Stand with Lynnette: Recent Episodes
Lynnette Sheppard
Are you a Latter-day Saint who desires to brighten your faith amid a growing tide of darkness and confusion? If so, this is the podcast for you!
Join host Lynnette Sheppard for insights and tools that will help you stand firmly on the covenant path; come, what may. Together, let's stand!
- This podcast is neither made, provided, approved, nor endorsed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or opinions expressed, implied, or included in or with the material are solely those of the podcast host and/or guests.
My daughter's mission president recently told her that many (not a few) missionaries are entering the mission field unprepared for missionary life. I have been reflecting upon how we, as parents, can better prepare our kids for missions, college, and beyond.
In this episode, we discuss the teen years as "the long letting go," and what that entails from a parenting perspective, leading up to the young adult years, where the game completely shifts to "bite your tongue" and nurture your relationship with your young adult child.
Letting go is not easy, but we can trust Christ with our children as they grow, leave home, make mistakes, and learn to become disciples. Let's talk about it!
**Download your free copy of my workbook "40 Things Every Teen Needs to Know Before Leaving Home" right here (no email address required!)
References:
- "A Prayer for the Children" Jeffrey R. Holland
In the past six weeks, my life has literally turned on its head. Almost everything we thought we knew about our future has changed.
But this is a story of hope and peace and God showing up in so many miraculous ways.
With all the heaviness that has overtaken the world in the last week, I thought it might be a good time to talk about the reality and goodness of God. And this story, while it is still evolving, does just that.
So, today, I invite you to walk with me down my own sacred version of Parley Street.
The firestorm of controversy surrounding women and their role in God's Church and Kingdom has, once again, been brewing on social media. The conversation is heated, as always, with personal attacks and angry defensiveness playing center stage.
While this is nothing new, this latest installment has encouraged me to ponder this question:
As covenant women of God, what is our role in this conversation? Let's talk about it!
Sources:
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The reel that ignited the latest controversy
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Confidence in the Presence of God. Russell M. Nelson. April 2025
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Right Before Our Eyes. Ronald A. Rasband. April 2025.
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Sweep the Earth as With a Flood. David A. Bednar. 2014.
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How to Share the Gospel on Social Media - an Interview with David A. Bednar. True Millennials. August 2024.
As a new year gets underway (I know I'm late to the party!), I have been reflecting on 2024, which was unexpectedly challenging in several ways. In this vulnerable episode, I get to the heart of those challenges, the deep questions that have surfaced as a result, and what this means for my life and the future of my work.
And, as many unanswered questions as I have, I also share a few things I KNOW (about Jesus, His gospel, rampant deception on social media and how to protect ourselves, the vital role of women, following the prophet, and keeping faith strong amid SO much opposition).
Listen in for all the details!
When my kids were young, strong-willed, and unwilling to bend on even the smallest issues, I worried constantly about how to help them put their determined spirits to good use. I even thought they might end up in prison one day. (True story!) But now that my kids are mostly grown, I am convinced that strong will is a gift from heaven!
In this episode, I am reposting an interview my husband and I did with our oldest son (the KING of strong will) shortly after he returned from his mission a few years ago. We talk about what he learned amid his evolution, from "I must always have it my way" to putting the needs of others above his desires and leading with love.
It was an evolution for the history books, and his perspective is bound to bring hope to parents of even the most strong-willed kids.
Do you worry about how to prepare your kids for their role in the Second Coming? If so, you're not alone. I think we all feel the weight of that responsibility.
But what if preparing our kids for the Second Coming beautifully overlaps with preparing them to succeed in life?
What if the process includes helping them develop many vital skills in addition to faith?
What if that preparation takes place line upon line and does not need to be overwhelming?
What if creating and abiding by a parenting vision statement makes raising a well-prepared child seamless?
Let's talk about it!
References:
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Russell M. Nelson. Stand as True Millennials. Oct. 2016.
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D&C 88:78-80
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Episode 57: Preparing the Rising Generation to Change the World
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Episode 78: Raising Modern Stripling Warriors
In the weeks since General Conference and President Nelson's clear invitation to prepare for the Second Coming of the Lord, I, like many of you, have been thinking about what it means to prepare for that "great and terrible" day Joel 2:11).
In my study on this topic, the phrase "abide the day" has repeatedly surfaced, inviting me to dig deeper. What does that mean in relation to the Savior's return?
What I have discovered combines Old Testament prophecy with the Doctrine and Covenants, Joseph Smith's history, and modern revelation, all leading to one place: the temple.
The symbolism I have found is blowing my mind, and I cannot wait to unpack it for you. Together, let's learn to "abide the day" of His coming.
**For daily inspiration, follow along on Instagram
References:
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Russell M. Nelson. The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again. October 2024.
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D&C 45:48-66
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D&C 38:8, 32
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Malachi 3-4
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JSH 1:36
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Joel 2:28-33
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Isaiah 2:1-2
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Micah 4
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Refiner's Fire and Fullers' Soap. New Era. June 2016.
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Quentin L. Cook. The Songs They Could Not Sing. Oct. 2011.
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D&C 133:50-51
Have you ever thought about the inseparable connection between physical and spiritual health?
In the Word of Wisdom, the Lord promises "health in the navel and marrow to the bones" to those who follow its principles. Could that symbolize something much higher and holier than physical health alone?
Let's talk about it.
**For daily inspiration, follow along on Instagram
References:
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Stand with Lynnette, Episode 27: The Only Diet Plan You Will Ever Need
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D&C 29:34, 88:15, 89, 93:33-34
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1 Cor. 6:19-20
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Russell M. Nelson. Heart of the Matter: What 100 Years of Living Have Taught Me. Chapter 11. 2023. Deseret Book Company.
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Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 211, 214.
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David A. Bednar. Things as They Really Are. BYU-I Devotional. May 3, 2009.
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D. Todd Christofferson. Burying Our Weapons of Rebellion. October 2024.
Have you ever felt God's hand guiding you to do something you do not want to do? If so, how did you respond to the dissonance?
This has been the overwhelming theme of my life. While I have learned MANY things as I have repeatedly submitted my will to the Lord's will, it took on a whole new meaning at General Conference last weekend. For the first time, I saw what giving my whole soul to God meant, which was not what I had previously thought.
Tune in to hear the whole story and what it means for YOU.
**For daily inspiration, follow along on Instagram
References:
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Russell M. Nelson, "The Lord Jesus Christ Will Come Again." October 2024
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Neal A. Maxwell, "Why Not Now?" October 1974
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Ulisses Soares, "Aligning Our Will with His." October 2024
When Brigette Heller was young, she developed a relationship with the Savior that carried her through some intensely challenging experiences and has served as an anchor point throughout her life.
But, as an adult, depression, anxiety, and her sister's death challenged everything she thought she knew about Jesus. She was ready to give it all up when a miraculous experience connected her to her angel sister and the Lord in a way that continues to transform her faith and life today.
Brigette's story is filled with light, hope, and the footprints of Jesus. It is a conversation that still has me thinking about how I can walk a little closer to Christ, even when the path is intense and scary.
Find Brigette on Instagram and her website
Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during October 2022 General Conference, and it is now available for download. You can grab your free copy right here.
For many years, I was a parenting coach who hosted a parenting podcast and launched a 12-month parenting program to help parents raise children into capable, confident young adults.
Then, in early 2022, I abruptly changed directions, indefinitely putting all parenting rhetoric on the shelf.
When people ask me why I made that change, I usually say, "The Lord handed me this new direction on a silver platter."
That is true, but there is so much more to it.
I have wrestled with whether I should share the details of this story because it is incredibly sacred to me.
I feel it is time to share because this story is, at its core, about YOU and Jesus. I hope you will see yourself as you listen.
P.S. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. You will also receive our weekly(ish) newsletter entitled 5 Quick Things.
P.P.S. I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during the October 2022 General Conference, which is now available for download. As you study and apply these invitations, you will reap the spiritual blessings attached to them. (Don't worry...I will show you how to do this without getting overwhelmed!) You can grab your free copy right here.
When Greta White had her first baby, she was unprepared for the postpartum depression that hit her like a truck. She lived in a constant state of fear and was unable to spend time with her baby, let alone bond with him, for several weeks following his birth.
Through that experience, which she relived after the births of each of her seven children, she learned to rely on the Savior. She discovered in a deeply personal way that the atonement is for rescuing. And now, she does all in her power to keep her covenants by helping to lift others.
Listen in to hear Greta's story of finding light and hope amid darkness. It is a conversation I will not soon forget.
Follow Greta on Instagram and YouTube for FREE and fun aerobics instruction
Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during October 2022 General Conference, and it is now available for download. As you study and apply these invitations, you will reap the spiritual blessings attached to them. (Don't worry...I will show you how to do this without getting overwhelmed!) You can grab your free copy right here.
I have spent the past week thinking about things that don't make sense.
And, when I say "things that don't make sense," I mean questions that don't have easy answers and trials with no apparent ending.
I mean wrestling with counsel from prophets that does not seem to fit with our interpretation of following Jesus.
I mean physical, mental, and emotional challenges from which we have yet to find rest.
I mean paths the Lord inspires us to walk or even chooses for us that feel much too steep and well beyond our ability.
I mean roadblocks we encounter as we follow Him that seem to halt our progress again and again.
My thoughts have led me to the powerful lessons of Gethsemane and Golgotha. I believe understanding these events can forever change how we view our challenges and the suffering they sometimes create.
This Week's Shine Challenge:
Read Luke 22-23, which recounts the events of Gethsemane and Golgotha, and Jeffrey R. Holland's talk, "Lifted Up Upon the Cross." Imagine yourself as a character in the story. What would it have been like to witness those events? Would you have the faith to follow Him forever had you witnessed His sacrifice firsthand? Write your thoughts in your journal.
References:
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Lifted Up upon the Cross: Jeffrey R. Holland
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None Were With Him: Jeffrey R. Holland
P.S. Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during October 2022 General Conference, and it is now available for download. As you study and apply these invitations, you will reap the spiritual blessings attached to them. (Don't worry...I will show you how to do this without getting overwhelmed!) You can grab your free copy right here.
Abigail Miller is a military wife, a mother of two young girls, and a disciple of Christ. Navigating periods of inadequacy, doubt, worry, and fear has taught her that the gospel is simple and joyful.
As she focused on the basics of the gospel, Abigail found peace and hope amid her challenges. She also discovered that sharing the gospel need not be scary. It can be normal, natural, and fun.
Listen in to hear Abigail's simple and joyful journey of faith. It is sure to inspire you along your own journey to Jesus.
Follow Abigail on Instagram
Would you like to share your story of faith? Apply to be a guest on the podcast right here.
Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during October 2022 General Conference, and it is now available for download. As you study and apply these invitations, you will reap the spiritual blessings attached to them. (Don't worry...I will show you how to do this without getting overwhelmed!) You can grab your free copy right here.
When Andrea Ashford was seven years old, her parents were divorced, and her mom left the Church. She felt she had to choose between her mom and the Savior at that young age.
Even as a young girl, Andrea felt the magnitude of her choice. She chose to be baptized, even though her mom did not want that. Though it was difficult, that choice shaped her life and her view of covenants in beautiful ways.
Andrea explains, "My covenants give me the power to keep my covenants."
As Andrea shares her story, you will hear how her covenants have taught her about the Savior, His grace, and how to access His power every single day.
Follow Andrea on Instagram @andreaashfordd
Would you like to share your story of faith? Apply to be a guest on the podcast right here.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. You will also receive our weekly(ish) newsletter entitled 5 Quick Things.
Last weekend, I hiked the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim with my husband and son. The 23.5-mile trek was overflowing with miracles, both small and great. God's fingerprint was evident in every step of this journey.
In this episode, I will tell you about every miraculous event we witnessed, what it has taught me about seeing God's miracles on a daily basis, and how each of us can develop eyes to see the miracles God works on our behalf.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. You will also receive our weekly(ish) newsletter entitled 5 Quick Things.
References:
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Russell M. Nelson. The Power of Spiritual Momentum. April 2022.
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Russell M. Nelson. Overcome the World and Find Rest. October 2022.
P.S. I would love to start interviewing Latter-day Saint women from all walks of life about what it looks like to STAND with the Savior in their unique circumstances. We NEED your voice in our community! If you would like to be interviewed on the show, fill out this form.
In the New Testament, there is an account of a rich young ruler who was also a follower of the Master, Jesus Christ. He was already keeping the commandments but asked Jesus a question we would all do well to ponder: "What lack I yet?"
When we break that question down into two modern questions and take them to the Lord, He can open the windows of Heaven for us:
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What is the number one most important thing I can stop doing that will most transform my life?
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What is the number one most important thing I can start doing that will most transform my life?
I call this practice trading up, and in this episode, I will teach you why it matters and how to use it to unlock the power of God in your life.
This Week's Shine Challenge:
Ask the Lord the two questions above, record His answers, and make a plan to implement them.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. You will also receive our weekly newsletter: 5 Quick Things.
P.S. I would love to start interviewing Latter-day Saint women from all walks of life about what it looks like to STAND with the Savior in their unique circumstances. We NEED your voice in our community! If you would like to be interviewed on the show, fill out this form.
References:
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What Lack I Yet? Larry R. Lawrence
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Spiritual Treasures: Russell M. Nelson
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We Can Do Better and Be Better: Russell M. Nelson
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Eyes to See: Michelle Craig
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A Framework for Personal Revelation: Dale G. Renlund
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Give the Lord Your Loyalty: Spencer W. Kimball
General Conference was fantastic! But what good are inspired messages from God unless we take the time to study and apply them? The Spirit cannot teach us how those messages will fortify our faith or grant us the prophetic blessings attached to them when they are collecting dust on a shelf or tucked away, out of sight, in the Gospel Library app.
So, I ask you, my friend, how will you be different because of what you heard at General Conference? What did the Spirit teach you, and how will you apply what you learned?
In this episode, I share my top 6 takeaways from October 2022 General Conference with an invitation to GO and DO what the Lord, through His servants, inspired you to do.
This Week's Shine Challenge:
Ponder what you learned at General Conference and set one actionable goal to put what the Spirit taught you into action.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. You will also receive our weekly newsletter: 5 Quick Things
Nutritional recommendations are constantly changing, which makes it extremely difficult to determine what diet strategy is the "healthiest."
Low fat? Low carb? High protein? No grain? Low glycemic index? No dairy? Low calorie?
Which expert do we listen to when the experts do not agree?
But the Lord, who created our bodies and knows how best to care for them, tells us exactly what to eat and what to avoid in D&C Section 89.
The Word of Wisdom is not just a list of don'ts, but also a comprehensive list of do's. Listen in to hear about the Lord's plan of health which, in many ways, directly contradicts current nutritional recommendations.
This Week's Shine Challenge:
Prayerfully read Doctrine and Covenants 89 and see what specific and personal insight the Lord can share with you.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
Listening to a recent interview with Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, it hit me with great force that society has mixed up the order of the first two great commandments. Rather than loving God first, the world teaches that we should love ourselves first, then others, and maybe we will get to loving God.
To build sustainable faith, we need to get the order right. This episode will show you how.
This Week's Shine Challenge:
Pray to know how to put God first and then DO whatever He tells you.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
References:
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Church News Podcast: Episode 85: Elder Jeffrey R. Holland and Sister Patricia Holland, with guest host Sheri Dew, Part 2 — Becoming disciples of Jesus Christ
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John Chapter 21
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Jeffrey R. Holland. The First Great Commandment. October 2012
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Jeffrey R. Holland. The Cost and Blessings of Discipleship. April 2014.
Four days ago, my 10-pound puppy was attacked by a coyote. Miraculously, he survived, for which we are grateful. But the experience has me thinking about spiritual coyotes that, as Nephi described, "leadeth [us] away carefully down to hell." (2 Nephi 28:21)
There is much we can do to arm ourselves against spiritual predators, and this episode will show you where to begin.
P.S. If you would benefit from a structured, supportive, incentivized program to help you conquer spiritual predators and securely bind yourself to the Lord, the Shine 40 Challenge is perfect for you. It is ONLY open for enrollment from now through midnight on Sunday, September 18. As an added bonus, you can invite a friend to participate with you for FREE, thus exponentially increasing your chances of success. Find out more and join the challenge right here.
Last week, I learned something that has changed how I see the temple garment
I learned that the English word atonement comes from the Hebrew word kaphar, which means to cover.
In learning this, my mind immediately went to the Garden of Eden. I thought of the coats of skins that the Lord made as a covering for Adam and Eve before He cast them out of the Garden.
Coverning = Atonement
In this episode, we will dive into the scriptures and find the deep symbolism behind the temple garment.
They are much more symbolic and significant than I ever imagined.
This Week's Shine Challenge:
Study Genesis chapter 3 and Moses chapters 4-5. Write down your insights and impressions about the temple garment.
If you would like a little help or motivation to JUMPSTART your spiritual habits, join me in the Shine 7 Challenge - a FREE 7-day challenge designed to help you gain MASSIVE spiritual momentum.
The challenge starts on September 8, 2022, at which time the doors will close. I don't know when the next challenge will be, so join now! (No cost. No risk. MASSIVE growth potential!)
Learn more and sign up here.
See you on the inside!
Today, I want to build upon what I taught last week by addressing a question that might be running through your mind:
“Lynnette, you talk about tracking habits as if doing so will facilitate massive growth, both spiritual and otherwise. But isn’t faith more than a checklist?”
The short answer: of course, faith is infinitely more than a checklist. But a checklist can and will get you going in the right direction.
Listen in to discover:
- WHY a checklist or habit tracker is NOT the end goal (and what is)
- HOW a checklist or habit tracker can help you strengthen your faith and develop a relationship with God
- WHEN a checklist or habit tracker will lead to lasting spiritual change and when it will not
If you would like a little help or motivation to JUMPSTART your spiritual habits, join me in the Shine 7 Challenge - a FREE 7-day challenge designed to help you gain MASSIVE spiritual momentum.
The challenge starts on September 8, 2022, at which time the doors will close. I don't know when the next challenge will be, so join now! (No cost. No risk. MASSIVE growth potential!)
Learn more and sign up here.
See you on the inside!
Our lives are not made up of big decisions, whether spontaneous or otherwise. They are made of small and simple choices we make multiple times every day.
Our small choices or, in other words, the way we choose to spend our time and energy, almost make the big decisions for us. Not in a way that takes away our agency, but in a way that reinforces it.
Small choices lead to big choices and big outcomes, both positive and negative. And habits, whether conscious or unconscious, are the building blocks of our choices.
We have much more power over our circumstances than we sometimes believe. As James Clear said, “You get what you repeat.”
Listen in to find out WHY habits are so powerful and HOW to gain momentum that will lead you to the outcomes you desire.
This week's SHINE challenge:
Come up with at least one small habit you can implement today that will increase your positive momentum. Then, do that thing each day.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
Do you ever feel like you are in a comfortable rut with your spirituality?
Do you feel more distant from the Lord than you want to be?
Do you want to narrow the gap between you and God so you can hear Him more clearly?
In this episode, we learn why our relationship with God is a two-way street, and why we must show up for Him if we want Him to show up for us.
We learn what God requires of us in order to obtain His promised peace and blessings.
We learn how He compensates us for the small and simple ways we bind ourselves to Him.
This information is vital for anyone who desires to feel closer to God.
This week's SHINE challenge:
Commit to giving the Lord enough time for daily scripture study this week. You decide how much time that is. The important thing is that you commit to showing up for Him in whatever way you feel is best.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
References:
1.We are Women of God: Sheri Dew. General Conference, October 1999
- Spiritual Treasures: Russell M. Nelson. General Conference, October 2019
Can you imagine what would happen if you started to build a house without a blueprint? What if you poured a random foundation and then just started nailing boards together, hoping it would end up with just the right dimensions?
That idea is almost laughable, but the same concept applies to our lives. We must have a blueprint if we want to create the life of our dreams. Otherwise, life will simply happen to us while we sit and watch.
To create a blueprint, we must have a clear picture of our future self: who we want to become. Only then, can we intentionally build our lives in a way that leads us to that outcome.
Listen in to learn how to first see and then become the future self of your dreams.
This week's SHINE challenge:
Get in touch with your future self, however far out you want to imagine. It could be your future self next week, next month, next year, and beyond. Write about what she is like in as much detail as possible. After you know her, determine the things she does every day that have created the outcomes you now hope for. Then, make a plan for implementing those daily habits into your life right now.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
Do you ever get discouraged because you are not where you want to be?
Maybe, on your journey to self-improvement or spiritual fortification, you feel like you take two steps forward and one step back. Perhaps, you fall off the wagon altogether for the one-millionth time, and you wonder if it is worth getting back on when you cannot seem to stay there.
If you have ever felt that way, you are normal! Welcome to the club. But there is a more fulfilling way to live. Today, I am going to show you what that might look like by teaching you to mind the gap and measure the gain.
This week's SHINE challenge:
Determine one way you have been measuring the gap instead of the gain in your life. Try to turn that around by assessing how far you have come since starting your journey.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
References:
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Exodus 14:10-12
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Numbers 11:4-6
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1 Nephi 17
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Perfection Pending by Russell M. Nelson
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Be Ye Therefore Perfect - Eventually, by Jeffrey R. Holland
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“The New Way,” Leo Tolstoy: Spiritual Writings, sel. Charles E. Moore (2006), 81–82.
In last week's episode, we dove into Moroni 7 and what it teaches about discerning truth from deception. We learned how we can have a perfect knowledge of whether something is inspired of God or not. If you have not yet listened to that episode, I recommend starting there.
In this lesson, I will teach you how to spot the difference between a message that comes from God vs. the adversary based on the differences between how Satan and God work. They do not use the same tools, and it is important to understand the difference.
We will look to 2 Nephi 28 and Doctrine and Covenants section 8 as our guides.
We will also learn about why it is important to stay in the light, as explained in 2 Cor 6:14-18.
Come, stand with me!
This week's SHINE challenge:
Take inventory of the people you follow on social media. Do any of them teach things that may pull you away from Christ, His commandments, or His teachings? If so, have the courage to unfollow.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
Have you ever heard or seen something about the Church or its doctrine that contained elements of truth but did not feel 100% true?
Have you ever worried about yourself or your loved ones being led astray by intriguing but untrue ideas?
If so, this podcast will help you gain clarity.
Using scriptures from Moroni chapter 7 and several sections in the Doctrine and Covenants, I will teach you how to tell with a "perfect knowledge" whether something is true or false. Let's do this!
This week's SHINE challenge:
Read Moroni Chapter 7 with a prayerful heart. Record any thoughts or inspiration regarding truth and deception.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
With the craziness of summer upon us, I will be publishing mini-episodes for the next few weeks. Hopefully, these quick episodes will be easily consumable amid your crazy summer! We will get back to our deep dives soon.
This week's topic was inspired by a question I recently received on Instagram:
"I LOVE all of the different CFM podcasts because the scriptures come alive to me thanks to them. When I read the scriptures on my own I'm so lost. When you say you get answers to prayer while reading, is it the actual words on the page, or is it thoughts that come to mind while you read that is the answer to prayer?"
The scriptures can become the windows of heaven. Listen in to hear how.
For a deep dive into personal revelation, listen to Episode 6.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
With the craziness of summer upon us, I will be publishing mini-episodes for the next few weeks. We will get back to our deep dives soon. Hopefully, these quick episodes will be easily consumable amid your crazy summer!
This week's topic was inspired by a question I recently received on this Instagram reel:
"I stumbled on this reel and I just want to say I do commend your loyalty and faith but my question is where do you draw lines for your “prophets” and “prophets” like Warren Jeffs who preyed on the young and innocent and sexually assaulted children? Thankfully he is locked away but some still follow this so-called prophet and when I see reels like this with people who follow a “prophet's” words blindly I don’t see how it is any different? Discernment is a gift that should be used."
Listen in for my answer. It just might get you thinking about how you might answer similar questions.
Want to dive in deeper? Listen to Episode 2.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
If you have ever wondered how best to help others (including your kids) SHINE on their path back to Jesus, this is the episode for you.
We will discuss the Lord's plan of leadership (which applies in EVERY instance of helping others along the Covenant Path), how to apply it to different situations, some common pitfalls that trip us up from time to time, and how to overcome those pitfalls.
This week's SHINE challenge:
Consider one way you can do LESS so those whom you lead in any capacity can do MORE. (Because DOING more will help them SHINE.)
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
We are wrapping up our self-care Fundies this week by talking about finding JOY.
Listen in to find out how to find joy amid life's challenges. (And, if you would like to learn about the other Fundies and how they work together to support you, catch up on episodes 8-12.)
We will discuss how to recognize what is blocking joy and how to cultivate more joy, no matter what is happening in your life.
This week's SHINE challenge:
Write a joy list of things you can do to bring you joy. Then, when you need a little burst of joy, do something from the list.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
It is easy to find gratitude looking back over the challenges we have overcome, but what about feeling grateful while climbing the mountains of adversity? Is that even possible?
Dieter F. Uchtdorf believes that the secret to such a feat is to be grateful in our circumstances rather than being grateful for things. He said,
“We can choose to be grateful, no matter what.
This type of gratitude transcends whatever is happening around us. It surpasses disappointment, discouragement, and despair. It blooms just as beautifully in the icy landscape of winter as it does in the pleasant warmth of summer.
When we are grateful to God in our circumstances, we can experience gentle peace in the midst of tribulation. In grief, we can still lift up our hearts in praise. In pain, we can glory in Christ’s Atonement. In the cold of bitter sorrow, we can experience the closeness and warmth of heaven’s embrace.” 3
Gratitude is a choice, and it can become a way of life. We can choose to be grateful while navigating the mountains of life, not because we love the steep passages, but because the view is incredible.
Listen in for real-life stories of people who have learned to be grateful, no matter how challenging their circumstances. From them, you will gain perspective and inspiration for learning to feel grateful; come what may.
This week's SHINE challenge:
Write down three things you are grateful for every day for the next seven days. See if it makes a difference in how you feel.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
3 Uchtdorf, Dieter F. “Grateful In Any Circumstances.” The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Apr. 2014, https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2014/04/grateful-in-any-circumstances.
Through his research about hope, Shane Lopez determined that “hope is the belief that your future will be better than your present and you have the power to make it so.”
While I love Shane’s definition, I would add God into the equation. So, we, with God’s help, have the power to create a future that is infinitely better than our present.
With that in mind, we can no longer be powerless victims of our circumstances. Instead, we are co-creators with God. We can work hand in hand with the Creator to build lives filled with hope. But where do we begin?
Listen in for perspective and practical tools.
This week's SHINE Challenge:
Write about one thing you hope for in as much detail as possible. Write about it as if it has already happened. You can use that vision to help you endure when things get tough. You can also use it to help you create, with God’s help, the outcome you desire.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
For the next few weeks, we will continue to focus on a series of self-care fundamentals or "Fundies" that drastically affect all areas of our life, including our spirituality. The Fundies include: eat, sleep, move, breathe, be present, be prosperous, be grateful, and be joyful.
This week, we will be diving into breath - the bridge between the body and the mind. We will discuss why breath is so powerful and how to use it to stay present, manage stress and anxiety, and feel calmer.
I will also teach you a couple of powerful, practical tools you can use in moments of heightened emotion to bring you back into the present. Because, after all, the present is where life is truly LIVED.
The past is where depression lives. The future is where anxiety lives. The present is where POWER lives.
Let's do this!
This week's SHINE challenge:
Try flipping the switch with a few deep, mindful breaths when you feel stressed, anxious, or otherwise not at your best. To up the ante, repeat a mantra, such as “Everything is as it should be” or “I love and accept you.”
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
For the next few weeks, we will be focusing on a series of self-care fundamentals or "Fundies" that drastically affect all areas of our life, including our spirituality. The Fundies include: eat, sleep, move, breathe, be present, be prosperous, be grateful.
This week, we will be diving into sleep and movement. Why do these things matter? How can they help us bridge the gap between hope and despair? What do they have to do with our spiritual growth? How can you uplevel these areas of your life?
Listen in to find out!
This week's SHINE challenge:
Track your steps. Are you meeting the depression threshold every day? What can you do to add more movement to your days? Make a plan for moving forward in a more supportive way.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
References:
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Why We Sleep: Matthew Walker
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How Much Sleep Do We Really Need? National Sleep Foundation
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Sleep and Mood: Harvard Study
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Among Teens, Sleep Deprivation an Epidemic
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Even Happier: Tal Ben Shahar
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The Joy of Movement: Kelly McGonigal
For the next few weeks, we will be focusing on a series of self-care fundamentals or "Fundies" that drastically affect all areas of our life, including our spirituality. The Fundies include: eat, sleep, move, breathe, be present, be prosperous, be grateful.
This week, we will be focusing on food, and how what we eat has a MASSIVE impact on, not only our physical health but our mental and spiritual health.
This week's SHINE challenge:
Read and ponder D&C 89 and prayerfully determine one way you can better care for your body. We are not looking for extremes. Remember, moderation in ALL things. And consider how small changes, over time, can create DRASTIC impact.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
References:
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Your Body: A Magnificent Gift to Cherish: Russell M. Nelson
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In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto: Michael Pollan
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The Happiness Diet: Tyler Graham and Drew Ramsey
I copied these comments from my social media feed several months ago.
“I make it a practice to not waste my time responding to people I have no respect for.”
“It’s because of people like you that the state of the world is what it is.”
“You are such a moron for being so educated.”
These comments represent the reality of communication in our world: a world with little respect for anyone who believes differently.
A world where it is OK to belittle others publicly, as long as you are hiding behind a screen.
A world where communication has been reduced to yelling, screaming, name-calling, and publicly shaming others.
We have all seen this in the realm of political and social differences, especially in the wake of the turmoil of the last two years. But what about in matters of faith?
Have you seen believers mocked or persecuted for believing? Have you seen members of the Church belittling or shaming other members who follow (or don’t follow) the prophet or the commandments?
Have you seen members of the Church shaming other members who do not share their social or political beliefs?
I have both seen and experienced these things. In this episode, we discuss how to put on the armor of light, enabling us to communicate with both courage AND compassion when it comes to matters of faith.
We also talk about how to invite, welcome, minister, and love people, no matter where they are on the covenant path.
This week's SHINE challenge:
Arise and Shine forth by sharing your testimony on social media this week. Be brave, be bold, and be compassionate. Use the hashtag #covenantwomenstand
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
References:
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Doctrines of the Restoration: Sermons & Writings of Bruce R. McConkie (Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1989), 197-98.
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Russell M. Nelson, Stand as True Millenials
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Russell M. Nelson, A Plea to My Sisters
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Dieter F. Uchtforf, Three Sisters
Do you struggle to hear the voice of the Spirit? If so, you are in really good company.
I recently surveyed a group of women and asked them how confident they felt in their ability to receive personal revelation. There was a sliding scale of 1-5, 1 being "I wonder if God ever speaks to me," and 5 being "I am confident in my ability to Hear Him." Almost half of the respondents chose either 1 or 2.
Bottom line: it is difficult to distinguish the Lord's voice from our own thoughts. It is a skill that takes some practice.
In this episode, I will teach you how to "Live in Revelation," by giving you a big-picture view. Then, I will break it down into practical things you can do each day to increase your ability to hear and heed God's voice.
This week's SHINE challenge:
For the next week, commit to recording how you see the Lord’s hand in your life each day. How does He show up for you in ways, both small and great?
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
References:
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The Spirit of Revelation, David A. Bednar, 2021
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Revelation for the Church; Revelation for Our Lives, Russell M. Nelson
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The Book of Mormon: What Would Your Life Be Like Without It? Russell M. Nelson
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Make Time for the Lord, Russell M. Nelson
Sometimes, we mistakenly believe that, if we have enough faith, God will remove painful obstacles from our paths. That could be true – He does work miracles and, sometimes, those miracles include healing in all forms.
But what if He does not take our challenges away? Does that mean we lack faith?
In this episode, we explore the story of Liberty Jail, one of the darkest times in the life of the Prophet Joseph and those who followed him. We all have our Liberty Jail moments. We can learn much about how to approach our dark days by examining how the Lord instructed Joseph in the grueling months of his imprisonment.
This week's SHINE challenge:
Read Doctrine and Covenants sections 121-123. In your journal, record at least one thing you learn from those sections that will help you navigate your personal trials.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
References:
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Lessons from Liberty Jail: Jeffrey R. Holland
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Spiritual Whirlwinds: Neil L. Andersen
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Doctrine and Covenants 121-123
Do you ever see yourself through the distorted lenses of inadequacy, self-doubt, comparison, or lack? Or do you know someone who is struggling with their self-worth?
If so, this episode is for you.
Identity affects EVERYTHING. If we truly understand WHO we are and WHAT we are here on this good earth to accomplish, we will be an unstoppable force for good.
Because of that, the adversary is waging an all-out war on identity. If he can keep us distracted with thoughts of inadequacy, we will be hard-pressed to accomplish our divine work.
We cannot allow him to win!! Come, learn how to fight back.
This week's SHINE challenge:
Ask the Lord to tell you one thing He loves about you. Listen for His answer, write it down, and refer to it when you are feeling down on yourself.
Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.
** Follow along on Instagram
References:
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Sheri Dew: Knowing Who You Are and Who You Have Always Been
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Moses chapters 6-7
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The Cherokee Legend of Two Wolves
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Do you ever have questions or doubts surrounding the Church? Do you want to learn how to navigate doubt while strengthening your faith?
Or do you sometimes feel like doubt surrounding the Church is celebrated, especially on social media?
If you answered yes to any of those questions (or know someone wrestling with questions or doubts), this is the episode for you.
In my early twenties, I went through a faith crisis that rocked me to my core. One simple thought, accompanied by an overwhelming abundance of the Spirit, changed everything for me. It sustains my faith to this day, and I am going to share it with you.
We will also talk about how to brighten our faith and overcome the mountains in our lives through the power of Jesus Christ.
Weekly Shine Challenge
Write down at least one spiritual experience you have had and what it taught you about God’s love for you. Refer to it when your faith feels dim.
Follow along on Instagram
Download our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand
If you enjoyed the episode, please consider sharing it with a friend or leaving us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. That helps us help more people!
References:
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Mark Chapter 9
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Christ is Risen; Faith in Him Will Move Mountains: Russell M. Nelson
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Sheri Dew: Worth the Wrestle. Deseret Book. 2017
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Jesus Christ - Gifts and Expectations: Ezra Taft Benson
Welcome to the brand-new Stand with Lynnette podcast! I am thrilled to have you here with me!
In this introductory episode, I will tell you WHY I am launching a new podcast, WHAT we will be focusing on here, and HOW your life can change when you choose to STAND.
Together, let's stand!
Follow along on Instagram
Download our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand
If you enjoyed the episode, please consider sharing it with a friend or leaving us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. That helps us help more people!
When I was young, I thought the song "Follow the Prophet" was the worst Primary song ever. It was long and repetitive, and I got bored with it. But now, I cling to the words: "Follow the prophet – Don't go astray. Follow the prophet – he knows the way."
Within the past year or two, there has been a flood of hate directed at the prophet and other Church leaders for various reasons. Most of it has come from within the Church. And, truthfully, that breaks my heart.
In this episode, we dive deep into why the Lord has given us prophets and how they can lead us to safety if we choose to follow.
Weekly SHINE Challenge:
Read all President Nelson's talks and public statements from the last year. Write down the counsel – what he has asked us to do - and the warnings – what he has asked us to look out for.
Follow along on Instagram
Download the Manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand
If you enjoy the show, please consider sharing it with a friend or leaving us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. That helps us reach more of the people we can help!
References:
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Sustaining the Prophets; Russell M. Nelson
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Finding Safety in Counsel: Henry B. Eyring
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Moses chapter 8
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The Lord Leads His Church: Henry B. Eyring
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Lord, I Believe: Jeffery R. Holland
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Stand as True Millenials, Russell M. Nelson
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Agency and Control: Boyd K. Packer
Now, more than ever, the world needs light. And, as covenant women, we are light. We have a divine charge from the Savior himself to “Arise and Shine Forth” amid the growing darkness of these latter days. But, to do that, we must stand firm and faithful amid the intensifying storm. Only then will we be able to lead ourselves, our families, and others to the safety of the Savior’s embrace.
If you are a Latter-day Saint woman who desires to strengthen your faith and shine brighter than ever, you are in the right place. Come, stand with me.
Follow along on Instagram @lynnettesheppard