Arms Upheld: Support in Life's Hard Battles: Recent Episodes
H Lynn Pierce
Weighed down by burdens? Can’t sleep? Need a moment to yourself to connect with Your Creator? Even if it’s five minutes in the bathroom? Everyone is fighting a battle. Battles can be long and hard. I want to be there for you like Aaron and Hur were for Moses in Exodus 17 and hold up your arms. When Moses’s arms were held high, Israel prevailed. God won the victory for Israel, but Moses played his role in obedience, while Aaron and Hur supported him. “For the LORD your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.” Deuteronomy 20:4 The battle is His. He’s won the victory. I would like to stand with you, holding up your arms until the breakthrough happens and you can see the victory materialize. I offer encouragement, something to think on, and a prayer to focus on the One who holds all things together. Your battle may look different than mine, but let’s stand together. I’ll help hold up your arms until victory is real in your life.God is for you and so am I. -H Lynn Pierce
I recently found myself engulfed in dread and uncertainty. I wasn’t hopeless, but I couldn’t see hope anywhere. My world felt so very dark. And as hard as I tried, I couldn't figure out which way to turn.
Acts 17:27 showed me that when I cannot see hope, I can still feel my way to Him. And find Him. He's where He's always been. Right beside me.
This episode marks a stopping point for this podcast as I venture to take hold of the hand of Jesus and embark on an uncharted course of discovery of a life lived clinging tightly to Him. A new blog "Holding the Hand of Jesus" will debut in the coming months and beyond that, God only knows.
Thank You, to all of you who have traveled this road with me, who have listened and offered feedback, love, and support. Thank you! You are the absolute best!
Let's grab hold of His hand and take the next step forward on our own journeys.
Remember, God is for you. And so am I!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Acts 17:26-27
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Where can we find wisdom? God reveals His answer in Job 28. That's where we're going to hangout today.
I leave you with the wisdom of God and I'll see you back in August.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Job 28
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All through school we were taught to give the 'right' answers. We learned what was acceptable and what was not. We learned what was respectful and what was not. So when I heard this certain man's response to Jesus, I was appalled. How could he offer excuses and explanations instead of a direct and respectful response?
Then, I had to check myself and lean in closer.
Perhaps he had the right answer after all. He was sharing his authentic experience with Jesus. He was creating his own true answer with more words than "yes, sir".
Where are we allowing man to limit our words to prescribed scripts instead of sharing our experience with Jesus? Is it time for us to get up and walk?
Please note that there will be one more episode before my break in July. This podcast will resume in August. Thanks!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
John 5:2-9
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This week we return to the pool of Bethsaida (aka Bethesda). John 5:5 tells us, "A certain man was there..." A particular person in the crowd.
Jesus saw this man. He knew this man. This certain man.
Then He approaches him and asks a question, hears his heart, and heals him.
This is just like Jesus, isn't it? Doesn't he do the same with us?
Listen in to hear more about this 'certain man.' and how his story is ours as well.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
John 5:2-9
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Chapter 5 of John tells us of an account of Jesus healing a man. He was unable to get to the pool when it stirred because of his disability. Jesus saw him, knew how long he'd waited, and approached him. Then He asked the man, "Do you want to get well?"
We may not be sick, blind, lame, or paralyzed like those in the crowd that day, but we all are disabled in some way. There are areas of our lives in which we are unable to do that which we need to do. Perhaps we don't spend much time thinking about these areas, but they are there. Jesus sees us too, knows how long we've waited, and approaches us with the same question, "Do you want to get well?"
Today, we spend a few minutes pondering this question in regard to our own disabilities. If you can muster the courage, join us.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
John 5:2-9
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How do you process challenging news? Where do your thoughts go? Worse case scenarios? Problem solving strategies? Growth opportunities? And what emotions hit you? Do you get overwhelmed, focused, or simply shut down?
When we receive information that changes our lives in some way there's a period of processing. What does yours look like?
Join me in taking time this week to discover just that.
And let's pray together the words of Psalm 16:8:
I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for He is right beside me.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 16:8
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Have you ever had someone pray over you something you couldn't dream possible? Their words are beyond what you would ever have thought to ask for yourself?
This has happened to me a few profound moments in my life. One recently. And as others speak prophetic words over my life, I start to believe in their vision of what was beyond possible to me only moments before.
What is currently beyond possible to you?
Remember, nothing is impossible with God.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
2 Samuel 7: 18-29
Philippians 1:6
Luke 1:37
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Have you ever found your worth in your accomplishments? You are already saved, but you still keep working at it? Or finding yourself feeling like you have to prove it?
If we read through the words of Jesus and Paul, we can come to an understanding that the Bible is a story of our need for Jesus, but the only way to benefit in this is to do nothing...except believe in Him.
Is it possible to grow in faith by doing nothing but trusting in Him?
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Samuel 24
Luke 24:44-47
2 Timothy 3:14-15
1 Samuel 18:7
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Do you ever have times when even simple things feel hard? Well, this is where I’ve been hanging out lately. These days it feels like my feet weigh a hundred pounds each as try to wade through sticky peanut butter just to make it through the day.
So today, we're going to do things a little differently. We're going to simply seek God together. We'll pray and then I'll read a psalm. Then perhaps we can both simply sit in His presence for a while.
Then when we stand, ready to take that next step, perhaps we it won't feel so hard.
I've just started a subscription page for Arms Upheld. If you interested in supporting the podcast, click here. Thanks!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 138:3
Psalm 145
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Lately, whenever I go shopping, my littlest one asks for something. Can I bring her back a toy? Can she pick something if she comes with me? And if someone else has something she likes, she wants one too. At times, honestly, it feels like I’ve failed to teach her gratitude. She wants stuff., but what if I'm not I’m failing. What if wanting things is the tilt of the human heart?
'Coveting' made the cut for the top ten ways to honor the Lord that Moses received at Mt. Sinai. God knows our hearts. And no matter our age, we want stuff. It may no longer look like a playdoh ice cream maker, but we still want things.
Philippians 4 offers us a way to overcome this. Join us as we find a path to peace involving joy, love, prayer, and gratitude. It could just change the tilt of our hearts.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Philippians 4:4-7
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"I am stronger now than I have ever been." This statement kept running through my mind last night and I had to write it down. But that wasn't the end. There was more.
I am stronger now than I have ever been because I am more dependent on God now than I have ever been.
This is the key.
When we face catastrophic defeat like that of Marvel's Avengers-Infinity War, it's not the end. There is more to come.
As we rely on the strength of Jesus and His light guiding us through the darkness, we discover truth and life like we've never known it before.
Take His hand and keep going. Life is worth living.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
2 Corinthians 12:9
Luke 22:42
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Lately, as I read in my Bible, God has been showing me (primarily through verbs) what is my job and what is His. Today, He did it again.
I didn't plan to read Psalm 112, but He stopped me there and broke more of the bindings to the lie that I am responsible for everything. Not in a "King of the World" sort of way, but as in I’m to blame when things crash to the floor when I am unable to balance all of spinning plates and balls in the air.
The man in the psalm is responsible for fearing God and delighting in His commands. We are all given this calling. This is our job. This is my job. And that's it. The rest is up to Him.
And, man, is He a busy guy!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 112
Ezekiel 36:26
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When you think of Gideon, do you think of the fleece? Maybe the odd way God winnows down his army by how they drink? Or the cool torches in jars approach to battle? The beginning of Gideon's account is where I find the most connection with him.
Gideon finds himself in a desperate situation facing starvation. The angel of the Lord approaches him and calls him "Mighty hero." Now, here, Gideon resembles nothing close to a hero, but God isn't limited by time and He knows all that Gideon will become.
The same is true for us. Where we are right now is not all of who we are. We are still in process of becoming who God created us to be.
Join us to discover how else we are like this 'Mighty Hero' (also known as Gideon).
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Judges 6 (Focused on verses 8-18)
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Dreams begin as seeds, planted in our youth. As we grow, we are watered by the Living Water. Just like trees, our dreams are strengthened through the storms of our lives. And one day you might just look and find fruit.
We all have dreams that are in the works. Perhaps some have been fulfilled.
Jesus had a dream too: to be the Way the Truth and the Life. Easter morning, that dream was fulfilled.
The dream, or hope, of eternity is planted in the heart of every human. As we cling to the hand of our Savior, our dream is fulfilled. For eternity has already begun.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
John 14:31
Psalm 1:3
John 14:6
Revelation 22:20
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I knew that in the Garden of Gethsamane Jesus was distressed, troubled, and in anguish. So much so that he sweat drops of blood, but it never occurred to me that he struggled.
I don't know why exactly.
Struggling seems like something I do. And it seems bad. Somewhere along the way, I've chosen to believe a lie that I'm not supposed to struggle.
Jesus, Himself, tells us, "The spirit is willing, but the body is weak!" (Matthew 26:41 & Mark 14:38). It would make sense when our weak bodies contradict the willing spirits within us, that there would be struggling in our realities. Yet, if Jesus did it, it can't be bad.
Join us as we lift the burden of shame from struggling this week as we meet Jesus in the garden and prepare for Easter.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Hebrews 5:7
Matthew 26:37
Mark 14:33
Matthew 26:39
Mark 14:36
Luke 22:42
Matthew 26:41
Mark 14:38
Matthew 26:46
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Today is beautiful. I am sitting on my back porch, sun on my face, chickens rustling about nearby. The gentle breeze brings melodious chimes my way while the cars race past out front. Beyond this little beautiful cocoon lies the world.
But what am I accountable for? The Bible tells us that we are accountable for what God has revealed to us.
We are not accountable for that which is beyond our cocoon in which we are transforming into who God made us to be. We are responsible to follow wherever He leads.
Where is God leading you?
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Deuteronomy 29:29
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When I sit down to write, I first change my font. I intentionally move from a default setting to one of my choosing and one that has become my gateway into the creative journey of writing.
God doesn't tell us to shift into Arial size 13 font, but He does give some pointers to the Israelites before they embark on their journey into the Promised Land.
Be careful. Obey my commands.
There's a bit more to it, plus blessings that come with careful obedience. Let's discover them together.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Deuteronomy 11
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And you saw how the LORD your God cared for you all along the way as you traveled through the wilderness, just as a father cares for his child. Now he has brought you to this place. Deuteronomy 1:31 NLT
We can all look back on our own "wilderness" times and see the way God has cared for us, just as the Israelites did. We do that so we can remember His faithfulness so when we take that next step forward, we are trusting in Him.
Listen in to hear more about "This Place" God has brought you to.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Deuteronomy 1:31
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As I was reading through Numbers, the phrase "each in position under the appropriate family banner" stood out to me. Then I continued on to discover the plan God had for the Israelites to camp around the tabernacle and how to break camp and move on. And as I pondered this, I began to see how God's design wasn't just for who walks first in a procession, but about building communities.
You see it wasn't that the groups shared an ancestor, it was that these people shared a life. They set up camps near the same people. The travelled with the same people. They lived their lives with these neighbors.
Then I began to wonder, "Who do I share my life with? Who is my community?"
Listen in to join our time of reflection, not just on who our neighbors are, but on God's great design for community as well.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Numbers 2:17-34
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In today's world productivity, doing and achieving, is what we do. And sometimes it becomes who we are. But what do we do or who do we become when we take that away even for a few hours?
Although we've been talking about sacrifices and ways to draw nearer to God, we also hear God inviting us to "Come." Multiple times in the Bible, Jesus calls us to Himself. For He has made a way by fulfilling all those requirements for us to be able to be in the presence of God. Now all we need to do is 'come.'
Jesus invites us to Him. We don't need to meet expectation or quotas, but simply be still long enough. Coming to Jesus is more of a stilling than a doing. And this week, I'm inviting you to come with me into His presence.
Find a comfy chair, bench, or section of floor and join me. Come.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Revelation 22:17
Matthew 11:28
Luke 19:10
Psalm 46:10
Luke 19:10
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Have you ever got to the book of Leviticus and wanted to abandon the whole idea of reading through the Bible? What if we begin to look at these detailed guidelines as invitations rather than directives?
You see, God created humans and then desired to be with them, but there was this thing called sin and His holiness couldn't coexist in the same space. And since God can't be anything other than holy and pure, He had to make a way for His children to get near Him.
And there are a LOT of ways for men and women to be unclean and impure. So God, had to address them all. Still, God made a way. That's a whole lot of love!
Listen to hear more about how we can get closer to the heart of the Father.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Corinthians 16:14
Genesis 1:27
Genesis 3:8
Hosea 6:6
1 John 4:7
Psalm 145:8
Leviticus
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Traversing a parking lot takes on a whole new meaning when you have a child in tow. No longer are you simply moving from the car to the entry doors, the safety of another person is at stake and the parking lot has become a danger zone.
God offers the Israelites the same things we need: someone bigger and wiser who can take into account the dangers, our attitudes and abilities, and the need to cross this space. He knows how things work best and offers us His very best--Himself.
For whatever parking lot we find ourselves in, the truth is, we are not the grown-up in the situation. We are the child and most importantly, we are not there alone.
Listen in to hear more about being like a child.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Matthew 18 2-4
Exodus 19:9-12
(and the rest of Exodus)
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As I was reading through Exodus 13, words I never noticed before grabbed my attention. (Don’t you love when God does that?!) Starting in verse 17 we read, “When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest route to the Promised Land. God said, 'If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.' So God led them in a roundabout way through the wilderness toward the Red Sea.”
God knew that this route was the best. This was the way for them to get to know Him and learn to trust Him. So, He led them in a roundabout way through the wilderness to a dead end.
And the thing that guided them, was a giant cloud that they could all see…even at night. They could know by simply looking up, that God was with them.
Listen in to hear how this relates to our own journeys through the foggy woods.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Exodus 14:19-20
Exodus 13:17-22
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Have you ever experienced life in disorder? How about chaos? Ever faced any obstacles or challenges? Of course, we all have. We may not have been slaves in Egypt or the father of a demon-possessed boy, but we all find ourselves in real life struggles.
These stories reveal to us a cycle that is repeated throughout the entire Bible. This is the pattern of obstacles, a rescue, and life with Yahweh.
Yet, we can also look back over our lives and see evidence of this pattern as well. This becomes extremely helpful when the current problem looms large in front of us. To remember that God has made a way through the last obstacles enhances our faith that He will do it again.
No matter where you are in this cycle, hopefully this podcast will encourage you today.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Matthew 17:20
Genesis 1&2
Exodus 1-15
Matthew 17:14-20
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You know that feeling when you are snuggled up all cozy in bed? It may be raining or sleeting outside. The wind could be blowing, but you are warm and toasty under your familiar blankets. Isn’t it lovely? If you imagine yourself there right now, does a smile spread across your face?
Have you ever experienced this coziness in your spirit? It’s still warm, but instead of blankets, it’s the arms and peace of Jesus than enfold you? It feels just right and familiar. It’s lovely. If we know this feeling, we can’t help but smile. This goes deeper. It’s like our heart is smiling.
Listen in to hear more about living each day in this spiritual cozy cocoon of love and peace.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Genesis 28:16
Ephesians 6:10-20
Genesis 28:20-21
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Have you ever spent time with someone and walked away feeling less? Less than whole? Less than enough? Less than valuable?
This little symbol "<" means less than. It has a mouth on one end in which it desires to consume all you offer it. But If God steps in as a holy "3" and caps off our "less than" bits, He turns it into a heart. <3
Now, I don’t know if a heart made out of two symbols on the keyboard constitutes art anywhere else, but here, today, it’s a masterpiece…and so are you.
Listen in to the words God shared with me that I needed this week. Perhaps, they will help you too.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Zephaniah 3:17
Ephesians 6:16
1 John 4:7-8
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This episode drops on January 1, 2024, but was written in the span of time between Christmas and New Year's. And just because we toss out the old calendar and hang a new one doesn't mean we know what's ahead.
We still remain in this in between space of what has happened and what is yet to be.
There is always something coming. There will always be another bend ahead. There will always be more corners to turn.
Before I raise my foot to take the next step…before I conjure up the next dream…or face the next problem, perhaps sitting with Jesus…still and silent in the place in between is exactly where I need to be.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Corinthians 6:16
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We have spent these last few weeks considering how the people involved in the Christmas story were all simply going about living their lives. Caesar ruled an empire and became an unknowing participant. The Innkeeper ran out of rooms and became an unsuspecting participant. The shepherds guarded their sheep one night and became unassuming participants in the greatest story ever told.
But is that it?
The angel's words that glorious night said, “I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David’s town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master.”
Everybody. Worldwide. Across time. All. All of us.
Did you realize that you are part of the Christmas story?
That was unexpected. ;)
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Luke 2:10-14
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Shepherds were hard working, but not generally the cleanest or best smelling fellows. These often ignored or avoided people were the one's tasked with raising the lambs for sacrifices at the temple.
As they went about their unassuming lives guarding the sheep, suddenly an angel shows up and "the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them." God chose them to announce the arrival of His Son, the long-awaited Messiah.
As we, too, find ourselves in stinky situations, we never know when we will be surrounded by the "radiance of the Lord's glory." Like the shepherds though, we can just continue on in our unassuming ways until He reveals to us that which He desires for us to know. Then we can simply go.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Luke 2:8-18
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In the town of Bethlehem, I don't know how many inns there were. I do know there was at least one: a guy trying to make a living in a small town that was overrun with crowds and chaos.
We don't know if he offered his barn in exasperation, quick brainstorm, or compassionate connect with the Lord, but we do know that God used him to get Mary and Josheph...and Jesus into that stable.
God used an unsuspecting participant in a small town to help direct His Son to a special place where a miracle happened. And He can do the same for us.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Luke 2:4-7
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Welcome to Advent!
We know the lines. We know the names and the characters. We’ve heard the story over and over again. But have we ever stopped the think about how each person was simply going about their regular everyday life when this miraculous event plopped right down in front of them?
Caesar Augustus wasn't sitting on his throne scheming of how to get his name in the Jewish record book. He didn't audition for his role in the greatest story ever told. He was going about the business of ruling an empire.
Can God use an unknowing participant?
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Luke 2:1-4
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Friends, I've found that my life has shifted.
For me this new season holds a retail job. In previous years, I used to avoid stores as much as possible during the holiday season. Now I walk in willingly multiple times a week for hours at a time.
This new season also holds a new sporting experience for my family. In previous years, sports slowed during November and December. Now we are spending hours in the car and on the field each week.
And my typical Wednesday “podcast” days are feeling the effects. This is not a "good-bye," but a "head's up" that things may look different around here. I'm not exactly sure how but am pressing in--to the heart of God to hear what He has to say about it.
Many blessings to you and yours!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 25
John 10:10
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Recently, I hit my head on a door frame. I was heading down the hall and heard voices. I leaned past my doorway to see what was happening, then decided to continue on to my room. As I turned to go in, I swung my head too early and too quickly into the door frame instead of open space.
My injury could have been prevented: First by not allowing myself to get distracted by other people. Or second, by reorienting myself in the doorway before moving into the new space.
I need to know where I am before I move.
I also need to know where to move before I take that next step.
Psalm 25:4-5 lead us to a revelation of God's path of life through a spiritual whack on a door frame. Listen in to hear more!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 25
John 10:10
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Psalm 3 is a lament written by David during the time he fled from his son Absalom.
The psalm begins with the exclamation, “O LORD, how many are my foes!” We may not be facing an uprising, but we are likely facing something…or a lot of somethings. What are you facing? Can you name your foes?
Verse 1 continues, “Many are rising against me.” Do you feel that those things are rising like water around you? Are you struggling to keep your head above the waters?
Would a life preserver help? What if there was one beside you all along?
Verse 3 tells us that God is a "lifter of our head." Listen to hear more about this and how it helps us breathe in life and the hope of the Lord.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 3
2 Samuel 15-17
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After finishing the book of Lamentations, I sat pondering why there is a whole book of the Bible dedicated to whining.
I hate whining. It is a pet peeve of mind. Philippians 2:14 backs me up on this.
BUT, perhaps, whining and lamenting are not the same thing. Aren't we supposed to share each other's burdens? How can we do that if we don't know of them?
After looking at the definitions of these words and back at God's Word, we land somewhere that may just lead us closer to the heart of God.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Lamentations 5:21-22
Phil 2:14
Galatians 6:2
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When we find ourselves praying, but nothing fits quite right, God may be trying to teach us a lesson.
I recently found myself in such a space. Essentially, my son needed a ride to soccer practice.
It took hours of frustration and a lot of effort in all the wrong directions to open my eyes to what God wanted to show me. Yet that’s how we learn. That’s how we grow. And God knows that.
In His infinite grace and patience, He sticks with us until we get. Listen in to hear how my lesson turned out.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Lamentations 3:25&26
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As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, we find ourselves in a world that's changing. We are losing daylight and warmth, but probably more than that as well.
Perhaps we are losing stability or comfort. The future looks unfamiliar. Things are changing and they don't look like we thought they would.
What do we do with this?
We can choose to fight the wave of loss and grief or acknowledge it and perhaps even embrace it. May just for a few moments.
Tears are a biblical part of lament and could be a healing part of our grieving process as well. Listen in this week for a discussion of tears, fiery blazes, and salty ocean waves.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Lamentations 1:16
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I just started a new book and I love how the author speaks from his "messy house" to mine. Writers tend to write the words that they need to hear in their own lives. And Justin Whitmel Earley does this beautifully in his book Habits of the Household.
This is how this podcast came to be as well.
Like the Teacher in Ecclesiastes, we can choose "to find just the right words to express truths clearly." We are all dealing with our own messes, but can take the time to speak love into someone else's.
Today's short episode leaves you a few extra minutes to discover the words you need to share to impact those you are called to love.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ecclesiastes 12:10
1 Peter 4:8
Hebrews 4:12
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A full moon is when the moon reflects the light from the sun fully upon the earth. The moon doesn't create its own light. Neither is the light shining on it varying. The phases of the moon reflect what we can see.
We are like moons.
Like Ecclesiastes 8:1 says, "Wisdom lights up a person’s face." God's love and wisdom constantly shine on us. How much we reflect of the Son-light is determined by our orientation.
This week we reflect on ourselves as moon in regard to the light of the Son. What do others see in our faces?
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ecclesiastes 8:1 & 9
Psalm 119:105
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Have you ever faced a steep hill you had to climb? How did you do it? Did you just walk right up?
No.
The way up is a winding path slowly ascending in elevation. This is the way God created the world and us to work.
Consider the work of God: who can make straight what he has made crooked?
Ecclesiastes 7:13
Listen in to hear how this verse can teach us to climb up our mountains and overcome.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ecclesiastes 7:13
John 17:17
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The sun rises every morning. An app may be able to tell us the exact time it will happen, but how it happens is something that must be experienced.
Then we choose how we respond to it.
We can appreciate the beauty. We can stare in awe and wonder. We can praise the Lord for the experience. We can let it change us. We can also desire a different sunrise. Or curse the morning. Or close our eyes to the experience and block it all out. The possibilities are as endless as the ways God paints the dawn.
Our days are like this too. Although, we don’t get to choose how the Creator will paint our days, bold and wild or subtle and smooth, we do get to choose how we respond.
Listen to hear how we actually have the power to enjoy our days even in the challenges of life.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ecclesiastes 5:18-20
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Ecclesiastes 4:12 tells us that "A threefold cord is not quickly broken." This is God's formula for relationships.
We were created in the image of a triune God. We were made for connection--a Godly connection. Connection His way involves three components: Us, another person, and Him.
When God is an integral part of our relationships, there is a strength unlike anything else.
Listen in to hear more about this strand of three and its repair kit.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Genesis 1:27
Joshua 5:1-14
Romans 3:23
2 Samuel 12:1-13
Psalm 139:12
1 Corinthians 14:1
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Today's episode is dedicated to my daughter, Ella.
God orchestrated the reading of a passage from Strong Like Water by Aundi Kolber, a sunrise, an anniversary of a loss, and the 100th episode to intersect here with appropriate fear.
Listen in to hear how September 11 brings it all together.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 John 4:18
John 1:1-5
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From David to Solomon...or the Teacher, King David's son, who ruled in Jerusalem whose words are recorded in Ecclesiastes.
The famous passage from chapter 3, reminds us that there is a time, a season, for all things. And what has to happen now is not a permanent fixture in our lives.
Verse 11 promises us that "God has made everything beautiful for its own time."
No matter what mess we may find ourselves in, we can be assured that God is in process of creating a masterpiece.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ecclesiastes 1:1
Ecclesiastes 3:5-7
Ecclesiastes 3: 11
Ecclesiastes 12:13
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So, David is anointed the new king of Israel. What happens next? A big celebration? A promotion? A seat at the head of the table? Yeah, not so much.
Essentially nothing happened. He went back to the fields…to the sheep and goats. Life went on as usual.
We, too, may find ourselves gifted with a special calling only to find ourselves living out life as usual.
The life of David (and Jesus) teaches us that once God calls us to a mission, we may spend a good amount of time seemingly in a mundane existence until we have learned the lessons He intended for us and His perfect timing is revealed.
Listen in to hear more about how David's everyday moments help us connect to him, but more importantly to the goodness of God.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Samuel 16:14-23
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Welcome back to the family of Jesse! Samuel has just seen the parade of Jesse's seven sons only to hear God's rejection of them all. Asked for any more sons, Jesse is forced to produce his youngest, the weakling that is used to take care of the sheep and goats and run errands.
Although he amounted to little in the eyes of his family, this son is chosen by God to be the new king. His name is David. Although rejected by others, he is beloved by God.
There are two lessons for us today. Listen in to hear more about our own end of the lines and the truth about the God who sees us and calls us by name.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Samuel 16:1-13
1 Samuel 16
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1 Samuel 16 opens with the prophet Samuel distraught over Saul's bad decision. The Lord, having thought he had mourned enough, sent Samuel on a mission to anoint a new king.
Samuel is led to the house of Jesse to anoint one of his sons. Except, none of the sons paraded before him are God's chosen one.
In verse 7, the Lord warns Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height... The LORD doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
The Holy Spirit prompted me this week to pause here and sit with God's idea of beauty and His desire for our hearts. We will continue the original lesson of Samuel's anointing of David next week. I hope that God's message of love here shines through to your heart.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Samuel 15
1 Samuel 16
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Many know the reference of David and Goliath. The underdog story is a familiar one and yet there is so much to learn from this account.
Goliath represents the sin in our lives. It is something large and looming that challenges the things of God. It seeks out a man…us…and wants to take us down. Sin’s echo continues to this day.
Yet, we don't enter the battle alone. We are divinely equipped and directed. When we walk into such a battle with God, we only need one stone.
Listen in to hear more about claiming our victories over sin.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Samuel 17
Genesis 4:7
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~Hello, friends! I’ve missed you! Thanks for sticking around! (If you are listening later, I just took my first 4-week break from this podcast and am now returning.) It’s good to be back! ~
Let’s keep learning from David, by reading about one of his…um…maybe not his most brilliant moment…we could even call it ‘ugly.’
This week we jump into Psalm 34 which lead us to 1 Samuel 21 in which we find David in quite the predicament. He's running for his life from King Saul and finds himself in enemy territory seeking a job but realizes that is a mistake. So, he feigns insanity in order to escape.
Our lesson from the life of David is reflecting on our own 'ugly' moments in search of the fingerprints of God. For when we follow David in humble exploration of such moments, we may just find ourselves with a heart full of praise.
Let's find the path that leads us closer to God in our unsightly flops together.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 34 (Intro, verses 4-7 & 22)
1 Samuel 21:10-15
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In the middle of the Bible, we find the book of Psalms. David wrote about half of them. There are songs of praise, words of lament, and even verses asking God to stick it to his enemies. Through them all the power and character of God seem to take center stage. They are hymns to honor Him.
David took the time to compose and sing these lyrics to a God who he knew intimately whether he was a shepherd, an outcast, or a king.
Let's learn from the life of David and take the time to discover our special way of worshipping the Lord. Then do it. It could be singing or dancing. It could be gardening or baking. What is it for you? What makes your soul sing?
Join us on this adventure to grow closer to God through worship.
This is the last episode until July 31st due to the break I'm taking to breathe, rest, worship, and spend time with my family. I'll see you in four weeks!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 63:1-8
Psalm 40:4-5
Psalm 16:11
Psalm 27:8
Psalm 62:1
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Through Christ’ death and resurrection, He made a way for us to be reconciled to God. When we recognize our sin, turn from it, and then seek God’s forgiveness, our vertical relationship is restored.
However, restoration does not eliminate the consequences of sin. Those consequences must still be dealt with, like with David. The prophet Nathan spoke God's decision that his son would die.
While his son lived, David sought God in the hope that the child's life might be spared. Yet once his son died, David accepted the Lord's outcome. He returned to worshipping God and broke his fast.
As we learn to trust God more and more, we find a way to accept the outcome He determines is best. We do this by moving toward God, like David, even in our pain and loss.
We are forgiven. Restoration of both vertical and horizontal relationships is possible.
Next week will be the last episode until July 31st due to the break I'm taking to breathe, rest, and spend time with my family. I'm so glad you are here. I'll see you next week!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
2 Corinthians 5:18
2 Samuel 12: 13-24
Philippians 1:6
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Last week, we learned about David’s failure to stay vigilant and the depth of sin he sank into. Although we will likely not sink to the level of stealing another person's spouse and then having that person killed, we have all sinned.
Like David, we are usually the last person to realize our own sin.
For David it took God's words spoken through the prophet Nathan to open his eyes. What does it take for us to come face-to-face with our sin?
Are we open to others speaking revealing messages from God? Or are we stubborn and resist the truth?
Listen in to hear more about repentance and pray the words of David with us in response.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
2 Samuel 12:1-15
Romans 3:23
Matthew 18:12
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Today we start our summer series Lessons from the Life of David.
We begin in the middle of David's story when one spring he stays home from battle. Relaxing on his roof he takes in the view and zooms in on an intimate moment of a woman bathing.
It happened. It happened because David laid down his vigilance.
When we face life-and-death situations, we find ourselves constantly seeking out potential threats to deflect the intended harm in order to stay safe.
When the threat level lowers, this hypervigilance is no longer necessary, but we do still need to remain watchful. Staying alert is imperative because we have an adversary that prowls around seeking to devour. And we don't want to be ambushed.
Listen in to hear more about the importance of remaining vigilant and how we can stay armed for victory.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
2 Samuel 11
1 Peter 5:8
Isaiah 26:3
Ephesians 6:10-20
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When we live a life of serving, can we find ourselves giving too much? Is there such a thing? Jesus lived as a model for us, and He sacrificed all the way to the cross, but is that what He’s calling us to do as well?
Jesus paid the price for our sins, therefore we need not sacrifice ourselves.
Paul reminds us that we are to offer living sacrifices.
To sacrifice, we must be willing to give up that which is given to us, but never give up who He created us to be.
Listen in to hear more about this sometimes confusing topic of sacrifice and how far we should go to honor our Lord.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 John 2:2
Hosea 6:6
Matthew 9:13
John 15:2
Romans 12:1
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R & R is not for "Rest and Relaxation," but Religion and Relationship this week.
Religion can leave us feeling confused and even empty. Listen in to hear my story of how Jesus found me.
Much like Saul, I knew all the right religious things, but it wasn't until a real encounter with Jesus sparked a relationship that has changed my life.
Listen in to hear more about how Paul's and my journeys mirror each other and how simply speaking from your heart can completely change your life.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Timothy 1:12-16
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Put your hope in the LORD. Travel steadily along his path. -Psalm 37:34
As we put our hope and trust in the Lord, we can continue to travel down His path…the one He has created just for us.
“Steadily” may not look like consistently moving at the same speed. It may involve rest stops and breaks. At times, we will travel quickly and other times a slower tiptoe or even a crawl. Our steady manner is our commitment to follow Him, not necessarily our pace.
Listen in to hear more about traveling steadily down His path and even finding shelter in the event of an ambush.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 37:23-24
Psalm 37:30-34
Psalm 37:40
John 14:6
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I’ve shared before about rappelling and mentioned that I’ve never actually been climbing. And physically that's true.
However, I have climbed out of some dark valleys.
I think many of us picture valleys as V-shaped, but what if the way out of some valleys are shear rock faces. Jesus leads us to the base and points up.
The climb involves physically gripping holds that we use to climb. We also face waves of emotions internally, but essentially this is a spiritual ascent.
Listen in to hear more about these various aspects of the vertical climb out of the dark valley and the small holds we use to rise.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 23:4
2 Corinthians 12:10
Colossians 1:29
Romans 12:2
1 Peter 4:1-2
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I’ve shared in the last two episodes about our family trip to Niagara Falls but have yet to speak of any encounters with the falls themselves. This week, we finally make it to the falls!
After our initial amazement at the splendor…and speed…and sound of the many waters rushing over the falls, we began to see our limitations. A number of possibilities were impeded by various factors.
The final morning as I awoke, I realized that we were missing out. By grumbling about the opportunities unavailable to us, we were failing to embrace the full experience of what we did have.
I insisted that we make one more trek to the Falls.
I invited my family to sit on the benches and close their eyes and to open themselves up to experience where we were. We simply sat in the majestic presence and listened and felt.
This episode invites you to join us in this experience as we explore the many rushing waters in scripture and their ties (at least for me) to Niagara Falls.
To hear the sound yourself click here.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 18:16
2 Samuel 22:17
Revelation 1:15
James 1:17
Revelation 19:6
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Over spring break, our family took a short trip to Niagara Falls. Last week, I shared how our adventure on Beaver Island soaked our socks and muddied our shoes. For my youngest in clogs, this meant the mud not only covered her shoes, but her feet and legs as well.
After a short car ride, we checked into our hotel with white bedding.
My first order of business was to clean up my little one before mud was everywhere.
This seemingly simple task revealed how ill-equipped I was to complete my mission.
Jesus definitely handled feet washing better than I did!
Listen in to hear more about how scrambling in survival mode opened my eyes to a new perspective.
P.S. I'm so grateful that I am not responsible for making anyone clean!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 51:7
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Over spring break, our family took a short trip to Niagara Falls. On our way there we stopped at Beaver Island.
I was intent on taking a hike and found a little path (on my trails app) over to a little island. Sounds fun, right?
Except that the storms during the week prior to our trip left the park waterlogged. The field that is probably great for a game of tag on a typical day now looked like a wetland.
Still, we ventured on. As we took steps into the mud that threatened to steal the shoes off our feet, the water level rose above the soles of our shoes thus soaking our socks.
Wet socks and muddy shoes left me pondering.
Listen in to hear more about how God opened my eyes to a new perspective.
The spring break adventure continues next week with the tale of the "Muddy Feet."
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
James 1:17
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We left off with silence, but that’s not the end of the story.
"Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive?"
The events of Easter morning unfold like a dream, but can it be real?
He is risen! He is risen indeed!
Happy Easter!
To celebrate and worship our risen Lord, try some of my favorite songs:
Sunday is Coming by Phil Wickham
Forever by Kari Jobe
Desert Road by Casting Crowns
For Easter, Arms Upheld is going to look a little different. Recognizable, but different. More scripture and less discussion.
There will also be a special episode released on Easter Sunday, but not one on Monday, April 10, 2023.
I hope you will join us to experience the events that forever changed history and our lives.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Luke 24:1-6
Luke 24:9-12
Luke 24:35-41
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Jesus is betrayed.
Jesus is arrested.
Jesus is questioned.
Jesus is found innocent.
And Jesus is crucified.
Then...
For Easter, Arms Upheld is going to look a little different. Recognizable, but different. More scripture and less discussion.
There will also be a special episode released on Good Friday and then one on Easter Sunday, but not one on Monday, April 10, 2023.
I hope you will join us to experience the events that forever changed history and our lives.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Luke 23:38
Luke 22:47-48
Luke 22:66-71
Luke 23:14-15
Luke 23:21
Luke 23:34
Luke 23:44-47
Luke 23:55
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This is Passion Week, which simply means these are the days between Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem and Easter.
Jesus spends his days this week doing what He’s always done: proclaim truth and promote God’s kingdom.
Jesus is becoming greater. He's clearing out the temple. He's teaching in the temple and performing miracles. He's recognized for who He truly is.
Join us as we join the disciples as they experienced this week not knowing what lies ahead.
And for Easter, Arms Upheld is going to look a little different. Recognizable, but different. More scripture and less discussion.
There will also be a special episode released on Good Friday and then one on Easter Sunday, but not one on Monday, April 10, 2023.
I hope you will join us to experience the events that forever changed history and our lives.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
John 3:30
Luke 19:36-40
Luke 22:7-23
Luke 22:39-45
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As I was reading this week in 2 Samuel, the account in chapter 10 stood out to me. It felt familiar--not necessarily the armies and such, but the motivation behind the actions.
Have you ever genuinely offered kindness but found yourself being disgraced or even attacked?
This is exactly what happened to David and Israel. In the midst of being surrounded by the enemy, David's general calls his men to "Be of good courage, and let us be courageous for our people, and for the cities of God, and may the LORD do what seems good to him" (2 Samuel 10:12).
Good intentions are no guarantee of how someone else will respond, but no matter how others respond, we can choose to be of good courage and stand for what is right. God holds the outcome in His hands.
We can always trust in Him.
Listen in to hear more about the conflict that shows us the best place to face an enemy in our own battles.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
2 Samuel 10
Ephesians 6:10-20
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You may be expecting to see the name of Balaam in this description and we'll get there, but first let's head to the pool for a moment.
You are likely familiar with signs or painted words that direct us to walk safely and not run around a pool. The purpose is to protects us from pain and injury.
If a lifeguard sees someone running, it's his job to intervene. He may speak a warning with the volume determined by distance and the noise level. If necessary, he may blow his whistle.
The whistle demands our attention, disrupts our flow, and alerts us to danger.
God can work in a similar fashion.
Enter Balaam. And his donkey.
Join us as we delve into what God could be using to get our attentions. You may just discover you have your own talking donkey.
*Special Note: I purposely omitted part of Numbers 22:19 in case anyone is listening with little ears around. Please read Numbers 22 for the full story.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Numbers 22
(with focus on verses 21-32)
Hebrews 4:16
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This week we continue the idea of God being our source of comfort, but this time through the gift of a friend.
In 2 Corinthians 7, Paul is facing conditions we may be familiar with.
No rest.
Conflict.
Fear.
But God.
Seven characters that interject divine power into our human condition.
This time, God sends Paul Titus, a close friend, to encourage him.
Has God ever done this for you? :)
*Also, if you are in a season when friends are scarce, this prayer is literally for you!
I hope you'll listen in!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
2 Corinthians 7:5-6
Psalm 23:5
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Did you have a blankie growing up? Maybe you found security in some kind of lovey instead. Either way, did holding it seem to make everything better?
God is our source of all comfort as 2 Corinthians 1 proclaims.
Could the comfort of a security blanket somehow connect us to God?
Could a tactile memory and experience lead us to peace in our souls?
Listen in to hear more about the connection of our security tied to an item and our safety found in our Lord. (And maybe find out little known fact about me!)
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
2 Corinthians 1:3
Psalm 18:2
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Behold, you are beautiful, my love, behold, you are beautiful!
-from Song of Solomon 4:1
These words of Solomon spoken to his maiden, reflect God's love for us.
Perhaps, we have not been loved well by others, but God loves us perfectly. His love shines through His blessings and the beauty He gifts us in our lives.
His blessings abound, we just have to notice.
Aundi Kolber says it like this in her book Try Softer:
When we hunt for beauty we learn to pay attention.
Join us as we explore the beauty of God's love that is evident all around us if we choose to notice.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Song of Solomon 4:1
Psalm 18:2
Matthew 7:24-27
Matthew 14:22-33
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Also check out Aundi Kolber on Instagram.
Her book Try Softer on Amazon. And workbook!
Have you ever gone rappelling? It's like the opposite of rock wall climbing. You start at the top of a cliff face and after properly harnessing up and with help, you travel down the side of a rock wall on a rope.
The coach at the top that ensures your safety is crucial, as is the person on belay at the bottom. The belay man holds your life in his hands. His job is to be alert and holding the rope. If there comes a moment when you move too quickly toward the ground, he simply pulls the rope taut, and you stop.
Our life journeys are not linear paths but multidimensional. God will at time bring us to such a precipice. He will also provide the necessary equipment to make a descent, the coach (aka the Holy Spirit), and Jesus on belay.
Listen in as we traverse through the struggles of rappelling...and life...with the help of our Lord and Savior.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Isaiah 41:10
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What treasures can joy unlock in you?
This week, I'm listening to those upholding my arms and keeping it simple.
However, this simple practice could change your life...and mine.
May your hearts and lives be filled with His love…pure joy…and undeniable peace.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
John 10:10
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Sometimes in our battles, we face challenges that seem to slow our forward movement.
Our focus is forced to shift from 'typical' to 'essential'. At times this may look like rest...or even survival.
Yet, even if our journey seems stalled or our growth appears stunted, God has not laid down his pen. He continues to write our stories...stories of love and victory.
Even if this chapter feels painstakingly slow in progress, God is still at work.
Psalm 71 reminds us that God is here and He is for us.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 67:1
Psalm 71
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In Luke 15, Jesus tells the parables of lost things: a sheep, a coin, and a son.
There is a similar theme of celebrating at the lost being found.
There are also some differences, like why does the Shepherd go after the lost sheep, but in regards to the lost son, the Father remains at home waiting for his return?
Listen in to hear what I discovered and how the answers help us seek the Lord in our own rescue.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Chronicles 29:10-11
Luke 15
John 10:14 &15, 26-28
1 Corinthians 13:8
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In her book, Don't Miss Out: Daring to Believe Life is Better with the Holy Spirit, Jeannie Cunnion says of the Holy Spirit, "…what he does do is attune our hearts to the love of Jesus.”
These words struck me to investigate a bit further into attunement.
Come along on the journey as we discover our ability to live in tune with God and how we do that with the Holy spirit.
And what do openness and obedience have to do with it?
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Romans 5:5
Exodus 14:9-21
Matthew 19:26
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From my back porch, we could see many trees. And yet, the strength of the tree lies hidden beneath the grass and leaves.
Is it the same for us? Where do we get our strength from? What can we dig deep roots into that will anchor us when storms blow through?
Ephesians 3 clues us into what the answers are. Paul speaks of infinite resources to be found.
Join us as we learn a few things about roots and a few things about God as we seek to find strength that will help us endure any battle.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ephesians 3:14-21
Matthew 4:4
John 4:14
Matthew 22:37-39
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Welcome to my back porch, it's nearly 50 degrees in January, so it won't be too chilly. It may be wet, but in the quiet moments we can hear the creek running nearby. At times the air saturated with water condenses into thick fog.
The fog not only obscures the view of the hillside, but also my future. Perhaps if we sit and chat for a bit, God may expose a clear path for us both.
What are our struggles? What is forefront in our minds?
For me, it's 'Tending my Temple.' God gave me the phrase months ago, but I'm still struggling to do so. I've been trying to change my heart and choices on my own.
Now, I see I can't. I need Him to do it.
Today, I've decided to ask God to change my heart about 'Tending my Temple'.
What is that thing for you? Will you join me in asking God to change our hearts?
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ezekiel 36:26
Daniel 9:3
Philippians 2:9-11
Matthew 6:16-18
1 Corinthians 3:16
Matthew 19:26
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Happy New Year! And Happy Epiphany!
We wrap up our look at the account of the first Christmas this week by spending some time with the wise men.
After we are suited up in the Armor of God, Paul reminds us to pray continually, then emboldens us to proclaim the truth.
The wise men did this. They entered Jerusalem asking about the new king for which they had come so far to see. Their mission was set and their joy great.
They model for us how to be ambassadors for Christ. Seek His truth. Boldly proclaim it. Remain committed no matter how unexpected the circumstances become.
This seems a good way to start a new year. Let's commit to armoring up, proclaiming the truth, and lifting up others in prayer.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ephesians 6:19-20
Matthew 2:1-12
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This week typically has people reflecting back over the year and then setting their faces toward the next.
As we look at being prayerfully alert, we visit with Simeon and Anna at the temple when Jeus is presented to the Lord.
These two model for us abiding in Christ. Our prayer life plugs us into the Almighty, just as it did for them. This, in turn, fuels us to don the full armor of God.
As we reflect on the blessings God has given to us this year, let's remember that He is the true gift.
Listen to this week's addition to the special Advent series as we see how the armor of God intertwines with the experience of the coming of Christ to help us stand strong in the Lord as we face our own battles by committing to spend more time with Him in the coming year.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ephesians 6:18
Luke 2:22-38
John 15:4
Ephesians 6:14-17
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This week, I ask you to exercise your imagination as I propose a question:
What if the helmet of salvation looks more like a crown?
What would a crown mean to us? Would it remind us of our identity in Christ as a child of The King?
We spend some special moments with Mary as her shimmering headwear becomes evident. And is that a sword glinting in her hand?
We also visit a good amount of scripture. How could we not when we are discussing the sword of the Spirit?
Listen to this week's addition to the special Advent series as we see how the armor of God intertwines with the experience of the coming of Christ to help us stand strong in the Lord as we face our own battles.
Merry Christmas, friend!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ephesians 6:17
Genesis 1:27
Psalm 139:13-14
Isaiah 43:7
Luke 1:26-38
Luke 1:39-45
Luke 1:46-56
Psalm 34:3
Psalm 138:6
Jeremiah 10:6
Psalm 103:17
Isaiah 52:10
Job 5:11
Psalm 107:9
Psalm 98:3
Psalm 105:8-10
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Check out Mary's Journey - Letters Home!
This week we continue to armor up with the shoes of the gospel of peace and the shield of faith.
We hang out with the shepherds and Joseph as they both receive messages of the gospel of peace and then step out in faith.
We know the good news of the gospel that offers great joy and peace here on earth. This is all we need to be ready to move. As we believe God at His word, we can step forward into battle acting on faith.
Listen to this week's addition to the special Advent series as we see how the armor of God intertwines with the experience of the coming of Christ to help us stand strong in the Lord as we face our own battles.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ephesians 6:15-16
Matthew 1:18-25
Luke 2:8-20
Hebrews 11
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Check out Mary's Journey - Letters Home!
This week we step into the armor of God, beginning with the breastplate of righteousness and the belt of truth.
We hang out with Zechariah and Elizabeth as they demonstrate truth and righteousness in the account of the first Christmas.
Living life according to God's way helps guard our hearts, while the Holy Spirit reveals the truth, we need to stand firm.
Listen to this week's addition to the special Advent series as we see how the armor of God intertwines with the experience of the coming of Christ to help us stand strong in the Lord as we face our own battles.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ephesians 6:13-14
Lukie 1:5
Exodus 28
1 Peter 2:9
Luke 1:6
Luke 1:41, 67
Matthew 5:14
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Check out Mary's Journey - Letters Home!
As I was praying about a new lens in which to study the Christmas account this Advent season, God gave me Ephesians 6:10-20: The Armor of God.
This week we begin our journey by unpacking why we need armor and delving into the spiritual realm through angelic encounters. These are prevalent as the world prepared for the coming of Christ.
Angels walk on scene with Zechariah and Mary. They interrupt dreams with important messages for Joseph and the wisemen. And then they show up in great splendor in the fields outside of Bethlehem.
This is evidence of a world beyond what we can see. And one in which we play a part. This is why we need to suit up.
Listen in to hear more as we prepare our hearts for Jesus.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Ephesians 6:10-13
Luke 1:11-13, 19, 26-30
Luke 2:8-13
Matthew 1:19-20
Matthew 2:12-13
John 10:10
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Check out Mary's Journey - Letters Home!
Confession: I am a worrier.
I worry about what’s going to happen.
I worry about what’s already happened.
I worry about what people think of me.
I worry that they don’t…think of me.
I worry about my family and critters.
I worry because I fall into the thinking that it’s up to me, not Him.
So how do I move from a place of worry to a place of peace?
Philippians 4:6-7 imparts the wisdom we need to get there.
I hope you'll come along and learn how thanking Him can be the antidote to worry.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Philippians 4:6-7
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Have you ever experienced a time when your safety was threatened?
Have you ever had your security breached?
When we are knocked off our feet. How do we find our footing?
Is there any way to feel safe and secure again?
Join us as we discover how David's words create a sphere of God's Presence, gladness, and life, with Jesus at the center and how this can restore our security.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 John 4:18
Acts 2:25-28
Psalm 16:8-11
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As we find ourselves again in the season of fall, the idea of harvest presents itself. We may not all desire a harvest of corn or soybeans, but what about blessings?
Galatians 6:9 tells us:
So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we do not give up.
This week we discuss this idea of persevering in the work of doing what is good. Listen in to hear about reaping a harvest of blessing for yourself!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Galatians 6:7-10
Matthew 11:28
Colossians 3:2
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Today, I feel weak. I'm tired. I'm worn out!
What if this isn't the negative place we tend to think it is?
What if this is exactly the place the power of God is highlighted?
Join me this week as we look at two passages that address this idea of weakness.
The words of Jesus may just lead you to the place where the human and the divine touch.
And you may find some rest as well. ;)
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Matthew 26:36-44
2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Ezekiel 22:30
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Have you ever tried to make bread? It's not easy!
After you gather the ingredients, the water must be just the right temperature for the yeast to work. After everything is combined in the correct order, the dough must be kneaded. After that there is at least one period of letting it sit to rise. Then comes the baking.
Back in the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve sinned. Part of the fall was the cursing of the ground. God told Adam that now in order to eat, there would be pain and hard work involved. However, in the midst of the curse, God offers a gift: bread.
Listen in this week to hear about the making of bread and what it teaches us about God.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Genesis 3:19
Genesis 14:18
Exodus 16:4
Exodus 35:13
Deuteronomy 8:3
Matthew 4:4
Matthew 26:26
Luke 11:3
1 Corinthians 11:26
Revelation 2:17
John 6:35
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I frequently fall into the trap of expectations. Who created them? What's their purpose? And how do I ever measure up?
I don’t think God measures us against any expectations.
God loves us as His children. He rejoices over us. He celebrates us.
Join us for this reminder of how we measure up in the eyes of the Father.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Jeremiah 31:3
1 John 3:1
Proverbs 10:28
Zephaniah 3:17
Colossians 3:17
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My Bible reading in 1 Samuel linked me to a psalm that David wrote when Saul was sending a group of men after him.
After reading Psalm 54 and reveling in the beauty, connecting it to my own life, and meditating on who God is, I noticed something.
David changes perspective frequently in just 7 verses.
This week we look at the 6-part structure of Psalm 54 and how we could use it in our own talks with God.
- Cry out to God.
- Describe the circumstances.
- Breathe and refocus.
- Describe the relevant characteristics of God.
- Worship God.
- Claim His promises.
Join us as we seek the Lord and stand on His truth to overcome our hard battles.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 54
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Elijah's blazing chariot ride to heaven in a whirlwind is a famous account of the Old Testament.
Elijah certainly knows how to make an exit!
What if this blazing sunset of Elijah's life on earth is a unique glimpse into a believer's transition from this life to eternity with Jesus.
Join us as we sit with this idea and also ponder questions about our own legacy in our final lesson with Elijah.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
2 Kings 2:9-15
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The final journey of Elijah takes him through a number of places in the promised land before he crosses over the Jordan river to head 'home.'
As we have with all of the other parts of Elijah's journey, we find significance in his final leg for us as well.
We all cycle through our Gilgals, Bethels, and Jerichos. We also find ourselves crossing over into new realms.
By remembering what God has done in the past helps us continue on to face what lies ahead.
Walking with Elijah reminds us that God has a plan and a purpose in each leg of our journey. Join us as we begin to wrap up our time with Elijah.
Next week we will look at Elijah's final moments as he is taken to heaven.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
2 Kings 2:1-8
Joshua 4:19-20
1 Samuel 11:15
Genesis 28:10-22
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This week we step over into 2 Kings. Things have changed a bit. Ahab has died and his son, Ahaziah, now reigns as king. You can imagine that this isn't quite a step in the right direction for Israel.
We open with Ahaziah injured and wondering if he will survive. He commands messengers to embark on a quest to discover his fate. The Lord cuts their journey short with the truth delivered through Elijah even though they never intended to seek the wisdom of the Lord.
Ahaziah's days are numbered, and he will surely die. Sharing this news with Ahaziah seems a bit perilous for the prophet, Elijah.
We find Elijah sitting on a hill. Although a strategic position, he isn't the one with a battle plan.
Listen in and find out how this mission works out Elijah and what lessons we can walk away with in order to sit on our own hills.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Kings 22:54-53
2 Kings 1:1-17
Isaiah 54:17
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Time outs are breaks to pull back from what's going on to regroup. Not always disciplinary, time outs offer us a time to rest.
Jesus rested. God rested on the seventh day.
If we are following the model of Christ and living according to God's ways, rest should be common practice. Is it?
It's not in my life. Sometimes God has to force me to rest. Like He did this week.
Listen and find out about what God is showing me about rest and why I need some more lessons! ;)
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Mark 6:31
Matthew 8
Mark 4
Genesis 2:2
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King Ahab comes face to face with Elijah, his enemy. Or the representative of his enemy, God, Himself. Elijah speaks truth to Ahab and reports the judgments God will carry out against him.
How do we respond when we come face to face with our sins?
Surprisingly, King Ahab challenges us to humble ourselves and repent. A most unlikely teacher inspires us to listen and hear the truth God speaks to us.
Join us to see what else the account of King Ahab, Naboth, and Elijah can bring us face to face with.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Kings 21:17-18
1 Kings 19:18
1 Kings 20:13, 28, 35
1 Kings 21
John 15:13
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Today we pick back up with Elijah. He departs the mountain of God intent on completing his mission of anointing his replacement.
Elijah walks on scene, casts his cloak on Elisha, and moves on. Once again, we find Elijah trusting God to do what He's promised.
Elijah may not be as trustworthy.
Is Elijah disqualified from serving the Lord because he passes the other missions onto his new assistant? Of course, not. And neither are we.
Listen in as we continue our walk with the imperfect prophet. God's grace abounds for all of us.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Kings 19:19-21
2 Kings 8:7-15
2Kings 9:1-13
Isaiah 55:9
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We interrupt your regularly scheduled program...
This week God hijacked the 'Summer with Elijah' with a message of love.
It's the most important thing.
This week we listen to the words of A. W. Tozer and Sally Lloyd-Jones, but most importantly the words of Jesus.
As we listen, may we hear the heart of God and give Him ours.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 John 4:7
John 15:5
Matthew 22:37-39
John 13:35
Colossians 3:12-14
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Elijah has spent the night in a cave on the mount of God.
God asks Elijah a question, "What are you doing here?"
Perhaps He is asking us as well.
He already knows the answers, but there is something in it for us in discovering the answer. Elijah's answer reveals his perspective and emotional state. Shifting blame and believing lies are experiences common to us all.
Still the Lord loves Elijah and invites him into a real and unique experience.
Listen in to discover how this affects Elijah and what lessons are in this for us!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Kings 19:9-18
John 5:6
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Fear has stolen Elijah's peace and we find him this week sleeping under a broom tree alone in the wilderness. Well, not entirely alone. God is with him.
God ministers to Elijah through rest, food and water, and a supernatural touch. By attending his physical and spiritual needs, he works to restore Elijah's soul.
This unconventional strategy may just be useful for us today!
Listen in to hear the new strategy that serves our body, soul, and spirit and restores peace and confidence.
God holds the key!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Kings 19:5-8
2 Thessalonians 3:16
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This week, the nation of Israel finally sees rain, but instead of revelry and celebration, Elijah finds himself in fear for his life.
The people have returned to God, the false prophets defeated, and now Elijah faces his biggest opponent yet, Jezebel. When he hears she is out to kill him, he hightails it out of Jezreel.
Elijah exchanged his confidence for fear and finds himself alone in the wilderness telling God he's had enough.
Have you ever been there? I sure have.
Join us this week as we seek to learn about fear from Elijah, but beyond that, sit with us in God's love.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Kings 18:40-1 Kings 19:4
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We pick up with Elijah in silence on Mt. Carmel
God has brought him to this climatic moment as a way to reach his people.
As the prophets of Baal dance and shout, Elijah's confidence remains grounded in his faith in the Lord.
In contrast to Baal's silence, the fire of the Lord flashes down from heaven and burns up not only the sacrifice and altar, but the water it was drenched in.
As he is facing overwhelming odds, Elijah is standing in confidence of what He knows the Lord has asked him to do and in the belief that God can do the impossible.
We can do the same.
We are all familiar with desperate situations, listen in and learn how standing in Elijah's footprints may just grow our own confidence.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Kings 18:22-39
Romans 12:9
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In Elijah's time, the world was full of confusion, chaos, lack, and evil. He asks the question, “What do you believe?”
We live in the same world today.
We experience confusion, chaos, lack, and evil.
The question lingers for us as well.
Let's make sure what we believe is grounded in truth.
We find Truth in Elohim. We can check His Word. We can seek His wisdom. And we can listen to the Spirit inside us.
As we encounter the dialogue in Elijah's journey today, we can also reflect on these fundamental questions.
Love to have you join us!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Kings 18:17-21
Psalm 11
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In today’s passage, Elijah has a new mission. For the past three years he has hidden himself, as God directed, near the Kerith Brook and then in Zarephath. Now God sends Elijah to show himself to King Ahab.
We learn that King Ahab has searched extensively for Elijah and come up empty handed. We also learn that God has placed a loyal servant of His in a most strategic position—the man in charge of Ahab’s palace.
In this week’s podcast we meet Obadiah and witness the moment when his story collides with Elijah’s.
Again, we are shown examples of obedience to God, but also how each life is valued.
Here in the Old Testament, we find an example that God values each life foreshadowing the Good Shepherd that would leave the 99 for the one.
Join us as we journey with Elijah back to Israel.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Kings 18:1-16
Matthew 18:12-14
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We continue our journey with Elijah in Zarephath with the widow and her son.
In this week's passage, the son becomes very sick and dies. The widow's situation goes from bad to worse and she questions Elijah and God.
This is probably something we can all relate to. The age-old question of "God, why did you let this happen?"
Elijah doesn't have the answer any more than we do, although Jesus did (see John 11:4). Elijah does know where to turn--to a miraculous God.
Elijah's lessons continue as God's power is manifested through him and his identity is confirmed.
Join us in this lesson of revival.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Kings 17:17-24
John 11:4
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As we journey this summer with Elijah, this week we head to Zarephath.
The Lord shows Elijah that He is not only sovereign over creation, but also the people beyond the borders of Israel.
Elijah continues to obey God to "arise, go...and dwell." His obedience now offers an invitation to another to join him on his miraculous journey with the God of Israel.
As the widow joins Elijah in her obedience, God's miraculous provision spreads now to a family.
We can glean lessons from the widow and Elijah. Join us to discover what those lessons are and how they can help you in your hard battles.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Kings 17:8-16
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A drought. That's what God is promising here, in 1 Kings 17.
Is there value in such an experience? God thinks so.
In this setting of a drought, it becomes essential to determine how to live. What are the basics of life? What will nourish us? What keeps us alive?
This week we begin our summer with Elijah as he embarks on a journey with the Lord.
Let's join Elijah on the bank of the Kerith Brook.
We may just find ourselves...alone…in the wilderness…in a drought…and God miraculously providing for our needs.
Dependent on God is a beautiful place to live.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Kings 17:1-7
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Last week, we talked about beauty and Lysa TerKeurst’s quote: “We steer where we stare.” Perhaps the thing you want to see more of in your life is victories.
When you look around at your life, do you see failures or victories?
We experience victories every day from washing the last dirty dish to 20 years of marriage. I wonder how our perspectives would shift if we acknowledged them and celebrated them.
Join us as we discuss celebrating victories. As we celebrate our victories, we celebrate our lives. And the One who gave us life.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 20:5
Romans 3:23
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What you look for, you will find. Lysa TerKeurst says it like this, “We steer where we stare.” What we focus on, we move toward.
At the beginning of 2021, God directed me to look for beauty. At the time, I doubted there would be much to find in the ashes of my life. Yet, I searched. And I found it one day at a time.
As I trained myself to look for the beauty, guess what I found? A beautiful life.
Join us today as we take inventory of what we see in our lives and where we are steering ourselves. Do we need to adjust our perspective?
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Proverbs 4:25
Zechariah 9:17
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Today we remember those who gave their lives for our freedom.
Today we also face the potential of another world war, a worldwide food crisis, financial uncertainty, and national tragedies.
Today's podcast was surrendered to the Spirit and I read Psalm 107.
To know that the Lord hears when we cry, "Lord, help!"
To know that He can save us from our distress...
To know there is blessing in the stillness
and the Lord will bring us safely into harbor...
is to know the faithful love of the Lord.
God bless!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 107
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We have been working our way through the landscape of our lives and clearing out thorns, today, we'll bring these two ideas together to make a way for God to move in our lives.
We visit the books of Isaiah and Zechariah to hear what God has to say about leveling the path before us. It's no surprise that it is by the power of the Spirit.
Our part is to face our sin and clear it out, like the thorns, to prepare space for God to move in our lives.
Confessing sin is hard, but the benefits could be amazing.
Steps for confession include:
1. Confessing the sin
2. Asking for forgiveness
3. Asking for help
4. Standing forgiven and free.
God is inviting us to come to Him in confession, receive forgiveness, and stand free.
I wonder what blessing God is preparing you for...
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Proverbs 28:13
Isaiah 40:3-4
Zechariah 4:6-7
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Last year we were house hunting and we had a list of our "must haves," but then we had our dreams of what could be.
One of my dreams was that we would have water flowing through our property. God gifted us with a fulfilled dream! We have a creek near our house.
The problem was that between me and the creek was a zone of thorns. I have been working on clearing those out as God has been teaching me. Just like those thorns, the sin in my life needs to be cleared out so I have full access to The Living Water.
Join us this week as we talk dreams and thorns, sin and fruit, and move onward toward Jesus.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Hebrews 6:7-8
Pslam 1:3
Luke 6:43-44
Proverbs 28:13
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The topography of life is full of mountains and valleys. We face ditches and deep gorges, but also mounds and sheer rock faces. Each feature must be traversed no matter the challenge.
As the Good Shepherd, Jesus walks through the valleys with us, but in regard to mountains, He offers another option. The mountain can be moved.
Join us as we delve into the topography of life and Matthew 17:20 and discover faith the size of a mustard seed. Or is it?
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Matthew 17:20
Psalm 23:4
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Nothing quite grabs our attention like pain. It stops us in our tracks and demands we take certain actions.
The remedy is usually beyond our control. We must let it run its course or seek help. It points us beyond ourselves.
Pain points us to the One who can heal us, the One who can turn our pain into purpose and ashes into beauty - Jesus!
His purpose is unfailing. His plan is for our good and His glory. It cannot be thwarted.
Join us as we seek to find hope in Jesus amidst the pain and suffering in our own lives as well as around the world.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Job 42:2
Isaiah 61:3
Isaiah 14:27
Romans 8:28
John 9:1-3
2 Corinthians 5:7
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While on task for the Lord, there may arise situations or people that may try to derail us. Triggers threaten to do this.
In essence, triggers are responses we develop during traumatic periods that benefit us, but later linger even when the threat is no longer real. Something in our environment sparks a response in us that is no longer helpful.
I have no pat answers for you as a cure, but I will always point you to the one who is the answer - Jesus.
As we draw near to Him, He draws near to us. Join us to discover how staying connected to him can lead to confidence to continue our great works.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 Chronicles 16:11
Psalm 1:3
John 15:5
Nehemiah 6:3
James 4:8
Find me on Instagram @HLynnPierce
Christ is risen! Alleluia!
As a special Easter gift, I am releasing this episode a day early. The gift is a story that the Lord gave to me a few months ago. It is a story of Jesus told from an unexpected perspective.
Take a listen and then feel free to share it with your family...and friends!
Happy Easter! Be blessed!
I give you:
The TreeFind me on Instagram @HLynnPierce
A seed falls. It dies. It is buried…beneath the ground. It spends time in darkness.
In our lives today, this process may seem familiar.
When we look around, there is darkness. There is death….loss of life, loss of freedoms, loss of dreams, loss of morality and character. Death abounds. Darkness invades. It can feel like we are buried.
But, this is where miracles happen.
They begin unseen. We are completely unaware of the work God is doing.
Then, we see the evidence as the new life emerges. This new life grows heavenward aiming for the light.
Let's not forget that Jesus was buried too. Friday and Saturday were dark, but light burst forth unexpectedly on Sunday.
God is still in the business of generating life and resurrection. We may be buried, but Sunday is coming soon!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
John 11:25
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Have you ever faced a judgment? Have you ever been criticized?
Of course! We all have.
When we receive a judgment or criticism, what do we do with it?
Well, we receive them. As we hold them, we evaluate them.
Then we keep part and let the rest go.
Join us as we discuss this process and discover what this has to do with a snapping turtle!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Matthew 7:1
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Spring brings rain. Water is simply water. Or is it?
Water is a key component of our physical make up, the largest feature on our planet, and essential for life. Water can also ruin our plans, make things harder, and destroy progress.
But...Water helps things grow. Grass, trees, and seeds.
What if God planted seeds in us when He created each of us?
What if those seeds need water to grow?
Let's jump in together and discover how!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Genesis 1:2
Isaiah 43:2
2 Samuel 22:17
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As we emerge from hibernation into this new season of spring, rebirth surrounds us.
From the ground, brave shoots will push through. Animal babies will be born. The sound of the chirping birds or scurrying of a squirrel will once again be common experiences if we take time to notice.
As temperatures trend upward, I am drawn back to my porch.
That is where this all began. I wrote words, then I shared them out loud. In the encouragement I received, the idea for this podcast was born.
In honoring our first spring together, I thought I'd share with you about life on my back porch.
Won't you join us?
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 95:2
Psalm 34:8
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As stories of heroic bravery, extraordinary leadership, and selfless compassion flow from the war in Ukraine, what can we learn?
Listen in fora discussion on these three lessons.
1. Do what needs done.
2. Stand firm knowing victory is coming.
3. Serving keeps our hearts beating.
We can honor the Ukrainian people by applying to our own lives lessons we learn from their strength, loyalty, and love.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
James 2:14
Philippians 2:14
Deuteronomy 20:4
Ephesians 6:12
John 10:10
Philippians 4:7
James 1:22
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Our eyes and hearts are drawn to Ukraine.
We imagine ourselves in their place.
Our cities. Our homes. Our families. Our lives.
This compassion evokes emotions that spur us to action.
Today's episode reminds us not to lose sight of those under our very noses.
Our hearts can span across the globe and still reach down the hall.
How can we serve those closest to us?
Let's put aside our agenda and love...near & far.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Matthew 25:34-36
Matthew 25:40
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We keep getting back on our feet.
We keep steadying ourselves enough to take those first steps.
We may not be doing it gracefully, but we’re doing it.
Then we look around and help those next to us.
Let's discover how our next steps involve those around us, however near or far, and how serving them makes us better.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Philippians 2:4
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I have never lived in a war zone.
We can all draw on our own experiences to find points of connection and compassion for those who are living in a war zone.
Are you feeling compassion, but frozen as to what to actually do?
Let me inspire you to move. Do something. Nothing is too small to be significant.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Zechariah 10:5
John 16:33
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You're back on your feet. Now what?
We continue our conversation from last week about rising again after getting tripped up. We've fixed our eyes on Jesus and He has set us on our feet. What are the next steps? Or what do we need to do before we take that first step?
Join us as we delve into Micah 6:8 for wisdom in this situation and how best to proceed in our first steps after a fall.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Micah 6:8
Matthew 22:39
Isaiah 64:8
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Do you ever feel like you’ve been knocked down?
An unexpected blow and you’re flat on your back?
Feeling startled, hurt, confused, and discouraged not knowing where to look?
Falling down isn't just for toddlers learning to walk, it's a reality when we live in a fallen world. Thankfully, God has shared with us in His Word what to do when this happens.
Join us as we graciously find our way back to our feet after we get tripped up and how our responses define us.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Proverbs 24:16
Psalm 51:7
Romans 3:23
Matthew 14:25-33
Find me on Instagram @HLynnPierce
How would you define 'goodness'?
God has been speaking to me about my definition and ideas of goodness. My definition of 'good,' being the lack of hard situations that I see as 'bad,' doesn't line up with God's meaning.
Is life of an easier existence out of reach? Is goodness beyond my grasp?
How do we experience goodness? What are God's instructions in this area?
Join us as we learn God's definition of goodness and the path to enjoying it.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 16:11
Psalm 23:6
Exodus 14:14
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What's wisdom worth to you? Ever wonder what wisdom is worth to God?
Where do we find wisdom? What are the benefits?
Inspired by the children's song of The Wise Man built his house upon the rock that is being sung in our home this week, we take a look at what God's word has to say about wisdom.
Spoiler Alert! It's A LOT!
We travel through scripture mining for treasure and maybe something more extravagant.
Join us as we search for wisdom!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Proverbs 1:2
Matthew 7:24-27
Proverbs 2:6
James 1:5
James 3:17
Colossians 2:3
John 14:6
Proverbs 3:13-15
Proverbs 24:5-6
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Have you ever tripped a breaker in your house? Have you ever tripped a breaker in your life?
We have a finite amount of energy. At times our circuits can get overloaded. What if God built us with a way to trip a breaker before disaster strikes? What would that look like? How would that work?
Let's take a look at this idea of energy and power. How does tripping a breaker help us? And how can we connect with the ultimate power source?
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Isaiah 40:29
Isaiah 40:31
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Can we just be real? Can I tell you that the cares of my heart are many?
Is your heart carrying heavy burdens as well?
When we stand together, our burdens are shared. God puts people in our lives to help shoulder the weight of our worlds. Each person blesses us in their unique way.
To receive that blessing, we have to engage. We have to be vulnerable. We have to share.
Let's take a look at sharing burdens with others and with Jesus Himself that we might be blessed.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Psalm 94:19
Proverbs 3:5-8
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There are some days during Life's Hard Battles when it feels like the best we can do is survive.
Today's podcast offers you a peek into what I do when I face days like this. I have some "go-to" verses and songs that help remind me of Truth. I also share my personal Prayer of Victory that helps me to stand firm in the waves of chaos.
What helps you to plant yourself firmly on God's Truth when life threatens to knock you down?
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
1 John 4:4
Philippians 4:6-7
Galatians 6:9
Hebrews 10:23
Isaiah 41:10
Deuteronomy 33:27a
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How's life (in 2022) going for you?
Has it been amazing or have there been a few bumps lately? Are you feeling rushed? Or that you have to have it all together?
Are there pressures and expectations swirling around you? Not in a beautiful twirl of glitter and sparkles, but more like a whirlpool threatening to pull you down into the depths of the sea?
Come with me on a journey of moving forward in a way that invites rather than demands. Let's find a way to be gentler with ourselves, as we find Grace in the Tension.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Colossians 4:5
Matthew 11:28-30
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The New Year has begun. Ready or not, 2022 is upon us.
Whether you celebrated late into the night or the date in your phone quietly changed unnoticed while you slept, we have all set sail into the uncharted waters of 2022.
We cannot know what this year holds for us, either blessings or challenges, but we can set our course. We can predetermine our outlook as we navigate through the unknowns that lie ahead.
Let's take a look at God's Word and discover some clues that may help us determine our perspective for the journey we are already on.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
2 Peter 3:17-18
John 16:33
Ephesians 2:10
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Let's focus on the 'Bright!'
"The people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light..." - Matthew 4:16
The great light in Jesus. Immanuel.
This week, we take a look at the bright Immanuel. God with us. So much is encapsulated in those 12 characters. Before we counted characters, God spoke to us through a promise. He promised to make a way for us to be with Him...by coming to be with us.
Jesus was that promise fulfilled the night he was born in the lowly stable. He came to earth as a baby, but He is still here. He remains with us today.
That is worth celebrating!
Merry Christmas!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Isaiah 7:14
Let's focus on the 'Bright!'
This week, we take a look at the bright gold. The wise men brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. That gold must have shone brightly in Jesus' humble surroundings. It also likely funded the hurried escape to Egypt. And yet there is something even more valuable than gold, God would love to receive from you this Christmas.
What does God view as more precious than gold?
Listen and you'll discover that "Life's Hard Battles" is exactly where you'll find it!
What a gift!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Matthew 2:11
1 Peter 1:7
Let's focus on the 'Bright!'
This week, we take a look at the star that led the wise men on their journey to find The King.
We venture into some "un-Christmasy" text to see what nuggets of Truth we can find to help us on our own journeys as we seek Jesus in the midst of our battles.
What can the guiding star teach us of love, our true home, and how to stay the course? And how can this help us as we continue to fight battles through the Christmas season?
Listen all the way through for a special offer!
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Matthew 2:1-2
1 Peter 2:11
2 Chronicles 20:12
Let's focus on the 'Bright!'
This time of year, there is much joy, but there is also heartbreak, struggle, and confusion. Let's find the Bright to focus on. It will lead us to The Light, Jesus, as we prepare for His coming.
This week, we take a look at angels in the Christmas story, or more accurately the human responses to the holy messages delivered through angels.
What can the responses of Zechariah, Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds teach us about ourselves and God? And how can this help us as we continue to fight battles through the Christmas season?
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Hebrew 1:14
Matthew 1 & 2
Luke 1 & 2
During holidays and family gatherings, there is rejoicing and memory making. There is also mourning and tears. Not everyone will make it to the get-together this year.
Those empty spaces are people. They have names and are dearly loved and missed, no matter the circumstances around why they are not there.
Let's not forget to mourn with those who are mourning even while we rejoice with those rejoicing.
Let's take time this season to connect in authentic ways by lifting each other up in prayer, remembering, and listening.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Romans 12:15 (NIV)
Matthew 5:1-9 (MSG)
What does giving thanks really mean? Where does gratitude come from? And what are the benefits?
Join us as we sit with God’s Word and the idea of giving thanks. We’ll answer these questions and more.
Spoiler Alert!!
The benefits are so great, we can’t even fathom!
Note:
This episode is about giving thanks. The timing coincides with Thanksgiving, but it’s about thanksgiving, the posture of our heart not the holiday.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Philippians 4:4-7
Two windows. Two completely different views.
Both true. Both real.
Both exist simultaneously in one place.
Each of us are one person. How many windows do we have? How many contrasting perspectives exist in us?
How can we live at peace with this dichotomy within us?
Join me this week as we meander through these musing and maybe you'll discover some clarity in your own windows.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
John 8:58
What do you do when tragedy strikes?
Jesus doesn't promise us an easy life, in fact, He tells us there will be trouble. So what do you do when that trouble is a giant and standing before you?
In this week's episode, we talk about doing what needs done, emotional reactions, and prayer in times of crisis. We also offer something to cling to in those troubling times.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Isaiah 55:8
John 16:33
Romans 8:26-28
Note: I say, "God used that moment to be nearer to me." What I mean is that I felt Him nearer. He is always with us. Please remember that.
"Change is the only constant." - Heraclitus
The only constant is change, or is it?
What if there is something, or rather someone, that never changes? In this season of transition, what lessons does our unchanging God have for us?
This episode may just help you let go of something 'old' to be ready for the 'new' God has for you.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Genesis 8:22
Hebrews 13:8
Can God use an ordinary trip to a grocery store to get our attention?
What does a shopping cart have to do with living in step with God?
In this episode, we discover the lesson of a shopping cart and how it teaches us to surrender our lives to Jesus. Join us in reflecting on questions inspired by a girl and a cart that just might renew your mindset today.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Colossian 2:6
Can weariness be right? Can it be an indicator for what to do next?
Join me in discovering the lesson of Hur by delving into Exodus 17.
What lessons can we learn about fighting our own battles from Moses and Hur?
Do you have supporting characters in your life? That’s who Hur was for Moses. That’s what I’d like to be for you as well.
Pull up a stone, have a seat, and let's begin!
Bible Verses referred to in this episode:
Exodus 17:8-16
Exodus 17:12
Psalm 23
Matthew 19:26
Are you in the midst of a battle? Do you long for victory?
In this pilot episode, we explore a bit deeper the foundations of Arms Upheld.
We unpack Deuteronomy 20:4 and discover truths in the verse:
The LORD is your God.
He goes with you.
Victory is the only option for our battles.
That victory may not look like what we envision, but it will be exactly what God has planned.
Come along as we begin our journey together. We will stand on God’s truth, plant seeds of hope and peace, and fix our eyes on Jesus.
Bible verses referred to in this episode:
Deuteronomy 20:4
Deuteronomy 31:6
Exodus 17
Matthew 28:20
Weighed down by burdens? Can’t sleep? Need a moment to yourself to connect with Your Creator? Even if it’s five minutes in the bathroom?
Everyone is fighting a battle. Battles can be long and hard. I want to be there for you like Aaron and Hur were for Moses in Exodus 17 and hold up your arms.
Come and see if Arms Upheld could encourage you in your battle.
God has already won the victory and He is for you. And so am I.
Bible passages mentioned in this episode:
Deuteronomy 20:4
Exodus 17