Write this Down! with Dot Bowen: Recent Episodes
Dot Bowen
Bible teacher, author and founder of Cup of Joy Ministries, Dot Bowen, teaches listeners what it truly looks like to know, love and follow Jesus. Each week, Dot invites you to sit down with her and her daughter, Cara, to have an authentic conversation about Biblical Scripture and God’s Truth. Their honest and thought provoking conversations are full of wit and wisdom which will have you diving deeper into God’s Word.
Whether Dot is teaching, speaking or simply grabbing coffee with a dear friend, she can often be heard saying with excitement, “Write this Down!” Her heart for the listener is to take the things she asks you to write down before the Lord and ask Him to open your eyes to His Truth and love. John 8:32 says, “and you will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free.”
By the end of each episode, you’ll find yourself grabbing a pencil so that you can Write this Down! with Dot Bowen.
What can the story of Abraham teach us about our own relationships with the Lord? In this episode, Dot and Cara continue their series about faith by examining the way Abraham’s life was shaped by His trust in God. They remind us that even though Abrahm did not always have perfect faith, He continued to allow God to work in His life. They also share encouragement for listeners who might be struggling to trust God’s plan. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Romans 4:18-22 (0:12)
- Today we’re continuing our series about faith by looking at the life of Abraham (1:03)
- If God has a certain plan for your life, then it will come to be (2:12)
- Even Abraham did not have perfect faith (7:32)
- If you’re trusting God, then you haven’t missed what He wants for you (13:26)
- God can still use us when we make mistakes (19:44)
- Our children or our spouses can easily become idols (26:23)
- Abraham believed God even when he couldn’t see the path ahead of him (31:58)
- Trust God’s heart, not His hand (38:09)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
If faith is such an important part of our walks with God, then it makes sense that the enemy would try to make us lose it. In this episode, Dot and Cara begin a new series where they’ll be talking all about faith. They explain why we need faith to accept God’s gift of salvation, and they begin to discuss some of the lies many of us come to believe about faith. They also remind us that even in hard times, we can have faith in God’s heart of love for us. Grab your Bible and join us, and make sure to email us if you have questions about this series!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Ephesians 2:8-10 (0:12)
- We’re kicking off a new series about faith, so send us your questions! (0:51)
- If faith is so essential, then we can see why the enemy would twist it (3:33)
- We all have faith in something (7:13)
- We are saved by God’s grace, but we need faith to receive it (10:51)
- Faith is believing in what Jesus did for us (16:09)
- What are some of the lies we believe about faith? (19:31)
- Faith is not a weapon for manipulating God (23:19)
- In hard times, we can have faith that God is with us (29:30)
- Your faith will grow the more you understand the heart of God (33:14)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
If faith is such an important part of our walks with God, then it makes sense that the enemy would try to make us lose it. In this episode, Dot and Cara begin a new series where they’ll be talking all about faith. They explain why we need faith to accept God’s gift of salvation, and they begin to discuss some of the lies many of us come to believe about faith. They also remind us that even in hard times, we can have faith in God’s heart of love for us. Grab your Bible and join us, and make sure to email us if you have questions about this series!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Ephesians 2:8-10 (0:12)
- We’re kicking off a new series about faith, so send us your questions! (0:51)
- If faith is so essential, then we can see why the enemy would twist it (3:33)
- We all have faith in something (7:13)
- We are saved by God’s grace, but we need faith to receive it (10:51)
- Faith is believing in what Jesus did for us (16:09)
- What are some of the lies we believe about faith? (19:31)
- Faith is not a weapon for manipulating God (23:19)
- In hard times, we can have faith that God is with us (29:30)
- Your faith will grow the more you understand the heart of God (33:14)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
This week we are taking a little break, but we're going to come back week to start a brand new series on… faith.
We know Scripture says that without faith, it is impossible to please God. We also know that faith can move mountains. But what are we putting our faith in? There's so much to dive into here — we're going to talk about prayer, pleasing God, and what it really means to have faith in our daily lives.
We would love for you guys to join in that conversation and submit your own questions, thoughts or comments on this topic. Send those to hello@dotbowen.com and we forward to being with you again next with for the kickoff of our Faith Series!
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Scripture tells us that God will soften our hearts, but we first have to be willing to let Him in. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about why it’s so important to guard our hearts and minds, reminding us that our actions matter much less than the position of our hearts. They also discuss what it looks like to move forward once we’ve heard God’s voice. Pull up a chair and listen in on the conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Matthew 15:8-9 (0:11)
- Our outside actions matter much less than our heart (1:01)
- What stays in our minds affects our hearts (6:27)
- When we know the truth, we need to apply it (10:56)
- God can help soften our minds and hearts (13:34)
- Only God can judge and change our hearts (21:17)
- Moving forward can take time, but we need to keep moving (26:04)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
We know that God has a plan for our lives, but we won’t always know exactly what that plan looks like. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about some of the dreams they believe God has placed on their hearts, and the way they’re trusting God to fulfill His best possible plan. They also encourage us to celebrate the things God has already done, make the most of all the time we have, and trust that God has more for us to do. Grab your Bible and a journal and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Psalms 25:4-5 (0:11)
- God has more for us to do (1:08)
- We can have plans and dreams, but nothing is certain (6:20)
- How do we know what God has planned for us? (12:03)
- As you look to the future, remember what God has already done (22:09)
- What would God do if we had the faith to trust Him? (28:58)
- None of us know how long we have (33:40)
- Are you moving closer to healing, or further away from it? (35:51)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
How do we know God is speaking to us, and what do we do in response? In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about the story of Jeremiah and the unpopular messages God asked him to deliver to the Israelites. They reflect on what it can look like to hear God’s voice today and discuss some things to look out for to make sure the messages we’re listening to are actually of God. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Jeremiah 32:6-10 (0:12)
- God gave Jeremiah an unpopular message to share (1:34)
- How do you know what God’s telling you? (7:26)
- God made a point to prove that Jeremiah was speaking for Him (11:13)
- If you believe God is speaking to you, hold it with humility (17:00)
- If it’s from God, it will require us to come closer to Him (26:55)
- No matter what we’re walking through, God will give us strength (34:37)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
What does it mean to allow God to conform us to His image? In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about some of the new takeaways they’ve gained from an old, familiar passage: Romans 8:28-29. They discuss what Paul meant when he said we’d be conformed to the image of Jesus, reflect on the importance of forgiving others, and offer encouragement to anyone who’s currently walking through a difficult season. Grab your Bible and a journal and listen in!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Romans 8:28-29 (0:12)
- No matter how many times you hear a verse, there are still new things to learn (1:18)
- Even in difficult times, God loves us (4:37)
- God doesn’t promise all things will be good, but He will use the bad things (11:48)
- Circumstances can bring out things we didn’t even know we had in us (14:24)
- Instead of focus on what’s going wrong, look for God’s hand (26:36)
- We all need to forgive and be forgiven (37:17)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Our worship is less about what we do and more about why we’re doing it. In this episode, Dot and Cara continue talking about the woman at the well and the way Jesus met her exactly where she needed Him to. They discuss the idea of true worship and reflect on the question of how we can better allow Jesus’ love to come into our lives. Pull up a chair and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down John 4:24-30 (0:12)
- The woman at the well was looking for love, and Jesus met her there (1:28)
- True worship comes from a deep love for the Lord (5:02)
- How do we let down our walls so Jesus’ love can get in? (10:27)
- How we respond to God impacts how we respond to others (19:19)
- Our actions should come from the heart of wanting to know God better (28:17)
- We can ask God for the desire to love Him more (33:55)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Even when you think you’re unworthy of love, Jesus will go out of His way to seek you out. In this episode, Dot and Cara catch up on some of the big questions and ideas that have been on Dot’s heart this summer. They then discuss the story of the woman at the well, open up about why it’s so meaningful to them, and explain what it can teach us about Jesus’ love for us. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join in on the conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down John 4:7-10 (0:12)
- What dream has God placed on your heart? (1:21)
- Jesus knows everything we’ve done and loves us anyway (9:29)
- It’s hard to believe God loves us if we don’t love ourselves (15:40)
- Jesus goes out of His way to seek us out (20:42)
- We don’t have to be worthy; Jesus just wants us to know who He is (26:16)
- Jesus is not like the people who have hurt us (32:57)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Becoming a living sacrifice is not a one-time decision, it’s a lifelong commitment to walking with the Lord. In this episode, Dot and Cara wrap up their series about knowing the will of God by talking about what it means to present ourselves as living sacrifices. They explain that we can trust God to help us want what He wants, and they offer encouragement to anyone who’s worrying about making the wrong decision or stepping outside of God’s will. Grab your Bible and a journal and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Romans 12:1-2 (0:12)
- Romans 12 tells us that we actually can get to know God’s will (1:01)
- To know God’s will in the moment, you need to walk with Him consistently (6:33)
- When you’ve surrendered your life to God, you can trust your desires (13:31)
- We can bring our desires and our fears to God (19:18)
- God will put things in the way when we’re headed outside of His will (24:16)
- The outcome is not our responsibility, it’s God’s (30:28)
- If we’re going after what God wants, He won’t let us drown (34:21)
- If God isn’t our everything, He’s not anything (42:12)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
How can we remain focused on God’s will when we’re constantly surrounded by competing messages? In this episode, Dot and Cara continue their series on Romans 12 with a conversation about what it means to renew our minds. They explain why it’s so important to know and apply God’s truth, and they encourage us to ask God to help us want what He wants. Pull up a chair and join in on the conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Romans 12:1-2 (0:11)
- The world will try to contradict God’s truth (1:14)
- We need to train our minds to see God’s perspective (5:42)
- We can acknowledge reality while still having faith (13:12)
- It’s more important to know God than to know His plan (22:01)
- God can help us to want what He wants (28:16)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
We won’t always understand why certain things happen, but we can surrender to God and start to get to know His will. In this episode, Dot and Cara begin a new series on Romans 12, “How to Know the Will of God.” They talk about what Paul meant when he encouraged the church to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, and they share some lessons and mindsets that have helped them practice surrender.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Romans 12:1-2 (0:12)
- How do we know God’s will? (1:14)
- Paul wanted the church to surrender to God’s will (5:49)
- God can help us to want what He wants (11:03)
- Refusing to surrender won’t keep us from trouble (18:03)
- If you want to trust God more, start by getting to know Him better (23:02)
- We have to commit to surrender every day (28:03)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
It’s easy to get caught up in celebrating our own accomplishments, but God is the one who is on the throne. In this episode, Dot explains why this idea has been on her heart lately, and she encourages us to stop being so self-absorbed and to make sure we’re worshipping God and God alone. She and Cara also talk about the insights they gain from Revelation 5, and they remind us that God is always in control. Pull up a chair and join in on the conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Revelation 5:11-14 (0:12)
- We can be so self-absorbed and forget that God is on His throne (1:33)
- Only God can change people’s hearts (5:47)
- He is in control of yesterday, today, and forever (9:31)
- Are we worshipping God or worshipping ourselves? (11:14)
- God is not passively watching us, He’s involved in the world (19:29)
- We may not know how God will act, but we can trust His heart (23:20)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Because of Jesus, we’re free from condemnation for our sins. In this episode, Dot and Cara wrap up their mini series on Romans by celebrating some of the powerful truths found in Romans 8. They each explain why these verses mean so much to them, and they remind us that we can always find hope in Christ, even when we don’t know what to pray or ask for. Grab your Bible and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Romans 8:15-16 (0:12)
- Through Jesus, we have the power to defeat sin (1:13)
- We don’t have to live in shame or condemnation any longer (5:10)
- Guilt vs. condemnation: How can we tell the difference? (10:14)
- We will still struggle and feel discouraged, but we have hope in Christ (15:49)
- The Spirit intercedes for us, and we are not alone (21:17)
- If God is for us, who can be against us? (25:35)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Part of being human is struggling between two masters: the law of sin and the law of God. In this episode, Dot and Cara dig deep into Romans 7 and talk about this tension between the desires of our flesh and the desires of God. They explain how Jesus has set us free from the power of sin, and they offer some words of encouragement for all of us who are struggling to serve God in this life. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and listen in!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Romans 7:7 (0:12)
- All of us can relate to struggling between what we want to do and what we do (1:22)
- The law doesn’t save us, Jesus does (10:31)
- The desires of the flesh are contrary to the spirit of God (16:54)
- Jesus was human but he did not sin (19:25)
- God’s law was intended to keep us free (26:29)
- The enemy wants to stop us from doing good and hold us captive (30:31)
- We’re caught between two masters: God and sin (36:39)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Sin will always be a part of our lives here on earth, but we don’t have to let it control us or have power over us. In this episode, Dot explains why Romans 6 has played such an important role in her faith journey. She shares some of the principles she’s learned about sin, putting God first, and responding to situations that hurt us. Dot and Cara also talk about the way that Jesus’ sacrifice has set us free from so many of the things that try to separate us from God. Pull up a chair and join in on the conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Romans 6:1-4 (0:12)
- Are you holding onto expectations about who God should be? (1:32)
- Certain principles will help you stay consistent with your faith (4:50)
- When you reach the end of yourself, you have the chance to put God first (6:30)
- Part of being human is longing to be loved (9:28)
- If you know something is right and don’t do it, you’re sinning (14:02)
- Because of Jesus, sin doesn’t have power over us anymore (16:48)
- People can hurt us, but we don’t have to let those hurts control us (21:54)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
God has not called us to judge others or change people’s hearts; He simply asks us to speak the truth and trust Him to take care of the rest. In this episode, Dot and Cara discuss the parable of the weeds and what it teaches us about our role in the kingdom of God. They remind us that we can never truly know someone’s heart and that God will use all things for His purpose. Pour yourself a cup of tea or coffee and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Matthew 13:24-30 (0:12)
- We don’t know what the future holds, but that’s OK (1:50)
- It’s not up for us to decide what’s good and what’s evil (4:05)
- Only God can see people’s hearts (11:15)
- God will stamp out evil one day; all we need to do now is speak the truth (19:53)
- God uses all things for His good and His glory (26:50)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
If you want to understand your response to hurtful situations, start by looking at your heart. In this episode, Dot and Cara examine the parable of the sower and the lessons it can teach us about our own lives. They talk about the importance of good soil and explain how you can understand your heart by looking at the fruit it produces. Grab your Bible and join in on the conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Matthew 13:1-9 (0:12)
- Why did Jesus speak in parables? (1:48)
- The soil determines whether or not the seed will grow (5:44)
- Your response to a situation will depend on your heart (10:54)
- When you’re hurt by a situation, try to understand the other person’s intentions (20:43)
- We can’t fully know other people’s hearts (28:21)
- When you’re feeling hurt, ask God to reveal where your heart is (34:27)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
What did Jesus mean when he said His yoke is easy and His burden is light? In this episode, Dot and Cara reflect on this message from Matthew 11:28-30 and explain why it’s so important to bring our fears and our worries to God rather than trying to control the outcomes on our own. They also remind us that we can come to God with anything, even the concerns that seem trivial. Pull up a chair and join in on the conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Matthew 11:28-30 (0:12)
- Is it easy or hard to follow Jesus? (1:21)
- If we’re struggling to carry something, it’s probably not what God has for us (8:14)
- Life will be hard, but God wants to help us through it (13:50)
- We don’t have to worry about the outcomes (20:00)
- If it’s on your mind and heart, it’s worth talking to God about (31:04)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
God can use our pain and adversity to bring us closer to Him. In this episode, Dot and Cara continue examining the principles of Dr. Charles Stanley about obedience, adversity, prayer, the Holy Spirit, and much more. They also encourage us to look to Scripture as a source of truth that will help us draw closer to God. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and listen in on the conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Psalm 119:105 (0:12)
- God wants intimacy with us, not our perfection (1:16)
- More principles from Dr. Charles Stanley (7:13)
- As children of a sovereign God, we are never victims of our circumstances (9:20)
- Disappointments are inevitable, but discouragement is a choice (11:48)
- Why is obedience so important to God? (14:11)
- We can’t avoid pain and adversity, but we can grow closer to God through it (22:48)
- Prayer is life’s biggest time saver (31:04)
- With the Holy Spirit, we never have to go it alone (32:57)
Resources:
Dr. Charles Stanley Tribute Video
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Our intimacy with God is God’s highest priority. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about the life and teachings of Dr. Charles Stanley, who had an enormous impact on Dot’s spiritual journey. They discuss some of Dr. Stanley’s principles about our relationship with God, and they remind us to think about the legacy we want to leave on this world. Grab your Bible and journal and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 2 Timothy 4:1-2 (0:12)
- Dr. Charles Stanley is a great example of how God can use our adversity (1:51)
- What kind of legacy will you leave? (5:29)
- Dr. Charles Stanley’s principals (12:06)
- Prayer and Scripture can be our anchors in a storm (16:27)
- Trusting God means looking beyond what we can see (27:47)
- God will move heaven and earth to get close to us (34:44)
- God wants us to consider His will before we make decisions (40:29)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Through the story of Saul, we learn just how dangerous it can be when anger and jealousy consume us. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about the way Saul’s pride serves as a cautionary tale, especially when compared to David’s humility. They explain why it’s so important to guard our hearts and remember that God’s calling is more about Him than it is about us. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 1 Samuel 15:10-11 (0:12)
- This week we’re talking about Saul (2:08)
- Saul went from chasing his father’s donkeys to becoming king (6:09)
- Samuel and Saul were living through a pivotal time in Israel’s history (9:25)
- Our calling has nothing to do with us and everything to do with God (11:36)
- Saul followed God halfway, but his pride got in the way (15:32)
- David had a humility and willingness to repent that Saul did not (24:00)
- Pay attention to your heart so you don’t become controlled by anger (31:13)
Resources:
“Enemies of the Heart” by Andy Stanley
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
We don’t have to feel despair, because our hope is in Jesus. In this episode, we share a live recording of a session Dot led this winter about the power of hope. She explains how Jesus can be the anchor we’re needing when the world around us feels overwhelming, and she reminds us that God wants what’s best for us.
Episode Recap
- None of us have it all together, but that’s why we need God (0:29)
- There’s a difference between doing things for God and doing them with Him (4:42)
- God can give us the desire to love Him if we ask (9:43)
- We are more than conquerors through God (12:07)
- Jesus is our hope (20:08)
- If you’re looking for hope in anything but Jesus, you’ll be disappointed (29:43)
- God never withholds what is best for His children (34:23)
- Despair is when you can’t see good coming out of your situation (38:34)
- God gets the final word (42:56)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Even when we fall or face unimaginable circumstances, we are more than conquerors through Christ. In this episode, Dot and Cara wrap up our series on running the race marked out for us by talking about Dot’s experience of finishing the half marathon. They also reflect on the ways we can find hope in the midst of tragedies like the recent Nashville shooting and share some words of encouragement for anyone who’s struggling to trust God’s plan.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Romans 8:35-39 (0:12)
- The same spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is alive in us (1:53)
- When you go through the unimaginable, God is with you (5:22)
- Dot’s experience of finishing the half marathon (10:31)
- It’s only through God that we are more than conquerors (16:05)
- Sometimes the biggest mistakes lead to the biggest lessons (24:34)
- The love of God keeps us moving forward (30:19)
- God has a purpose and a plan, even when we don’t see it (34:15)
Resources:
“The Race Marked Out for Us” by Dot Bowen
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Just like we need water every day to stay alive and healthy, we need the Holy Spirit’s consistent presence in our lives. In this episode, Dot and Cara compare the experience of the woman at the well in John 4 to Dot’s experience of running a half marathon. They talk about why it’s so important to let God satisfy our hearts’ desires, and they share practical advice for building intimacy with the Holy Spirit.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down John 4:13-15 (0:12)
- Sometimes the thing we need most is not what we think it is (1:34)
- Only Jesus can satisfy the desires of our hearts (7:23)
- If you truly believed who God was, why would you worry? (11:20)
- Living water represents the power of the Holy Spirit (14:03)
- We need to prepare consistently, not just in hard moments (17:16)
- How to connect with the Holy Spirit (23:01)
Resources:
“The Race Marked Out for Us” by Dot Bowen
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
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In order to run the race marked out for us, we need to train with Scripture and prayer. In this episode, Dot and Cara continue to talk about the lessons Dot learned from running a half marathon. They explain why training is so important for our spiritual journeys and also discuss how these lessons apply to parenting. Grab your Bible and a journal and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Hebrews 12:11 (0:12)
- It’s important to train for our races (1:18)
- Sometimes all we can do is keep going (4:45)
- Just like a race, our faith is a journey (9:23)
- We often worry about the destination but forget about the journey (14:37)
- Spiritual discipline and maturity come when you’re trained by the Holy Spirit (16:11)
- When our own strength isn’t enough, we can learn to cry out to God (23:24)
- Love is what makes someone a good parent (27:50)
- If you want to follow Jesus, know what He said and what He cares about (36:20)
Resources:
“The Race Marked Out for Us” by Dot Bowen
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
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What does it actually mean to run the race marked out for us? In this episode, Dot and Cara begin a new series about Hebrews 12:1 and Dot’s book, “The Race Marked Out for Us.” Dot shares the story of signing up for a half marathon without knowing what to expect, and she explains how the lessons she learned also apply to the experience of following Jesus. Pull up a chair and listen in!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Hebrews 12:1 (0:12)
- This week we’re kicking off a new series based on Dot’s book (1:44)
- Whatever season you’re in, we’re all running a race (8:16)
- We tend to think life will only be good when we start following Jesus (11:37)
- Sometimes our race is harder than we expect (28:16)
- We don’t get to choose our course (32:15)
Resources:
“The Race Marked Out for Us” by Dot Bowen
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How do we know whether a teaching is from God or from the world? In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about some of the mysteries expressed in 1 John and remind us that God is not a God of confusion. They also talk about what it means to be born again, and they share some practical tips for knowing God’s will and doing our best to glorify Him. Grab your Bible and a journal and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 1 John 4:4-6 (0:12)
- Jesus was born of the flesh without sin (1:20)
- We were born into sinful flesh, but through Jesus we can be born again (7:21)
- God is not a God of confusion (13:34)
- Is a teaching leading you to God, or pushing you away from Him? (20:14)
- Are you motivated by the world’s principles, or by God’s kingdom? (24:51)
- God’s will is for us to glorify Him in all we do (28:59)
- Anything that is more important to us than God is an idol (34:44)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
God loves us even when we sin, but sin also affects our intimacy with Him. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk through some of the more confusing messages in the book of 1 John. They explain how sin affects us, and they talk about the idea that Jesus is our advocate before God. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join the conversation!
Episode Recap
● Start by writing down 1 John 2:1-2 (0:13)
● 1 John can be confusing without context (1:27)
● When you know God loves you, you can handle certain harsh truths (5:26)
● What does it mean to have an advocate? (11:26)
● Sin separates us from intimacy with God (16:13)
● God loves non-believers, too (22:59)
● Our lifestyle should reflect our love for God (30:28)
Resources:
If you have a question or if you'd like to share what you're learning, send us an email - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
What does it mean to experience fellowship with God? In this episode, Dot and Cara discuss this question, along with some of the other key ideas they find in the book of 1 John. They talk about the importance of telling what God has done in our lives, the difference between our experience and God’s truth, and much more. Pull up a chair and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 1 John 1:5 (0:13)
- John focused on telling people about Jesus’ divinity (2:04)
- Eyewitness accounts are powerful (5:27)
- We’re called to tell people about what God has done in our lives (8:59)
- The New Testament writers focused on telling their stories, not on convincing people to believe (11:54)
- If you think you’re without sin, you’re deceiving yourself (14:41)
- God knows our hearts and sees when we struggle (23:10)
- Our experience and emotions do not shape God’s truth (27:54)
- Fellowship is a gift enjoyed by both us and God (35:44)
Resources:
“The Voice of the Heart” by Chip Dodd
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Prayer is one of the most important parts of our faith, and yet many of us struggle with it. Today, Dot and Cara wrestle with the question, “Why should we pray?” They also talk about some of the ways that we can build a more intimate and trusting relationship with God, even when we’re struggling. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Matthew 22:37-38 (0:13)
- “Why should I pray?” is a question for many believers (1:51)
- It’s important to be honest with God when we pray (9:34)
- There’s a difference between knowing God’s power and knowing His ways (12:17)
- Are you focused on spending time with God, or only on asking for things? (21:01)
- Intimacy requires us to be honest (28:30)
- God will reveal Himself if we ask for the ability to trust Him (34:48)
Resources:
The Papa Prayer by Larry Crabb
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Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
When Moses was doubting his ability to go before the Egyptians, God told him, “I Am Who I Am.” In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about what this name of God means for our lives. They also explain how we can see Moses’ intimacy with God grow throughout Scripture, and they encourage us to seek God’s presence more than we seek His promises. Grab your Bible and a journal and listen in!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Exodus 3:13-15 (0:13)
- Moses didn’t understand how God could use him (2:12)
- Moses had a truly intimate relationship with God (7:25)
- Throughout the story, we get to see Moses’ faith grow (10:54)
- There’s a difference between doubting God and asking Him questions (15:05)
- We will never fulfill God’s purpose if we’re focused on our abilities (18:57)
- Don’t put your trust in the outcome, put your trust in God (23:02)
- The Israelites wanted miracles, but Moses wanted God’s presence (26:15)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
So often, we try to explain God instead of letting God tell us who He is. In this episode, Dot and Cara answer a frequently asked question: “How do I build a more intimate relationship with God?” Dot explains how studying the names of God has helped her understand Him better, and they talk about some of the different ways God has revealed Himself in Scripture and in their own lives. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and listen in!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Proverbs 18:10 (0:12)
- We often focus more on the suffering we’re experiencing than on being righteous through it (0:58)
- You can’t love and trust someone unless you know them intimately (6:05)
- To better understand God, look at His names (9:47)
- God looks beyond our failures and weaknesses to see what we can be (13:08)
- Deep struggles can lead to deeper intimacy with God (17:31)
- God reveals through He is through His names (21:28)
- How can you trust God if you don’t know who He is? (30:37)
- To have intimacy with God is to know that He’s in control (32:17)
- God doesn’t want us to explain who He is, He wants to tell us who He is (37:18)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
We can find hope even in the midst of suffering, because our hope is in Jesus. In this episode, we share a live session from the Breathe Retreat, where Dot reflects on the story of Job. She talks about the difficult question of “why do we suffer?” and she offers hope and encouragement to anyone who’s struggling to trust God in their current circumstances. Pull up a chair and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Job 1:1,9
- Job was righteous and blameless, and he still suffered
- God is not in the business of punishing his children
- Just because we’re forgiven doesn’t mean we won’t experience consequences
- We can’t know what God is doing in other people’s lives
- We can find hope knowing that God understands even when we don’t
- Don’t listen to people who try to tell you why you’re suffering
- Our hope is not in our circumstances
- We don’t know why we suffer, but we can know God’s heart
- Will you serve God for nothing?
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Do you view God as someone who wants to punish you and teach you lessons, or do you believe that He wants to bless you? In this episode, Dot opens up about something she’s been struggling with lately and shares the lesson she’s learned in the process. Dot and Cara talk about the idea that God wants good things for us, and they explain how we can ask God to help us trust Him and to want what He wants. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Matthew 7:9-11 (0:12)
- Do you believe that God will do good things in your life? (1:41)
- God is not just a God of discipline, He also wants to bless us (10:02)
- We can ask God to help us want what He wants (14:45)
- Pay attention to the fruit you’re seeing in your life (27:18)
Resources:
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
We’ll never understand everything about God, but we can trust His heart. In this episode, Dot and Cara answer two more listener questions about what it means to have faith, and how we can look to God as the source of our faith and our salvation. Dot also shares several Scriptures that can help you dig further into this topic, so grab your Bible and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Hebrews 11:6 (0:10)
- Today we’re answering questions about what it means to have faith (1:16)
- The messages we hear as children can impact our faith today (3:57)
- Focus on what Jesus said, and look for the heart of God (8:43)
- We’re saved because of Jesus’ death for our sins (10:29)
- You don’t have to know everything to trust the heart of God (18:13)
- Start by bringing your questions to God (25:43)
- God gives us faith at the capacity we need (29:15)
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
What does it really mean when we say Scripture is inspired by God, and how can we know that the Bible is true? To kick off the new year, Dot and Cara tackle these questions, discussing the common themes we can find throughout all of Scripture, the process of selecting the books of the Bible, and much more. Dot also shares plenty of verses to help you dive deeper into this question, so grab a pen and piece of paper and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down James 1:5-8 (0:14)
- Today we’re answering listener questions about how we prove the Bible is real (3:14)
- If you ask God for wisdom, He’ll give it to you (5:35)
- 2 Peter 1:20-21: Scripture is inspired by God through the power of the Holy Spirit (7:52)
- As you study the Bible as a whole, you’ll see the common threads (10:41)
- 2 Timothy 3:16 and John 10:35: Scripture is infallible (18:08)
- How the biblical canon came to be (22:40)
- 1 Thessalonians 5:27, 2 Peter 3:15-16, Colossians 4:16 Jesus quoted Scripture (27:56)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat is now open.
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
“From God to Us: How We Got our Bible” by Norman Geisler
Revelation can feel overwhelming or confusing to read, but it’s ultimately a reminder that we were created to dwell with God, and we can trust Him to right every wrong in this world. In this episode, Dot and Cara reflect on their year of reading through the Bible and talk about some of their favorite parts of the book of Revelation. Dot also shares practical tips for reading and understanding this book. Grab your Bible and a journal and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Revelation 21:3-5 (0:12)
- We’re almost at the end of our year of reading through the Bible (1:37)
- We were created to dwell with the Lord (4:06)
- Revelation reminds us that we can trust God (14:44)
- What does the story in Revelation actually mean? (18:05)
- When Jesus died he conquered sin and death (22:51)
- How to approach reading Revelation (29:24)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat is now open.
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Dot and Cara are getting ready to record their 100th Episode and they want to hear from you!! Submit your questions and they will answer as many as they can in Episode 100. If you have any questions about anything from a past episode, or how to apply a truth or even about our relationship, submit them to hello@dotbowen.com by Wednesday December 14!
In 1, 2, and 3 John, the apostle reminds readers about the importance of intimacy with God. Dot and Cara talk about this idea in today’s episode, and Dot answers some of Cara’s biggest questions about prayer, including “why should we pray?” and “does prayer really change things?” Pour yourself a cup of coffee and listen in.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 1 John 3:1 (0:12)
- John’s writing is especially concerned with our closeness with the Lord (1:27)
- We can speak the truth in love (6:17)
- Repentance creates intimacy with God (12:35)
- Why should we ask God for things? (17:02)
- Can our prayers change the will of God? (24:34)
- What might you lose by not trusting God? (29:40)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat is now open.
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Satan often tries to keep us stuck in the past, but God has a better way for us. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about the book of 1 Peter, explaining what they learn from seeing Peter grow and change throughout Scripture. They also talk about what it means to cast your anxieties on the Lord, and they share some encouraging promises for anyone who’s struggling.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 1 Peter 5:6-11 (0:13)
- 1 Peter is a somewhat overlooked book, but it’s full of wisdom (2:16)
- Peter had the biggest impact on the early church (6:06)
- Satan wants to keep you looking back instead of moving forward (15:05)
- God promises to restore, strengthen, confirm, and establish us through suffering (18:09)
- What does it actually mean to cast your anxieties on Him? (29:13)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat is now open.
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
It can feel difficult to praise God when we’re waiting for Him to do something, or we’re struggling to understand His plans. But Hebrews reminds us that our praise is a sacrifice we can give in celebration of who He is and the way Jesus died for us on the cross. In this episode, Dot and Cara reflect on this idea of a sacrifice of praise, and they talk about some of the different ways we can come before God in prayer, even when we’re wrestling with big questions or struggling to believe He has good things in store for us.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Hebrews 13:15 (0:13)
- Praise is more powerful than we often realize (1:55)
- Many of us forget to be thankful for what Jesus did on the cross (5:08)
- Advent reminds us to celebrate God’s presence with us (7:45)
- We can be honest with God when we’re wrestling (13:44)
- God wants to give good gifts to His children (18:53)
- Going to God in prayer is an act of faith (24:25)
- Jesus submitted to the Father’s will when he came to earth (27:56)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat is now open!
Download the Cup of Joy Ministries app
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
The book of Hebrews contains some challenging ideas, but it’s also a powerful reminder of who Jesus is and what His sacrifice means for each of us. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about the idea that Jesus is both a prophet and a high priest who makes it possible for us to go before God directly. They also reflect on one of the key themes of Hebrews — the idea that it’s worth it to follow Jesus even in the face of persecution — and explain why it’s so important to mentor and be mentored by others.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Hebrews 6:1 (0:13)
- As you age you have a unique opportunity to mentor younger Christians (1:33)
- Surround yourself with people at different points in their faith journeys (10:08)
- Hebrews speaks directly to the questions of the Jewish people (12:53)
- Jesus was the only prophet and high priest (18:00)
- We’ll never understand what a gift it is that we can now go before God (21:15)
- Hebrews reminds Christians that it’s worth it to follow Jesus (25:32)
- Who was Malchizedek? (27:34)
- To pray is to enter the presence of God (34:54)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat is now open.
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
In 2 Timothy, Paul took one last opportunity to encourage his disciple before he died. Dot and Cara discuss Paul’s final letter in today’s episode, and Cara explains why it’s her favorite letter in the Bible. They also talk about what it means to be a disciple, and the powerful way Paul demonstrated forgiveness at the end of his life. Pull up a chair and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 2 Timothy 4:6-8 (0:13)
- Timothy was like a son to Paul, and Paul wrote his last letter to him (1:34)
- What does it mean to be a disciple? (3:52)
- Paul encourages us to live our lives in a way that people will see God through us (7:07)
- There’s a difference between living from wounds and from scars (8:22)
- 2 Timothy is even more meaningful in the context of Paul’s journey (15:19)
- Just like Stephen, Paul forgave those who had wronged him (20:39)
- Paul’s last letter to Timothy was a powerful reminder of God’s love (28:40)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat is now open!
Pick up Dot’s book The Race Marked Out for Us and the Study Guide as well!
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
As Christians, God calls us to both live with an eternal perspective and also to approach our everyday responsibilities as work God has called us to do. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about that tension in the context of 1 and 2 Thessalonians. Dot explains why Paul’s message to the Thessalonian church is so relevant today, and she and Cara explore what it means to do all of our work as if we’re doing it for the Lord.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 (0:13)
- We can find encouragement in the promise that Jesus will return (1:53)
- The church at Thessalonica took Paul’s words as an excuse to do whatever they wanted (5:45)
- What if we really lived as if Jesus was coming again? (12:40)
- Whatever you do, do it well knowing you’re doing it for God (21:55)
- Sometimes what we’re meant to do is just draw near to the Lord (34:10)
Resources:
- The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat is now open!
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
In Ephesians and Colossians, we get a clear picture of the love Paul had for the church, and an example of what it means to pray for others. In this episode, Dot and Cara share some of their favorite parts of these two letters, especially focusing on the idea that we’re saved by grace through faith. They also talk about the prayers Paul writes that have helped them throughout their faith journeys, and they discuss what it means to put on the armor of God. Pull up a chair and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Ephesians 2:4-6 (0:12)
- Ephesians shows us how we can pray for others (2:02)
- Paul had a special love for the church at Ephesus (6:19)
- Works are not what saves us, we’re saved by grace through faith (8:47)
- God brings what was dead to life (13:45)
- We know Jesus never leaves us or forsakes us, but sometimes we miss Him (19:38)
- What does it mean to put on the armor of God? (29:10)
Resources:
- The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat is now open!
- Philippians 1 episode
- Philippians 2 episode
- Philippians 3 episode
- Philippians 4 episode
- “Victory in Spiritual Warfare” by Tony Evans
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
No matter how much time we spend praying or reading our Bible, it’s not our actions that make us right before God. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about what it means to be crucified with Christ and find new life in Him. They discuss the difference between living in the Spirit and living in the flesh, and Dot explains why Galatians is one of her favorite books of the Bible. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join in on the conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Galatians 2:20-21 (0:12)
- Why Galatians is near and dear to Dot’s heart (2:12)
- Galatians shows us what it really means to live and follow Jesus (6:45)
- As followers of Jesus we should live by the Spirit, not the flesh (10:48)
- Galatians addresses the question of who needs to follow Jewish law (22:14)
- Going to church or reading the Bible does not make us right with God (28:46)
Resources:
- The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat is open now!
- “The Race Marked Out for Us” by Dot Bowen
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Our salvation is less about being free to do whatever we want and more about having the freedom from sin that once kept us in bondage. In this episode, Dot and Cara explore some of the key themes Paul covers in 1 and 2 Corinthians, including the idea of freedom. They explain how 1 Corinthians was written to call out problems in the church, and 2 Corinthians is a more gentle reminder of God’s heart for the Corinthians. Grab your Bible and a notebook and join us for this episode!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (0:13)
- A mid-year check in on our Bible reading challenge (1:28)
- In 2 Corinthians, Paul is responding to problems in the church he founded (6:36)
- It’s not that we’re free to do what we want, it’s that we’re free to not do it (11:08)
- 1 Corinthians is more of a rebuke. In 2 Corinthians, Paul shows us the heart of God (16:48)
- Sometimes God gives us moments where it’s especially clear how real He is (18:57)
- We all need reminders that we’re living for a purpose (24:33)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat is open now!
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Romans is full of reminders about our identity in Christ and the hope and victory we can find in Him.In this episode, Dot and Cara share a few of their favorite passages from the book of Romans. They talk about how Romans 4 encourages them to hold onto hope, reflect on Paul’s message in Romans 8, and discuss the importance of consistently spending quality time with the Lord. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and listen along.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Romans 8:14-16 (0:14)
- Romans 4 reminds us to hold onto hope (1:36)
- Even when it seemed like everything was against him, Abraham trusted God (8:00)
- Did Abraham know that God would spare Isaac? (12:14)
- Sometimes God allows circumstances so that He can show us who He is (17:53)
- God has adopted us into his family, and He cares for us (24:31)
- When we don’t spend quality time with the Lord, we’ll feel the difference (27:45)
- Romans reminds us that we have victory through Jesus (34:06)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens October, 11 2022. Learn more here.
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
When we choose to follow Jesus, our old self dies and we are reborn. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about this idea and some of the other wisdom they’ve found in the book of Romans. They also explain how trying to find freedom will ultimately leave you even more enslaved than you were before and remind listeners that we don’t need to earn God’s grace or forgiveness. This episode is packed with important insight, so pull up a chair and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Romans 3:10-12 (0:13)
- You can see Paul’s approach evolving throughout his letters (2:16)
- Romans teaches us that there’s nothing we can do to earn God’s grace (12:38)
- Because of Jesus’ death, we are justified before God (16:12)
- Sanctification is the ongoing process of becoming more like Jesus (17:14)
- Many Christians seek freedom instead of holiness, but we’re never truly free (18:41)
- When we choose to follow Christ, our old self is crucified with Him (25:11)
- In the kingdom of God, death brings life (30:16)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens October, 11 2022. Learn more here.
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Many Christians tend to either ignore the Holy Spirit because they don’t understand Him, or magnify Him to a level of importance that’s greater than the rest of the Trinity. In this episode, Dot and Cara share their perspective on the questions of who the Holy Spirit is, why Jesus sent Him, and how His presence impacts our daily lives. They also explain why they find comfort in the story of Stephen, which shows us that Jesus sees us and is moved by our suffering.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Acts 1:7-11 (0:13)
- People tend to either avoid the Holy Spirit altogether or magnify it (1:40)
- The Holy Spirit is the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to never leave or forsake us (4:45)
- The Holy Spirit opens our eyes to spiritual truths, based on what we can handle (8:13)
- Stephen’s story shows us that Jesus is moved when we’re suffering (13:07)
- Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Stephen asked God to forgive His persecutors (19:03)
- God doesn’t expect us to be faithful out of our own strength (24:17)
- When God calls us to something, He also equips us to do it (30:28)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens early October 2022. Learn more here.
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Each and every person has a deep desire to be loved. And whether we realize it or not, God already loves us more than we can imagine. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about what it means when John calls himself “the beloved.” They also discuss the themes we can find in each of the Gospels, depending on the writer’s perspective and the nature of his relationship with Jesus. Pull up a chair and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down John 20:29-31 (0:13)
- Each Gospel shares a different perspective based on how the writer saw Jesus (1:32)
- When we have a mountaintop experience, we tend to want to stay there (6:01)
- The themes of John’s gospel are belief and love (14:25)
- John felt beloved because he was most able to receive the love Jesus has for all of us (18:32)
- All of us want to be loved, and God’s love is there for us to accept (26:47)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens early October 2022. Learn more here.
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
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Just because we think God is silent, it doesn’t mean He’s not working to carry out His plans. In this episode, Cara and Dot talk about the silent years, when God stopped speaking through the prophets for 400 years leading up to the birth of Jesus. They explain how God’s plan is always at work in the background, and they talk about some of the different ways that Christians today can experience God’s voice even when He doesn’t directly answer our prayers. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and listen in to the conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Matthew 5: 17-18 (0:13)
- After the prophets, God went silent for 400 years (1:39)
- It’s hard to have faith when we feel like God is silent (6:32)
- Reading through the Bible reminds us that God is moving behind the scenes (11:32)
- Through Jesus, God did what He said He would do (16:14)
- God is leading us even when we don’t understand the story that’s unfolding (20:43)
- Trust that God is preparing a way when you’re in your own “silent years” (28:22)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens early October 2022. Learn more here.
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It’s difficult to accept the fact that we can’t protect our children from all suffering, but no matter what, we can trust that God has a plan. In this episode, we share a Mother’s Day talk Dot gave, where she shares the lessons she learned from reading about Moses’ mother. Dot explains how we can do our best to raise our children well, and then trust God to do what only He can. Grab your Bible and a journal and listen along!
Episode Recap
- In this episode, we’re sharing a talk Dot gave on Mother’s Day (0:14)
- We’re all a product of the people who have invested in our stories (1:17)
- You don’t have to relate to someone in Scripture in order to learn from them (9:18)
- Moses’ mother made a plan and then trusted God (12:52)
- God doesn’t expect us to be perfect, but He wants us to do all we can (16:03)
- The only thing we’re defined by is our identity in Christ (18:02)
- Only God can do what only God can do (19:59)
- God has a plan for each of us (28:14)
- Whatever is on your heart today, God understands and He can carry it (33:26)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens early October 2022. Learn more here.
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Jesus knew that Peter would deny him, but He still chose Peter to build His church. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about what it means to trust that God can still use us no matter what we’ve done in the past. They share stories from Scripture and from their own lives that demonstrate how God can shape our experiences into the preparation we need to move forward or into a story that can help others. Grab a cup of coffee and listen along.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Luke 22:31-32 (0:13)
- Jesus knew Peter would deny Him (2:24)
- When Peter denied Jesus, it taught him humility and prepared him for his ministry (8:10)
- Sometimes God shapes our experiences into a story that can help others (11:56)
- It’s never too late for God to use you (15:47)
- Paul knew what he’d done before encountering Jesus, but he still moved forward (23:17)
- Instead of focusing too much on the past, keep your eyes on Jesus (27:28)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens early October 2022. Learn more here.
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
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When you encounter challenges, do you tend to face them head on, or do you use escapism to cope? In this episode, Dot and Cara discuss what it means to forget the past and keep moving forward, even if the steps you’re taking feel small or insignificant. Dot also reflects on some of the lessons she’s learning from cleaning out her house, and she explains why oftentimes, the best next step we can take is actually to pause and spend time with Jesus.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Philippians 3:12-14 (0:13)
- Many of us cope with hard times through escapism (2:25)
- The best place to be when you’re struggling is at the feet of Jesus (10:25)
- We need to forget the past (14:01)
- Moving forward doesn’t always look the same, so be gentle with yourself (17:02)
- Instead of judging your progress externally, focus on where your heart is (23:46)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens early October 2022. Learn more here.
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It’s easy to look at the world around us and wonder why good things happen to “bad” people when so many “good” people are suffering. In this episode, Dot and Cara wrestle with a question they received from a listener about this topic. They explain that it’s perfectly normal to ask why God allows bad things to happen to people we love, and they remind listeners that even when we can’t understand God’s ways, we can know His heart.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Job 40:1-8 (0:13)
- In this episode we’ll be discussing a listener question: Why do good things happen to bad people and bad things to good people? (1:12)
- It’s normal to question why God allows bad things to happen to people we love (6:37)
- God’s design was not for us to suffer, but we live in a broken world (10:17)
- God’s ways are not our ways, but we can know His heart (12:04)
- David struggled with these same questions until he encountered God (18:05)
- Only God can judge people’s hearts (21:32)
- It’s not about whether we’re good or bad, it’s about whether we’ve accepted Jesus (27:55)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens early October 2022. Learn more here.
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In this episode, Dot and Cara discuss a verse that’s very close to Dot’s heart; in fact, she prays it every morning. They talk about what it means to learn the ways of God, and Dot explains how reading Scripture allows her to better understand God’s heart and desires for His children. Pull up a chair and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Psalm 86:11-13 (0:14)
- If we ask God to show us His ways, He’ll answer (1:12)
- To know God’s heart, look to Scripture and learn the names He calls Himself (3:14)
- We won’t always know what God is up to, but we can know His heart (6:05)
- God does not withhold what’s best for us (8:28)
- How to learn the heart of God (15:50)
Resources:
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens early October 2022. Learn more here.
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In this episode, Dot and Cara take a break from reading through the Bible to talk about a few of the fun and serious questions they’d ask God if they were given the chance. They also reflect on the idea that just like children can’t always understand why their parents have certain rules, we can’t fully understand what God is doing and why. In the end, we have to rely on trusting the heart of God and knowing that He’s looking out for us, even when death and suffering make it hard to believe He’s working.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 2 Peter 3:15-17 (0:12)
- What question would you ask God if you had the chance? (4:56)
- God never said we wouldn’t experience death, but we have hope of resurrection (8:43)
- What happened to Lazarus when he died for four days? (16:03)
- Just because we don’t understand everything doesn’t mean we can’t trust God (19:27)
- We may not know God’s mind, but we can know His heart (22:48)
Resources:
Here’s a Question: Conversation Starters for Families
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens early October 2022. Learn more here.
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When you consistently spend time in Scripture, you’ll learn to recognize God speaking through the text. But how do you build the habit of reading the Bible? In this episode, Dot and Cara share their best advice for sticking to your Bible reading plan, or even just spending some time with the Word every day. They also explain why they like to focus on reading straight through the Bible in a year and share some of the biggest lessons they’ve learned in the process.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Psalm 119:9-11 (0:13)
- If you’re struggling to read through the Bible in a year, you’re not alone (1:40)
- Whether you’re busy or feeling emotionally burnt out, it’s normal to fall behind (9:02)
- The Bible is living and active, so there’s always more to learn (10:28)
- When you start from the beginning of a story, you understand it better (13:38)
- Most wrong ideas people have about God come from not knowing the full story (17:17)
- Resources that help us read the Bible (20:50)
- Reading the Bible can become a habit, but you may have to fight to get there (22:35)
- If you’re not reading the Bible through, just focus on spending time in the Word (30:03)
Resources:
Dwell App
YouVersion
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens early October 2022. Learn more here.
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In the book of Psalms, we see a beautiful representation of what it looks like to go before God with all our emotions, our doubts, and our questions. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk through the reasons they love the Psalms and share some of their favorite passages from throughout the book. They also explain why lament is not only acceptable, but also a powerful tool for connecting with God in the midst of grief and doubt. Grab your Bible and listen in on the conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Psalm 1:1-4 (0:12)
- The Psalms contain the full spectrum of human emotion (4:44)
- Even David lamented and questioned God (7:02)
- Lament isn’t just complaining, it’s about turning to God (9:33)
- Honesty with God is the beginning of freedom (13:43)
- Don’t get so caught up in “playing church” that you stop being genuine (16:46)
- Find a Psalm to meditate on that speaks to where you are right now (24:15)
Resources:
- “Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy” - Book on lament by Mark Vroegop
- “Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy” - Devotional journal
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens early October 2022. Learn more here.
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
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Just because you don’t see how God is working doesn’t mean He isn’t carrying out His plans. In this episode, we share a live session from the 2022 Breathe Retreat, where Dot shares the story of Moses and the lessons it can teach us about God’s faithfulness. Dot explains how even Moses’ time in the wilderness was specifically designed to prepare him for what God had in store, and she talks about the freedom and redemption we can find when we’re bold enough to come before God with honesty and lament.
Episode Recap
- Our true identity can only be found in the truth that we are children of God (2:20)
- God kept His promise and turned Abraham’s family into a nation (7:57)
- God is faithful to His plan, even when we don’t know what it is (13:42)
- Write down Exodus 2:23-24 and Exodus 3:1-9 (17:42)
- When God calls your name, your life will change (20:54)
- Exodus tells us that God sees us and cares when we’re hurting (22:50)
- If you think you’re somebody, God will show you that you’re no one without Him (27:34)
- The absence of a miracle doesn’t mean God isn’t speaking (29:14)
- There’s freedom in being honest with God when we’re struggling to trust Him (37:48)
- Tears are human, and lament is redemptive (45:28)
- Jesus loved us enough to die so that we could come before God (49:50)
Resources:
- Download all 4 sessions from the Breathe Retreat 2022: Known in the Unknown
- “Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy” Book by Mark Vroegop
- “Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy” Devotional Journal
The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration for the 2023 Breathe Retreat opens early October 2022. Learn more here.
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
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The book of Job brings up difficult questions about who God is and why He allows us to experience pain and suffering. But when you get to the end of the story, you can see that God never left Job, and He always had a plan. In this episode, Dot and Cara discuss the different places where we can see the goodness of God in the midst of Job’s story. They also talk about the challenge of supporting your loved ones through hardship when you can’t understand what God is doing, and they wrestle with the idea that we shouldn’t just serve God for His blessings; we should serve Him for who He is. Grab your Bible and a journal and join us for this conversation.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Job 1:6-9 (0:13)
- The book of Job presents more questions than it answers (2:47)
- When you get to the end of Job’s story, you can see the goodness of God (5:39)
- Job’s friends assumed they knew what God was doing, but none of us truly can (9:34)
- God can handle our questions and our doubts (13:57)
- Because of his suffering, Job was able to see God in a new way (19:21)
- Do you serve God for His blessings, or for who He is? (20:42)
- We don’t have to be OK with pain and suffering, but we can trust that this isn’t the end of the story (23:38)
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Even when the cost of following God seems high, you never want to look back and wonder what could have happened if you’d obeyed Him. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk through the amazing examples of obedience we see in Esther and Mordecai. They also discuss the idea that we often can’t see God’s plan when we’re in the middle of a challenging situation, but that doesn’t mean God isn’t moving and changing everything in seemingly small moments. Grab a cup of coffee and listen along!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Esther 4:12-14 (0:12)
- God is not mentioned in Esther, but her story plays a central part in Jewish history (1:27)
- Esther had faith in the midst of an impossible situation (3:44)
- You can’t always see God’s hand when you’re in the middle of the story (9:25)
- In the end, Mordecai is rewarded for his commitment (10:34)
- The cost of taking action may be less than the cost of doing nothing at all (13:03)
- God can change history in the smallest of moments, even when we don’t know it (15:12)
- The themes of Esther’s story lead us right into Job (22:30)
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God wants to use us to carry out His plans in the world, but that requires us to protect our hearts and minds from worldly distractions. In this episode, Dot and Cara reflect on the example Nehemiah set through his approach to rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. They discuss the idea that sometimes it’s healthy to build walls that protect us and show people that we’re focused on following Jesus. They also talk about the importance of standing firm in what God has called you to do in the midst of fear and criticism.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Nehemiah 2:17-18 (0:13)
- Some walls keep people out, but others are important for protecting yourself (1:24)
- How to know if a wall is healthy (4:14)
- The walls of Jerusalem were a symbol of God setting the Jewish people apart (6:38)
- We should live in a way that makes it clear that we’re following Jesus (11:50)
- Surround yourself with people who help you follow God more closely (13:57)
- Nehemiah fought fear and false accusations with prayer (21:25)
- God wants us to work with Him to carry out His plan of restoration (26:11)
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When God chooses to work through us, it’s not a reflection of how great we are, but rather how good and powerful He is. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about the example David set for us when he prayed to God with humility and gratitude. They discuss the importance of embracing whatever calling God has given you — even if it feels small or insignificant — and Dot shares a story about the lessons she’s learned from watching cruise ships and fishing boats on the ocean.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 1 Chronicles 17:19-22 (0:13)
- 1 and 2 Chronicles cover the same time in history as 1 and 2 Kings, but from different perspectives (2:06)
- David sat before God with humility (5:43)
- Not everyone is called to be a cruise ship, it’s often small boats that feed people (10:50)
- There’s a difference between doubting yourself and asking “who am I that God would use me?” (16:58)
- It’s not what you do, it’s the fact that God has chosen you to do it (22:10)
- The things that feel huge for us aren’t hard for God (24:00)
- David reminds us that God wants to use us, and also to give God the glory (27:19)
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Have you ever wished God would just tell you exactly what His will for your life is? While you may not know all the details of your specific situation, God’s will for all of us is clear in Romans: to love Him and surrender our lives to Him. In this episode, Dot and Cara discuss what it means to become a living sacrifice to God. They talk about the different ways God calls us to love people — even when we don’t agree with their choices — and they explain how our actions can be an overflow of our relationship with God. Grab your Bible, pull up a chair, and join us!
Episode Recap
● Start by writing down Romans 12:1-6 (0:13)
● God’s will for us is simple (1:30)
● We may not have all the details, but we can glorify God wherever we are (9:03)
● When we seek God with all our hearts, He is glorified (14:24)
● You can love someone without agreeing with all the things they do (21:57)
● Doing godly things is not what makes us Christian; faith in Jesus does (26:17)
● Whatever is in you will always overflow (28:52)
● God asks us to give up our right to be right, so we can be close to Him (32:00)
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For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalms 139:13-14
In this episode, Dot and Cara take a break from discussing their Bible reading and discuss a topic weighing heavy on Dot’s heart, abortion. This episode is a bit different than most given the subject matter and heaviness on their hearts. Yet after watching the news one night, Dot couldn’t sleep and began to pray to ask God to heal our land. (2 Chronicles 7:14). We may not understand God’s ways, but even when we do not understand, we can pray to a God who does.
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Elijah got to see God perform amazing miracles, but he still felt afraid and wondered if God’s provision was enough for him. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about the parallels they notice between Elijah’s escape from Jezebel and the fears many of us experience in our own lives. They discuss the way that God cared for Elijah in the midst of his exhaustion and explain how just like Elijah, we can almost miss God’s presence if we’re only looking out for a major miracle. Grab a cup of coffee and listen in!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 1 Kings 19:1-3 (0:13)
- All throughout Kings we see stories of people serving God and then falling away (2:12)
- Elijah is an extremely important prophet and Old Testament figure (6:25)
- Even after seeing God do incredible miracles, Elijah ran away in fear (9:54)
- Words have more power than we often realize (12:08)
- God meets Elijah at his lowest point and takes care of him (16:32)
- When Elijah felt alone, God’s voice led him out (21:36)
- Sometimes when we’re looking for God to show His power, He shows up in the quiet instead (25:56)
- We should serve God because we love Him, not serve Him in order to love Him (29:20)
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When Solomon became king, he knew he’d need God’s wisdom to help him rule. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about what it looks like to ask God for wisdom in our own lives, and then to have the faith to act while knowing God has given us what we need and He will accomplish His plans. They also explain how idolatry held many of Israel and Judah’s kings back from fully serving God, and they reflect on the ways idolatry can show up in all of our lives.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 1 Kings 3:7-10 (0:12)
- There were very few good kings in Israel and Judah (4:36)
- It’s easy to let other things become idols, even when we’re trying to follow God (7:51)
- Solomon knew he’d need God’s help to fill David’s shoes (18:05)
- When we ask for wisdom, we then need to trust that God has given it (20:43)
- Just because we’re not seeing the outcome we want doesn’t mean that we made the wrong decision (24:55)
- God’s plan cannot be thwarted (28:16)
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Even though David made many mistakes, he also excelled at keeping his heart focused on God. In this episode, Dot and Cara explore what some of the key moments in David’s life can teach us about obedience, forgiveness, and respect for authority. They also compare David’s attitude to Saul’s, which was driven by anger, jealousy, and pride, and they discuss how holding onto bitterness prevents us from fully allowing God to take control of our circumstances.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 1 Samuel 24:3-4 (0:11)
- David’s heart and mind were focused on doing what God would want (1:38)
- It’s OK to feel afraid, but don’t let that stop you from following God’s instructions (6:54)
- David respected Saul’s authority even though he knew he’d be king one day (10:26)
- Forgiveness allows us to step back and let God can take care of things (15:11)
- The position of someone’s heart is more important than external behavior (19:01)
- We can’t force other people to change their perspectives (27:07)
- We win by focusing on God (29:11)
Resources:
“A Tale of Three Kings” by Gene Edwards
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When Hannah asked for a son, God gave her Samuel. When the Israelites asked for a king, God anointed Saul even though He knew there would be consequences. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about the ways that our prayers intersect with God’s plans. They also discuss the lessons we can learn from David and Saul, including the importance of staying humble and keeping your heart focused on God.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down 1 Samuel 2:1-2 (0:13)
- Israel wanted a king in spite of Samuel’s warnings (1:36)
- Hannah was desperate for a son and God honored her desire and faithfulness (6:34)
- God was setting the stage for the coming Messiah (10:39)
- God warned the Israelites but ultimately gave them what they asked for (11:38)
- There’s a difference between consequences and God forsaking us (13:36)
- The Israelites’ idea of freedom led to captivity (16:40)
- David made mistakes but his heart was focused on God (18:09)
- In his pride, Saul forgot that God made Him king (24:00)
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The story of Ruth is ultimately a story about the commitment God makes to accomplishing His plans. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about the book of Ruth and the way it points to Jesus as the kinsman redeemer who allows us to claim our inheritance from God. They also reflect on the meaning of Good Friday, which reminds us to have faith even when we’re grieving and don’t understand why life has turned out a certain way.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Ruth 4:13-14 (0:13)
- It’s easy to become bitter when life doesn’t turn out how you expected (1:58)
- Ruth is really a story about Jesus becoming our kinsman redeemer (5:33)
- God accomplished His plan even in the midst of terrible circumstances (11:10)
- Good Friday reminds us that the darkest times can lead to a miracle (22:19)
- We can take the next step in faith that God is working (24:55)
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Just like the Israelites, our relationships with God can often seem cyclical, with seasons where we feel extra committed and others where we struggle to trust and obey Him. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about some of the most valuable insights they find in the book of Judges, from the importance of being honest before God like Gideon to the difference between discipline and punishment. Grab your journal and a pen and listen along!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Judges 2:8-12 (0:14)
- Judges shows the cycles the Israelites go through with trusting God (2:40)
- God wanted the Israelites to represent who He is (7:02)
- We can trust that God is good even when we don’t understand what He’s doing (8:00)
- God understood that Gideon needed a sign (14:18)
- Discipline is often direction from God (19:54)
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It can feel frightening when God calls us into something new, but we can trust that He will go before us. In this episode, Dot and Cara discuss the importance of mourning a loss while still seeking God’s presence and practicing obedience. They open up about their personal experiences with choosing faith in the midst of doubt and grief, and they talk about the idea that God can work wonders in unexpected places.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Joshua 3:1-4 (0:14)
- When we’re going somewhere new, God will go before us (2:45)
- Sometimes it’s hard to believe God is about to work wonders (7:27)
- We need to take time to mourn while also trusting God to lead us out (12:17)
- You don’t want to wonder what could have been if you had obeyed God (19:44)
- Come before God even when you have nothing to give (25:35)
- Consecrating yourself is the first step forward (32:47)
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It can feel challenging to move forward when we’ve been spending time in the wilderness, but God calls us to take a step of faith so we can experience the fullness of His promises. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about God’s instructions to Joshua as he prepared to enter the Promised Land. They also reflect on what it means to experience peace and rest even in the midst of a battle.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Joshua 1:1-7 (0:14)
- Moses didn’t enter the Promised Land, but he got to experience intimacy with God (4:10)
- We may not experience every promise of God, but we’ve still received them (8:14)
- God promises peace and rest, even in the midst of battles (12:43)
- It is time for us to move forward (17:07)
- To rest is to enjoy the presence of God (18:35)
- Acknowledge your past and choose to take a step of faith anyway (27:04)
- Take the step you know to take (30:30)
- Jesus Himself is ready to lead you to a rewarding future (33:43)
Resources:
Dot Bowen will be teaching a new “Write this Down! With Dot Bowen Prayer Workshop" on Saturday March 26, 2022 in Alpharetta, GA. In this hands-on workshop, Dot will dig into all your questions and share everything she has come to learn about prayer in her 50+ years of walking with the Lord. For more info and to register visit www.dotbowen.com/onedayprayer
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What difference can prayer really make in the midst of difficult circumstances? In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about the importance of kneeling before God in the midst of frightening world events. They discuss the ways that prayer can unify Christians, center our focus on God, and change our perspective in the midst of fear and division. They also explain how we can find hope in the reassurance that no matter what’s happening, God is on the throne.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Deuteronomy 4:39 (0:13)
- When things feel heavy, it’s important to remember who God is (2:02)
- In times of division, isolation and fear, we need to get down on our knees (7:22)
- When we’re struggling to unite, we can unite around trusting the Lord (14:52)
- Prayer centers our focus on God (16:53)
- Sometimes prayer seems insufficient, but it changes us and our perspective (21:59)
- Ask God to help you see people as He sees them (25:09)
- Remember that God is on His throne and He loves us (27:23)
Resources:
Dot Bowen will be teaching a new “Write this Down! With Dot Bowen Prayer Workshop" on Saturday March 26, 2022 in Alpharetta, GA. In this hands-on workshop, Dot will dig into all your questions and share everything she has come to learn about prayer in her 50+ years of walking with the Lord. For more info and to register visit www.dotbowen.com/onedayprayer
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
How does God want us to respond when life doesn’t turn out the way we expected? Even when we don’t know the end of the story, we can trust that God is good and has given us the power to overcome. In this episode, Dot and Cara reflect on the promises of God that we can still lean on today. They also talk about the Israelites’ journey to the Promised Land and discuss the mistakes the Israelites made while questioning God’s instructions. Grab a cup of coffee and listen along!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Numbers 13:1-2 (0:14)
- Like the Israelites, it’s easy to get caught up in complaining (3:56)
- When you don’t know how to keep walking, it’s OK to sit and wait on God (9:12)
- God told the Israelites exactly what He was about to do, but they doubted it (11:20)
- God calls us to trust Him even when we don’t know the end of the story (17:37)
- No matter what, we can trust that God is good and loves us (21:43)
- There is nothing we will face that God has not given us power to overcome (27:33)
Resources:
Dot Bowen will be teaching a new “Write this Down! With Dot Bowen Prayer Workshop" on Saturday March 26, 2022 in Alpharetta, GA. In this hands-on workshop, Dot will dig into all your questions and share everything she has come to learn about prayer in her 50+ years of walking with the Lord. For more info and to register visit www.dotbowen.com/onedayprayer
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Because of Jesus, we can enter into the presence of a Holy God, even though we are sinners. In this episode, Dot and Cara continue their conversation about the lessons they find in the book of Leviticus. They also talk about how the Old Testament messages about God’s Holiness and our sinfulness point to the miracle of Jesus’ sacrifice, which covers us and allows us to be adopted into the family of God. Grab your journal and a pen and listen in!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Leviticus 19:1-2 (0:13)
- Leviticus can teach us important lessons about the Holiness of God (2:48)
- It’s important to be honest with God, but don’t forget who He is (9:09)
- We can’t fully comprehend what true Holiness is (15:32)
- The miracle of Jesus is that we can now enter into the presence of God (20:30)
- God set up guidelines and restrictions so that people could draw near to Him (27:33)
- There’s a difference between discipline and condemnation (30:30)
Resources:
Tony Evans Study Bible
Dot Bowen will be teaching a new “Write this Down! With Dot Bowen Prayer Workshop" on Saturday March 26, 2022 in Alpharetta, GA. In this hands-on workshop, Dot will dig into all your questions and share everything she has come to learn about prayer in her 50+ years of walking with the Lord. For more info and to register visit www.dotbowen.com/onedayprayer
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
It’s easy to miss the significance of a book like Leviticus, but it actually contains some deep and important truths. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about the idea of a blood sacrifice and explain how Leviticus can help us understand the reason why Jesus died on the cross. They also discuss the holiness of God and wrestle with what it means to follow Jesus’ commands while also knowing that we are free because of His sacrifice.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Leviticus 17:11 (0:13)
- Leviticus is one of the most neglected but powerful books in the Bible (1:25)
- Life is in the blood, and that’s why Jesus’s sacrifice could cover our sins (4:56)
- Leviticus shows us the holiness of God (11:37)
- Jesus shed His blood so we could have life (15:33)
- Instead of following the law to be accepted by God, we are accepted by God because of Jesus (22:35)
- Sin is bondage, but Jesus sets us free (26:53)
- We can’t be holy on our own, we need a sacrifice (30:02)
Resources:
Dot Bowen will be teaching a new “Write this Down! With Dot Bowen Prayer Workshop" on Saturday March 26, 2022 in Alpharetta, GA. In this hands-on workshop, Dot will dig into all your questions and share everything she has come to learn about prayer in her 50+ years of walking with the Lord. For more info and to register visit www.dotbowen.com/onedayprayer
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
No matter what battle we’re facing, we can trust that God is fighting for us. In this episode, Dot and Cara revisit the book of Exodus to talk through the story of Moses holding up his staff during a battle with the Amalekites. They talk about the importance of finding someone to share your pain with who can point you back to Jesus, and they celebrate the truth that God is always victorious.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Exodus 17:12-13 (0:12)
- God is victorious always (2:28)
- When we’re in a battle, we need people to hold us up (3:12)
- God won the battle, but He used Moses and the people around him (6:08)
- God is always fighting for us, even when we can’t see it (11:39)
- It’s important to share your pain, whether it’s with God or with a person you trust (13:37)
- Good friends don’t just give advice, they encourage you to keep trusting God (22:11)
- Some days, faith is all you’ve got (26:23)
Resources:
Dot Bowen will be teaching a new “Write this Down! With Dot Bowen Prayer Workshop" on Saturday March 26, 2022 in Alpharetta, GA. In this hands-on workshop, Dot will dig into all your questions and share everything she has come to learn about prayer in her 50+ years of walking with the Lord. For more info and to register visit www.dotbowen.com/onedayprayer
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Even when we can’t understand why we have to suffer, we can trust that God is good and His presence is with us. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about the hope they find while reading about Moses’ relationship with God. They wrestle with the idea that God will use even our most difficult circumstances to fulfill His plans, and they reflect on the ways that God’s plan for Moses was even better than anything Moses could’ve imagined.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Exodus 33:13-15 (0:12)
- God is a detailed God (1:40)
- The Israelites worshipped the blessings God gave them instead of worshipping God (3:56)
- Moses was incredibly honest with God (9:17)
- Wherever we are, we can trust that God will use it (11:02)
- It’s often easier to feel close to God in times of desperation (17:50)
- Moses didn’t answer the Promised Land in the way he expected, but God did something even better (23:38)
- Sometimes we only see God’s presence and goodness after the fact (28:49)
Dot Bowen will be teaching a new “Write this Down! With Dot Bowen Prayer Workshop" on Saturday March 26, 2022 in Alpharetta, GA. In this hands-on workshop, Dot will dig into all your questions and share everything she has come to learn about prayer in her 50+ years of walking with the Lord. For more info and to register visit: dotbowen.com/onedayprayer
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Sometimes when we’re waiting on God to change our circumstances, the thing He really wants to change is us. In this episode, we share a session Dot led at the Breathe Retreat. She shares about the importance of trusting God in the midst of the wilderness, even when following Him turns out to be more difficult than we expected. She also discusses the important truth that God doesn’t waste our time or our experiences.
Episode Recap
- God is not through with you yet (1:20)
- God wishes we could see ourselves how He sees us (4:51)
- God never wastes time, and He never wastes experiences (9:23)
- Write down Exodus 13:17-18 (16:16)
- Following Jesus doesn’t mean we won’t have battles to fight (20:05)
- The wilderness is life between freedom and the promised land (24:20)
- Write down Exodus 14:10-15 (27:33)
- The very thing the Israelites thought would destroy them was their escape to freedom (28:45)
- It’s easy to praise God when things are going our way, but many of us quickly turn to complaining when He tests us (29:06)
- It was easier to get the Israelites out of Egypt than to get Egypt out of the Israelites (34:10)
- Wherever you are today, it’s because God has led you there (42:28)
Resources:
Download the other sessions from Breathe Retreat
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
The story of Exodus shows us that God can work through anyone, no matter what our past looks like. In fact, sometimes our deepest insecurities and hardest struggles are the very places where He chooses to use us. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about Moses’ life and the ways God makes Himself known to His people. They also discuss the idea that God always hears our prayers, even when we feel overwhelmed and abandoned.
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Exodus 3:2-7 (0:13)
- Moses’ story points to Jesus and the way that God redeems all of us (2:07)
- Polytheism was the norm, but God showed He was the one true God (8:36)
- God doesn’t only want us to know His power, He wants us to know His ways also (12:42)
- Exodus shows that we don’t have to be perfect for God to use us (15:02)
- From the start, Moses was incredibly honest with God (20:52)
- Even when things are difficult, God hears our prayers (25:00)
- God wants to show us who we are and who He is (28:12)
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
The Bible tells us that God keeps His promises, but sometimes it’s hard to know what exactly God is promising. In this episode, Dot and Cara share what the story of Joseph can teach us about God’s faithfulness, even when our dreams die or things don’t turn out the way we hoped they would. Pull up a chair and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Genesis 50:19-22 (0:12)
- When we don’t know the specifics of what God has promised us, we can trust the heart of God (1:30)
- Joseph saw his dreams die over and over, but God was with him (9:36)
- We often equate how well something turns out with whether or not it was God’s will, but God views things differently (12:08)
- Evil exists, but God has a plan (21:16)
- We can trust God because God is trustworthy (24:04)
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
From Genesis to Revelation, we can see over and over again how God keeps the promises He makes to His people. In this episode, Dot and Cara talk about God’s covenant with Abraham and disucuss how God continued to work through him even when Abraham failed to trust that God would do what he said. Grab a cup of coffee and listen in!
Episode Recap:
- Start by writing down Genesis 17:17-19 (0:11)
- We invite you to join us in reading through the Bible in 2022 (1:41)
- The Bible is full of stories of God keeping His covenants (4:27)
- God made a promise to Abraham and Sarah, but they couldn’t always see how He was working (6:17)
- Even after Abraham made a mistake, God reaffirmed His desire to work through Him (15:23)
- God stuck to His plan, but He still agreed to bless Ishmael, also (18:56)
- The more we get to know God, the more we’re able to trust that His plan is good (25:10)
Resources:
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration is open now!
Join me in reading Canonical:
https://www.bible.com/en/reading-plans/4
Join me in reading M'Cheyne One Year Reading Plan:
https://www.bible.com/en/reading-plans/24
Books References:
For the Love of God Volume One by D.A. Carson
For the Love of God Volume Two by D.A. Carson
The God who is There: Finding your Place in God’s Story by D.A. Carson
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
In the story of Genesis, we see both the consequences of sin and the reality of a God who can work through any one of us. To kick off the new year, Dot and Cara talk about the creation story and explore some of the biggest themes they’ve noticed while reading Genesis. Pull up a chair and join us for this conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Genesis 1:1-2 (0:15)
- The Genesis story shows us how sin progresses and multiplies (1:25)
- God grieved when He saw how sin affects us (4:37)
- God promised to never destroy the world by flood again (7:44)
- Sin entered the world and Adam and Eve chose to engage (14:18)
- Genesis reminds us of how easy it is to walk away from God’s will (16:26)
- Jesus’ ancestry reminds us that God can work through anyone (18:01)
- Only God truly knows what’s right and wrong (22:50)
- God is constantly creating something new for us to step into (25:16)
Resources:
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration is open now!
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
As this year comes to a close, it’s a great time to look ahead with hope, but it’s also important to reflect on the lessons we’ve learned and the ways we’ve seen God work in 2021. In today’s episode, Dot and Cara look back at some of their favorite conversations from the past year of podcasting together. They also explain why it’s so important to understand Scripture and apply it to our lives. Grab your journal and a cup of coffee and listen along!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Isaiah 9:6-7 (0:12)
- Today we’ll take a look back at the conversations we’ve had in the past year (1:09)
- Jesus is the prince of peace to a world that is anything but peaceful (3:16)
- We are children of God (5:13)
- We can find hope in the darkness because Jesus came to give us life (8:21)
- It’s good to know God’s truth from Scripture, but we also need to apply it (14:21)
- Jesus took away the power of sin (16:23)
- Next year we’re challenging our listeners to read through the Bible with us (20:21)
Resources:
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration is open now!
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
The angels first announced Jesus’ birth to the shepherds, declaring that God had come to earth to be with us and inviting them to go and meet their savior. In this episode, we talk about the parallels between this Christmas story and the truth that Jesus is the Good Shepherd. Dot and Cara also share what Emmanuel, God with us, means to them. Pull up a chair and join us!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Luke 2:8-14 (0:12)
- Today we’ll dive deeper into the Christmas story and the idea of “God with us” (1:26)
- It’s significant that the angels showed up to shepherds first (2:32)
- Jesus tends to us like a shepherd tends to his sheep (7:18)
- Mary understood who Jesus was better than anyone (9:12)
- Sometimes God works in a way that we can’t explain to others, but we know it was Him (13:30)
- Jesus came to die, but it was all because of love (21:24)
- God spoke, and the shepherds chose to go where He told them to (23:40)
- The message of Christmas is Emmanuel, God is with us (26:04)
Resources:
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration is open now!
Join the “Safe in His Arms” 10-Day Bible Reading Plan
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
When Jesus came to earth as a man, He made it so we never have to wonder if God understands how we feel. In today’s episode, we talk about the idea that Jesus is both fully man and fully God, and we explore some of the ways that truth can transform our lives. Grab your Bible and a cup of coffee and listen along!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down John 1:1-5 (0:13)
- Today we’ll continue our conversation about the birth of Jesus (1:02)
- Each gospel has a different emphasis, and John focuses on the fact that Jesus is God (1:54)
- God created man in his image, and Jesus was born in the image of man (4:32)
- As a human, Jesus can relate to us (6:20)
- Jesus left heaven and was born as a baby to have relationship with us (14:26)
- Jesus’ scars remind us of who He is and how much He loves us (19:13)
- When you feel abandoned or misunderstood, Jesus knows how you feel (23:10)
- God loved us enough to send His son out of heaven and down to earth (26:14)
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration is open now!
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
We hear the Christmas story so often that it can be easy to overlook its significance. In today’s episode, we begin to talk about Jesus’ birth, the reason He came to earth, and the hope we can find in knowing that death is not the end. Dot also shares a personal story about finding peace in the midst of grief because of the Christmas story, and she and Cara talk about the heaviness that often comes with this time of year. Grab your journal and a pen and get ready to hear some words of encouragement!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Matthew 1:18-21 (0:15)
- Today we’ll talk about Jesus’ birth and the reason He came to earth (1:26)
- Because Jesus died, we have hope to see people again in heaven (2:13)
- When Jesus came, it was to die for us (7:19)
- The miracle wasn’t at Jesus’ birth, it was at His conception (9:07)
- This season is a heavy time for many people, but the Christmas story reminds us we can have hope in the midst of pain (11:02)
- Do not be afraid (13:48)
- Mary had faith in the midst of the unknown (20:40)
- We can move forward with greater courage when we’ve encountered God’s love (22:38)
- Jesus taught us to focus on life over death, because death is not the end (25:06)
- “Our greatest need is forgiveness, so God sent us a savior” (27:33)
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration is open now!
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Sin plays a central role in the Christian faith, but what is it, really? In today’s episode, we discuss the definition of sin, and Dot explains how it’s sinful to desire something when we know it’s wrong. We also describe how acknowledging and seeking forgiveness for our sins can help us build deeper connections with God and with each other. Grab a cup of coffee and join us for this conversation!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down James 4:17(0:14)
- Today we’ll continue a discussion Kara and Dot had recently about sin (0:42)
- What is sin? (3:54)
- Is desire itself a sin? (5:20)
- When God places something on your heart and you don’t obey, that is sin. (12:09)
- If you’re feeling disconnected from God, check your heart and see if there’s sin you need to deal with (14:40)
- It’s important to call sin what it is so that God can come in and work on our hearts (21:29)
- When we’re aware of our sin, we can have more grace toward other people (25:36)
- Sin doesn’t change God, but it destroys us (27:14)
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration is open now!
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Boundaries can help us protect our hearts and our relationships, but what’s the difference between setting a healthy boundary and building a wall? In today’s episode, we answer some of your questions about boundaries and discuss the importance of asking God to change people’s hearts and help us avoid bitterness. Grab a pen and journal and listen along!
Episode Recap
- Start by writing down Proverbs 25:16-17 (0:15)
- We’ll continue our conversation about boundaries and answer your questions (0:41)
- Boundaries are biblical, but for many people they don’t come easily (2:03)
- Anything in excess is unhealthy (4:28)
- Keep in mind that advice is only based on one side of the story, but biblical principles can guide you as you ask God for wisdom (6:36)
- How do I ask my husband to listen to me instead of dominating the conversation? (9:32)
- You can’t change or convict people, but you can look to God and ask Him to change their hearts (19:32)
- Sometimes, we need boundaries to let people reap what they sow rather than protecting them from consequences of their actions (21:05)
- When you’ve been deeply hurt in a relationship, setting a boundary can give you space to heal and forgive (23:46)
- Check the motivation behind your boundaries; it shouldn’t be about hurting someone or proving a point (28:48)
- There’s a difference between setting a boundary and building a wall (30:38)
- Setting emotional boundaries can protect your heart from bitterness (32:40)
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration is open now!
Send us an email to let us know what you’re learning - hello@dotbowen.com
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Today we’re turning the tables a little bit. Cara is coming to Dot with a scripture to get her thoughts! Join us as we talk about what it looks like when we want to walk away from Jesus or we don’t feel His presence. Pull up a chair and listen in!
EPISODE RECAP
- Start by writing down Mark 14:51-52 (0:12)
- Cara has picked these verses for us to discuss (1:34)
- When I (Cara) was reading this verse, I had heard the man was Mark. Is that right? (4:50)
- The only time in Mark’s gospel where he refers to a linen cloth is in this instance and when Jesus is wrapped for burial. (8:49)
- The little details in scripture do connect to the bigger picture (12:51)
- The key in these verses is that scripture will be fulfilled (16:49)
- In these small details, there is meaning. When things got tough, everyone fled from Jesus (18:43)
- What is sad about this is that when Jesus was healing the sick, the crowds were after him. But when things got tough, they fled (23:06)
- It may appear that other people are in control in your circumstances, but they’re not (26:35)
- Many Christians think if they follow Jesus they won’t have any pain or hardship. But that’s not the case, and God has a plan (27:24)
- Did you like that I turned the tables around? (29:03)
- Even when we want to run away from God embarrassed or in shame, Jesus is there (30:29)
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration is open now!
Send us an email with what you’re learning - dot@cupofjoy.org or cara@cupofjoy.org
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
What are boundaries? Why do we have boundaries? How do we put them in place? These are just a few of the questions we’re diving into today. Grab your journal and a cup of coffee and join us.
EPISODE RECAP
- Start by writing down Galatians 6:2-5 (0:12)
- We’re going to talk about boundaries today and how to be careful about our boundaries to protect our heart and relationships (2:03)
- It is not our place to put a principle in this podcast that would apply to every circumstance in everyone’s life (3:59)
- A boundary does not mean we’re kicking someone out of our life. But it helps guard our heart so we can heal (5:11)
- We’re not to carry the responsibility of someone else’s actions (8:02)
- A boundary is set to restore and heal a relationship, not to destroy it (13:56)
- The best word you can say within a boundary is “no” (18:29)
- Healthy, godly boundaries are always motivated by love, kindness and a desire to restore and have a relationship (22:41)
- God has placed the principle of boundaries all through scripture. When we are in a relationship and don’t know what to do, God wants us to talk with Him about it (26:30)
Want to submit your question about boundaries? Send it to Cara by Monday, Nov. 8 to for a chance to have answered in Episode 45! Simply email your question to cara@cupofjoy.org.
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration is open now!
Send us an email with what you’re learning - dot@cupofjoy.org or cara@cupofjoy.org
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Fear and shame can lead us to finding our identity in what we do, rather than who we really are—children of God. In this episode, we talk about the journey of finding confidence in who we are in Christ and what it looks like to live from that place of identity.
- Write This Down: Genesis 3:8–10
- It’s hard to separate what we do from who we are (1:32)
- For believers, our identity has to be children of God (5:21)
- What does it mean to be a child of God? (6:52)
- Our significance has to come from Jesus (11:17)
- Stay open to what God may be leading you to do (13:47)
- Are you using busyness to hide from God or yourself? (15:29)
- How to live out of your identity in God (19:04)
- How do you know you’re not living in who you really are? (24:57)
- God will graciously remind you of who you are (26:17)
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries' annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. She will be teaching out of the book of Exodus and walking us through these Truths: we are still known in the unknown, God’s desire for us it to know Him in the midst of the unknown, and the unknown is not unknown to God. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration NOW open!!
Send us an email with what you’re learning - dot@cupofjoy.org or cara@cupofjoy.org
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook or visit DotBowen.com!
Today is one of our favorite episodes - we’re deep diving into Genesis 3. Join us as we talk about sin entering the world and how crucial it is to be honest with ourselves and God. We are so glad you’re here!
EPISODE RECAP
- Write down Genesis 3:6-9 (0:06)
- There is nothing you’ll face in the world that you won’t find in Genesis 3. (2:14)
- A lot of people question why God would put the tree in the middle of the garden. What do you think? (3:35)
- We assume that sin entered with Eve took of the fruit, but it doesn’t necessarily say that. It could have been when she had the desire to be like God (10:28)
- God called out to Adam and said, “Where are you?”. It’s so important to know where we are and be honest (14:35)
- It’s like God is saying that before they can move on they need to know where they are (21:22)
- We will never experience God forsaking us (26:44)
- The key is to talk to God and process with Him (29:56)
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries' annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. She will be teaching out of the book of Exodus and walking us through these Truths: we are still known in the unknown, God’s desire for us it to know Him in the midst of the unknown, and the unknown is not unknown to God. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration NOW open!
Send us an email with what you’re learning - dot@cupofjoy.org or cara@cupofjoy.org
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Today we’re continuing our conversation about how to let go and grab hold of the mystery of who God is. We’re so glad you’re here, we hope you pull up a chair and listen in!
EPISODE RECAP
- Start by writing down Philippians 3:12-14 (0:11)
- We’re talking about a principle we all must know and apply - letting go of one thing and grabbing hold of another (1:31)
- Paul is saying that we have to forget the things of the past. One of the things he had to forget was the things he’d learned about God over the years (2:38)
- We try to manage our own lives and it is a form of control (10:13)
- Every time the thorn raises its head and you can’t manage it, be reminded that you need God. Let go of what you think and trust (14:05)
- God doesn’t seem to ever do anything the same. He’s keeping us on the edge of the mystery of who He is (23:37)
- This principle of letting go is all throughout the Bible. It’s a powerful principle (25:54)
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration opens October 12!
Send us an email with what you’re learning - dot@cupofjoy.org or cara@cupofjoy.org
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Surrender can be hard, especially when that involves a major change in your life. But sometimes we have to let go of something to grab hold of what God has for us. In this episode, we discuss Genesis 12 and what we can learn from Abram’s step of faith when God called him to a new life in a new land.
- Write this down: Genesis 12:1–2
- Sometimes we have to let go to make room for God’s best (1:45)
- Abram was called to let go of what he knew (6:50)
- How do you practice trusting God? (8:07)
- Let go of what you thought your life was going to be like (11:34)
- Our faith grows stronger when we exercise it (14:14)
- Let go of the power pain and hurt has over you (17:22)
- Trust God and He will help move you forward in your faith (20:01)
- Let go of control—embrace the mystery of God (22:35)
- Grab hold of God (25:38)
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration opens October 12!
Send us an email with what you’re learning - dot@cupofjoy.org or cara@cupofjoy.org
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook or visit DotBowen.com!
James 5 tackles a lot of big topics! We’ll be talking through patience and suffering today. We also look at prayer - what it does and does not look like. Grab your Bible, journal and a cup of coffee and join us for this conversation.
EPISODE RECAP
- Start by writing down James 5:7-8 (0:10)
- James reminds us to be doing something about our faith (1:47)
- Scholars believe that James starts out chapter 5 by talking to non-believers (3:42)
- For the non-believer, misery is coming. The believer may be suffering now but everlasting life is coming (6:43)
- In verse 7, James addresses the believers about patience (8:20)
- James is saying, “Stop paying so much attention to what’s going on around you and keep your eyes on God” (10:34)
- James talks about prayer at the very end after talking about suffering (13:33)
- People often misunderstand the verse talking about elders praying over sick people (15:39)
- Your prayer is effective - just as effective as Elijah would be. But sometimes God has a different plan (20:45)
- We have to either go with what God’s perfect plan is or go with our plan. That is a difficult tension (23:35)
- Sometimes we see God when we’re looking back on things and not in the moment (26:26)
- Our hope is that this is not our final destination. We’re just passing through (28:21)
Dot will be speaking at Cup of Joy Ministries annual Breathe Retreat January 21-23, 2022 at The Cove in Asheville, NC. The Breathe Retreat is a retreat in every sense of the word, intentionally designed to allow you space to breathe in your Heavenly Father's love! Registration opens October 12!
Send us an email with what you’re learning - dot@cupofjoy.org or cara@cupofjoy.org
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook or visit DotBowen.com!
Does your life ever feel like pure chaos? Today James 4 reminds us that sometimes the drama and issues we experience are really a product of our own sin—namely, our pride. We’re glad to have you join this discussion as we talk about pride, humbling ourselves, and finding our significance in God.
- Let’s start by writing down James 4:1–3 (0:28)
- In our last episode we talked about the power of words (1:24)
- Our outward struggles can be a reflection of the struggle within ourselves (2:54)
- This chapter is about being prideful (6:24)
- Humility is a choice we can make (9:08)
- Pride can make us forget that we’re nothing apart from God (14:24)
- The remedy to the war within is to draw near to God (18:53)
- There’s hope when we submit ourselves to God (22:57)
Send us an email with what you’re learning - dot@cupofjoy.org or cara@cupofjoy.org
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
We’re working through the book of James and today we look at James 3. The topic is taming the tongue - not only how we talk to others, but also how we talk to ourselves. We’re glad you’re joining us for this conversation!
EPISODE RECAP
- Get started by writing down James 3:2-5 (0:43)
- When someone is teaching God’s word, they are held to a higher standard (2:05)
- James talks about the tongue and the importance of the little things (3:56)
- What are the things that you say that you need to be careful about? (6:49)
- The tongue is very powerful, even the things we stay in our own mind (11:07)
- James is telling teachers that their role comes with a high responsibility (15:04)
- James is not a book of doctrine, it’s practical living (17:30)
- If you want to be a teacher, be very careful what you say (20:25)
- What are some of the thoughts that come through my head that are probably lies? (22:20)
Also, REMEMBER! We are having our Write This Down Framework Workshop on September 16 & 17. Join us for this hands on experience as Dot teaches us how to remove baggage, establish a foundation and remain unshakable in our faith. Be sure to grab your spot and register today!
Send us an email with what you’re learning - dot@cupofjoy.org or cara@cupofjoy.org
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
Today we’re working through James 2 and we’re reminded that James doesn’t sugar coat anything! We’re discussing how works aren’t the evidence of our salvation, but they are the fruit of our faith. We are so glad you’re here!
EPISODE RECAP
- Let’s start by writing down James 2:18-19 (0:41)
- So many of the things James talks about are right in your face (2:23)
- James encourages us to stop judging people (4:34)
- What James is addressing is faith (9:03)
- Helping other people has to be out of trust for God (11:29)
- James is trying to shock these people into knowing what they believe (14:46)
- What would you do if you really trusted God to do it in and through you? (16:40)
- I want to do whatever I can do to help people physically, but I have to also give them the things God has given me - Truth, love, forgiveness and grace (21:56)
- It’s not about what you can or cannot do, but who are you trusting in? (24:42)
- Let James get in your face! (25:36)
Also, REMEMBER! We are having our Write This Down Framework Workshop on September 16 & 17. Join us for this hands on experience as Dot teaches us how to remove baggage, establish a foundation and remain unshakable in our faith. Be sure to grab your spot and register today!
Send us an email with what you’re learning - dot@cupofjoy.org or cara@cupofjoy.org
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
This week we are starting a new series going through the book of James. We’ll be talking about what it looks like when our faith is tested and how to have joy in suffering. Join in on our conversation - we are so glad you’re here!
EPISODE RECAP
- Start by writing down James 1:2 (0:54)
- James is a very common name and Bible scholars have debated the author of the book of James (3:05)
- James became a dear follower of Jesus after the resurrection (4:53)
- What do you think about when you read “consider it joy when you fall into trials and temptation”? (5:29)
- James is not suggesting you find joy in the middle of the trial, but when you get through it (7:32)
- When you look at chapter one, see that there’s a difference between a trial and a temptation (8:57)
- I believe that God steps in the most during dark moments (12:55)
- We cannot doubt during these situations (14:05)
- How do we carry our doubts faithfully? (15:22)
- What you’re looking at is the direction you’re going to go (17:54)
- We often wonder how to just make it through the day versus asking how it can best glorify God (20:54)
- Our faith is stronger when God allows us to stand during times we should be falling (23:04)
Also, REMEMBER! We are having our Write This Down Framework Workshop on September 16 & 17. Join us for this hands on experience as Dot teaches us how to remove baggage, establish a foundation and remain unshakable in our faith. Be sure to grab your spot and register today!
Send us an email with what you’re learning - dot@cupofjoy.org or cara@cupofjoy.org
Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook
We’re back! And we’re excited to announce that we’ll be going through the book of James in September. What better book could we be studying with all that is going on in our world today?
ALSO in September! We are having our Write This Down Framework Workshop on September 16 & 17. Join us for this hands on experience as Dot teaches us how to remove baggage, establish a foundation and remain unshakable in our faith. Be sure to grab your spot and register today!
Follow Dot on Instagram and Facebook.
www.dotbowen.com
Dot and Cara discuss the lessons we can all learn from Elijah. We often travel a path similar to Elijah that leads us to a cave. However, God doesn't leave us there. He can do the impossible, even with a whisper.
Write This Down:
1 Kings 19:8-13
God will do anything to get us out of a cave, as long as we are willing to listen.
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
Jacob was a deceiver who wrestled God and became an overcomer with a new name, Israel. In this episode, Dot teaches us through the life of Jacob that God can turn any life and any situation around.
Write This Down:
Genesis 32:24-32
Genesis 33
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
Looking at the life of Esau, Dot and Cara ask the age old question, what are you willing to give up for a bowl of soup? Are we willing to trade what we want most for what we want in the moment? We don’t always know what hangs in the balance of our decisions.
Write This Down:
Genesis 25:21-25
Do you want to look back and wonder what God would have done had you only obeyed him?
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
Dot and Cara conclude their four-part series on Philippians by talking through some of the most well known verses in the New Testament which are found in Philippians 4. By fixing our eyes on the Lord and asking for His protection over our heart and mind, His peace will truly overwhelm us like nothing else this world can offer.
Write This Down:
Philippians 4
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
In part 3 of Dot's series through the book of Philippians, she teaches us how to move forward, regardless of our past or what we have accomplished, in order to attain the true goal of life.
Write This Down:
Philippians 3
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
In part 2 of Dot's series through the book of Philippians, she teaches us exactly how we can be a light in a dark world and it may not be in the way you think.
Write This Down:
Philippians 2:3-5
Give up your right to be right in order to be close.
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
Even in the worst of conditions, Paul rejoiced and seemed to figure out the key of life. Dot begins a new series, walking us through the book of Philippians, by digging into the first chapter and teaching us how God can use ALL things for His Glory.
Write This Down:
Philippians 1
Ask God: "God, what am I living for?"
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
In this episode, Dot shares about a pivotal moment she had with the Lord when He asked, "How will they know?" Of all the episodes so far, this one is particularly close to Dot's heart as she expresses the importance of knowing Scripture. So be sure to grab your Bible, a pen and even a cup of coffee and listen in!
Write This Down:
Judges 2:8-10
Exodus 13
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
Have you ever wondered why Jesus kept His scars from His crucifixion? Dot concludes her Easter series by discussing with Cara how our own wounds and scars, both physical and emotional, can play a part in remembering what the Lord has done in our lives.
Write This Down:
John 20:25-29
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
Dot begins a 2-week Easter series by walking us through the days leading up to the crucifixion. Jesus was willing to do whatever it cost to win our hearts. If He loves us that much, would He withhold His best from us? Yet, we sometimes still choose Barabbas (our will) over Jesus (God's will).
Write This Down:
Luke 22:67-70
God, show me where in my life I am crying out and asking You for Barabbas?
Are my tears blinding me from seeing what You want for me; am I looking in the wrong direction?
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
Since 2020, it can sometimes feel like we are in a constant state of uncertainty. In this episode, Dot and Cara discuss how we can face uncertainty with confidence and why we can trust God with each of our tomorrows.
Write This Down:
Proverbs 27:1
James 4:13-17
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
Dot concludes her 3-part series on prayer by discussing how do we hear God's voice? Are we wanting to hear what we want to hear or are we open to hear what God is truly saying to our hearts?
Write This Down:
John 17:20-21
No one speaks for God, but God.
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
Have you ever wondered how long you should pray about something? In part 2 of Dot's series on prayer, She and Cara take a vulnerable and honest look into discussing the question: how do we know if God is saying yes to our prayers, no or simply, wait?
Write This Down:
John 17:13-17
Luke 1
Pray and ask God, is this from You? Is this what You want?
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
What's the point of prayer and does it even "work"? In this episode, Dot and her daughter, Cara, start a 3 week series on prayer by answering this question and discussing how our intimacy with the Lord is grown through our conversations with Him in prayer.
Write This Down:
John 17:1
As you pray ask Jesus, what do You want to happen in this situation, in this relationship, etc?
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
Do you ever feel defeated in trying to live the Christian life? In the final episode of Dot's 3-part series on Spiritual warfare, she reminds us that it is the Holy Spirit who empowers us to fight any battles that may come our way.
Write This Down:
John 16:7-13
There is nothing you will face that you do not have the power to overcome because of the Holy Spirit fighting in and through you.
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
In the second part of Dot's 3-part series on spiritual warfare, Dot and Cara discuss the power of our thoughts and how to win the battle in our mind.
Write This Down:
2 Corinthians 10:3-5
Where is this thought leading me? Does this thought lead me toward God, peace and joy or is this thought leading me to be discouraged and hopeless?
Who told you that?
References: "Victory in Spiritual Warfare" by Tony Evans
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
Dot is back for a new season and has made some changes along the way. Each week, she will be sitting down with her daughter, Cara, to talk through Scripture and Truth in an authentic and practical conversation. You will feel right at home listening in to these two!
In this episode, Dot begins a 3-week series on spiritual warfare. If we don't know there is a war happening around us, we cannot truly walk in the victory Jesus has already given us.
Write This Down:
1 Peter 5:8
Ephesians 6:10-18
Genesis 3
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
Dot sits down with her family for a special Christmas episode discussing how Mary pondered “these things” in her heart. Sometimes situations will come and we will need to remember that the same God who has led us to them is the same God who will also lead us through those situations.
Write this Down:
Luke 2:15-19
Luke 2:41-51
Take a moment and pause. Think about all the miraculous and good things God has done in your life; ponder and treasure those things in your heart like Mary.
For more information or to register for the Breathe Retreat visit: https://www.cupofjoy.org/breatheretreat
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoy.org
There is more to the meaning and message of Christmas than meets the eye. In this episode, Dot reminds us that God is a God of the much more; if we will be still and listen long enough, we will see God’s message is much more than we can image.
Write this Down:
Luke 2:8-16
Bethlehem means: “house of bread” and Jesus is the bread of life.
For more information or to register for the Breathe Retreat visit: https://www.cupofjoy.org/breatheretreat
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoy.org
After hearing the news of her pregnancy from the angel Gabriel, Mary’s plans were unexpectedly replaced by God’s plans. If we feel discouraged by disappointments and unmet expectations this Christmas, Dot encourages us to remember the true meaning of Christmas and to respond in the same way as Mary.
Write This Down:
Luke 1:26-38
Luke 1:1-4, 12-13, 18-19, 34, 39-44
And Mary said, “I am the Lord’s servant, may it be to me as You have said.”
For more information or to register for the Breathe Retreat visit: https://www.cupofjoy.org/breatheretreat
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoy.org
We all know that Thanksgiving will be different this year for everyone. In this episode, even in the midst of this incredibly difficult season, Dot takes a moment to remember the many blessings the Lord has given us. Not to take lightly the pain we are all facing, but to focus on what is good and true.
Write this Down:
Hebrews 10:23
Philippians 1:3, 20
Romans 12
Our hope is not found in our circumstances, but in Jesus alone.
To hear Dot speak at Cup of Joy Ministries’ Breathe Retreat, register here: https://www.cupofjoy.org/breatheretreat
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoy.org
In this episode, Dot teaches us the importance of gratitude and how it can bring us more freedom than we thought possible.
Write this Down:
Luke 17:11-19
Only God can give us freedom and healing from within
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoy.org
Can praising God actually change our lives? It certainly did for Paul and Silas in Acts 16 as they saw first-hand how praise can open the prison doors to freedom. In this episode, Dot teaches on the idea that when we praise God, He will set us free.
Write this Down:
Acts 16:25-26
There is nothing that can defeat or destroy a child of God who chooses to praise God in each and every circumstance.
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoy.org
No matter what the world and darkness throws our way, we have a God who is sitting on His throne. Dot sits with us and challenges us to look beyond our circumstances and praise God because He alone is worthy.
Write this Down:
Revelation 4:1-3
Take 30 days, or however long you feel led, and focus on praising God, regardless what is going on around you, and praise God for WHO He is.
Dot references Jack Taylor’s book, The Hallelujah Factor, which can be bought through Amazon.
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoy.org
Dot concludes her 3 part series on what it looks like to faithfully wait on God by looking through the lens of Abraham and Sarah’s story.
Write this Down:
Genesis 17:15-18
Faith is our response to God. Our journey of faith is dependent on the way in which we live out our faith or response to God.
You can purchase Dot’s book and study guide, The Race Marked Out For US, on amazon.com, christianbook.com, and cupofjoy.org
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoy.org
The longer Abraham and Sarah waited, the weaker their faith became in the waiting. Oh how true that is for most of us! In this episode, Dot teaches us how different life can look when we wait on God to fulfill His promises rather than take matters into our own hands.
Write this Down:
Genesis 16:1-4
What is your Ishmael? The things you are tempted to do in your own strength or the dreams you are tempted to fulfill on your own because you feel like God is not fulfilling them.
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoy.org
Waiting on God and keeping the faith in the process is one of the most difficult things God may ask us to do. Dot begins a 3-part series on what it looks like to faithfully wait on God by looking at the life of Abraham.
Write This Down:
Genesis 12:1-8
Genesis 13:4
Hebrews 11
How do we keep the faith while we wait on God for directions for our life, for God to come through or for His will fulfilled in a certain situation:
- We do what we know to do and take the first step of faith
- We pray consistently throughout the entire waiting process
“Waiting on God does not mean doing nothing. It means not going outside of His will while you do something.” Tony Evans
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoy.org
As we face difficult days and circumstances around us, as a follower of Jesus, what do we do? We pray. Through honest and vulnerable thoughts, Dot shares with us her own personal struggle of how do we separate the world’s view of life and God’s view of life? How do we be in the world, but not of it. She teaches us out of Jesus’ prayer in John 17 and reminds us to be about the Father’s business.
Write This Down:
John 17:14-16
Go before God and ask Him to protect your heart, protect your mind and to protect the choices you make throughout the day.
Ask Him to show you: Am I being led by the things of the world or am I being led by the purpose and the agenda of my Father’s business?
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoy.org
Have you ever struggled to hear the voice of God? Or struggled to believe God speaks to YOU?
On today's episode, Dot will be wrapping up "The Heart of a Shepherd" series by teaching us how we can know and hear the voice of God because He is a personal God who speaks to His children.
Write This Down:
John 10:27
God speaks through creation
God speaks through His Word
God speaks through His people
God speaks through our circumstances, the good and the difficult
God speaks through prayer
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com or find her on social media @dotbowen
This podcast is brought to you by @cupofjoyministries
What is keeping you from living a full and abundant life? In part 4 of our series, The Heart of the Shepherd, Dot will be teaching us that the lies we believe are aimed to steal, kill and destroy us from living out the abundant life God has offered us through his son, Jesus.
Write this Down:
John 10:7-10
Ezekiel 34
When we are willing to set our eyes on Jesus and allow Him to be our Good Shepherd, we will be able to enjoy the life that He has given us, that abundant life only Jesus can offer.
Take these questions before your Heavenly Father and ask Him to open your eyes to the truth
-What are the things that have kept me from the life you offer?
-What has come between me and my Good Shepherd?
-What are the lies that I have believed?
-What are the circumstances that I have viewed as God’s punishment?
-Were there certain people, teachings or circumstances that have led me astray, away from God?
-Who do I need to forgive?
Remember that God is your Good Shepherd and He will take care of the people who have led His children astray. We forgive because He has forgiven us.
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoyministries.org
We all want to be known, but did you ever think that God may have that same desire, to be known? God wants us to know Him and to know Him by His names. In Part 3 of The Heart of a Shepherd, Dot walks us through Psalm 23:6, teaching us the different names of God that show us just how intimate and personal of a God He truly is. When we call upon the name of the Lord, we can rest in His comfort and face any challenge life may throw our way.
Write This Down:
The more you get to know God, the more you will love Him. The more you love Him, the more you will enjoy following Him and be willing to do whatever He has asked you to do.
Jehovah Rohi: God is our Shepherd.
Jehovah Jireh: God is our provider.
Jehovah Shalom: God is our peace.
Jehovah Tsidkenu: God is our righteousness.
Jehovah Shammah: God is always there.
Jehovah Nissi: God is our banner of victory
Jehovah M’Kaddesh: God is the God who sanctifies.
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoyministries.org
Are you in a season of trial? Is life not turning out the way that you thought? In part 2 of The Heart of a Shepherd, Dot teaches us out of Psalm 23:4-5. As she walks us through the valley of shadow of death, she reminds us that we are not alone, God is with us. In this heartfelt episode, Dot shares her personal experience of her own valleys and leads us to the truth of how to face our dark moments: “We cannot enjoy the mountaintop experiences with God until we are willing to walk with God through the valley of shadow of death, but we can look back on the journey and realize there was never a day that you were not guided and lead by a Great, Mighty Shepherd.”
Write This Down:
What thoughts are shaking your faith, keeping you from trusting God or knowing the truth of God?
Go back over Psalm 23:4-5 and ask God, do I think and believe you are with me during this time, during this valley?
Do I trust you, God?
Do I fear that evil is going to win? Or do I know that you, God, have overcome evil?
Be honest before God, tell Him what you want. Pray and seek God and tell Him all that is in your heart.
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoyministries.org
Psalm 23 is known as the Psalm of comfort during times of trial and suffering for many. I think we can all agree, in the year of 2020, we need some comfort during these days of suffering and unknown. Join Dot for a 5 week series looking at the heart of God through the eyes of a shepherd in Psalm 23 and John 10.
In week one, Dot teaches us out of Psalm 23:1-3, how to fight the fear of the unknown and how to find comfort in the Great I Am who provides for our needs. David reflects on God as his Good Shepherd to show us that God is a God who cares for us, who makes all things new and brings life out of death.
Write This Down:
I think. I feel. I want. I value.
God, what do I think about you? Do I know and understand you are my Good Shepherd?
Do I feel that You have my best interest at heart?
Do I want what You want?
Do I value our relationship so much that I run to you and ask you to be the Shepherd of my life?
Ask God, what do I really think, feel, want and value?
Go before God and ask Him these questions, when we begin to be real before God and share our hearts to our Good Shepherd, we are able to see His heart.
For more from Dot visit dotbowen.com
This podcast is brought to you by cupofjoyministries.org