What if spiritual growth isn’t about trying harder—but about training in grace?
We’ve all heard the phrase, “If at first you don’t succeed, try harder.” But sometimes trying harder only leaves us more frustrated—praying the same prayers, repeating the same struggles, and wondering why nothing seems to change.
Trying vs. Training in Grace
Grace offers a different path. Instead of performance, it invites formation. Instead of striving, it calls us into training.
In this episode, Jennifer talks with Kyle Waid, Lead Pastor of New Circle Church in Lexington, Kentucky, about the difference between trying and training in the Christian life. Kyle is passionate about helping people know Jesus, find community, and live out their God-given purpose rooted in grace.
Rhythms for Training in Grace
Together, we talk about:
- The difference between trying harder and training for spiritual formation
- Why growth is more like marathon training than quick improvement
- How to navigate setbacks without quitting
- Taking the inward journey during seasons of change and transition
- Running your own race and embracing the cost of training
- Practical spiritual rhythms that help us grow in grace over time
Using the marathon metaphor, this conversation reframes spiritual maturity as a long, faithful process—putting in the “reps” of grace rather than chasing perfection.
If you feel stuck in your spiritual growth, discouraged by repeated failures, or exhausted from trying harder, this episode will encourage you to lean into a grace-shaped way forward.
💬 Training in Grace Quotes from Kyle Waid:
“You don’t try to be Christlike, you train.” “This is what pleases God–when you’re dependent on Him and his grace ot grace you in your weakness.” “The whole idea with grace is do what you can. Let God do what you can’t.”