aligning our goals with God's plans requires prayer, worship, and studying the scriptures.
• True alignment is trusting in God's plan and accepting His timing.
• We must yield our own will and ideas to align with God's plan.
• God's will for our lives is clearly stated in His word.
• Nurturing intimacy with the Lord is necessary to discern His voice.
• The more you listen for His voice, the more you'll hear it.
• We plan the way we want to live, but only God makes us able to live it.
• God gives us specific directions for our lives as we commune with Him.
• Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight.
•  When God's plans are our plans, He backs them up.

Takeaways

• It's important to set intentions for the new year.
• Aligning goals with God's will is crucial.
• Understanding the true meaning of intentions can transform lives.
• Consulting God before making plans leads to smoother outcomes.
• Heart posture matters in our intentions and actions.
• Planning and assessment are vital for achieving goals.
• Support from others is often necessary for success.
• The story of Solomon illustrates the importance of preparation.
• Don't rush; take your time to finish what you start.
• Seek God's guidance to fulfill the desires of your heart.

“Do not be afraid… I am bringing you good news of great joy.” — Luke 2:10 (NRSVUE)

May this message encourage you to walk forward with faith, trust God’s timing, and remember—you are never alone.

God cares for you.

Merry Christmas and blessings for the New Year.

— Sarita Bernadette

Joy in Every Step

Takeaways

• Finding joy in small moments is essential.
• Agape love is selfless and unconditional.
• Phileo love represents deep friendship and loyalty.
• The story of David and Jonathan exemplifies brotherly love.
• Love is a commandment, not just a suggestion.
• Demonstrating love can have physical health benefits.
• We should love through all seasons of life.
• Compassion defines who our neighbors are.
• Acts of kindness stimulate positive hormones.
•  The greatest virtue is love.

• (03:33) - Marker 01
• (03:43) - Marker 02
• (03:57) - Marker 03
• (04:10) - Marker 04
• (04:17) - Marker 05

Takeaways

• It's okay to say no to some things this season.
• Human connection nourishes the brain and the body.
• Love is a command from the Lord.
• Strong relationships enhance longevity.
• Get yourself some friends who will give you life.
• Spend some time deepening your relationships with God.
• True worship involves unconditional love.
• There is much joy in human connection.
• Seek out those you love and spend time together.
• Our joy may be complete when we connect face-to-face.

Takeaways

• Find joy in the small moments and the little things.
• Jesus demonstrated the importance of being thankful.
• Practicing gratitude helps develop a heart filled with joy.
• Look for God in the details of everyday life.
• It's the bonds and experiences that matter most.
• Prioritize small moments of worship and self-care.
• It's okay to say no to big duties and responsibilities.
• Focus on quiet pleasures and meaningful connections.
• Be intentional about your time during the holiday season.
• Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us, ‘Give thanks in ALL circumstances.’ Not FOR all things, but IN all things — because gratitude realigns our hearts with God’s goodness.

Takeaways

• Most of us hate to wait.
• Biblical waiting involves hope and trust in God.
• Waiting requires obedience and action.
• Habakkuk's story reflects our struggles with waiting.
• God's plan may not align with our expectations.
• The Lord is sovereign and in control.
• Waiting can lead to spiritual growth and understanding.
• We should seek God's presence while we wait.
• Practicing gratitude can help during waiting periods.
• Trusting God's timing is essential. 

Matthew 6:6 NLT "But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you."

Takeaways

• Shut the door to the inside chatter.
• Shut the door to the distractions.
• Distractions can pull attention away from essential instructions.
• Caring about others' opinions can lead to self-doubt.
• God's opinion is the only one that really matters.
• External judgments can hinder personal growth.
• Focus on divine guidance for better decision-making.
• Inner peace comes from ignoring distractions.
• Seek approval from God, not from people.
• Embrace your unique path without fear of judgment.

Sarita explores the significance of solitude and healing through conversations. She discusses the importance of being present with oneself and with God, emphasizing the need for quiet reflection in a busy world. The dialogue highlights Jesus' example of seeking solitude for prayer and connection with the Father, illustrating how solitude can lead to peace, self-reflection, and rejuvenation. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace solitude as a way to find joy and clarity in their lives.

Takeaways:

• Conversations can lead to healing and closure.
• Solitude is often misunderstood in today's busy society.
• Being alone can be a choice for reflection and prayer.
• Surrendering anxiety allows for a deeper connection with God.
• Jesus exemplified the importance of solitude in his ministry.
• Solitude provides comfort and reassurance in God's presence.
• Time spent alone with God can activate creativity.
• Even short moments of solitude can be beneficial.
• Creating a dedicated space for solitude enhances the experience.
• Persistence in seeking solitude is key to spiritual growth.

Released initially as Episode 6 in 2023. Re-released in November 2025 with updated reflection and renewed encouragement.

Takeaways

• Bitterness can lead to spiritual and relational decay.
• Anger and resentment are root causes of bitterness.
• Words have power; be mindful of what you say.
• God provides healing and restoration in our lives.
• Obedience to God leads to blessings and healing.
• The Israelites' journey reflects our own struggles.
• God's grace is available to all who seek it.
• Transformation is possible through faith and trust in God.
• We should support one another in our spiritual journeys.
• Joy can be found in every step of our faith walk.

Isaiah 61:3 NLV  "To those who have sorrow in Zion I will give them a crown of beauty instead of ashes. I will give them the oil of joy instead of sorrow, and a spirit of praise instead of a spirit of no hope. Then they will be called oaks that are right with God, planted by the Lord, that He may be honored."

Takeaway Reflection:  We are The Beloved, and our God is One Who redeems and restores. 

• The Bible is filled with stories of redemption and restoration.
• Ruth's loyalty to Naomi exemplifies unwavering faith.
• God often works in unexpected ways to demonstrate His love.
• Naomi's transformation reflects God's faithfulness.
• The kinsman redeemer plays a crucial role in the story.
• Prioritizing the needs of others can lead to our own blessings.
• Ruth's actions illustrate the importance of faith in hopeless situations.
• God's plan for redemption is woven throughout history.
• Even in bitterness, God can bring sweetness and joy. 
• We are all beloved and redeemed through Christ.

Takeaways

• Gratitude is a gift from God.
• There is a connection between gratitude and compassion.
• Many people forget to thank God after receiving blessings.
• The story of the Samaritan leper illustrates the importance of gratitude.
• Returning to give thanks can lead to spiritual wholeness.
• Gratitude can trigger feelings of happiness and contentment.
• Dispensational gratitude is a consistent state of thankfulness.
• Paul's life exemplified active gratitude despite circumstances.
• Gratitude is associated with positive traits like optimism and hope.
• Cultivating gratitude can be achieved through intentional actions.

Takeaways

• Compassion is a deep, visceral sympathy for the suffering of others.
• Jesus modeled compassion through his actions and teachings.
• Acts of kindness can create a ripple effect in communities.
• Compassion is a gift that brings joy and positive emotions.
• Demonstrating compassion can lift both the giver and receiver.
• Compassionate behavior helps build resilience in challenging times.
• We are called to clothe ourselves with compassion and kindness.
• Compassion is essential for fostering strong relationships.
• Every act of kindness can inspire others to do the same.
• Compassion is a reflection of God's character in our lives.

Takeaways

• Emotions are a gift from God and should be acknowledged.
• Jesus demonstrated a full range of emotions in the Bible.
• Responding to situations is more beneficial than reacting.
• Self-control is essential for managing emotions effectively.
• Grief should be expressed and shared with others.
• Lamentations teaches us the value of expressing sorrow.
• We live under the grace of God, not performance-based forgiveness.
• God hears our cries and provides comfort 
• Our emotions serve a purpose and can lead to joy.

Takeaways

• The words we speak have a profound impact on our lives.
• We have been given tremendous spiritual power to influence our reality.
• God's promises are unchanging and reliable, unlike human promises.
• Trusting in God's promises can transform our prayer life.
• God promises to love us unconditionally and provide for our needs.
• He is our refuge and strength in times of trouble.
• God's joy can be restored even after hardships.
• We are encouraged to remind God of His promises in prayer.
• God's peace surpasses all understanding and protects our hearts.
• Believing in God's promises brings joy and hope to our lives.

Takeaways

• Hope in God is a confident expectation of receiving future promises.
• There are three types of hope: no hope, false hope, and true hope.
• True hope is rooted in the word of God and His promises.
• Biblical hope is stable and constant, unlike fleeting optimism.
• Self-talk is essential; we must encourage ourselves in hope.
• God's promises provide strength and encouragement during difficulties.
• Joseph's story illustrates God's faithfulness in our lives.
• Hope in God guarantees that our future is secure.
• We should explore God's promises for a deeper understanding.
•  True hope is alive because the God we serve is a living God.

Takeaways:

• Emotional honesty is crucial in relationships, especially within families.
• Performative positivity can hinder genuine communication.
• Understanding the context of someone's feelings is essential.
• Parenting requires grace and adaptability as children grow.
• God's grace is not just for salvation but also for empowerment.
• Nehemiah's story exemplifies leadership and reliance on God's grace.
• Grace allows us to accomplish tasks we cannot do alone.
• There is joy in recognizing and relying on God's grace in our lives.

• Effective communication is crucial in education and mentorship.
• Misunderstandings can arise from preconceived notions and expectations.
• Grace is defined as God's unmerited favor and kindness.
• The story of Gore illustrates the miraculous power of grace.
• Paul's transformation highlights the redemptive nature of grace.
• Grace enables us to fulfill our God-given assignments.
• God's grace is a shield against life's challenges.
• Acknowledging grace helps alleviate feelings of guilt and unworthiness.
• The New Testament emphasizes grace as central to salvation.
• God's grace is sufficient to support us through difficulties.

Takeaways:

• Surrendering to God's way requires faith.
• Point of view (POV) is crucial in understanding our experiences.
• God wants our insights to align with His.
• Seeing through the eyes of faith reveals divine purpose.
• Trusting God's promises helps us navigate challenging situations.
• The eyes of our hearts need to be enlightened.
• God's perspective is broader than ours.
• Faith allows us to see beyond the physical.
• Waiting with hope is essential for believers.
• We should actively seek joy in our journey.

Takeaways

• Surrendering to healing requires letting go of control.
• The mind plays a crucial role in our spiritual and emotional health.
• Gideon's story illustrates how one can overcome fear and doubt through faith.
• God's patience is evident in how He builds our faith.
• Trusting God means relying on His understanding, not our own.
• Surrendering to healing is a daily discipline.
• God promises to heal the brokenhearted and bind up wounds.
• We are created in God's image and reflect His nature.
• Emotional and spiritual healing are part of God's promises.
• Practicing surrender involves visualizing the release of worries. 

• Conversations can lead to healing and closure.
• Solitude is often misunderstood in today's busy society.
• Being alone can be a choice for reflection and prayer.
• Surrendering anxiety allows for a deeper connection with God.
• Jesus exemplified the importance of solitude in his ministry.
• Solitude provides comfort and reassurance in God's presence.
• Time spent alone with God can activate creativity.
• Even short moments of solitude can be beneficial.
• Creating a dedicated space for solitude enhances the experience.
• Persistence in seeking solitude is key to spiritual growth.

• If we had it to do all over again, we would make different decisions.
• The lessons we learned from regrets can inform future decisions.
• Once you have asked forgiveness from God, you must accept it.
• It takes faith to move beyond regrets and believe in forgiveness.
• We have to be on the lookout for opportunities to move on.
• Moving beyond regrets is a process and a journey.
• We are the chosen ones, and nothing can erase God's love for us.
• We must capture thoughts that do not serve our greater good.
• The steadfast love of the Lord is consistent and never ends.