
Episode #369
When Praise Becomes a Sacrifice: Finding God’s Goodness in the Hard Places with Wendy Speake!
You guys, Wendy Speake is back! Wendy first joined me way back on Episode 99 to talk about The 40-Day Feast , and almost 300 episodes later, we are sitting down again to talk about her newest book, A Sacrifice of Praise and Thanksgiving: 30 Days of Rejoicing in God's Goodness . And this conversation challenged me in the best way. How often do we come to God with our list? God, help me. God, fix this. God, provide. God, change this situation. There is absolutely nothing wrong with asking God for what we need. But what might happen in our hearts if, for a season, we set down the asking and simply focused on who God is and why He is worthy of our praise? Wendy and I talk about her “Ask Fast,” choosing praise when it doesn't come naturally, walking honestly through life, resisting the temptation to spiritually bypass our pain, and why authenticity matters in our relationship with God. We also talk about gratitude in seasons of loss, the importance of community, and how Scripture can reorient our hearts when circumstances haven't changed. One of my favorite reminders from this conversation? If all you have is Jesus, anchor there. Whether praise is overflowing today or it takes every bit of strength you have to offer it, God is still worthy. Listen now to this episode of the Anchored by the Sword Podcast. Bio: Whether on the stage or on the page, Wendy Speake ministers to women’s hearts through storytelling and biblical life application. With a background in Hollywood as a trained actress, she couples the power of God’s Word with personal testimony. Known for the uncanny way she meets women in their most common struggles, from sugar-addiction and mommy-anger to deep soul-sadness, Wendy uses every opportunity to point readers to the transforming power of God’s Word and the faithful nearness of His Holy Spirit. Wendy is the author of multiple books, including The 40-Day Sugar Fast, The 40-Day Social Media Fast, and The 40-Day Feast. She’s also coauthor of the popular parenting books, Triggers, Parenting Scripts, and Life Creative. Though originally a California girl, Wendy now lives in the great state of Texas. When she isn’t ministering to others, Wendy enjoys gardening, taking walks in her neighborhood, and fixing meals for family and friends. Anchor Verses: Psalm 100 Psalm 119:11 Hebrews 13:15 Connect with Wendy: Website: https://wendyspeake.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/wendy_speake FB: https://www.facebook.com/WendyJSpeake/ **And if this conversation encourages you, please rate, review and share it with someone who needs this reminder today. Also, head to Wendy’s website to sign up for a special 30-Day group she is leading through the month of November to focus on giving God our Praise and Thanksgiving.** *** Anchored in His Promises Women’s Workshop — November 14, 2026 Join us for a powerful day of worship, encouragement, connection, and truth as we remind our hearts that God is faithful to every promise He makes. Anchored in His Promises is happening Saturday, November 14, from 9:00 AM–3:30 PM , featuring incredible speakers, practical teaching, and time to dig deeper into what it means to hold onto God’s promises no matter what season you are in. Learn more and grab your ticket at Anchored in His Promises Women's Workshop






