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In her weekly Joy for the Journey blog, Carol McLeod shares honest stories, biblical reflections, and heartfelt encouragement to help you navigate life’s ups and downs with faith. Whether you’re walking through transition, heartache, or celebration, this blog invites you to discover lasting joy in Christ.

Carol McLeod Carol McLeod

Fractures Tell a Story

Can something be fractured and beautiful at the same time? Heather LaVigne shares how suffering, loss, and pressure deepened her faith and revealed God’s presence in her pain.

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Carol McLeod Carol McLeod

The Four R’s of Intentional Speech

When we’re learning to become intentional with our words, it’s helpful to remember another set of four R’s- rethink, replace, reframe, and repair. These four R’s provide a formula we can use to explore any common word, phrase, or way of speech so that we can minimize negative and confusing language.

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Carol McLeod Carol McLeod

The Power of Words: Why Love Is the Greatest Word of All

I have loved words for as long as I can remember.

I was just a little girl sitting in Mrs. Dombrowski’s first-grade classroom when Little House in the Big Woods was placed in my hands. I didn’t have the vocabulary to explain what was happening inside of me, but I understood something important even then: words had power.

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Carol McLeod Carol McLeod

Why You Can Trust the Bible

I want you to love the Bible. Not simply to own one or read it occasionally, but to know what it is, why you can trust it, and how it can change your everyday life.

One of the most common objections to Scripture is this: “The Bible contradicts itself.” But does it?

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Carol McLeod Carol McLeod

Don’t Fear the Scenic Route

God often leads us by the scenic route. Learn how to trust His timing, embrace unexpected detours, and find purpose and joy along the journey.

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Carol McLeod Carol McLeod

5 Simple Ways to Cultivate More Joy in Your Life

The Lord often reminds us of things we already know. Not because we've forgotten them completely, but because sometimes we simply need to be reminded.  He has reminded me again and again that there are simple things we can put in place that help us cultivate a joyful heart right in the middle of everyday life.  And this little list is one that I have returned to many times over the years. I've reminded myself of these things, and I want to remind you.

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Carol McLeod Carol McLeod

The Bible Is Still Breathing Life Into Hearts

There are some books that enjoy a season of popularity and then quietly fade into history. Their message captures the attention of one generation, only to be forgotten by the next. Trends come and go. Authors rise and fall. Best-seller lists are constantly changing.

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Carol McLeod Carol McLeod

When Your Life Takes an Unexpected Turn

Life doesn't always unfold the way we planned. Unexpected turns can leave us feeling disappointed, confused, or uncertain about what God is doing. But our faithful Father is never surprised by the path ahead. Today, Hope Johnson reminds us that even life's detours are part of God's beautiful purpose, and we can trust Him with every chapter of our story.

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Carol McLeod Carol McLeod

Morning by Morning, Mourning by Mourning

Every morning is a fresh reminder of God's faithfulness. No matter what yesterday held, His mercies are new, and His hope never runs out. Today, I'm delighted to share an excerpt from my friend Jennifer Dukes Lee's new book, How to Love Your Mornings. My prayer is that these words encourage you to meet the Lord with fresh expectation and discover His grace waiting for you at the start of each new day.

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Carol McLeod Carol McLeod

When God's Word Is All You Have

“Put your backpack on the table. Hand over your camera, your phone, and anything else in your pockets.”

A short pause and then, “NOW!”

A Chinese police officer barked orders at me with force. He stared at me without blinking while I complied.

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Carol McLeod Carol McLeod

When Hurting Is Easier Than Healing

“So, what brought you here today?” 

I was a therapist trainee at a counseling center for one of the largest churches in America, and my caseload was rife with unhappy couples, struggling teens, weary singles, and people with bouts of depression and anxiety everywhere else in between. 

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Carol McLeod Carol McLeod

Have We Reversed God's Plan for Communication?

Have you ever been halfway through a conversation when you suddenly realized that you weren't listening at all?

You were looking at the person. You were nodding at all the appropriate moments. You might have even thrown in an occasional "uh-huh" or "I understand." But if you are honest, your mind was already crafting your response. You were preparing your defense, gathering your thoughts, or deciding exactly what you wanted to say next.

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