From Striving to Surrender - Hayley Braun (live at Meant For More) on Strength, Surrender, and the Holy Spirit’s Power
Introduction:
Welcome to another powerful episode of the Meant For More Podcast! In Episode 158, host Charity Majors shares an incredibly special and deeply personal session featuring Hayley Braun, overseer of the Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry and author of “Surrendered to the Holy Spirit.” This episode is a live recording from one of Charity’s women’s ministry events, where Hayley’s message had a lasting impact. Hayley bravely shares her journey of battling the world’s expectations, overcoming the “imposter syndrome,” embracing her God-given identity as a woman, and learning what true surrender looks like. Her testimony is raw, real, and full of invitations for listeners to step into God’s strength, especially in seasons of weakness and transition. You’ll find encouragement, practical wisdom, and even a time of prophetic ministry as Hayley prays over the women gathered—and you as well.
Key Timestamps:
[00:00:05] Introduction to Hayley Braun
Charity introduces Hayley and shares why this message is being re-released in this season.[00:06:00] Women and the Struggle for Identity
Hayley shares about the challenges women face navigating roles, expectations, and the “constellation of contradictions” society places on them.[00:14:16] Biblical Empowerment – The True Meaning of ‘Helper’
Hayley unpacks the Hebrew word “ezer kenegdo” and what it means for women to be designed as powerful rescuers and contributors—not passive sidekicks.[00:25:06] The Power Perfected in Weakness
Hayley recounts her journey through exhaustion, burnout, and her daughter’s Down syndrome diagnosis, revealing how surrendering to the Holy Spirit changed her life.[00:33:09] Breaking Free from the Fear of Man
Listen as Hayley details the encounter that broke the stronghold of striving and the steps she took to fully surrender to God’s leading.[00:50:39] Abiding, Not Striving
A reminder that bearing fruit comes from abiding in God, not from striving or performing.[00:53:46] Prophetic Ministry & Closing Prayer
Hayley prays a powerful prayer of surrender and releases a prophetic word over a listener, encouraging all to yield their weaknesses to God’s strength.
Key Takeaways:
You are not alone in struggling with the tension between who you “should” be and who God created you to be. Hayley’s honest reflections remind us that this is a universal struggle, especially for women.
Biblical femininity is brave and strong. The word “helper” in Genesis is the same word used of God’s rescuing strength, not a diminished role.
Weakness is not a liability. God’s greatest power is displayed in your places of greatest need and dependence.
Surrender invites supernatural empowerment. Hayley’s testimony is a roadmap for letting go of striving and stepping into the true, life-changing power of the Holy Spirit.
Community matters. You don’t have to fight for your place or calling alone. Gatherings, events, and prophetic ministry can play a pivotal role in your journey.
God’s grace is the foundation of fruitfulness. It’s all about abiding in Him, not hitting a list of requirements.
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Hayley Braun’s book: Surrendered to the Holy Spirit
Online course by Hayley Braun: haileybraun.com
Learn more & register for future women's ministry events: wearemeantformore.com (see the Events tab)
Watch the video version and connect on YouTube (search Meant for More Podcast on YouTube)
Follow Charity Majors and stay updated on retreats, Encounter Nights, and conferences at the website above.
If you feel stirred by this message, be sure to check out Hayley’s resources, sign up for future events, and join the growing community of women saying YES to God. God’s not done yet—and neither are you.