Truth:Freedom Conversations: Recent Episodes
Heather Bradley and Jackie Skanderup
Hey everyone! Welcome to the TF Conversations podcast. This podcast is for those of you who want to stand out from the crowd and stand up for God's truth. Because friends, we need you to take a stand for God's truth, the world needs you to take this stand! When you stand up for what is right in God's eyes it doesn't just affect you but it affects everyone around you. So grab your coffee as we have a conversation about God's truth, partner with you and equip you to walk confidently on this path. We are so glad you are here!
Have you ever found yourself in an unthinkable situation? One that left you feeling like the rug was pulled out from underneath you? Join us for this week’s episode as we talk about Heather’s new book, Unthinkable-Taking the hand of Jesus through pain and suffering for a life of freedom and purpose. Heather shares a very personal story about a tragedy she walked through and how she took hold of Jesus’ hand in that moment. We talk about how we can suffer well in Jesus and identify in His sufferings. Let’s trade our hurts, disappointments and grief for a life of abundance with Jesus.
Get your copy of Heather’s new book on Amazon now:
https://a.co/d/7kdZJue
You can follow her on Instagram @truthfreedomministry and find her on www.truthfreedomministry.com
Have you been struggling to hear God clearly lately? Heather and Jackie discuss feeling disconnected from God and struggling to hear from Him. They explore the idea that God may be silent but never absent, and that this could be a season of preparation for something big. They also discuss the lack of discernment and confidence in hearing God's voice, and the frustration and weariness that can come with it. They encourage listeners to press into God's presence, trust in His goodness, and focus on Him rather than seeking answers. In this conversation, Jackie and Heather discuss the challenges of waiting for God's promises to come to pass and the spiritual warfare that often accompanies the waiting period. They emphasize the importance of continuing to spend time with God even when it feels difficult or dry, and they encourage listeners to remember God's character and faithfulness. They share personal experiences of breakthrough and the restoration of their discernment, highlighting the need to press in and hold on to God's promises. If you have been struggling lately, like us, this episode is for you!
In this episode, Jackie and Heather discuss the exclusivity of Jesus and the importance of worshiping God alone. They emphasize that Christianity is belief in God as three in one: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit. They explain that worshiping any other god or adding other beliefs to one's faith is not in line with scripture. They also explore the concept of God as a jealous God, highlighting that He wants our full adoration and worship-what belongs to Him. They caution against idolizing people, possessions, or other religions, as it can muddy the purity of our relationship with God. The conversation emphasizes the exclusivity of Jesus and the dangers of mixing other spiritual practices with Christianity. It highlights the importance of making Jesus the Lord of our lives and surrendering to Him completely. The speakers discuss the need for a heart transformation and the marks of a true Christ follower. They also emphasize that Jesus is enough and that we don't need to seek fulfillment in other religions or practices. The conversation encourages listeners to dig deep into the root of their desires for other spiritual practices and to find freedom and peace in Jesus alone. In this conversation, Heather and Jackie discuss the dangers of relying on self-help and other religions instead of surrendering to Jesus. They emphasize the importance of upholding the Word of God and not rewriting it to fit personal narratives. They also highlight the need to dive deep into Scripture and not stay in the shallow end.
In this episode, Heather and Jackie discuss the concept of why Jesus is the only way to God the Father. How do we know that Jesus was the promised Messiah? They talk about the simplicity of Jesus and how He is the door-the narrow path that leads to God. They also touch on the importance of faith and belief in Jesus, as well as the role of repentance in receiving the free gift of salvation. They emphasize that it is not our works that save us, but rather our faith in Jesus. They also mention the proof of Jesus as the promised Messiah, including the prophecies in the Old Testament and the fulfillment of those prophecies in Jesus. They highlight specific prophecies that were fulfilled by Jesus, such as being born in Bethlehem, being preceded by John the Baptist, entering Jerusalem riding a donkey, being betrayed by a friend, and dying by crucifixion. They emphasize that these prophecies, along with the eyewitness accounts and the testimony of the Holy Spirit, provide strong evidence that Jesus is the Son of God and the answer to our salvation. They also emphasize that salvation is only through Jesus and not by our own works or any other religion. We can’t wait for you to tune into our conversation!
Takeaways
Jesus is the only way to God and is the promised Messiah who came to save us from our sins.
Salvation is a free gift that we receive through faith and belief in Jesus, not through our works or anything we can do.
There is proof of Jesus as the promised Messiah in the prophecies of the Old Testament and their fulfillment in Jesus.
We may not always understand God's ways, but we can trust in His plan and His timing.
Jesus fulfilled numerous prophecies, such as being born in Bethlehem and being betrayed by a friend. The details are very powerful.
The fulfillment of these prophecies, along with the eyewitness accounts and the testimony of the Holy Spirit, provide strong evidence for Jesus as the Son of God.
In this episode, Jackie and Heather tackle “but why” is there sin? We explore the topic of sin, its definition, origin, and significance in relation to the need for a savior. We discuss the impact of sin on human behavior and the importance of understanding sin in the context of a relationship with God. It explores the biblical perspective on sin, the law, and the separation from God. Our conversation also touches on the consequences of sin and the need for a savior to bridge the gap between humanity and God. We delve into the foundational truths of Christianity, exploring the origin of sin and its connection to pride. We discuss the nature of sin, the role of faith, and the concept of being born again. The focus is on the heart as the starting point of sin, the need for Jesus, the transformation of our spirit and the role of Jesus as our intercessor. This episode also touches on the burden of works versus faith and the need for a savior.
Takeaways
Understanding sin is crucial in recognizing the need for a savior and the significance of Jesus in addressing the impact of sin on humanity.
Sin is defined as lawlessness and missing the mark of God's ways and will.
The impact of sin is the separation between humanity and God, creating a gap that cannot be bridged by human efforts
The Old Testament law served as a guide and containment for God's people, setting them apart and demonstrating the need for a savior.
The consequences of sin are the loss of closeness to God and the need for a solution to bridge the gap and restore the relationship.
Sin has its roots in pride and originated from the fallen angel Lucifer, leading to the temptation of Adam and Eve.
The heart is the starting point of sin, and sin is not just about actions but also about thoughts and intentions.
The pursuit of God and the role of Jesus as the intercessor are central to the Christian faith.
Understanding and appreciating the basic truths of Christianity is crucial for a deeper relationship with God.
In this episode, Jackie and Heather discuss the importance of understanding the foundational questions we have about God and our place in His creation. Who is God and how do we know that the God that Christian’s follow is the true God? Join us as we explore these questions. We emphasize the need to go beyond surface-level knowledge and dig deeper into these questions to build a strong foundation of faith. We discuss the importance of going back to the beginning of scripture to understand who God is and where we fit into His plan. The conversation highlights the names and characteristics of God as revealed in the Bible. We also discuss the characteristics of God and why He created us. We mention that knowing Jesus is to know God. We are created in his image and are his handiwork, designed to do good works. Our purpose is to know God and make him known. We are crowned with glory and honor and are the crown of creation. God wants to be in relationship with us and takes pleasure in being with us. He created us for his pleasure and wants us to know Him individually. We are part of His family and have a purpose in his plan.
Takeaways
Understanding the foundational questions about God and our place in His creation is crucial for building a strong foundation of faith.
We should not take for granted the knowledge we have about God and our beliefs, but instead, dig deeper and seek to understand the why behind them.
As believers, we need to be able to explain our beliefs to others and answer their questions about God and Christianity.
God's existence and self-revelation can be understood through scripture.
God has many names and characteristics that reveal His nature and character.
We should not let our earthly experiences define our perception of God.
We can seek God through Scripture and ask Him to reveal Himself to us.
God wants to be in relationship with us and takes pleasure in being with us.
We are part of God's family and have a purpose in his plan.
In this conversation, Heather and Jackie discuss their new series called, “But Why?”, where they will explore controversial topics and dive into why we believe what we believe as Christ followers and provide explanations based on scripture. This week they dive into why the Scriptures are the word of God. How do we know when there are so many religions in the world? They emphasize the significance of having a solid foundation in scripture to answer questions and guide our lives. They highlight the historical accuracy, prophecies, and consistency of the Bible, as well as the supernatural aspect and inspiration behind it. They also discuss the power of testimony and eyewitness accounts as proof to the accuracy of the scriptures. In this conversation, Jackie and Heather discuss the importance of studying scripture and seeking the truth for ourselves. They emphasize the need to understand the why behind our beliefs and to rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us. They also encourage listeners to ask questions and dive deep into scripture to find answers. They remind listeners to interpret scripture correctly and to examine it daily to ensure alignment with God's truth.
Takeaways
It's important to question and understand why we believe what we believe
The 'But Why?' series will explore controversial topics and provide explanations based on scripture Understanding and articulating your beliefs is important in defending them.
Faith plays a significant role in believing in Christianity and God.
Having a solid foundation in scripture is crucial for answering questions and guiding one's life.
The Bible has historical accuracy and consistency, and its supernatural protection and inspiration make it unique.
Eye witness accounts and testimony are powerful and help us stand in faith.
The scriptures are transformative and provide guidance for living a righteous life.
Studying scripture and seeking the truth for ourselves is essential for a strong foundation in our faith.
Understanding the why behind our beliefs is important and can help us live out our faith more confidently.
Asking questions and diving deep into scripture can lead to a deeper understanding of God's truth.
Interpreting scripture correctly requires humility, prayer, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Examining scripture daily helps us stay aligned with God's truth and avoid being deceived by false teachings.
In this episode, Zach Silver shares his journey from growing up in a Christian household to embracing his faith at 16. He explores the impact of his parents' conversion and emphasizes the importance of personal connection with God and community support. Facing challenges such as his sister's abuse and subsequent depression, Zach found himself living a lifestyle that went against his faith and how he was raised. By God’s grace however, he shares how God answered his prayer and brought people into his life to bring him back to God. He shares how he found solace in a new church community, highlighting the transformative power of faith. Zach's story is one of a prodigal son finding his way back to his Father.
Takeaways
The power of personal encounters with God can transform lives and families.
A strong foundation of faith and truth can shape a person's worldview.
Community plays a vital role in supporting and nurturing one's faith journey.
Studying the Bible can have a profound impact on one's faith journey.
Trauma and church hurt can deeply affect individuals and families.
God can bring restoration and redemption even in the midst of pain and brokenness.
Obedience to the prompting of the Holy Spirit can lead to life-changing encounters with God.
Remembering God's goodness and faithfulness is an important spiritual practice.
Being in a community that is fully dependent on God can have a profound impact on one's faith and calling.
Stepping out in obedience to God's invitations can lead to life-changing encounters and transformation.
Trusting God's timing and being faithful in the ordinary is crucial for maturity in Christ.
In this conversation, Susan LaBelle, a certified health and wellness coach, discusses her journey of breaking free from extreme dieting and finding a healthy relationship with food and her body. She emphasizes the importance of bringing the spiritual aspect into the health and fitness journey and seeking God's guidance in taking care of our bodies. Susan encourages listeners to ask themselves if the food they consume blesses their bodies and to appreciate the gift of food that God has given us. She also highlights the significance of addressing shame and secrecy around food and seeking support and accountability in the process. The conversation explores the connection between food and spirituality, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and inviting God into the process of eating. It discusses the need for consistency and habit change over time, with Jesus as the ultimate agent of transformation. The conversation also touches on the role of emotions, trauma, and inner healing in relation to food. It highlights the significance of listening to our bodies' natural instincts and addressing the root causes of our relationship with food. The conversation concludes with the idea that health is a lifelong journey and that food should not be a master over us. We can’t wait for you to join in on our conversation!
Takeaways:
Bringing spirituality into the health and fitness journey is key to reaching our goals
Food is a gift from God and is meant to be enjoyed and appreciated
Shame thrives in secrecy, so it's important to bring our struggles with food into the light
Seeking support and accountability can help break free from extreme dieting and develop a healthy relationship with food
Taking care of our bodies is important because they are the temple of the Holy Spirit
Bringing mindfulness and inviting God into the process of eating can bless our bodies and bring revelation.
Consistency, habit change, and behavior change over time are key to transformation, with Jesus as the ultimate agent of change.
Addressing the root causes of our relationship with food, such as emotions and trauma, is essential for lasting healing.
Health is a lifelong journey, and food should not be a master over us.
Addressing the root causes of unhealthy eating habits is essential for finding freedom and peace with food.
Inviting the Holy Spirit into our health and wellness journey can provide guidance and support.
Loving and caring for ourselves in every stage of our health journey is important.
Follow Susan here: https://www.instagram.com/susan__labelle/?igsh=MTQ0MnFqYnRtdXQyOQ%3D%3D
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In this conversation, Gabriel and Camila Pinto share their journey of healing and restoration in their relationship as well as individually. They discuss the importance of transparency, vulnerability, and seeking God's guidance in their process. Gabriel, a purpose-focused life coach, talks about his own healing process and how Camilla played a crucial role in his transformation. They discuss the power of community, the importance of self-love, and the need for accountability in relationships. They also highlight the concept of relationship fasting and how it can strengthen a couple's bond. They also emphasize the need for setting boundaries and closing doors to past relationships and temptations. Their story highlights the power of obedience to the Holy Spirit and the importance of doing the inner work before entering into a relationship. Overall, their story emphasizes the significance of healing past traumas and embracing vulnerability in order to experience true love and growth. Their story serves as a powerful testimony of God's faithfulness and the transformative power of love and forgiveness.
Takeaways
Healing past traumas is essential for personal growth and healthy relationships.
Having a supportive community and accountability partners can aid in the healing process.
Self-love is a crucial aspect of personal development and building strong relationships.
Relationship fasting, taking time apart to focus on personal growth and God, can strengthen a couple's bond.
Embracing vulnerability and open communication is key to experiencing true love and growth in a relationship.
Setting boundaries and closing doors to past relationships and temptations is crucial for a healthy and thriving relationship.
Obedience to the Holy Spirit and doing the inner work are essential before entering into a relationship.
Mature love requires intentional growth and a willingness to learn and change.
Transparency and vulnerability are essential in building a healthy and thriving relationship.
Seeking God's guidance and relying on His strength is crucial in the process of healing and restoration.
Individual growth and self-reflection are necessary for personal development and for the success of a relationship.
Love and forgiveness have the power to transform and restore broken relationships.
On today’s episode we had the honor of sitting down with Gabriel Pinto. Gabriel is a purpose-based life coach who helps people find their purpose and unleash their greatness. He hosts events, leads Bible studies, and organizes activities like cold plunge parties and mountain hikes to challenge and inspire others. Gabriel's target audience is individuals who are driven to make a significant impact and follow God's calling in their lives. He believes in the power of releasing emotional and mental blockages to achieve personal and spiritual growth. Gabriel encourages people to embrace God's convictions, even if they seem unconventional or uncomfortable.
Our conversation today explores the themes of conviction, healing, and the power of vulnerability. Gabriel shares his personal story of childhood sexual experiences and the impact it had on his life. He shares his journey of healing from childhood trauma and how his wife played a significant role in his restoration. He emphasizes the importance of stepping into convictions and facing uncomfortable truths. The discussion also touches on the significance of community, confession, and seeking forgiveness. He emphasizes the importance of bringing secrets to light and being truthful about our past in order to combat darkness and find freedom. Also highlighted is the power of sharing testimonies and how it empowers others to seek healing and deliverance.
Takeaways
Gabriel Pinto helps individuals find their purpose and unleash their greatness.
**Gabriel believes in the power of releasing emotional and mental blockages for personal and spiritual growth.
He encourages individuals to embrace God's convictions, even if they seem unconventional or uncomfortable.**
**Convictions can lead to greatness, but they often involve stepping into uncomfortable and taboo areas.
Healing and personal growth require facing and sharing our darkest experiences and emotions.**
Confession and seeking forgiveness are essential for restoration and authentic connections.
The truth always prevails, and bringing our sins and struggles into the light leads to freedom and empowerment.
Open conversations about difficult topics like addiction and pornography are necessary to address the prevalence of these issues.
Sharing testimonies empowers others to seek healing and deliverance.
God can use our greatest struggles and miseries for powerful ministry and redemption.
We need to acknowledge both what happened to us and our own responses to it.
Seeking support from trusted individuals and bringing our stories to God can lead to healing and restoration.
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In our heartfelt conversation, Jodi Mamula opens up and shares her deeply personal testimony, delving into her earliest encounters with sexual curiosity. She bravely explores the heavy burdens of shame and guilt she carried, alongside the familial challenges she faced. Through her narrative, Jodi paints a vivid picture of the lasting impacts of trauma through generations, while also illuminating the pivotal role of the Holy Spirit in her journey.
With raw honesty, Jodi reveals her ongoing journey of repairing relationships, conquering the weight of shame, and confronting the tangible effects of unforgiveness. She passionately emphasizes the critical importance of breaking free from generational cycles, fortifying the foundation for the next generation to thrive.
Through Jodi's personal odyssey, we are reminded of the transformative power of vulnerability, faith, and the unwavering strength found in the pursuit of healing and redemption.
Takeaways
Discovering and addressing generational curses is an important step in finding healing and freedom.
Forgiveness is a process that requires surrendering to Jesus and choosing to forgive, even when feelings and thoughts may not align.
Restoring relationships and overcoming shame and slander are powerful testimonies of God's redemption.
Unforgiveness can have physical effects on the body, highlighting the importance of forgiving and letting go.
Teaching children to overcome and fortifying them against generational curses is a vital part of parenting.
In this conversation, Nicole Parsley reflects on her journey to Austin, finding community, experiencing heartbreak, and the essential support she received. She explores her path of self-discovery after heartbreak, grappling with her identity, seeking guidance, and battling insecurities. Nicole emphasizes the importance of surrendering expectations, trusting God, prayer, and consistency in overcoming challenges. She discusses facing a testing season and recognizing signs from the Holy Spirit that encouraged her to keep trusting in Him and in His promises. Nicole shares her faith in God's timing amidst conflicting circumstances. The conversation ends with a reminder of God's presence in life's messy, vulnerable moments.
Takeaways
Moving to a new city can be challenging, but finding a supportive community can make a big difference.
Heartbreak can be difficult, but having a mentor or friend to walk alongside you can provide comfort and guidance.
Being involved in a community and having a support system is crucial for personal growth and healing.
It's important to do the hard things and step out of your comfort zone to find meaningful connections and experiences.
Seek guidance from the Holy Spirit in making decisions and navigating relationships.
Personal growth and healing require staying rooted and not running from challenges.
Having mentors and a supportive community can provide guidance and validation.
Believe in oneself and have faith in God's plans.
Trust in God's timing, even when it seems contradictory to the natural circumstances.
Journaling and documenting God's faithfulness can strengthen one's faith and serve as a reminder of His past faithfulness.
Being involved in a community and serving others is essential for spiritual growth and support.
God is present in the messy and vulnerable aspects of our lives, and He works through our obedience.
In this conversation we sit down with Heather's son-in-law, Ryan White. Ryan recounts his transition from a small town boy to a successful entrepreneur in social media marketing, detailing the allure of materialism and the subsequent downfall when his revenue vanished and his Instagram accounts got suspended. His narrative underscores the significance of prioritizing God over material possessions, sharing his journey of loss, identity crisis, and eventual rediscovery of faith through prayer and scripture. Ryan emphasizes the necessity of placing God at the forefront and establishing a solid foundation in Him, advocating for faithfulness and obedience in all aspects of life. Additionally, he shares his testimony of moving to Texas with his wife, highlighting the importance of seeking God's guidance and recognizing His signs, ultimately urging listeners to remain faithful and patient while trusting in God's plan.
We can't wait for you to join in on this conversation!
Takeaways:
Losing everything can lead to an identity crisis, but it can also be an opportunity to rediscover faith and purpose.
Prayer is powerful and can bring about transformation and guidance in difficult times.
Putting God first and building a firm foundation in Him is essential for success and stability in all areas of life.
Faithfulness and obedience to God's calling can lead to greater blessings and impact.
Seeking God's direction is crucial in making life decisions.
God can use signs to confirm His plans for us.
Being open to hearing from God allows us to receive His guidance.
Patience and faithfulness are necessary when waiting for positive fruit from our actions.
Trusting God's plan is essential
Today, we're privileged to engage in a conversation with Karen Harmon about ministry and aligning ourselves with God's plan. We delve into the understanding that ministry isn't confined to church settings or grand platforms; it's present in the everyday moments, whether at home, work, or wherever you currently reside. This episode aims to uplift and reassure you that regardless of your circumstances, you hold the power to make a meaningful impact in God's kingdom.
Takeaways:
Trust God's direction and surrender to His will.
Measure success in ministry by obedience and faithfulness, not by worldly standards.
Value the impact of small acts of ministry and one-on-one interactions.
Focus on loving God, loving others, and being faithful in the small things.
See closed doors as redirection from God and trust His plan.
Make the most of every opportunity and be diligent in your current circumstances.
Shift from asking 'why' to asking 'what' and surrender to God's plan.
Redefine ministry and focus on God's call rather than comparing yourself to others.
Welcome to our podcast episode focusing on parenting with the guidance of the Holy Spirit! In today's discussion, Heather and Jackie will delve into their personal journeys of transitioning into a more spiritually-guided approach to parenting. They'll share stories of how they began to shift their perspectives and actively listen to the Holy Spirit's guidance in their parenting decisions. Tune in as they offer insights, reflections, and practical tips on incorporating spiritual principles into the parenting journey.
Here's what you can expect:
- Adapting to Seasons: Parenting requires adapting to different seasons and changing approaches as children grow.
- Home as Discipleship Circle: Learn how the home can be the greatest discipleship circle, where parents can lead their children to know and love God.
- Parenting as Ministry: Discover why parenting should be prioritized and seen as an opportunity to live like Jesus.
- Guidance of the Holy Spirit: Explore how the Holy Spirit should guide parenting decisions, using scripture to teach, rebuke, correct, and train children.
- Speaking Life and Identity: Understand the importance of parents speaking life and identity into their children, using scripture to shape their understanding of who they are.
- Promise of Good Things: Despite challenges, discover the promise of good things from a good Father for those living a life following Christ.
- Humility, Forgiveness, and Grace: Learn why humility, forgiveness, and grace are essential in parenting, both in modeling these qualities and teaching them to children.
- Crucial Guidance of the Holy Spirit: Understand how the Holy Spirit's guidance is crucial in parenting, providing wisdom, discernment, and direction.
- Real-life Teaching Moments: Discover how real-life situations and experiences provide valuable teaching moments for children to learn about God and His ways.
- Trusting the Holy Spirit: Find out why parents should seek the Holy Spirit's guidance and trust in His leading in every aspect of parenting.
Summary:
In this episode, Heather and Jackie welcome guest Susan Labelle to discuss the power of testimony and the journey of breaking free from people-pleasing. Susan shares her personal experience of feeling the pressure to be a good girl from a young age and constantly seek approval from others. She emphasizes the importance of discovering one's true identity in God and finding freedom from the cycle of people-pleasing. The conversation highlights the need for boundaries and the transformation that comes from surrendering to God's will. In this conversation, Heather, Jackie, and Susan discuss their personal journeys of discovering their identity and finding freedom in Christ. They explore topics such as surrendering to God, setting boundaries, and overcoming feelings of inadequacy. They emphasize the importance of knowing and trusting God's love and finding confidence in our identity in Christ. They also discuss the process of healing and transformation and the need to overcome deception and lies. Ultimately, they highlight the freedom that comes from a relationship with God and the importance of breaking free from a works-based faith. In this conversation, Susan LaBelle shares her journey of overcoming striving and people-pleasing. She discusses the importance of surrendering her business to God and seeking His will. Susan emphasizes the need to find rest in God and serve Him from a place of rest. She also highlights the significance of trusting God's timing and letting go of striving. Susan encourages listeners to expose any idols and surrender everything to God, setting clear and healthy boundaries. She concludes by emphasizing the power of seeking God and finding freedom in Him.
Takeaways:
Testimonies have the power to inspire and bring breakthrough to others.
The pressure to be a good girl and seek approval from others can lead to a cycle of people-pleasing.
Discovering one's true identity in God is key to breaking free from people-pleasing.
Setting boundaries and surrendering to God's will are essential for finding freedom.
Surrendering our business and seeking God's will leads to transformation and a new blueprint for our lives.
Rest is a place, not just an action. We can find rest and peace in God, even in the midst of busyness.
Trusting God's timing and letting go of striving allows Him to work in and through us.
Setting clear and healthy boundaries is essential for prioritizing family and stewarding well.
Seeking God and finding freedom in Him enables us to walk in victory and share our testimony.
In this conversation, Kristen Hallinan reflects on the profound influence a loving family had on her life during her formative years, even before she embraced Christianity. She shares how her curiosity was ignited by the genuine love for Jesus displayed by a friend's family, eventually leading her to seek a personal connection with Jesus. The discussion underscores the significance of small acts of love and kindness in guiding others towards a spiritual journey.
Kristen's testimony delves into her healing and transformation, attributing much of it to the impact of a faithful family and the essential practice of living out one's faith. Addressing the eternal consequences of our actions, Kristen emphasizes the importance of being a positive influence and encourages listeners to recognize God's hand in their own stories, urging them to focus on His ongoing work.
**Furthermore, Kristen stresses the value of grieving and finding healing in tandem with God, underscoring the supernatural healing power of Jesus. As the conversation unfolds, she concludes by reminding us that every step taken toward healing holds significance, urging individuals to choose to concentrate on these positive strides in their spiritual journey.
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In this conversation, Jackie and Heather discuss the topic of fear and bondage. They share personal experiences and insights on how fear can be a generational bondage and how it can be broken. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the lies of the enemy and replacing them with the truth of God's Word. They also discuss the role of prayer, repentance, and seeking deliverance in overcoming fear and walking in freedom. In this conversation, Jackie shares her experience of surviving a tornado and the fear it instilled in her. She discusses how dreams and encounters with God helped her overcome her fear of storms. Heather emphasizes the power of worship, prayer, and scripture in changing thought patterns and overcoming bondage. They both encourage listeners to recognize the enemy's voice and take authority over their thoughts. They discuss the purpose and significance of the battles we face, and how God can use our experiences to set us free and empower us to help others. The conversation concludes with a call to seek freedom through Jesus and live in victory.
In this episode we are getting real and raw! Jackie is going to be sharing a very personal, and uncomfortable to talk about, situation that happened to her as a very young girl. This situation, which could be categorized as sexual assault, impacted her life greatly and in a very negative way. She also shares how though what was done to her was wrong and not her choice, there were things she walked through afterward that was her choice. She talks about the bondage of lust she lived in for so many years but how she has been able to experience freedom from this bondage! We hope that through Jackie's story, you too will be able to see that through Jesus we have the ability to walk in freedom from any and all bondages in our lives. Though it may be extremely hard to revisit things that either have been done to us in the past or that we ourselves have done, we hope you can see that by going back to the source in our lives where doors may have been open to the enemy in our lives, we can experience freedom!
In this episode, Jackie shares her incredible journey of spiritual growth, guided by her unique gift of hearing God through dreams. She delves into the excitement of receiving divine messages in dreams, exploring the transformative impact of sharing prophetic words with others. The thrill of witnessing God perform miracles through shared dreams is exhilarating, but Jackie also addresses the challenges. What happens when we make mistakes, when our well-intentioned messages elicit negative reactions?
Often, the fear sets in that our errors have disqualified us from utilizing God's gifts. Jackie's testimony, however, reveals a different truth. Despite our missteps and failures, God remains patient and continues to speak to us. He doesn't withdraw the gifts bestowed upon us. Whether you are prophetic, are a dreamer, singer, writer, speaker, etc, this episode aims to encourage you. Mistakes are not roadblocks but opportunities for growth. They provide a chance to refine and enhance the way you handle the unique gifts bestowed upon you.
Join us in this uplifting episode, where Jackie's journey exemplifies that even in the face of mistakes, God's guidance persists. It's an invitation to embrace every opportunity for growth that comes with the territory of using the extraordinary gifts God has entrusted to you. Don't miss out – tune in for an inspiring conversation!
In this conversation, Heather shares a powerful testimony about the importance of paying attention to the details and listening to God. She recounts a car accident she and her friends experienced and how God's protection was evident in the midst of it. Heather also highlights the Her Voice movement and the call for women to rise up in prayer and intercession for their nation. Lastly, she discusses the significance of the shaking of nations and how it aligns with biblical prophecies. In this conversation, Heather and Jackie discuss the power of spiritual protection and the importance of trusting in God's covering. They emphasize the need to listen to the Holy Spirit and take action based on what God is saying. They also encourage listeners to intercede for others and pray for their families, communities, and nation. The conversation highlights the significance of scripture and prayer in daily life and the importance of paying attention to the details that God may be using to communicate. The episode concludes with a reminder to pray for protection and the impact that individual prayers can have. We can't wait for you to tune in!
In this conversation, Jackie shares her journey of finding her identity in God alone. She discusses the struggle of striving for position and recognition, the breaking process God took her through, and the importance of resting in Him. Jackie emphasizes the need to find validation and affirmation in God rather than in the opinions of others. She encourages listeners to embrace their small sphere of influence and show up in the best way possible, regardless of the number of followers or likes on social media. In this conversation, Jackie shares her journey of finding her identity in God and the lessons she learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of leaning into seasons of rest and creating habits in slow seasons that will sustain us in busier times. Jackie also highlights the significance of trusting God's promises and timing, and not striving to force ourselves into positions or platforms that God has not ordained for us. She encourages listeners to find their value and worth in being a child of God, rather than in their accomplishments or what others think of them. Ultimately, Jackie reminds us that our identity is found in our relationship with God and the unique calling He has for each of us.
In this heartfelt episode of Leaving The Shallows, join us as Heather opens up and shares her powerful testimony about the Miracle being in the journey. Brace yourselves for an incredible story of faith, hope, and the transformative power of Jesus.
Heather takes us through her personal journey, recounting the miraculous healing of her son from mental health issues. It's a testament to the amazing work that Jesus can do in our lives when we fully trust in Him for answers. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as we delve into the highs and lows of this transformative experience.
But it's not just Heather's story – it's a lesson in faith, spiritual warfare, persistent prayer, and the profound impact of leaning on God's presence. Discover the profound lessons that unfolded during this journey, lessons that go beyond just the healing of her son.
So, grab your favorite beverage, find a comfy spot, and let Heather's testimony inspire and uplift you. Join us as we explore the profound truth that sometimes, the real miracle is found in the journey itself. You won't want to miss this incredible episode.
Hey there, amazing listeners! Today's podcast episode is like a warm, comforting chat around a cozy fireplace. We're diving deep into the essence of stepping into the new year hand in hand with Jesus. Picture this: God has been dropping some powerful prophetic insights, and we're here to unpack them for you.
We're not just skimming the surface – we're talking about the state of the world, the big picture stuff. But more importantly, we're delving into what God has been personally whispering to each of us. It's like having a heart-to-heart with the Creator about the blueprint for our individual journeys.
Feeling overwhelmed by the chaos out there? Trust us, you're not alone. We get it. It's easy to want to throw in the towel, retreat, or pull a disappearing act until Jesus makes his grand entrance. But guess what? We've checked the Bible, and that's not the game plan God has laid out for us.
Today, we're not just handing out encouragement – we're crafting a roadmap. How do we move forward? How do we navigate the twists and turns of this crazy world? What's God asking us to do in this specific season of our lives?
So, grab your metaphorical compass and join us as we kick off the year together – surrendering it to God, aligning ourselves with His purposes, and prepping for the incredible plans He has in store. Because let's face it, when we journey with Jesus, the adventure is always epic!
Episode Takeaways
Take time to reflect on the previous year and practice thankfulness for God's faithfulness.
Choose a posture of trust and faith as you enter the new year, instead of succumbing to fear and anxiety.
Be aware of the challenges in the world, but seek God's guidance and be prepared.
Overcoming fear and anxiety requires bringing them to the feet of Jesus and shifting your perspective.
Choose your posture in turbulent times and intentionally lean on God.
Prepare spiritually for the year 2024 by spending time in the Word and at the feet of Jesus.
Understand that we are in a both-and season, where there is both ruin and revival happening simultaneously.
Access the power of God through prayer and scripture, and trust in His presence in every situation.
Be prepared for the move of God in 2024 and demonstrate His power to a world in need. Embrace the new wine and become the warrior bride of Christ.
Prepare for battle and stand strong against the enemy.
Intercede for the nation and combat ideologies that oppose God's truth.
Harness the power of prayer and declaration.
Maintain a both/and perspective in challenging times.
Surrender the year to God and expect revival and harvest.
Hey, lovely listeners! Can you believe it's the end of the year already? join us today as we go unscripted! We are excited to bring you this super chill, not planned out episode as we dive into the holiday season.
First things first, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to each and every one of you! We wanted to switch things up a bit, ya know? So, in this episode, we'll be sharing our personalities and random moments, and just generally getting real with you. It's like a virtual hangout session, and we're excited to have you join us.
So, grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let's wrap up the year together with laughter, conversation, and a sprinkle of holiday cheer. From Jackie and Heather, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
This week, we're diving deep into a topic that's a game-changer for every believer: "The Believer's Authority." If you've been realizing you might have some open doors that need closing, this episode is here to empower you on how to take back what the enemy has stolen.
Our authority comes when we walk in obedience to Jesus Christ, and it's the key to putting a stop to demonic attacks in our lives. Plus, it's how we step into our assignments and take territory for the Kingdom right here on earth!
Ephesians 2:6 drops some truth bombs: "God has raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus." Translation? We're spiritually seated in heavenly places with Jesus, carrying His authority in our lives!
But here's the deal: All authority comes from and is under Jesus Christ. We're under His authority, and 1 Timothy 6:15 reminds us, "God is the blessed and only ruler, the king of kings and lord of lords." We're Jesus' children, totally dependent on Him alone.
And get this, the power behind our authority? It's none other than Jesus Himself, who has all authority! Ephesians 6:10 encourages us to "be strong in the Lord and the power of His might." We're backed by God's power—it's not about our strength.
Get ready for a powerful conversation about understanding, asserting, and walking in the authority we've been given as Christ followers!
Hey there, fantastic listeners! Welcome back to another heart-to-heart on "Leaving the Shallows." We are absolutely thrilled to have you joining us today as we dive into a topic that's much needed today – spiritual warfare. This one's a real talk, so buckle up, and let's unpack something that might just be the missing piece for some of you out there.
You know, in our modern Christian circles, spiritual warfare has been kind of like that hidden gem waiting to be discovered. But lately, I've noticed a shift – people are getting curious, throwing questions around at church, and even on social media. It's a bit heartbreaking to think about how many of us might be going through the motions, not realizing we're in the midst of spiritual warfare. Hosea 4:4 hits hard – "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge." Ignoring this reality won't make it disappear; it just leaves us vulnerable. But here's the good news – understanding spiritual warfare isn't an invitation for trouble; it's like getting a spiritual toolkit to kick the devil's schemes to the curb.
Now, let's bust a myth – some think as Christians, we're untouchable by the dark side. Sure, we can't be possessed, thanks to Jesus' blood and the Holy Spirit within us. But being influenced or facing attacks? That's a whole different ball game. And here's the kicker – if we don't get our heads around our kingdom assignment, who we are in Christ, and the authority we carry, we're not claiming the victories meant for us in our personal lives and beyond.
So, today, let's discuss this piece of the puzzle we desperately need to know – the open doors in our lives that can leave us wide open to spiritual attacks. Picture it like leaving your front door unlocked; it's an invitation you didn't mean to send out. Just like we secure our homes, we've got to be savvy about securing our spiritual turf. The kingdom of God is about possession, not just sitting on the sidelines and crossing our fingers. So let's explore how understanding and applying the principles Jesus laid out can set us on a path to living a free and abundant life this side of eternity. Stick around for this conversation that just might be the missing piece to your puzzle.
Hey friends, let's talk about something that's been burning on our heart’s lately. We truly believe that right now, in this very moment, God is knocking on our hearts, urging us to embrace a profound sense of desperation for Him. It's not some distant call; it's a heartfelt invitation to draw closer, to consecrate our lives wholly to Him.
Picture this: It's a call to drop the distractions, engage in some real repentance, and actively seek His divine guidance. This isn't just a casual reevaluation; it's a deep dive into aligning our lives with His purpose. It's about craving a richer connection, yearning for a deeper intimacy, and being unmistakably desperate for God in every nook and cranny of our existence.
And here's the kicker—it's not a one-time thing. It's an ongoing, fervent pursuit. When we reach that state of desperation for God, that's where the magic happens. It's where we find the strength to surrender to His transformative work, boldly stepping into unknown territories of divine purpose.
Guess what? God's got something new for us, and it's in our desperation that we muster the courage to accept and fully walk in His calling. So, let's journey together this week, embracing that desperation for God. Who's in?
Join us in this episode as we discuss the book of Job and share our own personal stories of walking through hard things. We can often find ourselves asking God, “where are you?”. We can wonder if we did something wrong. We tend to tell ourselves that if I do this good thing, then God will surely bless me. So, when we find ourselves in hard situations and even unthinkable situations, we are faced with the question, Is God really good? Can there be purpose in suffering? Jesus is waiting to hold our hand in the midst of it all, if we will only let Him.
Today we’re joined by Pastor David Campos from One Chapel to discuss a popular saying, “Once Saved, Always Saved.” There tends to be two extreme camps of people around this topic. One camp believes that you can never lose your salvation-say it once and that’s my ticket to heaven and in the meantime I’ll do what I want. The other camp lives in this constant fear that God is about to smack them at any moment and if they mess-up it's all over. Most of us fall somewhere in the middle of not really knowing what we believe. We can rest with absolute assurance that if we have been born again and are following Jesus then nothing can separate us from Him. However, we can choose to forfeit our relationship with Him and not remain in Him. Join us as we dive into this hard topic and find out what the scriptures are actually saying.
What is Sin Episode: https://youtu.be/UZAPczolO-g?si=dNM6yGVpD8OjQgpx
How to Live as a Believer Episode: https://youtu.be/RyTj3CQW-a4?si=41UNimxkWGpV8451
In this episode Heather and Jackie sit down to have a conversation about how we are to live our lives after we have accepted Jesus as our savior. Are we to keep on living as we were before we gave our hearts to Jesus? Are we to do whatever we want and His grace has got us covered? The question is if Jesus calls us to live differently-then what does that look like? If He died for us on the cross and put His Spirit in us it’s because He has invited us into so much more. We have been born again and are called to live lives empowered by His Spirit. We are called to live lives of freedom from sin and bondage. We are called to live for Him. To live for His purposes and plans. To live lives of abundance. Let’s dive into the scriptures that call us to so much more. Thank you for joining us on this weeks episode!
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leavingtheshallows/
Follow Jackie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacquelineskan/
Follow Heather on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hs_bradley/
Have you ever thought to invite God into your sexual life? Have you been wondering what the Bible actually says about sex? It’s easy to get caught up in our own experiences and what the world around us says is normal. If we stop there and don’t dig into what the Bible actually teaches us then we will fall short of what God actually wanted for us when it comes to our sexual relationships. It may seem weird to seek God in this area but since God created us and sex, He actually has a lot to say. We can avoid many pitfalls and heartaches by going to the source and the creator of sex!
Join us this Friday as we talk about God’s design for sex. We share some of our stories and how God is a God of restoration when we do go off track. The Bible actually has a lot to say on this topic because God has our best interest in mind.
On today’s episode of Leaving The Shallows, Heather and Jackie have a conversation about what love is. Most of us have some sort of idea of what love is but where is our idea of love being formed? How do we get our definition of love? Should we trust what we believe or what the world says?
In today's episode we talk about going to the source of love, the One who is love (1 John 4:8), in order to have the correct definition or idea of love. To truly understand love, we need to know God better. God is our plumb line in which we measure all other definitions of love. If someone’s definition of love doesn’t line up with the word of God, it’s not God’s love. We don't want to end up accepting an idea or view of love that was never God's! We hope that by listening to our conversation today, you will have a better idea of what God's love looks like and how you can make sure you are sharing God's idea of love with those around you!
We hope you are encouraged by today's episode and can't wait for you to listen to it!
Join Heather and Jackie this week as we continue on with our conversation about the fear of the Lord. In order to fear the Lord we must love and hate what God loves and hates. The fear of the Lord is missing from our culture and sadly a lot of times from our churches. We can love God all day and not fear Him at all. God always loves the person. He wishes none to perish. However, there are things He hates because they are sinful behaviors and sin separates us from Him. He can not look upon sin. He makes these things clear to us in scriptures so that we don’t take part in them. God’s heart is always for us to be restored and redeemed and set apart. He calls us to be holy and a pure bride. Consecrated for His glory. It’s time to look up and partake in what God calls us too.
Join Heather and Jackie this week as we sit down with Pastor Wayne Boersma from One Life Church in Lethbridge, Canada, who also happens to be Jackie’s Dad.
In this episode we dive into a conversation about what the fear of the Lord is. Pastor Wayne has been doing a series at his church currently on the fear of the Lord. If you aren’t sure what the fear of the Lord is, this podcast is for you. If you have found yourself scared of God in the past then come and learn that having the fear of the Lord is not the same thing as being scared of God. Let’s define what the fear of the Lord is and how this is meant to draw us closer to God and His heart.
You can find out more about Pastor Wayne’s church at www.onelifechurch.ca
Book mentioned: The Awe of God by John Bevere
https://www.amazon.com/Awe-God-Astounding-Healthy-Transforms/dp/1400336708/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=the+fear+of+God&sr=8-2
We are so excited this week to sit down with Nicole Fitzpatrick, founder of an organization called The Village Global located in Mexico. They are in partnership with Mountain Gateway-a missionary organization. We are so honored to have her as a guest today and hear her story of how God called her and her husband to rescue and fight for children that are sex traffic victims. We know many people have a heart to help with children caught in this horrible slavery and we want to provide a place that is truly serving the least of these. They are boots on the ground in enemy territory and taking ground for the Kingdom of God.
You can find out how to partner with them at www.thevillageglobal.org
Follow Nicole on Instagram @the_village_global
Follow Leaving the Shallows on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeavingtheShallowsPodcast
Join us this week on Leaving The Shallows Podcast with Heather Bradley and Jackie Skanderup. We sit down with our friend Tabatha as she shares with us about her experience while living in Israel and what God taught her about sabbath. God knew exactly what we needed when He created sabbath rest for us. We talk about the healing aspect of sabbath, as well as how it is a part of our identity and a gift from God. Our relationships with Jesus is the ultimate sabbath that we enter into and abide in His rest. We can’t wait for you to listen in!
You can listen on your favorite podcast app, find us on YouTube and Instagram.
Join Jackie Skanderup and Heather Bradley this week On Leaving The Shallows- as we talk about, “Getting Egypt Out of Us.” In 1 John 2:15 the Bible tells us not to love the world or the things of the world. If we do then the love of the Father is not in us. This can sound harsh but it’s who God has called us to be. Getting Egypt out of us means getting the ways of the world out of us. This can be hard. The world does not know God and this gives us insight into why things are the way they are. Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, but the reality was Egypt was very much a part of them. It can be easy to give up and want to go back to what we know or find comfortable instead of moving forward into the freedom God is inviting us into. We too need to get the ways of the world out of us as we walk with Jesus.
You can find us on YouTube, Instagram and all your favorite podcast platforms. We would love it if you would subscribe and leave us a review so others can find us too!
Join Heather Bradley and Jackie Skanderup this week on Leaving The Shallows, as we sit down with our good friend Kim Swafford. Kim is one of our dearest friends. She has been a Pastor, mentor, and friend to both of us. One thing we love about Kim is her amazing teaching ability of the scriptures. We were both fortunate to have her as our bible studies teacher in Bible College. We are talking about sin this week and what God’s definition of sin is. A lot of times we define sin based on our own feelings, moral ideas, and experiences. Sin is so much more than that. Sin is actually rebellion against God. It means we have missed God’s mark for our lives. The Bible has a lot to say about sin. The good news is the Bible is also the story of God’s redemption for us through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. We can’t wait for you to join us today!
Welcome to Leaving the Shallows Podcast. On this week’s episode Jackie and Heather have the privilege of hearing from Christina Campos. Christina is a Pastor, alongside her husband. She is a mom of three grown children and two granddaughters. Join us as she shares her amazing testimony of God’s grace and redemption through dealing with depression, suicide attempts and an abortion.
Her passion for Jesus is contagious. She has an amazing gift of sharing the Father’s love and His heart for His people. If you have ever struggled with depression, suicide, or wondering if you are worthy of God's forgiveness, this episode will encourage you! God truly can restore what the enemy tries to take.
Welcome to the Leaving the Shallows podcast with Heather Bradley and Jackie Skanderup. Join us today as we have a conversation about growing as a believer in Christ and what that can look like. We are all called to continually grow and become more Christ-like over time. This isn’t about changing our outward appearance. It has everything to do with who we are on the inside-of course we will see this fruit on the outside. What flows from the inside will be seen on the outside through our lifestyles, thoughts, words, mindsets and actions. This takes time and it only happens by us partnering with the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in us. Our devotion and what we focus on becomes who we are. So, lets dig deep roots in Jesus, give Him all our hearts, and stay the course one step at a time.
On today’s episode we sit down with our beautiful friend, Cari McDonnell. She shares what Jesus has been teaching her in this new season of her life. In our conversation we discuss how Christ emptied Himself and how we are also emptied in order to be filled. We talk about what it looked like when Christ was emptied and what are some things that get emptied from our lives. We have to ask ourselves the hard question about what we really believe about His faithfulness and intentions towards us because this will directly impact how we respond to our circumstances. Are we willing to give up how we think our lives should look for what Jesus wants them to look like? We can’t wait for you to join us in this conversation.
Join Heather Bradley and Jackie Skanderup on today’s episode titled, “When You See Jesus As Lord of Your Life You See Life Differently.” As we have a conversation about how Jesus is not only our savior, but also our Lord we learn there is a difference. Jesus is either Lord of all or not at all. You might be wondering what the difference is between Jesus as our Savior and Jesus as our Lord. They are both equally important, but sometimes we stop with Jesus only as our Savior. There is so much more to our life with Jesus. Luke 6:46 says, “ Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” We are invited into so much more than a ticket to heaven someday. In order to really see Him as our Lord we have to settle deep in us that He really does have our best interest in mind. He really does love us. Psalm 34:8 says, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.” It’s only in this place of surrender that we can truly trust Him with our lives and obey what He asks of us.
Today on Leaving the Shallows, we sit down with Kristen Hallinan, a wife, mother, speaker and author. She loves helping women redeem their stories and creating hope for their families. Heather and Jackie join her for an insightful conversation about boundaries.
Boundaries often get a bad reputation amongst Christians because they may seem unkind or unbiblical. If we study the scriptures, we learn that Jesus kept His eyes on what the Father’s will was for Him. He did not let distractions come between that purpose.
Sometimes, like Jesus, this means that we need to put up boundaries in order to also be about the Father’s will in our lives. In our discussion, we learn what setting up healthy boundaries look like. Whether it’s demands on our time, demands from family, work, and even toxic relationships, we can learn to find a rhythm and balance so that we can stay on course with what Jesus is calling us too.
In today’s episode, we have a conversation about struggling to hear God’s voice. God speaks to all of us, even if it doesn’t seem like it. The truth is He doesn’t have “selective speaking,” but we, on the other hand, often have “selective hearing.” As mentioned in other episodes, it comes down to our relationship with Him. God speaks to each of us in different ways, one of the main ways being through His word. If we are not reading His word, then we will miss out on hearing His voice.
If you are struggling with hearing from God, join us today as we discuss several reasons that can create distance between us and God. Things that might be blocking us from hearing His voice, and what to do about it! We want this message to encourage you on your walk with God and reassure you that He wants to speak to you! He IS speaking to you!
We can't wait for you to tune into this conversation and to start hearing God better!
Don’t forget to share this podcast with your friends and leave us a review!
Rest. That's a word we almost laugh at in this culture! Does one even have time for that? Living a life of hustling and going from thing to thing has almost become an idol. If your schedule isn't jam packed then you must be lazy or you're missing out on what you are supposed to be doing. Despite the fact that most of us are running around filled with anxiety, depression, fear, exhaustion and control issues we keep running. We keep doing. We keep NOT resting. Or at least we haven't entered into God's rest.
In this episode, we want to encourage you to go against the norm. We want to show you the life God draws us into. A life filled with less stress and more peace. A life where entering into God's rest is a priority. What does it mean to you to enter into God’s rest? Do you imagine a nice long nap on a Sunday afternoon? Or maybe it’s the drama around you coming to a stop. For some, it may be something you think will happen when you get to heaven.
Join Jackie and Heather today as we have a conversation about what entering into God’s rest means because it’s more than the absence of drama or catching up on sleep. It’s deeper. Jesus invited us into His rest when He died for our sins and made a way back to right standing with God our Father. When we enter into a relationship with Jesus, we begin to abide in Him; in other words, we REST in Him. The striving stops. The peace that surpasses understanding begins. We no longer have to be tossed around by the waves of a storm. Our emotions no longer rule. Our souls begin to rest in the knowing of who God is and the knowing that God is with us and goes before us!
How do you know if you’re on God’s path or a counterfeit path? The word “counterfeit” means to be made in the exact imitation of something with the intention to deceive! 2 Corinthians 11:14 warns that Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So how can we spot the counterfeit?
Join Jackie and Heather today as they discuss what it means to be on a “counterfeit path” with the world. We know that God calls us to something different. However, if we are not careful, we will copy the patterns and be caught up in the whims that everyone else follows. It then becomes easy to rationalize and justify things that are not God’s ways at all. If we are not close to Jesus and filling our lives with His word and truth, we will easily fall prey to the subtle and often blatant deception that Satan uses as counterfeits to God’s truth. Explore what this means with us and how to use discernment to counter the counterfeit!
Welcome to the first episode of Leaving the Shallows Podcast with Heather Bradley and Jackie Skanderup. Join us as we discuss the meaning behind the new name of our podcast: our desire to see God’s people grow deeper in Him, to dig deep roots, and to flourish in the things of God. We want to help you get out of the shallow end of your walk with Christ and develop a deep relationship with Jesus.
In order to leave the shallow end, we must dive into the deep waters that require faith, trust, and surrender in Him.
The Bible tells us in Psalm 42:7 that “deep calls to deep.” Jesus is inviting us into so much more than we realize! The Christianity today seems to stay “safe” in the shallow end. However, when we stay “safe”, we don’t grow into who God calls us to be. We don’t want you to stay there!
Jesus is calling us out, deeper - where we can’t touch the bottom - but He is holding our heads above the water, He is giving us the breath we need to stay afloat! It’s in relationship with Jesus that we lose our fear of drowning, and that we gain a firm foundation.
Let us know how you liked it by subscribing on our podcast platform and by sharing with your friends! Don’t forget to leave us a review! You can also find us on Instagram and YouTube.
We are so glad you are here!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leavingtheshallows/
Youtube: @LeavingtheShallowsPodcast
In Honor of Mother’s Day we sat down and had a conversation about all things motherhood. If you're a young mama- in the trenches of the daily grind-this episode is for you! Trust us when we say we have been in the mundane of motherhood. Those days can feel the same and look the same-it can make you stop and question if what your doing even matters. After all do these kids ever even listen? Philippians 4:13 says, “ I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Jesus is faithful to partner with us and help us to see this motherhood thing through to completion.
Jackie has two children ages 10 and 7 and is still in the trenches with you. Heather has a 30
year old married daughter, along with 19 and 17 year old boys. So we can truly speak from
experience about the stages of motherhood.
We hope this episode encourages you to keep going, to keep fighting for your children, and to embrace the most highest calling God will ever entrust you with-and that is your journey in motherhood.
Foundation Worldview Link mentioned in episode: https://foundationworldview.com/curriculum/early-childhood-series
https://foundationworldview.com/curriculum/year-one
https://foundationworldview.com/curriculum/year-two
In a world where everyone posts everything about their lives, we may often find ourselves longing for big "post worthy" moments in life. Exciting moments in life. However, there is something that God is leading us to that is not "front page news" worthy. It's obedience. It's living a life of submission to His will, even when no one is looking. In today’s episode we are going to discuss these very things. Obeying God in private, especially in the mundane. We will also discuss the difference between obedience and submission. These words often get used interchangeably a lot, but they actually mean two different things. We can often obey something with an attitude, however when we submit we are willingly yielding to a higher power or authority. This has everything to do with our heart motivation and attitude.
This process of surrendering our will to God’s will is true submission. Ultimately, we are submitting ourselves to God’s ways so that the Holy Spirit can work in us and conform us into the image of Christ. In fact, Jesus of course is our perfect example of this. So, grab a cup of coffee and join Jackie and Heather today around this conversation.
Join Jackie and Heather today on the Truth:Freedom Conversation’s Podcast as we sit down and have a conversation about spending time with God. How often do you find yourself trying to fit God in your schedule? You have good intentions but you find yourself trying to find a moment of quiet with Him? You feel distant and off and don’t know why? Maybe you have heard how important it is to spend time with God but you just don’t even know where to start? Could it be that your struggles are actually steaming from your lack of time with Him? The Bible tells us, “ But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”(Matthew 6:33) God has an order to how He wants us to align our time with Him.
We wanted to share our journey on developing time with God with you today. We hope that this encourages you to dig deep. To take the time to develop this discipline that will turn into a habit -that eventually turns into life giving moments- that define your relationship with God. He is always waiting for you.
We have a heart to share God’s truth with others because we know that the truth of God’s word is alive, it’s living, and powerful. We know that when you encounter the living God you walk in freedom from the chains of this world. Jesus sets us free to be all that God intended us to be.
In today’s episode we are continuing on with our series about the Holy Spirit. Have you ever wondered what the Baptism in/with the Holy Spirit is all about? If you have always felt like something is missing-or there must be something more in your walk as a christian-than you do not want to miss this conversation. If you want to live in the power of Jesus then do not miss this episode. Join us today as we unpack what it means to be baptized in the Holy Spirit and all that comes with it for us as believers!
Here are a few of the scriptures we talked about. We encourage you to get into your Bible and study for yourselves. 1 Corinthians 12:13, Mark 1:8, Luke 3:16, John 1:33, Acts 1:4-5, Acts 2:39, Acts 8:15-17, Acts 19:1-6 and 1 John 5:7-8.
Link to message referenced in episode: Receiving the Holy Spirit - Pastor Robert Morris
If you want this gift from Jesus-ask Him! He freely gives to those who come to Him.
Father, I come to You in the name of Jesus. I want everything you have for me. I’m seeking you with my whole heart. Your word tells me that your promises are for those that want them. I believe that you want me to have this gift of the baptism with the Holy Spirit. Forgive me of my sins. Search my heart and tell me if there is any offensive thing in me? I don’t want anything to hinder me from you and all that you have for me. I have faith that I am receiving this baptism in your Holy Spirit right now. I receive all you have for me in faith. Baptize me and fill me with the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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Hey Truth:Freedom Conversation Listener’s -we are so excited to drop another episode today! If you have been enjoying our series on the Holy Spirit we think you will love this episode. We had a conversation that we feel will bridge our last two episodes together nicely. Have you ever wondered how important your character development is in Christ? It’s more important than how often you are operating in the gifts of the Spirit. I know, shocking right? It’s true though. Who you are and how you treat others and even how you respond to life’s circumstances is a big deal. The Bible tells us in Romans 5 that our character is produced by perseverance. It also says perseverance comes from suffering-that doesn’t sound fun does it? It’s true though-in our suffering-submitted in Christ -our character is developed.
So join me, Heather Bradley, and Jackie Skanderup today as we discuss this important foundation together.
Welcome back! Today we are continuing on with our conversation today about the Holy Spirit. If you have missed any of the episodes in this series you will definitely want to go back and listen!
So, I have a question for you-have you ever been confused by the Gifts of the Holy Spirit? Have you ever wondered what they are? Were you taught that these gifts were only for those that lived a long time ago? Join Jackie and Heather today on the Truth:Freedom Conversation’s Podcast as we unpack what these gifts are and why we have them. Find out if these gifts are for everyone and how you can walk in them as well. We are so excited that you are here!
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Welcome back to the Truth: Freedom Conversations Podcast with Heather and Jackie! Join us today as we continue on with our conversation about the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit enables us to bear fruit. This fruit can only come from our relationship and time spent with Jesus. We can’t obtain this fruit on our own or strive to make it happen fast. Fruit grows over time in the right conditions. The more time we invest on our walk with Jesus the more this fruit grows in us and becomes who we are. This is when people see Jesus in us.
Galatians 5:22-23 tells us that the fruit that grows in us is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. Against such things there is no law. The amazing thing is this is who God is-it’s His character and He wants us to reflect these same qualities to a hurting world around us.
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We are so excited to kick off the New Year and our second year as a podcast! We are starting this year with a series of conversations about the Holy Spirit. Our heart’s are to encourage and equip you on your walk with Jesus.
Join Jackie and Heather today as they begin with a conversation of laying a foundation around who the Holy Spirit is and what is His purpose. If you feel confused about the Holy Spirit and His role in your life you're going to love this series. If you have wondered why the Holy Spirit is the greatest gift, you're going to love this series. If you have questions about the Holy Spirit, you're going to love this series.
The Holy Spirit in our lives is so significant. He is God’s presence in us. This is how we live a life as an overcomer and in the abundance that God has for us. This is the power in us that allows us to choose life over death. His ways over ours. To die to our flesh and worldly ways. So come and sit with us and let’s unwrap this amazing gift of God in us!
We are so excited to share the end of our first year of the Truth:Freedom Conversations Podcast Episode with you today!
We sat down with Jackie’s Father, Wayne Boersma- who is a Pastor in Canada. He has a special message for us to hear before we head into the New Year. The New Year typically brings about a reset so to speak. We often evaluate our year and see what we can add to the next year to make it even better. New goals and dreams and plans. We are taking a different approach to the new year in our conversation today. We want to encourage you to spend time with God by asking Him what the condition of your heart is? What might need to be removed? We are responsible for the condition of our hearts. With God’s transforming power we can allow Him to cultivate the places that are unfruitful into something bountiful. So join us today before you head into your new year with the same old issues.
We can’t wait to begin our new year of conversations soon. So join us in January as we kick off a series of conversations about the Holy Spirit.
Join us today on the Truth:Freedom Conversations Podcast as Heather and Jackie sit down with the ladies from The Ruth Experience. Have you ever struggled with adult friendships? Do you find yourself shying away from pursuing friends because of past experiences? Have you ever wondered what a seasonal friend is? Relationships are the most important thing to God, so friendship with God and others really is a gift. We can learn how to have healthy relationships in God so that this will spill over into our relationships with others. So grab a cup of coffee and sit down with us and our new friends Julie and Kendra today!
You can find out more about The Ruth Experience on their website at www.theruthexperience.comFind them on Instagram as well.
For further study on friendship’s check out their books titled, “100 Daily Acts of Friendship for Girls” and “The One Year Daily Acts of Friendship.”
Have you ever found yourself faced with opposition when you were doing what God asked you to do? Did it cause you to want to stop moving forward? In this episode, we look at Nehemiah chapter 4. This chapter in the Bible teaches us how to move forward in progress despite opposition. Any time God asks us to build something, we can know without a shadow of doubt that the enemy will send opposition to throw us off course. Satan’s ultimate goal is to keep us from making progress, period. Nehemiah has so much to teach us on how to keep going despite the naysayers, angry and upset people, and even those that want to kill, steal, and destroy what God is doing. So let’s discuss how to keep building and fighting-it’s never one or another. It’s always both/and! Let’s also discuss who we are really fighting! Grab your cup of coffee and join Heather and Jackie as they have this conversation!
In this week’s episode, we sat down with Christina Campos and Nadia Bradley to discuss the topic of transitions. Everyone goes through transitions. Some big and some small. But we can’t escape the changes that come our way. There is a tension that comes with transitions. The key is how well we navigate them.
God likes to work in the middle of transitions to take us where He wants us to be. This really has to do with our relationship with Him growing deeper. He wants us to know Him in a greater way. The emotions we feel are very real in these places. It’s not always how we start out in a transition that matters but where we end up that will determine how well we land.
Can’t wait for you to tune in!
**Today we are beginning a series from the book of Nehemiah. There is so much wisdom to apply to our lives from this Old Testament book.
Join Jackie and Heather as we sit down and have a conversation around the concept of pausing. What does this mean to pause and wait on God? How do we take steps in our everyday lives to live in the pause. Why is it important to pause and wait on God? Nehemiah did this well and gives us the tools to do the same.**
Waiting on God to give us the revelation we need in any situation allows us to move forward in His power, authority, and wisdom. Waiting requires faith, trust, and obedience and the fruit it produces is immeasurable.
Let’s learn to pause before we make major life decisions and even before we share that next comment on social media. So, grab your cup of coffee and join us!
In this week’s episode we sat down with Christie Morrow of EDG Coffee. She is the VP of sales and a Q coffee grader. We are so excited for you to hear her story of how God called her to partner with Nicaragua, Mountain Gateway Missionaries, and coffee. She shares her story of how God interrupted her life and the amazing work He is doing in the beautiful coffee farm God had showed her in a dream.
**Have you ever been interrupted to follow God down a path you would have never guessed? To lay it all down and follow God at all cost? God is in the details and is looking for willing vessels to build His Kingdom. We know ou will be blessed by this story!
You can find out more about EDG Coffee at www.edgcoffee.com @edgcoffee**
and Mountain Gateway at www.mountaingateway.org @mountaingateway
In this week’s episode Jackie and Heather discuss the topic of homeschooling. Are you a long-time homeschooler? First year homeschooler? Just thinking about homeschooling? Then you don’t want to miss this episode. We get honest and open about the daily grind of homeschooling as we share our hearts with the ups and downs. Maybe homeschooling isn’t just about teaching your kids at home. Maybe God has a lot more in store for us as we embark on this journey with Him. This is sure to encourage you on your journey no matter where you are! We can't wait for you to join in on this weeks conversation!
In this week's episode, we sat down with one of our Truth:Freedom Writers and had a conversation about the time she heard the audible voice of God. Yes, God sometimes speaks to people audibly! Holly Whitehurst shares her testimony about how she began to really hear from God during one of her most painful moments. If you have ever found yourself in the midst of a painful divorce then you don’t want to miss this episode. If you have ever wondered where God is during uncertain times then you don’t want to miss this episode. Have you ever been disobedient and took matters into your own hands and wondered if you messed up too much for God to still help you-then you don’t want to miss this episode. Holly’s story is about a forgiving, loving, and a gently leading Father. She learned that through surrender, humility, and forgiveness, God still had something wonderful for her.
In this episode, we are also wrapping up our series on hearing God’s voice. If you haven’t had time yet to listen to this series we encourage you to do so. So many stories and perspectives were shared on how we hear from God. You will be so encouraged and convicted to linger with Jesus to hear from Him!
Do you wish that you heard God more often and more clearly? Do you often wonder why other people hear from God and you don't? Do you wonder if God is even speaking to you? If you answered yes to the questions above, we know you will be encouraged and equipped to hear God more in your life through this week's episode. Join us this week as Jackie has a conversation with Pastor Wayne Boersma (Jackie's dad!) about how every single person can hear God speak to them through the avenue of scripture. You will get to hear story after story of how God has spoken to Jackie and Pastor Wayne through scripture. We can't wait for you to join in on this week's conversation!
In this week's episode we are continuing our conversation about the different ways in which God speaks to us. This week's conversation is going to be focusing on how God can speak to us through our friends or even through random people we have never met! In this episode, Heather and Jackie will be joined by their good friend Paula. They will each be talking about how God has often prompted them to step out in faith and give words to people they knew as well as to people they have never met before.
Have you ever felt prompted to give someone a word? We know full well that it can be nerve wracking to take that step out and actually give the word! We hope that through this episode you will be encouraged and equipped to keep stepping out when God gives you a word for someone. We also hope this encourages those of you who are wanting to know more about how God speaks and how just like in the bible God spoke through the prophets, He continues to speak to people today through people!
In today’s episode of the The Truth:Freedom Conversations Podcast we sit down with our friend Evelyn. We are continuing on in our series of Hearing God’s Voice. We explore the concept of journaling as a means of hearing from God. Are you a journaler? Maybe it is something you have thought about but haven’t fully understood how to get started. Words are important to God as a means of how He communicates with us. It’s His still small voice that speaks to us as we write down His thoughts to us. So grab your cup of coffee because you don’t want to miss this episode.
The two books that we mention in this series are , “The Prophetic Voice of God” by Lana Vawser and "The Divinity Code” by Adam F. Thompson & Adrian Beale. These are books we highly recommend as great resources on your journey of hearing God’s voice.
We are so excited today to introduce our new series about hearing God’s voice. Did you know that God speaks to us in many different ways? God speaks to us through His scriptures, through other Christians, dreams/visions, signs/wonders, and even audibly. This is often classified in 4 categories: hearers, knowers, feelers, and seers. Join us over the next few weeks as we explore these different ways in which God speaks to us.
In today's episode, we are having a conversation about the topic of dreams and visions. Are you a dreamer? If not, have you ever asked God to speak to you in this way? In Acts 2:17 we read, “ In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.” This isn’t just for the people back when this scripture was written, but also for everyone of us since that day! Make no mistake God is speaking to us today! Do you trust that you hear from Him? We can’t wait for you to join in on the conversation with us today!
In this week’s episode we sit down with Madie Hessler, who is one of our Truth:Freedom Ministry contributors. This is our final episode in our identity series-we so hope you have enjoyed it. Our conversation with Madie was so encouraging to us and we know it will bless you too. Madie shares how she traded her identity in worldly pursuits, especially in men, for who God said she was instead. She shares how she went from the feeling of complete emptiness and not loving herself, to filling full and being able to love the person who looked back at her in the mirror. She also talks about the importance of finding our identity in God vs finding it in a man. If you have ever gone through a season of trying to fill your heart with things other than God or found yourself going from guy to guy to be filled, then this episode is for you!
Did you know that part of your inheritance as a child of God means you are to exercise the authority of Jesus in your life and sphere of influence? The Bible tells us that we are seated in heaven with Christ-He is the head and we are the body. Satan is a defeated enemy and we are to enforce this victory in our lives. We have authority as we pray and partner with Jesus to bring His will to earth. In this episode, Jackie and Heather are continuing on with their Identity Series as they discuss the Authority of Christ in us. We hope that as you listen to this episode, you are encouraged to walk out in the authority that God has given you!
We mention two books in this podcast that we wanted to list here in case you would like to read them.
- **The Daily Decree by Brenda Kunneman
- The Believer’s Authority by Kenneth Hagin**
Also, here are some scriptures to get you started on your journey to understanding your authority.
Ephesians 2:6, Ephesians 1:3, Ephesians 1:13, Ephesians 6:10, Ephesians 1:16-20, 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, Luke 10:19, Hosea 4:6, Ephesians 3:14-19, Isaiah 54:17, 1 John 4:4, James 4:7, Matthew 18:18, Revelation 1:18
Welcome to Episode 3 of our Identity Series. We couldn’t have an identity series without taking the time to address our feminine attributes. God tells us that we are made in His image-both male and female. He called it good. So, why then is there so much competition between the sexes? And even amongst our fellow women? If God created both and said it wasn’t good for us to be alone-then we need to find the root of all the disunity. The enemy has been distorting the way we see ourselves since the Garden of Eden. Join us today as we have a conversation around who God says we are as women as opposed to what the world is saying to us. We will be tackling the ideas of Biblical Femininity and Feminism as well as explore some of the ideologies that feminist hold, such as, “Women can have it all and sexual liberation.” So, grab a cup of coffee and join Jackie and Heather as we explore these ideas! We are so glad you are here!
Welcome to Episode 2 of our Identity Series. This week, join Jackie and Heather as they have a conversation around the topic of “Who’s Words Have Been Defining You?”. They will explore questions such as, “Have we believed who God says we are?” or have we believed what the enemy has accused us of? They will also share their personal stories about the lies that they have had to overcome that were spoken over them over the years from other people and even from themselves. Seeing ourselves through the lens of scripture and re-wallpapering our minds with God’s truth is the only way to tear down the false identity that has taken root over us. Grab a cup of coffee and join us for this week’s conversation!
*These are the scripture references mentioned in this episode:
1 John 3:1
John 15:15
1 Corinthians 3:16
1 Peter 2:9
1 Corinthians 3:9
Ephesians 1
2 Corinthians 5
Welcome to Episode 1 of our series on Identity. At some point we are all faced with the question of who am I? Join Heather and Jackie this week as they begin to have conversations surrounding this question. This week they will be talking about what it means to be a new creation in Christ. The foundation of understanding our identity as a child of God starts the moment we become born again in Jesus. We will struggle with our identity until we figure out that it is only in Jesus that we find out who we are and what we are living for. We have to learn to walk out this new identity. This takes time. Our minds must be renewed by the scriptures as we begin to see ourselves as God does. Overtime we can begin to define ourselves by who we belong to instead of what we do. Heather and Jakie will be exploring different topics over the next few weeks as we unpack this concept of identity. We can't wait for you to join in!
In this week's episode, we will be interviewing author Pamela Steele! This is our final episode for our faith series and our interview with Pamela is nothing but encouraging. Her story of keeping her faith in the midst of leaving an abusive marriage with three small children and all the trials that came with that, is truly inspiring. Though we know not everyone has gone through exactly what Pamela is sharing with us, we know that not one person escapes trials on this earth. We hope that through her personal stories and experiences with God providing for her every step of the way, you will be encouraged and able to keep your faith in God and keep your eyes on Jesus in even the hardest seasons of life!
Has God said to you recently that it's "go time"? Are you scared out of your mind to start stepping into this thing that you know God is asking you to step into? If this is you, you are not alone! In this episode, Heather and Jackie are going to be talking about the many obstacles we face when we are about to take that first step when God says it's time. Whether it's fear, feeling inadequate or not knowing the first step to take, they will be talking about how to combat these things and just say yes to God! Throughout this episode, you will be encouraged and equipped to move one step closer to seeing the dreams and visions God has given you, become a reality.
What do you do when you have a dream God has given you but He hasn't opened the door for you to step into it? These seasons which we often call the "waiting seasons" are some of the hardest seasons of our lives! In this episode, Jackie and Heather will be talking about how they have personally lived through these seasons and how they had the faith to keep going and not let go of the dreams God has given them. They will also pull stories from the life of Joseph in the bible and learn about his waiting journey. We know you will be encouraged as you tune into this week's conversation!
Has God ever asked you to lay something down that was very dear to your heart? When God does ask you to lay something down, how do you keep your faith in God? How do you not lose hope? In this epside, we will be having a conversation about what it looks like when God asks us to lay something down and how to work through those times. We will also tell our personal stories of times in our lives where we have had to lay something down and how we walked through that season. We know this epidsode will be an encouragement to you!