When God Fathers Our Hearts
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
Finding security, identity, and rest in Him — inspired by an interview with Tessa Afshar about The Royal Artisan.
Some seasons make us whisper to God, “Lord, I don’t know how to carry all this.” This is one of those seasons for me. Boxes still fill corners from our move, I’m still rocking the messy bun (because that blow dryer is hiding somewhere!), and there are days I feel like I should have it more together by now.
And yet—God meets us right in the swirl. Recently, I sat down with my friend and fellow biblical-fiction author Tessa Afshar, and our conversation felt like a gentle hand from the Father lifting my chin.
Tessa writes fiction set in biblical times—stories where women face fear, purpose, identity, waiting, refining, and God’s surprising redemption. In her newest novel, The Royal Artisan, we journey to Persia during Queen Esther’s time. But what struck me most wasn’t just the setting or the history—it was her heart message. She says, “All of us have places where our souls need to be fathered.” Yes. Yes, we do.
Even as grown women. Even as moms, leaders, creators, doers, and fixers. Even as faith-filled, Scripture-loving women — we can carry orphan places inside us. And God invites us to bring those places into His hands — like clay on the Potter’s wheel.
1. Let God Father the Parts of You That Feel Alone
Tessa shared something that stopped me in my tracks: “There are aspects of our hearts, even if we’ve never been orphaned, where we feel like it’s up to me. I have to carry the weight.”
I felt that deeply. I didn’t know my biological father growing up, and my stepdad was distant. I learned early: Figure it out. Make it happen. Don’t need anyone. But that’s not kingdom identity. That’s survival. And survival isn’t our inheritance — sonship and daughterhood are.
John 14:18 says, “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”
Sometimes spiritual growth isn’t about trying harder — it’s about letting God hold the places that feel unheld.
2. Stop Rejecting the Way God Made You
In the novel, Sazana (the potter) wrestles with insecurity about how God designed her — quiet, deep-thinking, slower to speak. She even wishes she were different. And Esther tells her: “Never reject your creation,” as shared by Tessa Afshar.
I teared up. Because how many of us critique our own design?
“I talk too slow.”
“I feel too much.”
“I’m not as bold as her.”
“I should be further along by now.”
Sister, He didn’t mess up making you!
“We are the clay, and You are our potter; we are all the work of Your hand.”
—Isaiah 64:8
The unique way you think, feel, process, create, mother, minister, love — it is on purpose and for purpose.
3. Trust God in the “Waiting Months”
The Royal Artisan is set in the months between danger announced and danger arriving — a long, anxious waiting period. Tessa explained,“There were months where the Jews were waiting, thinking of all the fearful things that could happen.”
Can you relate? Waiting on God to move. Waiting on answers. Waiting on healing, clarity, provision, breakthrough. Esther didn’t just wait — she strengthened people’s faith in the in-between. And we can too.
“Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.”
—Corrie ten Boom
4. Remember: You Are Never a Late Bloomer to God
I loved it when Tessa laughingly said, “I’m just a late bloomer.” She thought she’d write Jane Austen-style novels. God had other plans: Persian palaces, Esther’s court, deep biblical truth.
I’ve had many moments like that—plans I thought were God’s, only to find out He was shaping me for something unexpected all along. Just like clay, our timelines are not mistakes. They are formation.
“Watch to see where God is working — and join Him.”
—Henry Blackaby
You are not behind. You are being formed.
5. Healing Comes With Humor, Hope, and Holy Ground
One thing I love about Tessa is her balance — she said: “There’s enough sorrow in the world… I love humor and happy endings.”
God is not allergic to your laughter while He heals you. He is not threatened by your tears. He fathers you in both. Even in the refining fire.
“Consider it pure joy… knowing the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” —James 1:2–3
And oh — that second-chance love story! I smiled when Tessa said readers would think: “There’s no way they can get out of this.” Aren’t those the best stories?
Where redemption sneaks in sideways and love resurrects what looked dead? Because our God writes those kinds of endings.
“I’ve read the last page of the Bible. It’s all going to turn out all right.”
—Billy Graham
And not just on the last page — but on the last page of your story too.
A Daughter’s Prayer
Father, I bring You the parts of me that feel tired, alone, unsure, or unseen. Shape me. Steady me. Teach my heart again that I am not an orphan — I am Yours. Help me stop rejecting the way You made me. Make beauty in my waiting. And Father… thank You that we always get a redeemed ending with You. Amen.
If You Need a Novel That Feels Like a Handheld Lantern…
Pick up The Royal Artisan by Tessa Afshar.
It’s biblical fiction that feels like:
- soul-restoring truth
- rich spiritual metaphor
- emotional healing
- female friendship
- quiet courage
- second-chance love
- laughter and hope
- and that Father-God tenderness we all crave
A story that shapes us while entertaining us — just like the Potter does. And yes — I’ll be listening to the audiobook while unpacking more boxes.
1. Want to go deeper in grace and healing?
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4. Want to read a great novel?
Pick up The Royal Artisan by Tessa Afshar.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
December 8
Ephesians 5:15-6:23, Colossians 1:1-23
Equipped for the Mission
Living Wisely in Christ (Ephesians 5:15-33)
Paul continues his encouragement to the Ephesians by explaining how the Gospel should impact their daily lives, especially their relationships. He begins by urging believers to live wisely and be filled with the Spirit, which overflows into giving thanks and submitting to one another.
Husbands and Wives:
Ephesians 5 highlights how Spirit-filled living transforms marriage. Submission isn’t about inferiority but about mutual respect and aligning with God’s mission for marriage.
Paul writes, “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21).
For wives, this means trusting their husbands to lead with Christ-like care. For husbands, the responsibility is even greater: to love their wives as Christ loves the Church, sacrificially and selflessly. Marriage reflects the divine relationship between Christ and His Church, showing love, unity, and humility.
The Armor of God (Ephesians 6)
After building up the Ephesians, Paul reminds them of the spiritual battle they face. The Christian life is not without conflict, but God provides everything we need to stand firm.
Paul introduces the armor of God:
- Belt of Truth: Grounded in the truth of God’s Word, we’re ready for battle.
- Body Armor of Righteousness: Protecting our hearts, we stand in Christ’s righteousness.
- Shoes of Peace: These give us readiness and stability to share the Gospel of peace.
- Shield of Faith: Defends against the fiery arrows of doubt and temptation.
- Helmet of Salvation: Guards our minds with the assurance of salvation.
- Sword of the Spirit: The Word of God is our offensive weapon, powerful and precise.
Paul emphasizes prayer as the glue that holds this armor together. Through prayer, we remain vigilant, prepared, and connected to God, who equips us for battle.
The Supremacy of Christ (Colossians 1:1-23)
Colossians begins with Paul’s prayer of thanksgiving for the believers and his reminder of who Christ is:
- Christ is the image of the invisible God and the Creator of all things.
- He is before all things and holds all things together.
- Christ is the head of the Church and the first to rise from the dead, reconciling us to God through His blood.
This passage reminds us of Christ’s supremacy and His power to transform lives. Paul urges the Colossians to stay grounded in the truth of the Gospel, avoiding false teachings.
Word of the Day: Armor
Definition: Protective covering worn in battle, representing the spiritual defense God gives believers.
Equipped for Battle
As believers, we are in a spiritual battle against forces of darkness. Paul’s message in Ephesians 6 is clear: we cannot fight this battle alone. God equips us with His armor so we can stand firm and live victoriously.
How do we put on the armor of God?
- Stay rooted in truth: Read, know, and live God’s Word.
- Rely on God’s righteousness, not our own.
- Walk in peace, sharing the Gospel boldly.
- Strengthen your faith through trust in God’s promises.
- Guard your mind with the assurance of salvation.
- Use Scripture as your weapon against lies and temptation.
- Pray constantly, staying connected to God’s power and guidance.
In the mission God has for our lives, we are not individuals fighting alone. We are a unified body, submitting to God’s authority and working together for His Kingdom.
December 9
Colossians 1:24-29, Colossians 2-4
The Power of Letters
The Mystery Revealed (Colossians 1:24-29 & 2)
Paul shifts his focus to share about his personal ministry and the profound mystery of the Gospel. Even while suffering in chains, Paul rejoices in his mission: to proclaim Christ to both Jews and Gentiles. This mystery, now revealed, is Christ Himself:
“Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27).
Paul emphasizes that true wisdom and knowledge are not hidden in secret doctrines or traditions but are fully accessible in Jesus Christ.
He warns the Colossians against false teachers, urging them to grow in their faith and remain rooted in Christ:
“Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him” (Colossians 2:7).
Paul’s encouragement reminds us that Christ has set us free, canceling our spiritual debt and breaking the power of sin.
Set Your Mind on Things Above (Colossians 3)
Paul transitions to practical Christian living, encouraging believers to set their minds on heavenly things and shed their old sinful ways.
He instructs us to clothe ourselves with virtues that reflect Christ’s character:
- Compassion
- Kindness
- Humility
- Forgiveness
- Love
“Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony” (Colossians 3:14).
Paul also addresses relationships within families and workplaces, urging unity and a spirit of service in all we do:
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters” (Colossians 3:23).
Devoted to Prayer & Encouragement (Colossians 4)
Paul concludes his letter with a call to prayer:
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful” (Colossians 4:2).
He urges believers to seize every opportunity to share the Gospel and interact with grace and wisdom. Paul’s personal greetings show his deep care for his fellow workers and the Church, encouraging mutual support and unity in the faith.
Word of the Day: Letter
Definition: A written message, often formal, meant to instruct, encourage, or inform.
The Power of Letters
Paul’s epistles, written from prison, remind us of the profound impact of words penned with purpose. These letters offered encouragement, correction, and spiritual insight to early believers, and they continue to guide us today.
Think of the last heartfelt letter you received—perhaps from a mentor, a parent, or a close friend. The written words likely carried deep meaning, offering guidance or encouragement you’ve held onto.
Paul’s letters are like this: a blend of love, correction, and inspiration. They reflect a heart anchored in Christ, even amid trials. Receiving a letter from Paul must have felt like water to a thirsty soul—words to read, reread, and cherish.
Take inspiration from Paul:
- Write letters or messages of encouragement to others.
- Anchor your thoughts in Christ, sharing wisdom and guidance.
- Offer prayers and blessings for their growth in faith.
Even in our digital age, a heartfelt message can uplift and inspire. Like Paul’s epistles, our words can carry hope and truth that outlast the moment.
December 10
Philemon 1, Philippians 1, 2:1-11
Showing Christ’s Love Through Friendship
A Letter of Reconciliation (Philemon 1)
The book of Philemon, though brief, carries a powerful message of forgiveness, love, and the transforming power of faith. Written by Paul during his imprisonment, it is a personal plea to Philemon, a Christian leader, regarding Onesimus, a runaway slave who became a believer and was assisting Paul.
Paul appeals to Philemon to welcome Onesimus back—not as a slave but as a brother in Christ. Paul even offers to take on any debt Onesimus owes, demonstrating Christ-like humility and sacrifice. This letter reminds us of the heart of the Gospel: reconciliation and love that transcends social and cultural boundaries.
Encouragement from Prison (Philippians 1)
Paul’s letter to the Philippians overflows with encouragement and gratitude. Despite his imprisonment, Paul focuses on the advancement of the Gospel, rejoicing that his chains have emboldened others to preach Christ.
He challenges believers to live with an eternal perspective:
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21).
This perspective allows Paul to rejoice in both life and death, knowing that Christ is glorified either way.
Paul’s humility is evident as he refrains from competing with others in ministry. Instead, he emphasizes unity and partnership in spreading the Gospel. His joy and gratitude for the Philippians’ support reflect the deep bond of friendship and fellowship within the body of Christ.
The Humility of Christ (Philippians 2:1-11)
Paul encourages believers to live in unity, humility, and love, following the example of Jesus:
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3).
The ultimate example of humility is Christ Himself, who emptied Himself, took the form of a servant, and became obedient to death on a cross. Because of this, God exalted Him above all, so that at the name of Jesus, every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.
This passage invites us to live in humility and service, reflecting Christ’s sacrificial love.
Word of the Day: Friendship
Definition: A state of enduring affection, esteem, intimacy, and trust between two people.
What We Learn About Friendship in These Readings
Cherish Your Friends
Paul’s letter to Philemon demonstrates the importance of cherishing friendships within the faith. He cared deeply for Philemon and Onesimus, valuing their relationship in Christ.
Expand the Gospel Through Care
Paul’s commitment to the Gospel extended to both friends and strangers. His struggles didn’t deter him from sharing Christ’s message. His care for the Philippians and others reflects how we should value people’s spiritual needs, whether we know them personally or not.
Avoid Competition
Paul’s perspective on ministry emphasizes humility and collaboration. Instead of competing with others, he rejoices in their success, demonstrating a spirit of unity that we should emulate in all areas of our lives.
Model Christ in Friendship
Living as Christ did means approaching our relationships with humility, selflessness, and love. Christ is the ultimate example of a true Friend—sacrificing everything for those He loves.
Trust in the Name of Jesus
Friendship with Christ empowers us to be better friends to others. His name holds unmatched power and authority, and living in submission to Him allows us to honor Him in our relationships and our lives.
December 11
Philippians 2:12-4:23
Rejoice in the Lord Always
Work Out Your Salvation (Philippians 2:12-30)
Paul encourages the Philippians to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, emphasizing that their lives should reflect the saving work of Christ. He reminds them to do everything without grumbling or arguing, so they may shine like stars in a dark world.
Paul commends Timothy and Epaphroditus as examples of humility and selflessness, who serve as living examples of Christ’s story. Through their actions, they demonstrate how to live faithfully in the midst of challenges.
Pressing On Toward the Goal (Philippians 3)
Paul warns the Philippians about those who put confidence in the flesh and shares his own credentials, which he now considers worthless compared to knowing Christ. His primary goal is to gain Christ and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of his own, but one that comes through faith.
Paul urges believers to press on toward Christlikeness and focus on heavenly things, leaving behind worldly concerns. His example challenges us to pursue Christ wholeheartedly and with an eternal perspective.
Rejoice in the Lord Always (Philippians 4)
Paul calls for reconciliation within the Philippian church, urging Euodia and Syntyche to agree in the Lord. He exhorts believers to rejoice in the Lord always, replacing anxiety with prayer and gratitude.
He encourages them to fix their thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. This disciplined thinking allows believers to experience the peace of God, which guards their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Paul thanks the Philippians for their generosity, reminding them that God supplies all our needs through Christ.
Word of the Day: Rejoice
Definition: Feel or show great joy or delight.
What We Learn About Rejoicing in These Readings
Rejoice Always, Regardless of Circumstances
Paul’s life shows us that joy is not dependent on circumstances. Imprisoned and facing hardship, Paul still rejoices because of the eternal hope found in Christ. His perspective challenges us to cultivate joy by focusing on God’s sovereignty and promises.
Replace Anxiety with Prayer and Gratitude
Paul urges the Philippians to turn their worries into prayers. By presenting our requests to God with thanksgiving, we can exchange our anxiety for His peace.
Think on What is True
Rejoicing is rooted in focusing our minds on what is good, pure, and worthy of praise. We guard our hearts and cultivate lasting joy by aligning our thoughts with God’s truth.
Support Others with Joy
Paul thanks the Philippians for their generosity, showing that rejoicing also involves sharing our blessings and encouraging one another. Joy grows as we serve others and partner in the Gospel.
Let us follow Paul’s example and live lives marked by rejoicing in the Lord, no matter what comes our way.
December 12
James 1:1-3:18
Every Perfect Gift Comes From Above
A Practical Faith for Real Life (James 1)
James, the half-brother of Jesus, wrote this powerful and practical letter to challenge how we live as Christians. He doesn’t sugarcoat his message but dives straight into the realities of living out our faith. James reminds us that life’s hardships are opportunities for growth. Trials, though painful, produce perseverance and character, shaping us into the likeness of Christ.
God is the giver of all good and perfect gifts, including wisdom. If you’re struggling, ask Him. But remember, true faith is not just hearing God’s Word—it’s doing it. James teaches that genuine faith cares for the most vulnerable, like orphans and widows, and refuses to show favoritism.
Faith in Action (James 2)
Faith without works is dead. That’s the message James drives home in Chapter 2. He challenges us to demonstrate our faith through loving actions, using the example of meeting practical needs. Genuine faith must be evident in how we live, not just in what we claim to believe.
The Power of the Tongue (James 3)
James paints a vivid picture of the tongue’s destructive potential, comparing it to a fire that can set an entire forest ablaze. He calls us to use our words wisely, for praising God and building others up—not for cursing or tearing them down.
Word of the Day: Perfect
Definition: Entirely without fault or defect; flawless.
James frequently uses the word “perfect” to describe a life of spiritual wholeness and maturity. He reminds us that perfection is found in God alone. Every perfect gift comes from above, given by our unchanging Father.
What We Learn About God’s Perfect Gifts:
- Every Perfect Gift Reflects God’s Character
God’s gifts are pure and good, stemming from His perfect nature. - Perfect Gifts Lead to Growth
Trials may not feel like gifts, but they refine our faith and draw us closer to Christ. - God Gives Wisdom Freely
When we lack understanding, we can turn to God, who gives generously to those who ask in faith.
How We Can Respond:
- Seek Wholeness in Christ: Allow Him to transform your life through His Word and Spirit.
- Use Your Words Wisely: Speak life, encouragement, and truth into the lives of others.
- Show Your Faith Through Action: Let your life reflect the love and mercy of Christ.
Remember, we serve a God on a mission to restore His children. Let’s live out our faith boldly, giving thanks for His good and perfect gifts and sharing His love with the world.
December 13
James 4:1-5:20, 1 Timothy 1:1-2:15
Confession Brings Healing
In James 4, we are confronted with the roots of quarrels and conflicts among believers. James points out that these often stem from selfish desires and misplaced loyalties. “You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it,” James writes, reminding us that friendship with the world makes us enemies of God.
Instead, James calls us to humbly submit to God and resist the devil:
"So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world." (James 4:7-8)
James also warns against speaking evil of others and challenges us to align our actions with what we know is right:
“Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.” (James 4:17)
In James 5, the focus shifts to the responsibility of the wealthy and the patience required in suffering. He calls for prayer, faith, and confession:
"Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results." (James 5:16)
In 1 Timothy 1-2, Paul addresses Timothy, his young co-worker, encouraging him to remain steadfast in the truth amidst false teachings. Paul reminds Timothy of the importance of humility and reliance on God:
"Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst." (1 Timothy 1:15)
Paul’s instruction on worship and behavior highlights the importance of reverence, dignity, and respect in our interactions with others, encouraging a posture of humility and unity.
Word of the Day: Confess
Definition: To admit or state that one has committed a fault or is at fault in some way.
What Today’s Reading Teaches Us About Confession
- Confession is an Invitation to Grace:
Humbling ourselves before God allows His grace to flow into our brokenness. Confession opens the door to forgiveness and healing, both personal and communal. - Confession is Healing:
James emphasizes that confessing to others leads to restoration. Vulnerability in admitting our faults brings accountability and encouragement in our walk with Christ. - Confession Requires Courage:
Paul’s confession of being the “worst of sinners” is a reminder that God’s mercy is limitless. Confession demands that we trust God’s ability to forgive and transform us. - Practical Steps to Confession:
- Reflect on your heart and actions.
- Confess to God in prayer, pouring out your heart to Him.
- Confess to others when appropriate, seeking reconciliation and accountability.
Confession is not about weakness—it’s about faith. It’s an acknowledgment of God’s ability to forgive, restore, and use us for His glory. Take a moment today to reflect on what you need to lay before Him and seek the freedom that comes with confession.
December 14
1 Timothy 3:1-6:10
Nourished by the Word
Paul’s letter to Timothy is filled with wisdom and practical guidance for the church in Ephesus. As Timothy receives this letter, Paul provides instructions for selecting leaders, fostering godliness, and addressing challenges in the church.
Qualifications for Leaders (1 Timothy 3)
Paul emphasizes that church leaders must live lives of integrity. Elders and deacons should be above reproach, self-controlled, wise, hospitable, and able to teach. They must manage their households well and demonstrate respectability in all areas of life.
These qualifications underscore the importance of spiritual maturity and the impact of a godly example in leadership. Leaders set the tone for the church, and their lives should reflect the teachings of Christ.
The Mystery of Godliness (1 Timothy 4)
Paul warns Timothy about false teachers who promote legalism and traditions over the truth of the Gospel. He encourages Timothy to stay nourished by faith and good teaching, reminding him of the transformative power of God’s Word:
"If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters, Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message of faith and the good teaching you have followed." (1 Timothy 4:6)
Paul highlights the importance of training in godliness, noting that while physical training has value, spiritual training is eternally beneficial.
Caring for Others (1 Timothy 5)
Paul provides guidance on how to care for widows, emphasizing the responsibility of families to support their own. He also warns against enabling idleness and encourages the church to support widows who have demonstrated faithfulness and service.
Godliness with Contentment (1 Timothy 6)
Paul closes by warning against the love of money, which he describes as the root of all evil:
"Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth." (1 Timothy 6:6)
This powerful reminder encourages believers to prioritize eternal treasures over worldly gain.
Word of the Day: Nourished
Definition: The food or other substances necessary for growth, health, and good condition.
Lessons on Nourishment from Today’s Reading
Nourishment Guides Priorities:
Godliness with contentment is a great gain. Being nourished by faith helps us place kingdom matters above the pursuit of wealth, reminding us of what truly satisfies.
Nourishment through God’s Word:
Paul tells Timothy to stay rooted in the truth, finding strength and wisdom in Scripture. Like Jesus in the wilderness, we, too, are nourished by every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4).
Nourishment Fuels Leadership:
Leaders who are nourished in faith and good teaching can guide the church with wisdom and integrity, setting a strong example for others.
Nourishment Empowers Service:
Caring for others—like widows and those in need—flows from spiritual nourishment. When we are strengthened by God’s Word, we are equipped to serve others.
