What is happiness, really? And how do you find it when life feels messy, unfair, or nothing like you planned?
Welcome to The Collide Podcast Summer Highlight Series!
All summer long, we’re bringing back some of our most impactful episodes — powerful conversations centered around life-changing collisions with Jesus. Whether this is your first time hearing the episode or you’re revisiting an old favorite, each story is filled with hope, healing, and purpose.
This episode originally aired in September 2020 and quickly became one of our most listened-to episodes. In it, Bible teacher and best-selling author Lisa Harper explores what true happiness and joy look like—not in a perfect life, but in the real, raw, and redemptive places where God shows up. From her journey of single motherhood to speaking out on injustice, Lisa shares what it means to live boldly, authentically, and joyfully—right in the middle of the mess.
About This Episode
In this heartfelt and hope-filled conversation, Lisa Harper shares how happiness and joy aren’t found in perfection or predictability—but in God’s presence right in the middle of life’s mess. She opens up about her journey through single motherhood, her passion for justice, and how she’s learned to hold space for both grief and gratitude. Whether you’re wrestling with disappointment, waiting on unanswered prayers, or trying to make sense of a broken world, Lisa reminds us that true joy is not circumstantial—it’s sacred, sustaining, and deeply rooted in the heart of God.
Meet Lisa Harper
Lisa is a renowned preacher, speaker, and author known for her theological richness, sharp wit, and refreshing honesty. With a Master of Theological Studies from Covenant Seminary and over 30 years in ministry, she is passionate about making Scripture accessible and relatable. Lisa is also a single mother through adoption and an advocate for justice, joy, and the beauty found in the messy middle of life.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn
- How Lisa’s adoption journey revealed God’s unconditional love in a new light
- What real joy looks like when life is anything but picture-perfect
- Candid thoughts on racism, injustice, and how the Church can respond
- Why authenticity matters more than appearance in your faith walk
- How to step boldly into your calling even when you feel unqualified
How This Episode Will Encourage You
This conversation will make you laugh, reflect, and see Jesus in a new way. Lisa’s insight and authenticity will encourage you to stop striving for perfection and start showing up in your story with faith, humility, and joy. You’ll be reminded that God meets us right where we are—and that’s exactly where transformation begins.
Collide Women’s Conference - Join us for a powerful one-day event filled with inspiration, connection, and encouragement to help you pursue healing, purpose, and deeper faith.
Yes, You – A Bible study on self-worth to help you move beyond inadequacy and step into your God-given purpose.
A 20-Day Walk Toward Gratitude – Daily reflections, truth-filled prompts, and practical exercises to cultivate a grateful heart.
✨ Learn more and grab your ticket at wecollide.net/conferences
Connect with Lisa Harper - Website | Instagram | Facebook
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