Breakthrough Conversations: Recent Episodes
Danielle Perry
On this podcast, join me, Danielle Perry as I interview people of all ages, who share authentic stories of how they've endured through challenging situations or seasons in their lives, and how they overcame or are on their way to overcoming with God's help.
Revelation 3:15-16 (NKJV) says:I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Joshua 24:15 (NKJV) says:And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Erica Elliott (from Episode 28 - Marriage Series) about her journey with Overcoming Lukewarm Christianity. You will hear about: her perspective of God and herself after getting married, how different her relationship with God is now compared to being lukewarm, how she's maturing in the area of self-centeredness, what she loves most about God, why she wasn't very comfortable in her lukewarm lifestyle, her decision to return to college after dropping out, what she would tell her lukewarm self if she could, wisdom, advice, encouragement for others, and more!
Revelation 3:15-16 (NKJV) says:I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Joshua 24:15 (NKJV) says:And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Erica Elliott (from Episode 28 - Marriage Series) about her journey with Overcoming Lukewarm Christianity. You will hear about: who she was as a young girl, how she dealt with social anxiety/separation, how her Mom established a strong foundation in God when she was young, how things took a turn in her senior year of high school into her 1st year of college, the point in her life when she began drinking and how it affected her, the decision she eventually made to stop drinking and how her life changed for the better, meeting her future husband, Shedrick, around the time she turned her life around, and more!
Listen in for some important updates and upcoming changes to the podcast as well as a brief word of encouragement!
Proverbs 22:6 (KJV) says: Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.Proverbs 11:20-21 (NKJV):Those who are of a perverse heart are an abomination to the Lord, but the blameless in their ways are His delight. Though they join forces, the wicked will not go unpunished; but the posterity of the righteous will be delivered.Raising children as a single parent is not easy, but with God's help, it is possible!In this episode, I speak with Sandra Blackwell about her journey with raising her children in a single household, but with God's help. You will also hear about: what her childhood was like, what growing up in church was like, what led to her entering into a relationship as a young teen, what it was like being pregnant at age 15, becoming saved in her early 20s, getting married and having her 2nd child, experiencing divorce, having her 3rd child and finding her way back to God, how she included God with raising her children, how her children entreat her in their adult years, how they have been able to remain a close knit family, advice, encouragement, and wisdom for other Moms, and more!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Exodus 20:3 (NKJV) says: You shall have no other gods before Me.Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, listen to my hubby and I as we speak about: The Importance of Keeping God FIRST in Marriage. You will also hear about: how we keep God first while waiting on Him to have children, what I have learned the most while waiting on God for children, how to receive and handle prophetic words (regarding children & in general), how Jared has been challenged by the Holy Spirit in conversations with me, the most recent argument we had that eventually led to the Holy Spirit intervening unexpectedly, the importance of remembering we're on the same team as a couple, what being best friends in marriage is like, wisdom, advice, and encouragement for others, and more!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Exodus 20:3 (NKJV) says: You shall have no other gods before Me.Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, listen to my hubby and I as we speak about: The Importance of Keeping God FIRST in Marriage. You will also hear about: how and when we met, what Jared heard from God about me early on before we entered into a relationship, the prayer we both prayed before meeting each other, how and when I became attracted to Jared, how we were "F.O.P." (friends on purpose) prior to entering into a relationship, how the proposal went, what the wedding day was like, the challenges we faced in our first year of marriage, how we dealt with the idolatry of putting each other first before God early on, our different desires for starting a family, and more!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.1 Peter 3:1-2 (NKJV) says: Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear.Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Bill and Jenny Fleming on God's Faithfulness + A Praying Wife = A Husband's Return. You will also hear about: the encouragement Jenny received from Bill's Mom which helped Jenny to trust God more, the moment when Jenny understood the power of prayer and the spirit realm, scriptures that encouraged Jenny as she trusted God for Bill's return, what it was like raising their children when Bill struggled in his beliefs, the fear Jenny had of her children growing up with an unbelieving Father, the moment when Bill heard God's voice out of the blue which led to his return back to God, Jenny's reaction to Bill hearing God's voice, the changes Jenny noticed in Bill, Bill's return to church and his time spent with God after being laid off of his job, what their marriage is like today and what they love about each other, advice, encouragement, and wisdom for others, and more!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.1 Peter 3:1-2 (NKJV) says: Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear.Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Bill and Jenny Fleming on God's Faithfulness + A Praying Wife = A Husband's Return. You will also hear about: how and when they met, how long they dated prior to getting married, what their proposal was like, what their wedding day was like, what their marriage was like early on and some of the challenges they faced, the reason behind their decision to take in Jenny's younger brothers, their difficult experience with losing their first child due to miscarriage, the point when Bill began to question God and turn from Him, how Jenny reacted to Bill's questions about God, what Bill turned to in his search for answers about God, the reason behind why Bill couldn't deny Jesus, the unexpected encouragement that Jenny received from her brother-in-law about Bill, and more!
It is SO IMPORTANT that we make the decision to surrender our lives to God by being born again so that we are in right standing with Him. Make the Choice today Be Saved! And if you have backslidden, Come Back to Him! He's waiting on you and He is ready to forgive if you just ask!
You ever obey God, and expect what He promised you to manifest right away?? What do you do if what you've been waiting for is taking longer than you thought? Will you get stuck in your own timeline, or trust God's perfect timing? I want to encourage you to Trust His timing and not allow the enemy to cause you to think you're behind! You're right on schedule!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Deuteronomy 6:5-7 (NKJV) says:You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Michael & Algenia White on Building a Spiritual Legacy in Marriage. You will also hear about: what influenced Mike's career change from a police officer to a teacher, how having the same careers impacts their marriage and how they raise their children, major differences with how they grew up individually versus how they raise their children, how they move by faith with their finances when it doesn't make sense, how Algenia has trusted Mike's vision from God throughout the years, the importance of communication in marriage, what their prayers are like for their children, what they love about each other, wisdom, advice, encouragement for others, and more!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Deuteronomy 6:5-7 (NKJV) says:You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Michael & Algenia White on Building a Spiritual Legacy in Marriage. You will also hear about: how and when they met, how long they dated prior to marriage, when Mike knew it was time to get married, challenges they faced prior to their wedding day, what inspired their decision to have a debt free wedding, why Algenia decided to have her Father walk her down the aisle despite their lack of relationship with each other, what their wedding day was like, challenges they faced shortly after marriage involving careers, living together, miscarriage, etc., the reason behind their decision to move from MD to TX shortly after their 2nd child was born, how they began to see that leaving a spiritual legacy for their children was most important, and more!
When fiery trials come, often times, we want to Quit and abort the assignment God has given us to complete. But, just because it's uncomfortable doesn't mean we stop! God is requiring us to tough it out as He strips away fear, anxiety, and worry off of us and takes our faith to another level! As we do what He's called us to do, we remember He's with us despite how we feel!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Psalm 127:3-5 (NKJV) says: Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate.Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Dantè & Lynn Rhue (from Episode 5) on Marriage as a Blended Family. You will also hear about: some of the challenges they face now having adult children, what helps them to keep calm when their children make unwise decisions, how their children who live at home assist with paying bills, how their marriage has changed now that they have adult children, what they love the most about their children, what they love about each other, wisdom, advice, and encouragement for others, and more!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Psalm 127:3-5 (NKJV) says: Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate.Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Dantè & Lynn Rhue (from Episode 5) on Marriage as a Blended Family. You will also hear about: the hilarious story of how and they met, how long they dated prior to getting married, what their wedding day was like, their experience of blending their families together after getting married, what it was like raising 5 children ages 4 and under, challenges they faced financially with raising young children, Dantè's perspective on ensuring he was involved in his twin sons' lives, why it was easy for them to entreat their stepchildren as their own children, some funny memories they have of their children, the importance of having a budget for a blended family, and more!
Like David in the Bible, there will be moments or even seasons where we will need to encourage ourselves in the Lord! God may even be pushing us to a greater place of maturity where He doesn't want us to rely so much on others' encouragement, but He wants us to rely more on His voice! He's speaking...but, are we listening?!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Genesis 2:18 (NKJV) says:And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Daniel & Mia Morrison on Overcoming Marriage Being Hard. You will also hear about: the idolatry of marriage in our culture and if it has affected them, the explanation of the "sexual prosperity gospel", the importance of sexual purity within marriage, how more conversations should be had amongst Christians regarding sexual purity before and after marriage, what their prayers are like for each other, what they've learned the most about each other since being married, what they've learned the most about God since being married, and more!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Genesis 2:18 (NKJV) says:
And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Daniel & Mia Morrison on Overcoming Marriage Being Hard. You will also hear about: how and when they met, when they knew while dating that they were meant for each other, what their proposal was like, the difficulties they faced with planning their wedding during the pandemic, what it was like having their wedding outdoors in the month of January (due to the pandemic), what their honeymoon was like, the difficulties they faced immediately after returning home from their honeymoon, how and why marriage has been hard after being married for almost a year and a half, differences they have discovered about each other since being married, how they deal with the question, "Will this (marriage) ever get better?", how marriage counseling has helped them, and more!
If you have strayed from God, it is now time to come back to Him! It doesn't matter what you've done, He loves you and He wants you to turn from sin, and follow Him today! There are some of you who may do outward acts for God, but inwardly, your hearts are from Him, you're indulging in sin, and you lack fruit in your lives...COME BACK TO GOD!There are others of you who have said "I'm DONE with God" and now you're living unto yourself, indulging in sin...COME BACK TO GOD!Ezekiel 18:23-32 is a MUST READ if the above statements apply to you!!!In this hour, Deception is HIGH! And if you don't have a right relationship with God, you are susceptible to the enemy and his deceit!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NKJV) says:Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Anthony and Randi Woodson (from Episodes 17 & 18), on Marriage & Ministry. You will also hear about: how they encourage each other with their individual callings and not allow jealously to infiltrate their marriage, why casting down negative thoughts quickly is a must, how our love towards others should be genuine and if not, ministry will not be effective, why it's important to have a healthy marriage while in ministry, how as Christians, it's important to settle oughts with others, how they make their family a priority before ministry, how they respond to others who may think or say they have a perfect marriage, 3 words which describe their marriage, how Randi is blessed by Anthony's prayers for her, what they love about each other, advice, encouragement, and wisdom for others, and more!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NKJV) says:Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Anthony and Randi Woodson (from Episodes 17 & 18), on Marriage & Ministry. You will also hear about: how and when they met, how Anthony helped Randi early on to grow closer to God prior to entering a relationship together, what their proposal was like, what their wedding day was like, the difficult adjustment for Randi as a wife early on in their marriage, the importance of spouses bringing 100/100 (not 50/50) to the marriage, how their roles have changed in their church over the years, what Anthony has learned as a praise & worship leader, the importance of keeping God at the center of ministry, the importance of yielding to God in ministry together, their reason for letting go of distractions between them or their children prior to entering church, and more!
As children of God, we are called to be holy as HE is holy. This means that our lives must be set apart for Him. God may be calling us to another level of holiness, but are you too comfortable with where you are? In order to become more like Him, we must be led by the Holy Spirit and His standard of holiness for us, not comparing ourselves with our Christian brothers and sisters. Whatever His standard is for you, is for YOU and no one else, according to the purpose He has for your life!
Too often, when we think of God's goodness, we only think about what He can do for us. Let us shift our thinking and remember that God is good simply because HE is GOD! His goodness is not predicated on our life's circumstances and what's happening in our world, but He's good Regardless of it all!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says:So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Ephesians 5:22-28 (NKJV) says:Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself.Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support.
In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Montague & Natyra Blount (Parents of Zemirah Blount from Episode 3), on Navigating Life as a Team in Marriage. You will also hear about: how they began working as a team after having their 2nd child, how they adjusted to their 3rd child being a surprise pregnancy, hilarious stories of raising their children at a young age, how their parenting, finances, and intimacy changed as a result of establishing a family vision, what they love about each other and their marriage, why navigating marriage as a team is important, advice, wisdom, and encouragement for others, and more!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says:So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Ephesians 5:22-28 (NKJV) says:Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself.Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support.
In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Montague & Natyra Blount (Parents of Zemirah Blount from Episode 3), on Navigating Life as a Team in Marriage. You will also hear about: their hilarious story of how and when they met, why Montague didn't feel qualified at first to date Natyra, how long they dated prior to getting married, their proposal and wedding stories, what their first few months of marriage were like, why Natyra had a difficult time submitting to Montague early on in their marriage, what led to them establishing a family vision 6 years into their marriage, how their marriage was negatively affected early on without a vision, why Natyra didn't ask Montague or others for help when their first child was born, and more!
Has something recently happened to shake up your faith? Are you waiting on God for something and you thought it would happen by now or in a particular way, but it hasn't yet? Not to mention, you're probably just dealing with a LOT in this season, particularly things which are out of your control?? What if God is testing you?? Keep going and don't lose hope!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says:So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Ephesians 4:15 (NLT) says: Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Kwesi & Nicole Payne (Dad & Mom of sons, Asa and Asaiah Payne from episodes 6 & 7), on The Importance of Communication in Marriage. You will also hear about: how their children were affected prior to their breakthrough in communication, the root of internalization for Kwesi and how it caused him to eventually explode on others, how his communication has improved with Nicole since their breakthrough, how their sexual intimacy and time management have improved since their breakthrough, how they saw God differently after their breakthrough, what they love most about their marriage and each other, 3 things they would say to their younger selves, wisdom, encouragement, and advice for others, and more!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says:So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Ephesians 4:15 (NLT) says: Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Kwesi & Nicole Payne (Dad & Mom of sons, Asa and Asaiah Payne from episodes 6 & 7), on The Importance of Communication in Marriage. You will also hear about: how and when they met, what led to them becoming a couple, their hilarious yet dramatic proposal story on Christmas Day '04, the reason behind Kwesi's late arrival to their wedding day rehearsal, what their wedding day and honeymoon were like, how their marriage wasn't what they expected it to be in their first couple years of being married, how they dealt with their lack of communication early on, the reason behind why Kwesi internalized his emotions as a way to handle conflict and how it affected Nicole, how Nicole became intentional with praying for Kwesi and their communication, their breakthrough which came 16 years into their marriage, and more!
You may be enduring through a lot in this season, but God is still up to something! Tribulations will try to rob you of your faith, but be patient in the process, don't lose your faith, and remain in hope. Breakthrough is still on the way!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says:So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Hebrews 10:24-25 (NKJV) says:"And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching."Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Jarryd and Camille Garner (sister of Adam Perry & his wife, Vernesa Perry from Episodes 12 & 13, & sister of Jared Perry from Episode 21), on Having the Right Church Matters in Marriage. You will also hear about: some challenges they faced after hearing God telling them to move to NE, the importance of getting outside of their comfort zones to follow God, the importance of church being a supplement to what's being taught at home, how church hurt should not be the reason that people stop attending church, the importance of belonging to a church, what things changed in their marriage after settling into their new church home, what they love about Omaha, NE, if the move has challenged their children at all, wisdom, encouragement, advice for others, and more!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says:So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Hebrews 10:24-25 (NKJV) says:"And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching."Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Jarryd and Camille Garner (sister of Adam Perry & his wife, Vernesa Perry from Episodes 12 & 13, & sister of Jared Perry from Episode 21), on Having the Right Church Matters in Marriage. You will also hear about: how and when they met, if they knew early on that they were meant for each other after becoming serious, what the proposal was like as well as their wedding day, why Jarryd felt awkward while on their honeymoon, their twin pregnancy surprise (sons Joshua & Daniel) almost a year after being married, their difficult adjustment with having careers, being newly married, as well as being new parents, their journey with discovering their current church home in Omaha, NE while living in Houston, TX, the reason behind naming their 3rd son, Matthew, at such a difficult time in their lives, the moment when they both heard God speak about moving to NE, and more!
In this season, there's a lot of NEW things going on amongst many believers in the Body of Christ! These NEW things require us to pivot and transition in ways that we may not be used to, but we must know that God has graced us for this moment. Although some of the NEW may be different, uncomfortable or even difficult, we must continue to put our trust in God through it all!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says:So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NKJV) says: "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken."Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Shedrick and Erica Elliott on Overcoming Self-Reliance in Marriage. You will also hear about: how Erica notices when Shedrick is dealing with something internally, a critical moment in Shedrick's life at the age of 36 (the age of his Mother's passing), how he is learning to reach out more to others particularly other men, why leadership is important to him, how Erica is more confident in her role with bringing joy to their marriage, how Shedrick is learning to better recognize wisdom in Erica's voice, what they love the most about each other and their marriage, how Erica submits to Shedrick as he submits to Christ, and advice, wisdom, and encouragement for others in their shoes!
Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says:
So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NKJV) says:
"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken."
Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be.
This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support.
In this episode, I speak with Shedrick and Erica Elliott on Overcoming Self-Reliance in Marriage. You will also hear about: how and when they met, what it was like for Erica meeting Shedrick at a pivotal point in her life, how long they dated prior to marriage, if they knew early on that they were meant for each other, what their wedding day and honeymoon were like, what their first few months of marriage were like, how they defied the odds regarding others' opinions of being newly married, how Erica was affected early on by Shedrick's self-reliance, how Shedrick's desire to model his Dad's example shaped some of his self-reliance, how Shedrick pushes Erica to be her authentic self, and more!
STAY TUNED for the Upcoming Breakthrough Conversations Marriage Series premiering Thursday, Aug. 24th @12PM EST! In this video, listen in to what inspired this series as well as some of the content featured in upcoming episodes!
Lately, has the enemy tried to take you back to an old place that you've been set free from? Has he been trying to distract you away from your purpose? Well, it may be a COUNTERATTACK because of your obedience! You're moving forward and he HATES it! Keep Going! Keep Pressing! You're in a NEW place and it will be different this time!
Are we being who God has called us to be? Not just spiritually, but mentally and physically as well? Matthew 9:37 (NKJV) says: Then He said to His disciples, "The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few." We must put in the work needed for the Kingdom! Many are waiting on us to be healthier both physically and mentally, as well as more spiritually nourished so that they can be Set Free!
This is a follow up video from the last W.O.E. video titled: You are NOT Your Past! Despite the craziness from your past, the sins you've committed or sins committed against you can longer be an excuse NOT to Move Forward! It's Time NOW. If you've confessed your sins to God, you are forgiven. Stop allowing yesterday to have a hold on you today!
Proverbs 22:6 (KJV) says:
"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
Isaiah 55:10-11 (NKJV) says:
"For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, and do not return there, but water the earth, and make it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it."
Raising children as a single parent is not easy, but with God's help, it is possible. Single parents often face very difficult challenges with their children because of the absence of the Mother or Father in the home. Often times, these children rebel at some point in their lives but, despite the rebellion that single parents may face, as the scripture above says, if you train up a child in the way he/she should go (according to the Word), when he/she grows older, they will not depart from it.
In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Stephenie Beatty about some of her journey raising her nephews (sons) as a single Mom. You will also hear about: who she was as a young girl, some of the identity issues she faced early on, experiences with church hurt within her family, her unique relationship with God at a young age, her experience with heartbreak while in a relationship and wanting to physically escape from the pain, becoming her nephews' caretaker shortly after her relationship ended, the moment she accepted her nephews calling her "Mommy", some of the challenges and joys she experienced early on with raising them, prophetic words she's received over the years about them being men of God despite what she sees in the natural, and more!
Too often, the enemy constantly reminds us of our past and we must remind him that we're new creations in Christ! Don't allow who you used to be to be a hindrance any longer. You aren't back there anymore! Move forward and allow God to continue to mature and shape you into who He's called you to be!
Romans 8:28 (NKJV) says:
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."
You've probably heard the quote, "God can turn your pain into purpose." Sometimes, God decides to use tragedy in our lives in order to bring us closer to Him. Although it may hurt, He will also heal us in the process if we allow Him to. Often times, our poor decisions are the cause behind certain tragedies, but God can somehow make things work for our good when we surrender all to Him!
In this episode, I speak with Tatiana Bell who shares a bit of her story about how she began taking God seriously after losing her daughter at birth. You will also hear about: what her childhood was like growing up, what led her to becoming saved her senior year of high school, how she spent her college years after being sheltered as a child, how she grew spiritually during her college years while simultaneously living a worldly lifestyle, why she felt lost after graduating college, the depression she experienced while living in Baltimore after college, what being in an abusive relationship was like and becoming pregnant, the turning point in her pregnancy which led to premature labor and the loss of her child, her parents' fear of her being suicidal, the reason behind why she drove with her family to Florida to a church service after her baby's funeral, what led to her taking lay minister classes in FL, her moment of breakthrough which led to depression leaving, how God connected her to Godly friends, how her future husband, Eric, came back into her life, what her relationship with God is like today, wisdom and encouragement for others, and more!
Seasons have changed! Those in the body of Christ who have been obedient in prior seasons are now reaping what they've sown! Don't apologize for how God is blessing you! Give Him all of the glory and Enjoy the Harvest!!!
1John 4:10 (NKJV) says: "In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins."2Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV) says:"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new."Unless someone shares their story, you may never imagine that they've endured through many challenges in their past. Like Paul (formerly Saul) in the Bible, God can turn someone's life completely around that they don't even resemble their former selves. In this episode with Stacey Belgrave, you will hear how God is a Redeemer, Deliverer, Savior, Protector, Provider, and so much more as she shares some of her journey from being an unsaved single Mom of 4 to a saved married Mom of 5! You will also hear about: the events surrounding her life in her early 20s which eventually led to her becoming pregnant at 22, discovering her child's father was in another relationship while she was pregnant, how she felt when she saw her daughter's face for the first time, how God made provisions for her and her daughter early on, becoming pregnant again with no intentions of having a second child, what led her to bringing her Mom from Guyana to the U.S., how God provided for her children while she cared for her Mom in the hospital, how she met her future husband at her job, the events surrounding her becoming pregnant with her third child, the day she reached a breaking point and cried out to God for help, her moment of breakthrough at the birth of her fourth child, how marriage has challenged her with raising her children after raising them for years as a single Mom, what she has learned the most about herself since knowing God, how she is able to live in the present and not dwell on her past, wisdom and encouragement for others, and more!
It can be frustrating waiting on God's perfect timing especially after much time has passed! But don't allow your waiting to frustrate you to the point of forsaking time spent with God or serving others well. God wants to build long suffering (patience) in you while you wait. You may think you're behind while God is saying, "You're right where you're supposed to be!"
Psalm 147:3 (NKJV) says:"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."Philippians 3:3-14: (NKJV) says: "Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."Genesis 41:51 (NKJV) says: "Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: 'For God has made me forget all my toil and all my father’s house.'"
Experiencing the death of a loved one is never easy. More specifically, the loss of a spouse. In this episode, I speak with Dell Porter about how God helped her to heal after losing her husband, Kenny, unexpectedly. What you will see and hear mostly however, is the joy and peace she now has since her loss because of her dependence on God to be her healer. Over 20 years later, God has helped her to leave that painful experience behind and move forward with her life, and has even caused her to forget painful memories from her past. In this episode, you will also hear about: her upbringing in the South as a little girl, how her upbringing helped her with discerning the motives of men as a young woman, the story of how she met her husband, what the proposal was like, their emotions on their wedding day, what the waiting period was like prior to marriage, wisdom for singles who are waiting, what life was like for her and her husband after they married, some of the pros with marrying in her late 30s, how her husband died unexpectedly and her emotions on that day, her questions to God after he passed, the period of depression she dealt with for months after his passing, how her family and friends provided support for her during this time, the moment of breakthrough she experienced a year after her loss, how God helped her to heal and forget painful memories, how she encourages others in her shoes to process their grief, her desire of if she wants to be married again or not, what she learned about herself after grieving, and more!
I know there's a WHOLE LOT going on in the church today! Often times, we may ask the question, where are the TRUE believers? Where is the TRUE church? But be encouraged! There IS a remnant!
Romans 8:1 (NKJV) says:"There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit."Romans 8:14-17 (NKJV) says:"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, 'Abba, Father.' The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together."Fear is often the root of condemnation. Fear causes us to have an unhealthy perspective of God. When we do not understand God's love for us, the enemy can use this to cause us to think less of ourselves, and not come into our identity as sons and daughters of Abba, Father. When we close the door to condemnation and study the Word, fast, and pray, we will come into the full knowledge of God's love for us and be secure in our identity, being image bearers of Christ!In Part 2 of this episode (see link to Part 1 below), I speak with Danielle Unger who shares some of her story about her process with overcoming self-condemnation. You will hear about: how demonic thoughts from before came back the day after she encountered God the night of her engagement, how she attempted to hold onto her relationship with her fiancé after her encounter with God, what eventually led her to end the relationship with her fiancé, how God helped her to heal through the painful process of heartache, the reason behind why she feared returning to the U.S., the events which led up to her receiving an invitation to her future husband's church home, how her relationship with God grew tremendously while simultaneously experiencing self-condemnation, how God is currently helping her in the process of overcoming self-condemnation, how she prays for and demonstrates love towards her children, how her husband, Daniel, encourages her through the process of overcoming, advice and encouragement for others, and more!
Romans 8:1 (NKJV) says:"There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit."Romans 8:14-17 (NKJV) says:"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, 'Abba, Father.' The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together."
Fear is often the root of condemnation. Fear causes us to have an unhealthy perspective of God. When we do not understand God's love for us, the enemy can use this to cause us to think less of ourselves, and not come into our identity as sons and daughters of Abba, Father. When we close the door to condemnation and study the Word, fast, and pray, we will come into the full knowledge of God's love for us and be secure in our identity, being image bearers of Christ!In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Danielle Unger who shares some of her story about overcoming self-condemnation. You will also hear about: her experiences in church as a young girl, her perspective of God and church early on and feeling like an outsider, her motive behind getting baptized at 12 years old without understand the true meaning of baptism, the reasons behind why she experienced a rough transition from high school to college, how things took a turn once she realized the presence of evil in her life, how depression and anxiety heightened in her life after taking prescription meds for her skin, how unhealthy thinking and negative thoughts about God eventually led her to take anti-depressants, how she met her future husband through social media while studying abroad in Colombia, how God pursued her the same night she became engaged while in an ungodly relationship, and more!
Have you ever felt forgotten by God? Well, I have. And it's not a good feeling. But, be not weary in your well doing! Know that God sees your labor and your labor is not in vain! He's going to reward your faithfulness, but in the meantime, keep serving. Make the focus about HIM about not about you!
Proverbs 17:17 (NKJV) says:
"A friend loves at all times,
And a brother is born for adversity."
Siblings are a blessing from the Lord! Although there may be various trials throughout life between siblings and things that challenge them to their core, there's nothing like having a brother or sister by your side through thick and thin! Exclusive conversations, gut checks, and inside jokes are only some of the things which are shared and understood between siblings only. The memories created between siblings as young children are memories that will be etched for a lifetime.
In this episode, I speak with the eldest brother of 6 boys, 14 year old Nehemiah Washington about what it's like being the eldest and how God helps him to navigate this role. You will also hear about: the meaning of his name, the names and ages of his siblings, his description in 3 words of what being the eldest is like, what he likes the least about being the eldest, expectations from his parents in his role as the eldest, some things he teaches his siblings, how he handles seeing them misbehave, how he distinguishes between being the eldest vs. being a 3rd parent, his conversations with God about how to discipline his siblings, his prayers for his siblings and himself, if he's ever desired a sister, unique character traits about each of his siblings, a commonality between him and his siblings, how he finds alone time, fun things he does with his family, the number of children he wants after being married one day, what being a Christian means and who God is to him, and more!
How often do we get in our own way when God has given us an instruction to follow? Do we blame the enemy or do we take responsibility for our fleshly desires and lack of obedience? We need to just do what God called us to do and remember that sometimes it's not the enemy, it's US!
In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with my Husband, Jared Perry, about some of his journey as a middle school teacher/band director in Baltimore City. As a wife of a teacher, I've heard many stories over the years, some which made me laugh, and others which made me a bit sad and pushed me to prayer and intercession. Jared has been a teacher for 10 years and it has certainly been an interesting journey to say the least! However, we both know that God has him right where he's supposed to be!
With that being said, have you ever wanted to hear what it's like in the classroom from a teacher's perspective? More specifically, a teacher who works in the inner city? Or, even a male teacher's perspective?
In Part 2 of this episode, you will hear about: how he has remained at the same school for close to 10 years, how he finds peace during his commute to and from work, how he speaks well of the school system despite negative voices around him and in the media, what he loves about teaching, his encounters with God in the classroom involving conversations with students and more, opportunities he's had to minister to students outside of school including taking them to youth group at his church, his experience seeing some of his students receive salvation and get baptized, the importance of showing love to his students and the domino effect it has on others, how he's able to balance work and home life, areas of growth he's had over the years, his thoughts on if he wants to continue teaching long term, advice and encouragement for aspiring teachers and others in his shoes, and more!
In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with my Husband, Jared Perry, about some of his journey as a middle school teacher/band director in Baltimore City. As a wife of a teacher, I've heard many stories over the years, some which made me laugh, and others which made me a bit sad and pushed me to prayer and intercession. Jared has been a teacher for 10 years and it has certainly been an interesting journey to say the least! However, we both know that God has him right where he's supposed to be! With that being said, have you ever wanted to hear what it's like in the classroom from a teacher's perspective? More specifically, a teacher who works in the inner city? Or, even a male teacher's perspective?In Part 1 of this episode, you will hear about: the moment he decided that teaching music would be his career of choice, his experience taking the praxis 2 exam the morning of our wedding day, what his first day of teaching was like, the difficulties he experienced during his 2nd year of teaching and temptations with wanting to quit, things he learned quickly early on with teaching, the breakthrough he experienced in his 4th year of teaching, how he develops relationships with his students, the importance of his faith and how he shares it in the classroom without force onto his students, his experience with seeing some of his students involved in the Freddie Grey riots on the news, what it was like seeing a student's mugshot on the news being accused of murder, what takes place when his school is on lockdown due to danger inside/outside of the building, disparities between the schools he attended growing up in Tulsa, OK compared to some schools in Baltimore City, and more!
As Christians, we are to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ! We are living in the last days, and I don't know about you, but I want everyone to know the truth about Jesus! Not what the world has made Him out to be, but what the Word says about Him! There's so much deception out there, and people need to know the truth! Make Him known in your family, on your jobs, in your community, and everywhere!
Genesis 18:10-14 (NKJV) says:
And He said, “I will certainly return to you according to the time of life, and behold, Sarah your wife shall have a son.” (Sarah was listening in the tent door which was behind him.) Now Abraham and Sarah were old, well advanced in age; and Sarah had passed the age of childbearing. Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, “After I have grown old, shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?” And the Lord said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh, saying, ‘Shall I surely bear a child, since I am old?’ Is anything too hard for the Lord? At the appointed time I will return to you, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.”
God is faithful to His word! Whatever He has promised you will come to pass! Are you waiting on a child? Do you think you're too old to conceive? If you've answered "Yes" to these questions, remember the story about Sarah and Abraham (see the scripture above), and be encouraged! Nothing is TOO hard or IMPOSSIBLE with God! If He said it, He will DO IT!!
In this episode, I speak with Mrs. Marilyn Richardson about her journey having a child at 44 years old, and the joys and challenges of raising her son within their generation gap. You will also hear about: how she met her husband and became engaged at 37 years old, her experience having a miscarriage after receiving a prophetic word that she would have a child, the nervousness and excitement she experienced after becoming pregnant with her son, CJ, the definition of the term geriatric pregnancy, her experiences raising a newborn at 45 years old, funny memories of CJ as a young boy, how she and her husband's parenting methods changed when CJ became a teenager, her conversation with CJ about if having older parents ever bothered him, advantages and challenges being a baby boomer raising a gen-Zer, her moment of breakthrough as a Mother, the close relationship between her and CJ, the differences being a Mother now that CJ is an adult in their home, wisdom and encouragement for others, and more!
Worship should belong to God and God ALONE! Worship also takes the focus off of ourselves and puts it on Him! In these last days, we need to make a daily habit of worshipping God everyday. It's in these moments where we regain strength, we are refreshed, and we are reminded we cannot live our lives without our Creator. Remove anything hindering your worship and worship Him today!
Psalm 27:14 (NKJV) says:
"Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!"
Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NKJV) says:
"He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end."
If you are a single woman or man who has been waiting on God for a spouse for what feels like an eternity, you probably have moments of feeling impatient and frustrated with His timing. I (Danielle Perry), can speak from experience and say that waiting on God was very difficult for me at times during my single years. However, looking back, I can say that my husband was WORTH THE WAIT, and I am truly grateful for all that God taught me while I waited on His perfect timing! Now, I waited while in my 20s, however, there are some of you who are in your 30s, 40s, 50s, and even older who have been waiting much longer than I had to wait. If you have been called to marriage, may I encourage you to keep TRUSTING God, no matter how long the wait is?? Our American society demands that marriage, having children, and many other things happen quick, fast, and in a hurry, but if God wants you to wait, it means that HIS TIME is the BEST TIME for what you desire to happen!
In this episode, I speak with Dr. Nadia Desir who shares a bit of her journey as a single woman in her 30s, and the lessons she's learned about not only waiting, but, waiting WELL! You will also hear about: her opinion on if there are enough good Christian men in the church, different places men have approached her outside of the church, the importance of being slow to attraction although someone may be physically attractive, how she handled having a hard conversation with her Mother about being single, how waiting on God's timing is bigger than just her, the importance of God being just rather than fair, God revealing areas of her life that need work while she waits, wisdom and encouragement for others, and more!
Psalm 27:14 (NKJV) says:
"Wait on the Lord;
Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart;
Wait, I say, on the Lord!"
Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NKJV) says:
"He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end."
If you are a single woman or man who has been waiting on God for a spouse for what feels like an eternity, you probably have moments of feeling impatient and frustrated with His timing. I (Danielle Perry), can speak from experience and say that waiting on God was very difficult for me at times during my single years. However, looking back, I can say that my husband was WORTH THE WAIT, and I am truly grateful for all that God taught me while I waited on His perfect timing! Now, I waited while in my 20s, however, there are some of you who are in your 30s, 40s, 50s, and even older who have been waiting much longer than I had to wait. If you have been called to marriage, may I encourage you to keep TRUSTING God, no matter how long the wait is?? Our American society demands that marriage, having children, and many other things happen quick, fast, and in a hurry, but if God wants you to wait, it means that HIS TIME is the BEST TIME for what you desire to happen!
In this episode, I speak with Dr. Nadia Desir who shares a bit of her journey as a single woman in her 30s, and the lessons she's learned about not only waiting, but, waiting WELL! You will also hear about: what she enjoys and/or doesn't enjoy about being single, positive aspects of being single, the turning point she experienced at the age of 29 years old, how she handles seeing others getting married before her, experiences with feeling like God is taking a long time to send her spouse, the importance of daily surrender not just spiritually, but also physically, mentally, and emotionally, some of her dating experiences throughout the years, temptations with not upholding God's standards while in a past relationship, and more!
John 9:1-3 (NKJV) says:
"Now as Jesus passed by, He saw a man who was blind from birth. And His disciples asked Him, saying, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him."
Isaiah 55:8-9 (NKJV) says:
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts."
Why does God allow sickness and disease? Why does He choose to heal some and not others? These are questions that we have as human beings, especially when our loved ones are affected by illnesses that are out of our control. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Anthony Woodson (husband of Randi Woodson from Episode 17, see link below) who shares what it was like caring for his dear friend, Monique Meadows during their college years. They both attended the same school (Towson University), and became really good friends around the time she was diagnosed with liver cancer.
In this episode, you will hear about: the reason behind why Monique refused certain treatments, Anthony's reaction after receiving the call that she passed away, the reason behind why he was able to remain calm at her funeral, how he found his footing after her death, the moment when breakthrough took place revealing his need to overcome doubt after believing for Monique's healing, advice for others who believed for someone's healing but it didn't take place, how God gets the glory from difficult situations, how memories of Monique's relationship with God still encourages him today, the importance of appreciating others while they're alive, the importance of forgiveness, and more!
John 9:1-3 (NKJV) says:
"Now as Jesus passed by, He saw a man who was blind from birth. And His disciples asked Him, saying, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him."
Isaiah 55:8-9 (NKJV) says: "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts."
Why does God allow sickness and disease? Why does He choose to heal some and not others? These are questions that we have as human beings, especially when our loved ones are affected by illnesses that are out of our control. In this episode, I speak with Anthony Woodson who shares what it was like caring for his dear friend, Monique Meadows during their college years. They both attended the same school (Towson University), and became really good friends around the time she was diagnosed with liver cancer. In this episode, you will hear about: Anthony's childhood years growing up in church, the impact that his Grandmother, Overseer Ruth Cummings, had on his life who was also the founder of his church, how his relationship with God developed more in his teenage years, how he maintained a strong relationship with God during his college years, how joining the gospel choir on campus while in college helped to solidify his relationship with Christ as well as develop Godly friendships, details surrounding meeting Monique for the first time, the day he found out she had cancer, how caring for her during her illness came to be, how despite having cancer, she encouraged others through speaking engagements at hospitals and also ministered to nurses, doctors, etc., her last words to Anthony the day before she passed, and more!
As we enter into the year 2023, let us continue to obey God and expect Him to move! Some things in 2022 may not have happened the way we expected, but let's remain in obedience and keep our eyes on God! Let's get ready for an INCREDIBLE YEAR!
James 4:7 (NKJV) says:
"Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you."
Are you feeling oppressed or depressed? Do you want to break free? If so, it's time to Surrender!
When you make the decision to totally surrender to God, you are a step closer to overcoming sin and/or struggles in your life in order to be totally set free! Satan wants nothing more than to afflict us with spirits of oppression, depression, and heaviness, but God sent His Son Jesus Christ to bring us freedom in Him!
In this episode, I speak with Randi Woodson about how God helped her to overcome depression in her college years after a life changing experience in the gospel choir on campus at Towson University. You will also hear her explain the importance of: not lingering on negative emotions, fighting in the Spirit realm, knowing God and His word, knowing God's omniscience and omnipotence, knowing that resisting the enemy doesn't mean remaining silent, being strategic when fighting the enemy, success doesn't happen without God, how accepting your struggle with sin and allowing it to become apart of your identity makes deliverance difficult, knowing that making up our minds about receiving deliverance is key, discerning the difference between your own emotions and spirits of attack, the power of sharing your testimony, and more!
God is answering some major prayers in this season, but how often do we miss the answers to our prayers because we're distracted? Don't allow the cares of this world to cause you to miss the manifestations of prayers! He's doing it!
1Timothy 4:12 (NKJV) says:
"Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity."
Joel 2:28-29 (NKJV) says:
“And it shall come to pass afterward That I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your old men shall dream dreams, Your young men shall see visions. And also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days."
Our youth have a voice, but are we listening?? In this conversation, I speak with 15 year old Iyana Hood (daughter of Lucille Patterson from Episode 15), about her encounters with God since the age of 3 years old. In this episode, you will hear about what her first encounter with God was like, how her life changed after she got saved, what her outer body experience with God was like, her description of the presence God being felt in her physical body, how she distinguishes between encounters with God and satan, her experiences with hearing God's voice audibly, a moment of breakthrough she experience with a school teacher, how she confirms her encounters with God with trusted family members and spiritual leaders, what she would say to others who don't believe her encounters with God are real, wisdom and encouragement for others, and more!
How often do we need to understand every single detail in order to trust God? As we mature in our Christian journey, we must learn to trust God more when He doesn't reveal how He's going to perform His Word, especially in seemingly impossible situations! The more we grow, the greater the test...will we trust Him no matter what?!
Being a single Mother is no easy task! Single Moms must work hard, persevere through challenges, have a sense of stability, all while barely finding time to do what they enjoy apart from raising their children. Many married women would venture to say that raising children in a two parent household is no easy task, so to do it alone without the assistance of a spouse must be an even greater task to bear!
In Part 2 of this episode, you will hear some of Lucille Patterson's journey as she shares the reason behind not wanting a 3rd child, the affirming dream God gave her about her child before she was born, what her prayers are like for her children, the importance of transparency with her children, how she has maintained her sanity throughout her journey, some lessons she has taught her children through the years, why she's not afraid to share her story, her desire for marriage one day, wisdom and advice for others in her shoes, and more!
Being a single Mother is no easy task! Single Moms must work hard, persevere through challenges, have a sense of stability, all while barely finding time to do what they enjoy apart from raising their children. Many married women would venture to say that raising children in a two parent household is no easy task, so to do it alone without the assistance of a spouse must be an even greater task to bear!
In Part 1 of this episode, you will hear some of Lucille Patterson's journey as she shares what her life was like before she became pregnant, what led to her becoming pregnant with her first child at 18 years old, what her emotions were like when she found out, what she discerned early on about the role of her children's father, her emotions at the birth of her first child, the events which led to her second and third pregnancies, her desire of wanting to be married and eventually becoming engaged, her lukewarm relationship with God during this time, her encounters with God and Him calling her out of her toxic relationship, and more!
Philippians 3:3-14 (KJV) says:
"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended it, but this one thing I do: forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
What are you holding onto from your past that God is waiting on you to let go of, so that He can do a NEW thing in your life?? It's time to FORGET that thing from your past that has hindered you from moving forward! God is waiting on you to take the leap of faith to surrender that situation from your past to Him and once you take the step, a brand NEW you will come forth!
Titus 2:4-5 (NLT) says:
"These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God."
In today's society, it doesn't seem as important or relevant for older women to teach and pour into younger women by giving them wisdom and guidance, but can I tell you we must maintain this connection?! In this episode, you will hear Mrs. Deborah Blanding share some of her story about being a Wife and Mother in a blended family from her younger years until now. In addition you will hear how old she was when she got married, how God pursued her early on in her marriage, the moment when she and her husband got saved at the same time, some of the challenges she faced early on in marriage, how things changed when her husband's daughters came to live with them, some of her experiences as a stay at home Mom, both the challenges and joys of raising her children, what her prayers were like while raising them, the point in her life when things became easier with raising her children, what she loves now about being married in her latter years as well having adult children, wisdom and encouragement for other wives and mothers, and more!
Leviticus 20:7-8 (NKJV) says:
"Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am the Lord your God. And you shall keep My statutes, and perform them: I am the Lord who sanctifies you."
It is important that we sanctify ourselves until we leave this earth in an effort to become more like God. When we do this, we're saying, "God, more of you and less of me" (John 3:30). While being sanctified, it can be painful at times, but we're never alone in the process because God is always there, growing our faith and courage!
Romans 13:1-5 (NLT) says:
"Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience."
Have you ever wondered, what is it like in our current day being a police officer in America? Have you ever wanted to hear from an officer's perspective?
In this episode, my Brother-in-Love gives his perspective on what it's like not only being an officer, but how being a christian is key to how he serves. In addition, you will hear him explain what inspired him to become an officer, his experience in the police academy, how he eventually realized that being an officer was a calling from God, his early stages as an officer and some of the challenges he faced, the importance behind using discretion and discernment in his field, some of his experiences when racial tensions arose in America between officers and citizens and what his prayer life was like during that time, feeling outnumbered or not as a black officer, how his wife has handled him being an officer, the inspiration behind him becoming a police detective, the importance and necessity of not bringing work home, what he's learned the most about himself since becoming an officer, wisdom and encouragement for others, and more!
Psalm 34:1 (NKJV) says:
"I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth."
No matter what is going in our lives, we are to Bless God anyway! Don't allow your praise to be stifled even in the midst of difficult trials. A lot of times, we must resist our flesh and do what our spirit man is nudging us to do! God is with you and He's got you! Don't let the rocks cry out for you, but keep on praising!
Between 1992-1995, the Bosnian War took place in Bosnia and Herzegovina which displaced many inhabitants from their country including my Sister-In-Love, Dr. Vernesa Perry. She was just a young girl when the war took place and before long, she and her family became refugees and eventually moved to America, settling in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
In Part 2 of this episode, you will hear about her very first church service experience which eventually led her to salvation, testimonies about God protecting her in a dangerous car accident as well as her miraculous child birthing stories after hearing discouraging news from her doctor, challenges with her belief in God after moving to Texas and leaving family and friends behind in South Dakota, the reason behind why she hid her conversion to Christianity from her family, how God miraculously paid for her PHD program, differences between being a Muslim and a Christian, wisdom and encouragement for others, and more!
Between 1992-1995, the Bosnian War took place in Bosnia and Herzegovina which displaced many inhabitants from their country including my Sister-In-Love, Dr. Vernesa Perry. She was just a young girl when the war took place and before long, she and her family became refugees and eventually moved to America, settling in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
In Part 1 of this episode, you will hear about where she was born, some of the history behind the Bosnian War, her living conditions and experiences while the war took place, what it was like growing up in a Muslim family, her journey from Bosnia to America with her family, some positive and negative experiences from elementary to high school in America, her reason behind joining the Army at only 18 years old, her difficulties with having PTSD and being honorably discharged, and more!
Numbers 23:19 (NKJV) says:
“God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?"
Too often as Christians, we doubt what God has spoken! Now is the time to settle on His word and His promises, trust Him on another level, and remain in expectation!
Romans 8:9-10 (NKJV) says: "...that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."
Did you know that Pastors and First Ladies aren't born saved?? At some point in their lives like all of us, they've had to make the most important decision of their lives to totally surrender themselves completely to God by accepting Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.
In Part Two of this episode, you will hear the story of my Pastor/First Lady, Pastor Kimberlie D. Richardson (wife of Pastor Lawrence G. Richardson from Episode 10, see his episode links below), as she shares some of her journey from Being Unsaved to Becoming a First Lady/Pastor including what it was like starting a church with her husband shortly after marriage, sacrifices that were made early on in ministry, expectations from others of first ladies/pastors, what God taught her early on in ministry about herself, negative stereotypes and misconceptions about being a first lady, what it's like raising children in ministry, wisdom and encouragement for other first ladies/pastors, & more!
Romans 8:9-10 (NKJV) says:
"...that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."
Did you know that Pastors and First Ladies aren't born saved?? At some point in their lives like all of us, they've had to make the most important decision of their lives to totally surrender themselves completely to God by accepting Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.
In Part One of this episode, you will hear the story of my First Lady/Pastor Kimberlie D. Richardson (wife of Pastor Lawrence G. Richardson from Episode 10), as she shares some of her journey from Being Unsaved to Becoming a First Lady/Pastor including where she is from, some of the challenges she faced as a young child and teenager, her decision behind choosing Morgan State University to attend college despite discouraging news from her high school guidance counselor, both her phenomenal and challenging experiences while attending Morgan St., her story of unintentionally becoming saved, how she met Pastor Lawrence Richardson and their first date story, and more!
Philippians 4:8 (KJV):
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
What is your thought life like? Are you often distracted? Discouraged? Not focused? Thinking about things that you shouldn't? Philippians 4:8 gives us all the RIGHT things to think about so that our gaze remains on God first which then leads us to think about GOOD things instead of the bad things all around us.
1Chronicles 14:11 (NKJV) says:
"So they went up to Baal Perazim, and David defeated them there. Then David said, “God has broken through my enemies by my hand like a breakthrough of water.” Therefore they called the name of that place Baal Perazim."
What is breakthrough? How does breakthrough, deliverance and the prophetic connect with one another? Check out Part One of this episode to hear my pastor, Lawrence G. Richardson define these terms and the importance of them all. In Part Two of this episode, you will hear him explain why some people are afraid of deliverance, strongholds that need attention, the perpetual need of deliverance here on earth, the increase of demonic activity in the last days, the difference between deliverance and healing, how to discern when someone is ready for deliverance, and more!
1Chronicles 14:11 says:
"So they went up to Baal Perazim, and David defeated them there. Then David said, “God has broken through my enemies by my hand like a breakthrough of water.” Therefore they called the name of that place Baal Perazim."
What is breakthrough? How does breakthrough, deliverance and the prophetic connect with one another? In this episode, you will hear my pastor, Lawrence G. Richardson define these terms and the importance of them all, the process of deliverance and how it's different for each person, the deception of the enemy when a person is bound by demons, the flesh vs. demonic possession, the importance of the discerning of spirits, the importance of putting down stages and raising up the altar of prayer, mental health issues & deliverance, and more!
Did you know that anxiety causes us to want to be in control of situations and people? When we're anxious about a thing, we must relinquish control and surrender it to God completely and allow Him to take over. As disciples of Christ, our lives are not our own and God may want us to surrender something that's difficult to let go of, especially when we're unsure of the outcome...but we must take a back seat and let God be the driver; after all, He knows the right course of direction for our lives anyway, right?
There are many cultures of people living in America who come from diverse backgrounds, upbringings, cultural norms, and the list goes on! In Part 2 of this episode, listen to Kwesi Payne (husband of Nicole Payne from Episode 8 and Father of Asa & Asaiah Payne from Episodes 6 & 7), as he shares what it's like being so far away from his family in Trinidad and Tobago, the currency exchange rate, his expectations and experiences with American food as well as America's version of Caribbean cuisine, American stereotypes of Caribbean culture, his breakthrough experience after losing his scholarship going into his senior year of college, wisdom for other immigrants, and more!
There are many cultures of people living in America who come from diverse backgrounds, upbringings, cultural norms, and the list goes on! In this episode, listen to Kwesi Payne (husband of Nicole Payne from Episode 8 and Father of Asa & Asaiah Payne from Episodes 6 & 7), as he shares his decision behind moving from Trinidad and Tobago to America, his initial thoughts about his first visit, his excitement and nervousness prior to moving, his new found relationship with Christ and living on campus at Morgan St. University in Baltimore, MD, his culture shock experience, challenges with finding a new church home, and more!
No matter what is happening in your life or all around you, don't allow anything to steal your joy and peace! Sometimes, we are actually the reason for not having joy and peace, so don't even allow YOU to Steal what God has promised in His word! When something good happens, enjoy the moment and don't worry about the next thing or situation!
Psalm 34:18 (NLT):
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed."
Are you a Mother who has shared the painful experience of having a miscarriage? I encourage you to listen to Nicole Payne (Mother of Asa and Asaiah Payne from Episodes 6 & 7) as she shares her experiences losing two children. You will hear what her marriage was like early on prior to having children, her initial desire of not wanting children at first, the joy she experienced when conceiving for the first time, funny stories about her children, the causes of her miscarriages, the emotions she felt after losing her babies, advice for other Mothers who share this experience, and more!
Don't allow your emotions to get in the way of your obedience! There will be times, even season where it will be difficult to obey because God is requiring us to do something we may not want to do...but DO IT anyway!
Psalm 8:2 (NLT) says:
"You have taught children and infants to tell of your strength, silencing your enemies and all who oppose you."
Our youth have a voice, but are we listening?? In this conversation, I speak with 7 year old Asaiah Payne (younger brother of Asa Payne from Episode 6) about why God and family are important to him. You will hear him talk about what his name means, why reading the Bible and going to church are important, what his prayers are like by himself and with family, reasons why his parents and brother are important to him, how God speaks to him in difficult situations, advice for other 7 year olds about the importance of God and family and more!
There is a lot going on right now in our world, but we must Stay the Course! We cannot allow what's going on around us to deter us from remaining on the path of God or cause us to forget all that He has done and IS doing in our lives!
Isaiah 40:30 (NLT) says:
"Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion."
Our youth have a voice, but are we listening?? In this conversation, I speak with 10 year old Asa Payne (older brother of Asaiah Payne featured in Episode 7) about his transition from a suburban Christian school to an inner city Charter school. You will hear him explain some of the differences between the school buildings, how the behavior issues of students at his new school have impacted him, some of his experiences being bullied, the differences in curriculum, what his prayers are like regarding school and his peers, God-given visions and dreams, and more!
Young people face challenges too and when we take the time to listen, we may be able to help them navigate these challenges so that they do not linger into their adulthood!
Are you in a moment where it's difficult to hear God or feel His presence? If so, PRESS and don't relent! Right now, the enemy has turned up the heat! We must fight and trust that God is with us!
Maybe you're a Mother or Father raising a child who has special needs and you need to hear the perspective of another parent in your shoes? In Part Two of this episode (go check out Part One), you will hear about the relationships between Justin (Lynn's son) and his siblings, how Lynn raised Justin with a sense of normalcy, Lynn's self-guilt and self-blame over Justin's condition, her breakthrough experience on Justin's 21st birthday, advice and encouragement for other parents, and more!
Maybe you're a Mother or Father raising a child who has special needs and you need to hear the perspective of another parent in your shoes? In Part One of this episode, listen to Lynn as she shares some of her story about raising her son who is challenged by autism. You will hear about the relationship which led to her pregnancy, the struggles early on as a single parent prior to marriage (and in marriage), the early stages of the discovery of autism with her son, some of the challenges he faced in school, and more!
God has been speaking to me lately that it's only a matter of time before He begins to manifest things I've been praying for and waiting on for years! I believe this applies to those of us in the body of Christ who've been faithful and obedient to God. As He blesses us, more will be required of us and we must BE who He's called us to BE!
If you share this childhood experience of being abandoned by your Father, then you will be able to relate to this story. In Part Two of this episode, I speak with Natyra Blount (mother of Zemirah Blount from Episode 3, go check it out) about transparency as a worship leader, her moment of breakthrough shortly before her Father passed away, the reason behind why her Father left his family, her continual process of healing, her advice for others who've been abandoned by a parent and more!
If you share this childhood experience of being abandoned by your Father, then you will be able to relate to this story. In this episode (Part One), I speak with Natyra Blount (mother of Zemirah Blount from Episode 3, go check it out) about what life was like for her as a child after her Father left, moving from the suburbs to the city as a result, how she and her sisters became forcefully independent in a single family home, difficulties with not living out of trauma in her college years into marriage, her struggles with having a negative perspective of the men in her life, and more!
As believers, we have targets on our backs and there are days where the enemy attacks us hard! But we cannot lose our joy! Get somewhere and laugh and enjoy life!
Isaiah 40:30 (NLT) says:
"Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion."
Our youth have a voice, but are we listening?? In this conversation, I speak with 15 year old Zemirah Blount (daughter of Natyra Blount featured in the Two Part - Episode 4, go check it out) about her transition from middle school to high school. As she talks about her freshman year, you will hear about some of the challenges she faces with feeling alone at times, difficulties with finding good friends, being different and not fitting in with the norm, being a Christian at a young age, what she loves about her school, advice from her parents and more!
Young people face challenges too and when we take the time to listen, we may be able to help them navigate these challenges so that they do not linger into their adulthood!
In this brief word of encouragement, I want you to know that as believers, we all have a weakness...or two...or three! But you're not alone! Don't fight by yourself or be ashamed of whatever you need to overcome. Depend on God and the people He placed in your life to help you!
If you're a Father with multiple children needing to hear the perspective of another Father in your shoes, listen to this conversation with Holden Washington as he shares some of his journey of what it's like raising his 5 boys. You'll hear about some of his childhood experiences and the turning point that changed his life forever, his journey with being a young Father and becoming financially stable, some of the challenges he faces raising his sons, important lessons that he teaches them, encouragement for Fathers and more!
A brief word of encouragement from a lesson God taught me this week as I'm learning to focus more both spiritually and mentally as well as trust Him on a different level.
If you're a Mom with multiple children needing to hear the perspective of another Mom in your shoes, listen to this conversation with Karina Washington as she shares some of her journey of what it's like raising her 5 boys. You'll hear the birthing stories of her sons, the meaning behind their names, some of the stereotypes and challenges of being a Black family, balancing a busy life, remaining happily married, encouragement for other Mothers and more!
Welcome to Breakthrough Conversations, a Christian podcast where you will hear authentic stories of hardships and triumphs from people of all ages.