Freedom Forever

About Freedom Forever

Freedom Forever is a bite-sized Bible podcast for women who want real freedom - freedom from stress, shame, addiction, fear, and anything else that keeps you feeling stuck. I’m Lee Rust, founder of Freedom Forever Ministries, and after 25+ years of sharing God’s Word with women behind bars, I’ve learned one thing: you don’t have to be locked up to feel like a prisoner. In each episode, I’ll help you understand and apply God’s Word to your life in a way that sets you free - forever.

Publisher

Lee Rust

Category

religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

14 Oct 2025

Latest episode

26 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   26 Sept 2026

   14. Prayer Over Panic

   Have you ever felt like God was speaking directly to you, in a way too specific to be coincidence? In this episode of the Freedom Forever Podcast, Lee Rust shares a personal testimony from a season of transition and worry, selling the family business after 40 years and facing scary new health symptoms with her husband. In the early morning hours, two days before a difficult doctor's appointment, Lee heard Psalm 55:22 spoken over her: "Cast your burden upon the Lord, and He will sustain you." What followed was a series of confirmations she couldn't have orchestrated herself, from a devotional on panic versus trust, to her pastor's own weekly theme titled "Prayer Over Panic." This episode walks through Matthew 14 and Peter stepping out onto the water, illustrating what happens when we take our eyes off Jesus and start to sink in fear. Lee shows how God's intimacy isn't reserved for the dramatic, He meets us in ordinary mornings, quiet devotionals, and the small, repeated whispers that remind us we are known. You'll be encouraged to trust God in your own seasons of uncertainty, to cast your burdens on Him instead of scurrying to fix things yourself, and to remember that prayer, not panic, is always the right response. 🎧 Listen now and continue your journey toward lasting freedom in Christ. Takeaways: God speaks intimately, even in ordinary mornings, to remind us He knows and sustains us We are called to cast our burdens on the Lord rather than panic or scramble to fix things ourselves Keeping our eyes on Jesus, not our circumstances, keeps us from sinking in fear Chapters: 00:00 A Season of Transition and Testimony 04:50 Cast Your Burden Upon the Lord 11:24 Panic Versus Trust in Oswald Chambers' Devotion 15:47 The Doctor's Appointment 19:04 Prayer Over Panic: A Confirming Word 23:52 Peter Walking on Water in Matthew 14 30:47 Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus

2. 

   28 Aug 2026

   13. Freedom That Starts Within

   Have you ever known a verse by heart but never really looked at what surrounds it? In this episode of the Freedom Forever Podcast, Lee Rust walks through Ephesians chapter 2, verses 1–10, a passage she recently taught inside a women's prison that struck a powerful chord with the class. Lee unpacks what it means to be "dead in trespasses and sins," how we once walked according to the world and indulged the desires of the flesh, and the beautiful turning point of the passage: "But God." This episode explores the depth of God's mercy and grace, what it truly means to be saved by faith and not by works, and how every believer is God's workmanship, created for good works prepared in advance for us to walk in. Lee also shares a moving moment from the prison service, where a woman came forward in tears, uncertain of her salvation after years of silence. You'll be encouraged to reflect on your own moment of being moved from darkness into light, to discover the spiritual gifts God has given you, and to remember that grace is a gift you could never earn. 🎧 Listen now and continue your journey toward lasting freedom in Christ. Takeaways: We were dead in our trespasses and sins, unaware and enslaved to the flesh Salvation is by grace through faith alone, not of works, so no one may boast We are God's workmanship, created for good works prepared beforehand for us to walk in Chapters: 00:00 Recreating a Message from the Prison 02:24 Ephesians 2:1–3: Dead in Trespasses and Sins 07:15 The Day You Were Saved 12:06 Raised and Seated with Christ 13:07 Defining Grace 17:13 Created for Good Works 20:48 Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts 25:14 A Moment of Weeping and Uncertainty 29:56 Moving from Darkness into Light

3. 

   13 May 2026

   12. Abiding in the True Vine

   Spring is a season of growth, and what if the same is true for your faith? In this episode of the Freedom Forever Podcast, Lee Rust connects the beauty of new life in nature with what it means to grow spiritually through God’s Word. As plants are pruned to become healthier and more fruitful, Lee explains how God works in our lives in much the same way: shaping, refining, and drawing us closer to Him. Walking through John chapter 15 and the powerful “I AM” statements, this episode focuses on what it truly means to abide in Christ—not just in theory, but in everyday life. Because lasting joy and real freedom don’t come from striving. They come from staying connected to the One who gives life. You’ll be encouraged to embrace the process of growth, trust God in the pruning, and remember that fruitfulness is the result of surrender, not effort. 🎧 Listen now and continue your journey toward lasting freedom in Christ. Takeaways: True freedom is rooted in God’s Word Abiding in Christ produces lasting joy and fruit Growth often requires surrender and pruning Chapters: 00:00 The Quest for True Freedom 06:14 Engaging with Listeners and International Reach 16:09 Abiding in Christ and Producing Fruit 21:09 The Metaphor of Growth and Surrender

4. 

   24 Apr 2026

   11. Finding Freedom in the Father's Hands

   What does it really mean to live in freedom? And why does it sometimes feel like a process? In this episode of the Freedom Forever Podcast, Lee Rust unpacks the connection between true freedom and Jesus’ teachings in John chapter 15. Through the simple yet powerful image of an African violet, Lee illustrates what it looks like to grow spiritually and stay connected to Christ. Just like a plant needs intentional care to thrive, our faith requires us to remain rooted in Him. This episode explores how abiding in Christ brings lasting peace, and how the process of pruning, though sometimes uncomfortable, is essential for real growth and fruitfulness. You’ll be encouraged to see your own spiritual journey through a new lens: one that embraces both the beauty and the refining that comes with following Jesus. Because freedom in Christ isn’t just a moment. It’s something we grow into as we stay connected to Him. 🎧 Listen now and continue your journey toward lasting freedom in Christ. Takeaways: Freedom in Christ brings lasting peace Abiding in Christ leads to growth and fruitfulness Pruning is a necessary part of spiritual growth

5. 

   2 Apr 2026

   Easter 2026 Special

   In this episode of the Freedom Forever Podcast, Lee Rust unpacks the true meaning of Easter—and the powerful connection between the Old Testament Passover and Jesus as the ultimate Passover Lamb. Through Scripture, Lee walks through the significance of Jesus’ crucifixion and the sacrificial nature of His death, revealing how this moment wasn’t random—it was part of God’s perfect plan from the very beginning. This episode highlights the beauty of God’s design and the depth of His love, showing how everything points to one truth: true freedom is found in surrendering to Jesus. Because Easter isn’t just a story. It's an invitation. An invitation to lay down control, trust in Him fully, and experience the kind of freedom that only comes through Christ. 🎧 Listen now and continue your journey toward lasting freedom in Christ.

6. 

   28 Mar 2026

   10. When the Broken Find Jesus

   In this episode of the Freedom Forever Podcast, Lee Rust unpacks what it truly means to experience real freedom in Christ—and why so many still feel trapped, even when they believe. Through a powerful look at Scripture, Lee explores the weight of sin, the transforming power of forgiveness, and the deep need for restoration in our lives. This episode dives into how isolation, judgment, and shame can keep us stuck—but also how faith, surrender, and worship can lead us back to true freedom. You’ll be reminded that freedom isn’t found in striving or perfection, but in fully trusting God, receiving His forgiveness, and walking in it daily. Because no matter where you’ve been or what you’ve done, restoration is always possible—and freedom is always available. 🎧 Listen now and continue your journey toward lasting freedom in Christ. Takeaways: What true freedom in Christ really looks like The power of faith and surrender How forgiveness leads to healing and restoration Why isolation can keep you stuck—and how to break free Chapters: 00:00 The Quest for True Freedom 05:48 The Forgiveness of Sins 11:32 The Power of Forgiveness 16:48 The Question of Forgiveness 21:58 The Impact of Isolation 27:42 The Mission of Restoration

7. 

   11 Mar 2026

   9. Trusting God Beyond the Things That Fade

   Lee dives into the themes of true freedom in Christ and the contrast between eternal treasures and earthly possessions. This episode explores the impact of earthly treasures, the consequences of earthly desires, the importance of worry and trust in God, God's care for His creation, seeking God's kingdom first, the futility of earthly pursuits, and the concept of serving God vs. the world. 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts and continue the journey toward lasting freedom in Christ. Takeaways True freedom in Christ Eternal treasures vs. earthly possessions Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Freedom in Christ 06:10 The Consequences of Earthly Desires 11:42 God's Care for His Creation 17:11 Seeking God's Kingdom First 25:19 Serving God vs. the World CHAPTERS: 00:00 The Quest for True Freedom 17:10 Signs of Spiritual Struggle 27:50 The Impact of Isolation and Loneliness LINKS THAT ARE WORTH CLICKING: Connect with our ministry on IG: https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/ (https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/) Follow our ministry on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl# (https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl#) Learn more about our ministry: https://freedomforeverministries.com/ (https://freedomforeverministries.com/)

8. 

   28 Feb 2026

   8. Lee's Testimony: Part 2

   In this powerful Part 2 episode of Freedom Forever, Lee Rust continues the conversation about what it truly means to find freedom in Christ — especially in seasons marked by exhaustion, isolation, and spiritual struggle. Building on the foundation laid in Part 1, Lee dives deeper into the story of Elijah, highlighting one of Scripture’s most honest portrayals of desperation and despondency. Elijah, a prophet who had witnessed miraculous victories, still found himself overwhelmed, afraid, and longing to give up. Because even strong believers can experience deep discouragement. This episode explores the warning signs of spiritual struggle, the heavy weight of isolation and loneliness, and the very real experience of hopelessness that can creep in when we feel spiritually drained. But the story doesn’t end in despair. Lee reminds us that true freedom isn’t the absence of hardship — it’s the presence of Christ in the middle of it. Even in moments of exhaustion, God draws near and provides what we need. In this episode, you’ll discover: • What true freedom in Christ really looks like • How Elijah’s story speaks to modern spiritual battles • The warning signs of spiritual struggle and burnout • The impact of isolation and loneliness on our faith • How God meets us in moments of hopelessness and despair If you’ve felt overwhelmed, alone, or spiritually weary, this episode will remind you that you are not forgotten — and that freedom is found in turning back to the One who sustains you. 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts and continue the journey toward lasting freedom in Christ. CHAPTERS: 00:00 The Quest for True Freedom 17:10 Signs of Spiritual Struggle 27:50 The Impact of Isolation and Loneliness LINKS THAT ARE WORTH CLICKING: Connect with our ministry on IG: https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/ (https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/) Follow our ministry on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl# (https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl#) Learn more about our ministry: https://freedomforeverministries.com/ (https://freedomforeverministries.com/)

9. 

   14 Feb 2026

   7. Lee's Testimony: Part 1

   In this heartfelt episode of Freedom Forever, Lee Rust shares a deeply personal conversation about the pursuit of true freedom — not just in theory, but through lived experience. From her ministry calling to unexpected challenges, Lee opens up about caring for traumatized children, navigating the complexities of the legal system, and walking through an unexpected adoption journey. Through it all, she reflects on how Scripture became her anchor and source of strength. Drawing powerful parallels to the story of Elijah, Lee explores what happens when desperation meets divine provision. She reminds listeners that even in seasons of exhaustion, fear, or uncertainty, God’s presence is steady and faithful. In this episode, you’ll discover: • What true freedom looks like through the lens of Scripture • How to recognize God’s presence in the middle of difficult seasons • Encouragement for navigating overwhelming or unexpected challenges • Lessons from Elijah’s story that still apply today • How God provides — even when hope feels thin If you are walking through a hard season or questioning where God is in the middle of it, this episode will remind you that He is closer than you think — and that real freedom is found in trusting Him through the trial. 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts and be encouraged by the faithfulness of God in every season. CHAPTERS: 00:00 The Quest for True Freedom 06:04 Answering the Call 13:14 Navigating the Legal System 20:11 Elijah's Story and Personal Reflection 26:39 Elijah's Desperation and God's Provision LINKS THAT ARE WORTH CLICKING: Connect with our ministry on IG: https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/ (https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/) Follow our ministry on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl# (https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl#) Learn more about our ministry: https://freedomforeverministries.com/ (https://freedomforeverministries.com/)

10. 

    31 Jan 2026

    6. True Freedom Begins in the Spirit

    In this thoughtful episode, Lee Rust—founder and CEO of Freedom Forever Ministries—explores the true meaning of freedom and how God’s Word brings lasting peace and liberation to the believer’s life. Drawing from the book of Romans, Lee unpacks the ongoing struggle between walking in the flesh and walking in the Spirit. She explains how this tension shows up in everyday life and why relying on the Holy Spirit is essential for spiritual growth, clarity, and freedom. Through Scripture and practical teaching, Lee emphasizes how God’s Word equips believers to break free from cycles of fear, frustration, and striving, and instead walk in the peace and power God intended. You’ll learn: What true freedom looks like through the lens of God’s Word The difference between walking in the flesh and walking in the Spirit Why the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in guiding believers daily How Scripture brings lasting peace—not temporary relief How to recognize and step out of patterns that keep you feeling stuck If you’ve been wrestling with spiritual tension, feeling pulled in different directions, or longing for deeper peace, this episode will help ground you in truth and remind you that real freedom is found through a Spirit-led life. Listen now and be encouraged to walk boldly in the freedom God has already made available to you. LINKS THAT ARE WORTH CLICKING: Connect with our ministry on IG: https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/ (https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/) Follow our ministry on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl# (https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl#) Learn more about our ministry: https://freedomforeverministries.com/ (https://freedomforeverministries.com/)

11. 

    24 Dec 2025

    5. The Christmas Story: Part 2

    The episode delves into the true meaning of Christmas, exploring themes of freedom, angelic visits, prophecies, and the humble birth of Jesus. It emphasizes the obedience and faith of Joseph and Mary, as well as the significance of divine dreams and visions. The shepherds' encounter and the prophecies of Simeon and Anna are highlighted, along with a call to share the story of Christmas with others. Takeaways True freedom is found in the Word of God The Christmas story is a testament to obedience and faith Chapters 00:00 Exploring True Freedom 05:17 The Angel's Message to Joseph 10:25 The Revelation of a Dream 15:25 The Shepherds' Obedience 20:45 Simeon's Prophecy 28:39 The Savior's Arrival

12. 

    24 Dec 2025

    4. The Christmas Story: Part 1

    The podcast delves into the true meaning of Christmas and the freedom found in God's Word. It then unveils the Christmas story, focusing on the angel's announcement, Zacharias' doubt, and Mary's faith. Mary's song of praise, her visit to Elizabeth, and the birth of John the Baptist are explored, followed by Zacharias' prophecy and the ministry of John the Baptist. The podcast concludes with closing thoughts and encouragement. Takeaways The true meaning of Christmas is found in the freedom offered by God's Word. The Christmas story reveals the contrast between doubt and faith, and the power of belief in the gospel. Chapters 00:00 The Festive Season and True Freedom 05:47 The Angel's Announcement 11:47 Mary's Song of Praise 18:02 The Birth of John the Baptist 23:58 The Ministry of John the Baptist

13. 

    4 Dec 2025

    3. True Freedom on the Road to Damascus

    n this week’s episode, Lee Rust invites listeners to witness one of the most remarkable turnarounds in all of Scripture: the moment Saul — a fierce persecutor of Christians — meets the living Jesus and is forever changed. With the warmth and wisdom that define her ministry, Lee explores how God’s Word interrupts our lives, redirects our steps, and leads us into true freedom. Lee walks through the story with clarity and compassion, highlighting the dramatic moment Saul encountered Jesus, the obedience required of Ananias, and the encouragement offered by Barnabas. She shows how each of these unlikely characters played a vital role in God’s plan — and how their faith paved the way for Saul’s complete transformation into Paul, one of the greatest proclaimers of the Gospel. You’ll learn: • Why Saul’s encounter with Jesus stands as one of the most life-altering conversions in the New Testament • How obedience — even when it feels risky or uncomfortable — opens the door to God’s miraculous work • Why Ananias and Barnabas matter deeply in this story, and what their faith teaches us today • How God’s Word still breaks chains, softens hearts, and sets people free in ways no human effort can • What this passage reveals about hope, redemption, and the freedom available to anyone who turns toward Christ If you’ve ever felt bound by your past, unsure of your purpose, or hungry for a fresh encounter with God’s transforming power, this episode will encourage your heart and strengthen your faith. Listen now and be reminded: no story is too far gone, no past too broken, and no heart beyond the reach of God’s freedom. LINKS THAT ARE WORTH CLICKING: Connect with our ministry on IG: https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/ (https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/) Follow our ministry on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl# (https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl#) Learn more about our ministry: https://freedomforeverministries.com/ (https://freedomforeverministries.com/)

14. 

    14 Nov 2025

    2. Freedom Among the Tombs

    In this powerful episode, Lee Rust takes listeners deep into one of Scripture’s most gripping stories: the demon-possessed man living among the tombs in Luke 8. Drawing from years of ministering inside prisons, Lee unpacks what true spiritual bondage looks like — and how Jesus brings complete freedom even in the darkest, most hopeless places. Lee walks through the passage slowly and thoughtfully, explaining the cultural context, the reality of demonic oppression, and the shocking transformation that took place the moment Jesus stepped onto the shore. She also shares real-life examples from her prison ministry, showing that spiritual warfare isn’t just a biblical account — it still happens today. You’ll learn: Why this man’s encounter with Jesus is one of the most dramatic rescues in the New Testament What Scripture reveals about demons, spiritual torment, and the “abyss” Why Jesus sent the healed man back home instead of taking him along How God still brings freedom to those who feel trapped, overlooked, or consumed by darkness What Lee has witnessed firsthand inside prison walls — and how the Word of God transforms even the most tormented hearts If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, spiritually attacked, or unsure how to make sense of these deeper topics, this episode will strengthen your faith and open your eyes to the authority and compassion of Jesus. Listen now and be reminded: no chain is too strong, no darkness too deep, and no place too far for the freedom Christ offers. LINKS THAT ARE WORTH CLICKING: 1. Connect with our ministry on IG: https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/ (https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/) Follow our ministry on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl# (https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl#) Learn more about our ministry: https://freedomforeverministries.com/ (https://freedomforeverministries.com/)

15. 

    14 Oct 2025

    1. How to Be Free When Life Feels Like a Prison

    After 25 years of ministering to women behind bars, Lee Rust has learned that freedom begins long before release — and continues long after. In this inaugural episode of the Freedom Forever Podcast, Lee opens her heart about the fears and challenges women face when re-entering society and how the Word of God offers true, lasting peace. She walks listeners through Colossians 2:1-15, showing how to: • Stay rooted in faith when the world feels uncertain • Read and study the Bible in a deeper, more personal way • Recognize the freedom Christ has already given you • Overcome fear, shame, and doubt through spiritual strength Whether you’re rebuilding your life, seeking hope, or simply hungry for a fresh encounter with Scripture, this episode will leave you refreshed, grounded, and reminded that real freedom is found in Him. LINKS THAT ARE WORTH CLICKING: 1. Connect with our ministry on IG: https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/ (https://www.instagram.com/freedomforeverministries/) Follow our ministry on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl# (https://www.facebook.com/FreedomForeverMinistries?ref=hl#) Learn more about our ministry: https://freedomforeverministries.com/ (https://freedomforeverministries.com/)

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

5 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Contact Freedom Forever

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.