Show Notes

Parenting Series - P3-The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength

Reverends Michele Owes and Diana P. Cherry

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of The Teachable Woman Podcast, Reverends Michele Owes and Diana P. Cherry continue their parenting series with a focus on joy—the fruit of the Spirit that sustains, strengthens, and uplifts us through every season of life. They share personal testimonies, biblical wisdom, and practical encouragement on how joy, unlike fleeting happiness, anchors us in God’s presence and gives us resilience as parents, leaders, and believers.

1. Parenting with Joy, Not Just Duty

Rev. Michele Owes opens by reminding listeners that parenting is stewardship—children are God’s heritage, not our possessions. Beyond discipline and responsibility, parenting should also include joy, laughter, and a spirit of love in the home. Joy creates an atmosphere where children feel safe, cherished, and drawn to God’s presence.

2. Joy in Solitude and Daily Life

Rev. Diana P. Cherry shares her testimony of living alone in her later years, finding joy in simple things—conversation with God, caring for her pets, and fellowship with others at church. She reminds us that joy is not dependent on circumstances or company but is found deep within through God’s Spirit.

3. Joy as Strength in Parenting and Beyond

The hosts emphasize that joy is not superficial happiness but the assurance that life is God-directed. In parenting, when children stray or challenges arise, God's joy becomes their strength. Whether our children are small or grown, parenting continues, and joy equips us to respond with faith instead of despair.

4. Finding Joy in Loss and Grief

Rev. Cherry gives a powerful testimony of losing her husband and learning to manifest joy in the midst of grief. She explains how God turned her pain into a platform to glorify Him, showing that even in devastating circumstances, His joy provides strength to endure and remain a witness of His faithfulness.

5. Modeling Joy and Emotional Stability for Children

Rev. Owes explains that children often learn more from what they see than what they hear. Parents who manage emotions with grace and lean on God’s joy set an example their children will remember in their own storms. We are "Living as “epistles known and read of all men” begins at home.

6. Turning Trials into Testimonies of Joy

Through stories of family loss, addiction, and tragedy, the hosts illustrate how believers can choose joy over bitterness. They highlight testimonies of loved ones who turned grief into ministry, showing that when we allow God to transform our pain, joy becomes a witness to His supernatural power.

7. Living in God’s Presence, the Source of Joy

Quoting Psalm 16:11, “In thy presence is fullness of joy,” the hosts conclude that true joy comes only from God’s presence. They encourage listeners to make space for Him daily—in quiet moments, prayer, or even in the car. In His presence, we are reminded of our worth, our purpose, and our strength.

Summary

This episode of The Teachable Woman Podcast teaches that joy is not just a pleasant feeling but a spiritual anchor that sustains parents, strengthens believers, and glorifies God in every season. Reverends Michele Owes and Diana P. Cherry share deeply personal testimonies of finding joy in laughter, in solitude, in parenting challenges, and even in grief. They remind us that the joy of the Lord is our strength, and it is found not in possessions or people, but in the presence of God. Whether raising children, navigating loss, or facing daily trials, joy equips us to live as faithful witnesses of God’s love and power.