As the morning sun rises over the rolling hills of Tennessee, a voice rings out, carrying with it the soulful melodies of faith and inspiration. That voice belongs to none other than Dolly Parton, a living legend whose faith has been the guiding light in her extraordinary life and career. While she may look like a star-studded Barbie doll, Dolly’s heart is sincere and her faith is authentic. We take this opportunity to highlight her faith, and to encourage our readers to cover this influential icon in prayer.

Growing up, Dolly was raised in a devout Christian family that instilled in her the values of love, compassion, and service to others. She grew up in a Pentecostal household where her grandfather, Reverend Jake Owens, ensured that the family grew up in a religious environment. Hymns and gospel music helped shape Parton’s understanding of music. “I believe that through God, I can do everything … and that’s why so many of my songs have an inspirational feeling,” Parton said. She has never been shy about discussing her faith and relationship with God. “People say, ‘Well, I am surprised that you talk about your faith,’ and I say, ‘Why not? That’s who I am. That’s what keeps me going,’” she explains…

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The call to be bold is by no means an easy one: In a culture that is increasingly hostile towards the Christian worldview, many struggle with feelings of anxiety, doubt, and fear. Maybe you can relate. In this feature, we share the stories of five courageous characters in the Bible to inspire us with boldness.

At the end of the day, having courage is possible for everyone. Being brave doesn’t mean we have no fears. It’s about choosing to act anyway, even when we are afraid. But how can we make this difficult choice? Beyond biblical examples that encourage us, pray for God’s help. That was what the disciples did in Acts 4. Their prayers were answered as “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly” (Acts 4:31). Let’s be intentional in turning to God and His Word – that we may be bold and brave in everything we do for Him!

…to read these answers, pick up a copy of the latest issue of JOY, which is now on sale nationwide in all leading supermarkets!

While I was working on this sketch, I felt the need to add the image of a broken flowerpot. In Afrikaans there is a saying, “Blom waar jy geplant is” – which means “flower where you are planted”. When you plant a fruit tree in a pot, initially it grows and thrives – it may even flower and bear some fruit – but there comes a time when the pot you planted it in becomes too small for this plant. If the plant is not replanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground, it will stop growing, stop flowering, and stop producing fruit.

You may find yourself in a season where you have grown comfortable in your own pot. You may have accomplished everything you were called to do, and God may have told you that it’s time to move on, but your comfort makes you unwilling to move. God wants you to grow and He knows that there will come a time when the pot you are in may begin to stunt your growth and stop you from bearing fruit.

…to read these answers, pick up a copy of the latest issue of JOY, which is now on sale nationwide in all leading supermarkets!

The Word warns us that as time goes on there will be a departure from faith in the world due to “deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons” (1 Tim 4:1). Another translation describes the doctrines as “demonic illusions put forth by professional liars” (MSG). Paul warns believers against being naïve and writes about people who will “make a show of religion, but behind the scenes, they are animals” (2 Tim 3:5). He instructs believers to “stay clear of such people”.

Many people are being led astray and have backslidden in their faith. This is the result of trusting individuals who have portrayed themselves to be sheep and shepherds but in reality, were ravenous wolves in disguise. Here are some useful tips on how to stay alert, vigilant, and out of the claws of wolves…

…to read these answers, pick up a copy of the latest issue of JOY, which is now on sale nationwide in all leading supermarkets!