Life at Peace: Recent Episodes
Sydney LeFlore Murphy
A podcast focused on using godly wisdom to confront everyday issues in the pursuit of a life filled with peace. Whether you are a new or "seasoned" believer, I hope you enjoy this show and use it to go deeper in your relationship with Christ!
Join me and my dad (PJ Rentie of The Gearhead Lounge) for a hearty conversation full of laughs, wisdom, and God's truth about the power and beauty of creativity!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
Being made in the image of God means we possess traits not found in other elements of creation. One such trait? The ability to create. Our God is creative, so by extension, we are too! Creating allows us to express our unique personalities, ideas, and perspectives with others. This helps us experience God's peace because it opens our eyes to the beauty and richness of life.
Join me and my mother (Cheri Rentie of @Thisischeri55) for an insightful conversation about the relationship between peace and creativity!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
We all want people to be treated according to their behavior because that's what we consider "fair". But when it comes to forgiveness, we cannot operate based on "fairness". And this is hard for us. So hard, in fact, that we cannot find the strength within ourselves to forgive others. This power comes from the Lord.
In this episode, I compare the cultural view of forgiveness to the Biblical view and explain the role of forgiveness in the life of a believer.
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
I heard a pastor say once that being offended is a choice. Was he right? Let's talk about it.
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https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
When God closes a door on you, do you get mad? Maybe you turn inward and wonder what you could’ve done to get a different outcome. And then there’s disbelief, denial, shock, resentment….take your pick. Any one of these is a natural response when we don’t get our way. Here’s a response that’s a little LESS natural: Gratitude. Have you ever been THANKFUL for a closed door?? Seems counterintuitive, but as we mature spiritually, we learn to trust God more, which means that eventually, we're able to handle closed doors without kicking and screaming about them!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
Exploring more of the Gospel message from Part One! In this episode, I cover difficult topics to include heaven, hell, God's holy nature, and our sinful natures.
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https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
The gospel is the simplest and most profound truth anyone could ever be asked to believe! It's countercultural, it's bold, it's challenging, and it's liberating - all at the same time. But many people don't understand the NEED for it. They might say it's a crutch, a coping mechanism, or a tool to manipulate the simple-minded of society. Whatever the case, the reality is that the gospel of Jesus Christ is the ONLY message powerful enough to turn hearts, change lives, and reconcile us completely to our Creator forever!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
You ever been angry at someone for slandering God's character? Well, join the club! I bet you also wanted to put that person in their place by quoting Scripture, citing examples of what God has done, poking holes in their worldview, or dissecting their theology. This is what happens when we recognize that God is OUR defender, but forget that He doesn't need us to return the favor!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
How do you respond when your talents aren't being appreciated? Or when your potential is going unseen? The way we handle seasons like this reveals whether or not we are ready for the "spotlight". Our time in the background, or "behind the scenes", is critical because this is where God does the secret work of pruning us and positioning our hearts to align with His will. That means, when it's time for us to shine, God is ready for what He's been doing in secret to be brought to light!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
Every now and then, our carefully crafted plans are upended because....life happens. Join me as I talk about what transpired in my absence and some of the big things coming in 2024!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
We LOVE to make idols! And we'll create them out of just about anything. Our tendency to do this stems from the fact that there is some area of our lives we have not surrendered control of for one reason or another. So the question to ponder during this episode is....what or who do I love more than God?
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
The only constant in life is change. I'm sure we've all heard that before, but that doesn't make it any less surprising when change happens! Worse yet, change seems to come just when we've gotten comfortable with how life is going. It almost feels like God shakes things up sometimes to keep us on our toes. But, there's a spiritual principle behind change, and since we know that it's inevitable, maybe we should learn how to handle it instead of dreading it.
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
The stories in the Old and New Testament are there to encourage us, challenge us, and show us the way God works and fights for His people. But have you thought about what He is doing today? What has God done for YOU specifically? When we study the Bible, it is easy to think that God was more present and even more powerful back then compared to now. But He's the same yesterday, today, and forever! So, the power He displayed in the lives of all our favorite Bible heroes is available to us now. This is why our testimonies are so powerful!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
When you were little, did you discover that you could get that toy or candy bar by throwing a little tantrum in the store? My answer to that is a resounding NO, because the first time I tried it, I was snatched up and silenced into obedience with the threat of a public spanking. As we get older, we learn (hopefully) that we have to control our emotions, because adult temper tantrums aren't cute. At work, showing too much emotion is unprofessional. In public, it's weird. At school, you're unstable. And in church....it might even be perceived as a lack of faith. At least, that's how I felt growing up.
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
Imposter syndrome can show up anywhere, anytime, and affect anyone. Chances are, you've probably had a run-in with it at some point, regardless of how successful others perceived you to be. Because unfortunately, we are all susceptible to self-doubt and internalizing other people's opinions of us. When you feel like a fake, it's hard to find motivation to do what you do. The key to conquering this mental battle is to realize that imposter syndrome does not come from our Creator!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
From Sunday school, we are taught that God is big, all-powerful, all-knowing, and the Great Problem Solver. We get excited because we can't wait for Him to reveal Himself in a massive, undeniable, spectacular, supernatural way. But sometimes, God doesn't do that! There are moments when we have to look a little bit closer to see His hand at work. It is during those times when we may be tempted to ask, "God, where you at??"
Tune in as I share a story from my most recent exercise in putting this to the test!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
At some point, we'll all be praised for something. Whether that's our skills, personality, or our ideas. So in those times, the question is, how do you handle praise? Do you soak it up? Do you get uncomfortable? How SHOULD we handle praise as believers? Well, you'll just have to tune in to find out!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
Have you ever looked around and judged people for not being "Christian enough"? Or, have you made this judgement about yourself? Though we are supposed to be on the same team, comparison between Christians remains a stumbling block for many in their individual walks with God. So what does it mean to "compare our Christianity", why do we do it, and how can we avoid it? Tune in to find out!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
What do you think you're good at? Nothing? A lot of things? The good news is that God has given us each a measure of talent, and one of the most exciting things in life is discovering what that is! The challenge, then, becomes staying in our lane and doing the best with what we've been given. In this way, we glorify God and bring joy to others at the same time!
Join me in this episode as we break down the parable of the talents, as told in Matthew 25.
You can also check out the rest of my family's channels at the links below!
Meanie Mosey: https://www.youtube.com/@MeanieMosey
The Gearhead Lounge: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGearheadLounge
Cheri Rentie Beauty: https://www.youtube.com/@cherirentiebeauty
The Renties of Houston: https://www.youtube.com/@therentiesofhouston
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
All of us experience "humbling moments" at different points in our lives and....they can be pretty painful! When we're humbled, we're reminded that there are other people we can (and should) learn from on the way to who we're becoming. God humbles us to keep us from succumbing to pride, which can so easily and effortlessly take root in our hearts if we do not keep it in check! In this episode, I share 2 stories surrounding the issue of pride in my heart and why this particular sin is so dangerous.
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
2023 is here, and with a new year often comes new ideas! Lots of people plan to start things this year, and while there’s an element of excitement in trying something new, at the same time, the beginning of ANY process can feel intimidating, discouraging, and frustrating. So what wisdom can we glean from the Bible on this issue? Let’s find out!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
Merry Christmas and happy holidays!! As the year wraps up, I want to share a brief word of wisdom to help us finish well - no matter what type of year it has been!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
The holidays are here and everyone’s boo’d up except YOU. No one to see lights with, cuddle with, or kiss at 12am on January 1st. You, my friend, are what’s known as “single” and you’re sad about it. You’ve prayed all the prayers and dreamed all the dreams about one day meeting Mister or Misses “Right”. Your group of single friends is shrinking by the year and you’re not getting any younger! How do you deal with this?? Let’s talk about singleness!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
Loneliness can be hard to navigate because there are many triggers for it. New seasons of life, new responsibilities, and new circumstances all have the potential to make us feel invisible or insignificant by uprooting what used to be familiar and comfortable. At its core, loneliness is a deep yearning to be seen, known, and loved - things that I believe every human wants.
In this episode, I discuss practical and biblical perspectives on loneliness. Our lonely seasons do not have to be in vain, and in fact, I believe that those are the seasons in which God can do the greatest transformations inside of us.
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
Have you ever argued with someone you should have ignored? Clicked on a video you should have scrolled past? Allowed someone or something to live in your head rent-free?
If so, then you understand what it feels like to give away your peace. In Isaiah 26:3, it is written that God promises to keep in perfect peace those whose minds are stayed on Him. This means that as long as our minds are on the distractions of this world, we will not experience God's perfect peace that empowers us to overcome life's challenges. Join me as I discuss what it means to protect that sacred peace!
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
Words are powerful and they can betray what's going on in our hearts. But sometimes, even the most heartfelt encouragement may fall on deaf ears or fail to take root in someone's spirit. As someone who has tried to be a "fixer" with my words, I've had to learn to shut up sometimes! In some ways, trying to think of the perfect speech or advice makes the situation about us rather than the people who are hurting.
Tune in as I discuss a few ways we can support people in their time of need.
Check out the Life at Peace Podcast channel!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
Is it possible to "outgrow" Christianity? Are people finding answers somewhere else? If you've been paying attention, you may have noticed a growing number of "exvangelicals", either on social media or in your immediate circle. Deconstruction is growing in popularity and has empowered many to publicly reject Christ - often the ironic and bitter culmination of a life shaped by Christian teachings.
Join me as I discuss some factors contributing to the widespread criticism of Christianity and how the body of Christ should respond.
Subscribe to the Life at Peace Podcast YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
I'm back! It's time for a brand new season and man, is this one going to be challenging! Whether you're a loyal listener or stumbled across this show, I'm glad you're here, and I invite you to stick with me for the ride!
Don't leave without subscribing to my YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
You can also find me on social media!
Facebook: Life at Peace Podcast
Instagram: @lifeatpeace_podcast
TikTok coming soon....???
Friendships are some of the most dynamic relationships we can have! Friends have the potential to challenge us, shape us, and sometimes, they can even see more in us than we see in ourselves. But are we willing to do what it takes to maintain lifelong friendships? To love our friends the way 1 Corinthians 13 spells out?
In Part I of the season finale, I discuss some typical concerns within friendships and what we can do to help them withstand the passage of time and various other life challenges!
We can take comfort in the fact that God cares about our mental health. There are many Scriptures throughout the Bible that speak of our minds and the importance of guarding them and using them to glorify God. In this episode, I zero in on the concept of “taking every thought captive” (2 Corinthians 10:5). This powerful ability that Jesus has granted us through His death and resurrection allows us to assume total control over the thoughts we entertain, and in turn, act on. While this is certainly not an easy thing to do, it is possible, and that is all the hope we need.
Subscribe to the Life at Peace Podcast YouTube channel!!
https://youtu.be/YFpnZALzJl0
It feels great to have the answers to our questions, solutions to our problems, and backup plans when things fall apart. But what happens when, despite our best efforts, we still come up empty? When our intellect or our planning is no longer sufficient to think through our next move?
Uncertainty levels the playing field, so to speak, because there is not one person who always has the answers to deal with what they’re up against in life. But if WE always had answers….what would we need God for?
The Bible tells us in Psalm 37 that the Lord orders our steps. In God’s sovereignty and omniscience, He graciously and lovingly guides us through life’s uncertainties and is faithful to call us in a direction that ultimately leads closer to Him. Uncertainty can be frightening, but it doesn’t have to be. Trust in the God who delights in guiding your steps!
If we’re going to experience the fullness of Jesus’ peace, we must invite Him into EVERY area of our lives—including on the road! Daily commutes, traffic, and reckless drivers are all part of the package. But what if it’s possible to demonstrate the love of Christ from your vehicle? What if you can leave a lasting, positive impact on a driver you will likely never see again? Usually, we think of driving as just a way to get from Point A to B, but—as we’re advised in other aspects of life—I believe it’s important to “enjoy the ride”, despite the things that have the potential to make it unenjoyable.
The peace of Christ does not get taken away from us—we have to choose to let it go. Driving is one example of an opportunity for us to make that choice.
The saying goes, “comparison is the thief of joy”. And I agree. But furthermore, what effect does comparison have on our peace? One moment, we’re carefree and loving life, and the next—we can’t rest until we’re doing as well as or better than our neighbor. It’s a (seemingly) never-ending cycle to a dangerous, addictive game that we convince ourselves we must play.
Tune in to this episode as I tackle the spirit behind comparison, why we give into it, and the ways we can seek God’s help in overcoming it.
If you're a chronic people-pleaser, this one's for you!! Sometimes, saying "no" can be extremely uncomfortable, but it's an important and unavoidable part of life. There is freedom in being able to maintain control of your time and enjoy a life with margin!
Subscribe to the Life at Peace YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2WTUbi4LWVYcwB0mlqbeWA
I love being busy. But when busyness comes at the expense of my physical and mental well-being...it's time to pause for a little bit.
In a society that glorifies working hard and making money, it is almost effortless to get swept away in the hustle culture lifestyle. Work can become your life, or worse yet, your identity. But it doesn't have to be that way!
In this episode, I explain what hustle culture is, where it comes from, and how to resist its appeal.
The art of prioritizing....what an underrated skill! If we're not careful, we can fall into a pattern of reacting to everything that comes our way, rather than assuming control over those things. Prioritizing is one simple, yet profound way that we can better equip ourselves mentally, emotionally, and in some cases, physically, to handle our day-to-day tasks, responsibilities, or commitments. As busy as most of us are these days, keeping priorities in order may be the key to combatting the hectic schedules, the late nights, and the stressful days.
When we understand how to properly juggle the people and responsibilities God has entrusted us with, we can enjoy God's peace and His rest. We can know for ourselves that He is our sustainer and will see us through whatever we do.
With 7.9 billion people in the world, how on earth can any of us be expected to make a difference? Who's going to notice, or care, if we don't live up to our potential? These are perfectly valid questions when we consider the social pressures, trends, and influences that surround us on a daily basis.
However, these are the thoughts that give rise to self-doubt in our hearts. We doubt ourselves when we are not fully convinced that there is anything special or unique about us. And that could not be further from the truth! Each of us is created in the image of God, and we would not be here RIGHT NOW if He did not have a purpose for us.
In other words, YOU are here because the world needs you. God placed something in you that cannot be found in anyone else. So kick back and enjoy this episode as we discuss how to navigate self-doubt without sacrificing our peace in the process.
Time is arguably the most valuable thing anyone can have in this life. Each day, whether good, bad, or meh, is another opportunity to learn, grow, and influence. But I'd like to suggest that perhaps peace is even more valuable. We are all presented with opportunities to be stressed, frustrated, and resentful when life happens. However, the ability to respond from a place of peace will always leave us in a position of power.