Woven in Truth Podcast

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What is God's vision for our relationships with other women in our lives? Jenn stops by to address the lies of inadequacy and scarcity that we can so easily believe in our interpersonal connections. Listen for some perspective on how our postures can shift from comparison and competition to solidarity and life-giving support in our communities.

About the Speaker
Jenn Schultz is the author of She's Not Your Enemy, and she typically writes about messy faith, shaking off insecurity, and pursuing God’s purpose confidently. Her mission is to empower women to ditch shame and striving by finding identity in God and freedom in abundant grace. She is a wife and mom who reads too many books at once, drinks decaf coffee, and speaks in scriptures and movie quotes. Find her @jennschultzauthor on social media and at jennschultzauthor.com.

Episode Notes1 Peter 5:8 “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

It’s so easy for us to make other women the enemy.

Unhealthy comparison isn’t even the root of the issue in this spiritual battle … it’s an identity issue.

“Our view of God- who he is and who says WE are- makes all the difference in how we interact with those around us.”

"Lie of Inadequacy"

“Rejection is a pain you can actually feel in your body because social pain and physical pain activate the brain in the same places…”

Q: How can we nurture more empathy and compassion that we may have labeled as such especially if they have inflicted wounds?

“Embrace the ongoing process”

Romans 5:3-5 TPT
“Even in times of trouble we have a joyful confidence, knowing that our pressures will develop in us patient endurance. 4And patient endurance will refine our character, and proven character leads us back to hope. 5And this hope is not a disappointing fantasy, because we can now experience the endless love of God cascading into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who lives in us!”

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Very few things in life are as painful and disillusioning as broken relationships- past or present. In this episode, Elizabeth Laing Thompson talks about her new book When a Friendship Falls Apart and leads us back to the perspective and comfort we can only find in God Himself.

About the Speaker:
Elizabeth Laing Thompson is the author of many books for women and teens, including All the Feels, All the Feels for Teens, and the When God Says series. She writes at ElizabethLaingThompson.com about clinging to Christ through the chaos of daily life. As a speaker and novelist, Elizabeth loves finding humor in holiness and hope in heartache. She lives in North Carolina with her preacher husband and four spunky kids.

Episode Notes:

Romans 5:3 - Jesus offered us a path to forgiveness and reconciliation
“There’s a myth that forgiveness is something you feel. Forgiveness is something you decide. Your feelings are going to take awhile to catch up with that choice.”
Friendship is a gift, not an obligation.
“Boundaries aren't to push others away. Boundaries are to help hold me together.” -Lysa TerKeurst

Book now Available! Click here to see all the places you can purchase

Wanna connect with Elizabeth? Here’s her website!

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In this episode, Mallory digs into Romans 12:9-13 to unpack the perspective-shifting treasures the passage holds. How do we live and love like Jesus in the middle of a broken world?

“Love is never wasted, for its value does not rest upon reciprocity.” (C.S Lewis)

Romans 12:9-13

Persistent theme: “The need for a humble and peaceable attitude toward others, whether fellow Christians or non-Christians."

Verse 9 “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”

The original Greek means “not playing a part”
Love is not simply a matter of emotion, but instead a matter of the will.
“Whatever attracts the mind from God, whatever draws the affections away from Christ, is an enemy to the soul” (Ellen White)
“We must not only do that which is good, but we must cleave to it. It denotes a deliberate choice of, a sincere affection for, and a constant perseverance in, that which is good.” (Henry Commentary)
In this chapter, Paul is focusing on our responsibility as christians to “live a life of love in the midst of a fallen world.” (Moo pg. 84)
I can’t be FAITHFUL and CYNICAL at the same time.

Verse 10- Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.

Honor means A high internal attitude of respect, courtesy, or esteem for.
How often do we willingly yield to our brothers and sisters as a way of showing honor to them?
Our honor of others cannot be conditional or based on reciprocity.
"We have to remember that the only person qualified to throw a stone- didn’t."
We often judge others by their impact but judge ourselves by our intentions.

Verse 11- “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”

Zeal: “a burning desire to please God, to do His will, and to advance His glory in the world in every possible way” (Erik Raymond)
“Do not slack in your faithfulness and hard work…”- It’s good to consider, have I been slacking in my faithfulness?

Verse 12- “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

We rejoice in HOPE - not in circumstances or outcomes.
Patient: “denotes not a passive putting up with things, but an active, steadfast endurance.” (Morris)
“Some virtues are seen only in affliction.” (Webster)
Suffering is inevitable, Joy & hope amidst suffering is not.
God cares for us holistically.
“We can continue to spend all of our energy fighting the waves or we can choose to adjust our sails.” Its a posture of patience amid trials.
CS Lewis quote- “We ought to give thanks for all fortune; if it is good, because it is good, if bad- because it works in us patience, humility and the contempt of this world and the hope of our eternal country.”

Verse 13- Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Mother Theresa quote - “God gives us things to share, He doesn’t give us things to hold.”
“consume less, share better.”
Great tragedy of aloneness in our society

There is an immense need for the Spirit’s intervention if we are to live Christian lives…

F. S. Fitzgerald — 'I hope you live a life you're proud of. And if you find that you're not, I hope you have the strength to start all over again.”

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What do you do when you feel like nobody REALLY sees you? In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Konzen returns to the podcast to discuss the impact of truly believing that God is attentive to us as individuals. Jen shares a bajillion beautiful scriptures and unpacks the POWERFUL spiritual, emotional and physical implications of living “seen & heard” in our walks with God as followers of Jesus.

Woven in Truth proudly promotes the Beloved & Dignified Conference happening ONLINE May 5-6, 2023.

Conference Blurb: “Women Helping Women Heal”
- Many of our lives have been touched by suffering not of our own choosing. Biblically, hell (sheol in the Hebrew) can be used to designate the lowest valley, the place “under the mountains” where hope seems hidden from view (see Job 24:8). These kind of situations stir longing for the next life. In the pain, moving beyond survival is difficult and finding a safe circle that understands isn’t always easy. No matter what has happened (or may happen ahead), we are beloved and dignified daughters of God. Join us as we sit with the pain, affirm how low these valleys can be, and explore where to find God in our lowest times.
- YOU are invited! Register today if this resonates with you- it is exclusively online and classes will not be recorded. Should be an amazing experience!

About this Episode's Guest:Dr. Konzen is the director for the Center for Sexuality in San Diego, CA. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist, a certified sex therapist, and a certified chemical dependency counselor. She is also a two-time nationally award-winning researcher, an international speaker, and an adjunct professor. Dr. Konzen is the author of The Art of Intimate Marriage, Redeemed Sexuality and The Ransomed Journey: Couples Recovery from Addiction.

Episode Notes:

“You are the God who sees me.."- Genesis 16:13

Q: What makes you feel seen & heard?

He Sees

Ps 139:2
Deut 32:10-11
Ps 34
Ps 32:8
Ps 121:5
Psalm 31:7
Psalm 31:21
Gen 28:15

He sees our joys & victories

John 16:22
Romans 12:15
Ps 149:4
Zeph 3:17
Psalm 116:1
Psalm 55:17

Click here to see Jen's scripture resource

“I AM WITH YOU…” Exercise

Practicing the Presence

Ps 27:8
Num 6:25
Ps 17:15
Psalm 16:9-11
Psalm 31:20
Jeremiah 6:16

Jesus’s Words to Women

“This woman will be remembered”
“Daughter”
“She has chosen what is better”
“She has given everything”
“Mary!” “Jennifer!”
“She has loved much”
“Leave her alone”
“Your faith is great”
“Go in peace”
“I don’t condemn you”

Resource Recommendations:

Centering Prayer App
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry (Comer)
Journey of the Soul (IPI, Sumerlin)
Meditations (Virginia Lefler)
Invitation to Solitude and Silence (Barton)

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In this compelling episode, Maria McHargue joins us to talk about what it means for her to be faithful as a Christian who manages chronic pain. Suffering can feel unbearable at times, but God invites us to rely on Him and His love- even when nothing makes sense. Maria encourages us to anchor ourselves in Scripture as we claim God as our Rock, Refuge, and Rest amid life’s painful struggles. Wherever you are, you are not alone.

About the Speaker:Maria is originally from New Jersey and has been a disciple for over 20 years. She has a Masters in Social Work as well as her clinical license and worked as a foster care social worker for several years before going into the full-time ministry. Maria and her husband Cash have been married for over 13 years and have two kids- Isabella who is 12 and Hunter who is 10. She has served in ministry for the last 15 years in Baltimore Maryland, Madrid Spain, and Boston where she currently serves as a Women’s Ministry Leader in the South Coastal Region. Her life took a radical turn while living in Spain when she was diagnosed with a spinal tumor that left her unable to walk and in tremendous pain. After a quick flight home and two surgeries later she was partially paralyzed and her journey to relearn to walk began. She still deals with chronic pain and fatigue but she is passionate about women’s ministry and inspiring others to persevere through life’s trials. Maria is grateful for opportunities to share her story and help women grow in their trust in God.

Episode Notes:

Psalm 94:18-19- When I said, “My foot is slipping!” Your unfailing love, O Eternal One, held me up. When anxiety overtakes me and worries are many, Your comfort lightens my soul.

Tim Keller: “Suffering is unbearable if you aren’t certain that God is for you and with you.”

Psalm 62:1-8

God as our Rock, Refuge & Rest

Muscle Memory

the Bible is my spiritual muscle memory
Turn to the Psalms in dark and lonely places
Like David, our hope can be found in God’s faithfulness.

“Anchor Scriptures” help you not drift

“Ever present hope”
Help us be still and grounded in God. He is in control.
Lam 3:21
Psalm 46:1
Reliance on God when nothing makes sense
Hebrews 5: 7-9

Where do you turn when you want to give up?
When you’re feeling hopeless and helpless?
When life doesn’t make sense

Look to Jesus and His example; fix your eyes on Him so you can endure.
Hebrews 12:1-3
Jesus’ example gave me and continues to give me hope

Perservance, endurance is hard: It is inspiring to hear stories of how people overcame and endured difficulties- but it is not easy being the one going to through it

There are many tears
It is lonely
Exhausting
Sad

Isaiah 26:3-4

Eyes on God for spiritual rest
Helps to remind me of gratitude
What God has brought me through
Looking to God and not the problem
Gratitude lists

Psalm 18:1-2- “I love you, LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”

“God didn’t bring us this far to fail."

Anchor scriptures; Looking to God as my Refuge, my Rock and my Rest

Be gracious with yourself, God is gracious with you.

Pain & Joy can coexist - God is with you in & through the pain.

Connect With Maria and hear more of her content!

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In this episode, Silvia Mendez joins us to unpack the concept of boundaries through a biblical lens. Relationships are such a gift, but they can be sticky blessings to manage when they become entangled. Silvia shares phenomenal insight and many passages to help us identify unhealthy patterns and untrue narratives and encourages us to let God renew our minds for His glory and our ultimate good.

About the Speaker:Silvia Mendez has been a grateful disciple for 33 years. She is the proud mother of two amazing adult children: Luis Jr. & Jennay. Silvia was happily married for 28 years to an incredible man of faith, Luis, who has now gone on to be with the Lord. For three years Silvia has been adjusting to life as a widow, but she continues to work and serve as a women’s ministry leader. Silvia loves learning new things every day and is deeply grateful to have the Lord walking beside her on this new chapter of her life.

Episode Notes:Galatians 6:2-5: Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves.Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else,for each one should carry their own load.

Concepts and Material Inspired from: Spiritual Discovery by Jim & Virginia Lefler

Distinguishing between loads and burdens in interpersonal relationships.

Entangled Relationship: One or both parties have unhealthy patterns that lead to some type of disfunction or strife.

Codependency defined in this lesson from Galatians 6: Carrying someone’s load or giving someone else your load to carry.

Burden is anything that makes a weight too heavy to carry on your own: physically, mentally or spiritually.

Examples of Burdens we strive to help one another with:

Need for guidance or encouragement
Need for food or clothing (James 2:15-16)
Loss of loved one (James 1:27)
Sickness, Disease, trauma or other life crisis (Romans 12:10)

Load comes from the Greek word for portion, used to describe a soldier’s pack.

Examples of Loads that we all are meant to carry ourselves:

Working to provide for your necessities (plan, budget)
Fulfilling responsibilities at work & at home (Col 3:23-24)
Being accountable for your choices and decisions and owning the consequences. (Proverbs 19:3)
Being responsible for your own emotions- including your own happiness.
Being responsible for our sin and personal walks with God

Satan plants lies and narratives that will tempt us to overstep healthy boundaries. Most of these are rooted in either:

Entitlement
Fear
Shame

Cool translation of James 1:27- “One of the purest and most undefiled demonstrations of the gospel is to move towards hard places and broken people, not away from them”

What are the lies that I’ve bought into that God wants me to be free from?

What is God’s truth? What does HE say about me?

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In this episode, Lauren Peterson joins us to unpack the historically ambiguous concept of living life in physical bodies as Christian women. There’s a distinct duality that many of us face: in religious circles we may have learned to view life in a body as something to be tamed or ignored. Then we have the opposite messaging of our secular culture which can place an inordinate degree of value and pressure on all that is physical. Lauren invites us to identify and separate unhealthy ideologies from God’s divine intention for us to exist as fully-integrated human beings.

About the Speaker
Lauren is a therapist with Strength & Serenity Counseling LLC. She received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Drury University and her MSW from Loyola University Chicago. She currently resides in the Quad Cities where she and her husband Craig have been married for 10 years and have 3 wonderful children: Eliana, Cael and Enya.

Episode Notes:

Goal: To normalize the questions and frustrations many Christian women experience about their bodies and encourage gentle curiosity.

Matthew Anderson in Earthen Vessels, “more often than not, we don’t know which lies and bad arguments we have formed our lives around. After all, the ideas that are deepest in us are almost never learned in books, but are forged and engrained through the habitual patterns of life that make up our embodied existence”

“May we be women who filter these messages through the Word of God so our deepest ideas about our precious bodies are not built by habit or unwittingly adopted patterns but by the Holy Spirit himself.”

The “problem” of the body. We tend to:

Ignore it
Demonize it
Feel overwhelmed/confused by it
Internalize the world’s misuse and objectification of it.
Medicalize the body

“Dualisms that are embedded in our religious traditions have created a false separation between the spiritual realm and the material world, leaving us an “ambiguous legacy” regarding the body…” Ruth Haley Barton.

Consequences of separating from the body:

Cannot experience joy and positive emotion to their fullest extent.
Disconnection can open the door to sin. When we are disconnected from our bodies, we are unaware of the good but also deeply unaware of our deep seeded anger, fear, etc. Satan uses this as fuel.

The Solution: Recognize the body as essential to the human spiritual experience and as GOOD in its original form.

Learn to parse out what is original from what is broken.
Learn to differentiate biblically between body and “flesh”/“sarx”: ‘Romans 8:5.
Be a student of the Word when it comes to Scriptures on the body.1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Paul’s writings are built on the Old Testament foundation of a perfectly created body, knitted together in our mother’s wombs.
Integrate the body as a part of the WHOLE and bring praise and gratitude to the areas of the body the world ignores
Incorporate the physical spiritual disciplines- sabbath, silence and solitude, slow movement-taste, touch,etc

In Hopeful Summary- the scriptures on resurrectional embodiment teach us that the body is originally good, built for pleasure, and will be perfectly good again.

We can be a part of a culture shift that challenges both the cultural objectification but also the religious silencing of the body.

Resources:

Real Sex by Lauren Winner
Unwanted by Jay Stringer
Redeemed Sexuality and Art of Intimate Marriage by Jennifer Konzen
Earthen Vessels by Matthew Anderson
Soul Virgins Doug Rosenau

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In this episode, Marina De Anda joins us to discuss her own journey from depletion to redemption after a season of burnout. Our lives are filled with demands, responsibilities, and blessings to manage that can leave us exhausted. We all can get lost in our roles but Marina unpacks the power of stillness and ways to embrace the breathing room our souls desperately crave.

Episode Notes:

Life can feel overwhelming - complete exhaustion.
Apathy is a sign of burnout
“In helping roles and professions, we as women want to be everything for everyone, but at some point in that we can start to betray ourselves.”

1 Peter 1:8

Psalm 62:1- My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

MSG Version: God, the one and only—I’ll wait as long as he says. Everything I need comes from him, so why not? He’s solid rock under my feet, breathing room for my soul….

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Dawn Russell joins us for a refreshing conversation about her journey of cultivating a massive garden and the transformative conversations she's had with God Himself in the process. There's so much divinity found in the literal and metaphorical dirt of our world. Take some time to listen and consider what beauty, healing or redemption is God sowing in your soul?

About the Speaker:
Dawn Russell is a woman *navigating through marriage, motherhood and friendships with the help of Jesus, a faith community and coffee. Her and her husband, Greg, are parents to two young boys and work as ministry leaders in Los Angeles. Dawn has been a Christian for 16 years and is passionate about helping others live fulfilling lives in Christ by discovering their own unique gifts and talents.

Episode Notes:*

Romans 12:20- “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”

-“Before I even knew who God was, He revealed himself through nature…”

Matthew 13:36-43

-“God, where are you when it hurts?”

-How do we handle the good and the bad coinciding in this life?

“God created us as humans to transform pain into beauty…”

God is the master gardener- He knows exactly what He is doing. And if he says things might be unsightly

Gardening- Participating in God’s nature.

There’s beauty found in process.

There’s so much life that’s waiting to be activated!

To connect more with Dawn check out her blog!

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In this episode, Jodi Hayward shares some insights on the fear phenomenon and God's invitation to lean on him in uncertainty. Fear is a normal expression of our humanity, but it can become a thief if left untethered- robbing us of the ability to enjoy life and identify the beauty in it. But Jodi reminds us of God's heart to secure ours- “He will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trusts in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)

About the Speaker:
Jodi Hayward is an Educational Consultant in Kansas City, Missouri. She has been married to her husband Mark for 35 years and loves being a mother to her adult children: Nate and his wife Kendall, Mallory and her husband Jeremy, and Ariana. She is a grandmother to Ellie Jo, a 4 year-old, who keeps her laughing. Jodi loves God, His Kingdom, and finding sunshine- literally and metaphorically.

Episode Notes:

Lament: a passionate expression of grief & sorrow.

Lam. 3: 55-58

Fear:

Unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat!
A feeling of anxiety concerning the outcome of something or the safety and well-being of someone.
“Fear robs me of the ability to enjoy life and see the beauty of it.”
Fear as a verb: avoid or put off doing something because you are afraid!

What helps you to overcome your fears and trust God?

Isaiah 26:3

1. “God will keep in perfect peace”

Perfect: absolute, complete
Peace: Free from disturbance, a mental calm, and serenity.

2. “Him whose mind is steadfast”

Steadfast: resolutely firm, determined & unwavering

3. “Because he trusts in you!”

Is. 26:4 “Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord is the rock eternal!”
Trust: Firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability or strength of someone or something.

Heb. 12:1 "Let us throw off everything that hinders & the sin that so easily entangles, and run with perseverance the race marked out for us."

Q: What hinders you from being steadfast, determined & unwavering?

Social media, feelings, emotions, or others opinions
One of the things that can hinder me is my phone: all of its dings, pings and the call to worship it. Is it my golden calf?
What takes up your time & energy or distracts you? What are you really devoted too?

God’s Word is the key!

Rom. 10:17 Faith comes from hearing the message & the message is heard through the Word of Christ.
John 8:31-32 If, you hold to the teaching then you are really my disciples then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free…free from fear!
Holding to God’s Word in a time of information overload.

James 1: 19-21:b Anger is a secondary emotion often driven by fear!

· Fear drives me to be quick to speak & slow to listen

Lam 3:22-24

Lam. 3: 55-58- “You came near when I called you, and you said, ‘Do not fear’…you took up my case; you redeemed my life!”

Questions:

What helps you to overcome your fears? How can you cultivate that area in your life?
What is something that may be hindering you in your walk with God? Causing you to have more fear than faith!
What is a gem from God’s Word that can help you to grow?

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Dr. Jennifer Konzen joins us in this fascinating episode as we explore the sacred space between life's stimuli and our reactions. Jennifer teaches us how to honor our initial feelings and thoughts while ultimately responding based on our values and who we want to be before God.

About the Speaker:
Dr. Konzen is the director for the Center for Sexuality in San Diego, CA. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist, a certified sex therapist, and a certified chemical dependency counselor. She is also a two-time nationally award-winning researcher, an international speaker,and an adjunct professor in San Diego at Bethel Seminary and Alliant International University, and online at Rocky Mountain School of Ministry and Theology. Dr. Konzen is the author of The Art of Intimate Marriage and Redeemed Sexuality and the newly released The Ransomed Journey: Couples Recovery from Addiction. Jennifer lives with her family in beautiful San Diego, California where she has been involved with shepherding and leading in the married and youth and family ministries.

Episode Notes:
“Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom” - Viktor Frankl

"People want to be able to genuinely express what they think or feel from a place that does not feel out of control."

Scriptures:

2 Corinthians 1:3-5 NIV - When we have distressed emotions we can remember that we have a compassionate God.
Isaiah 63:9- "In all their distress, he too was distressed" - God sits beside us in our distress, He doesn't wag His finger in our distress.

2 Corinthians 10:5- "Take every thought captive"- this scripture is used out of context very often; this isn't about your emotions and thoughts.

We can respond based on our values instead of our initial, emotional reactions

Stewarding the Sacred Space:

Before we can respond based on our values, we have to soothe psychologically if we are highly triggered.
Adrenaline floods the body when we are activated in .05 seconds; it takes about 20 minutes for adrenaline to calm back down.

Let the feelings talk:

God is kind enough to give us the space to sit with our emotions and let them talk for a minute before we try to either squash them or give them full vent.
Give yourself time to honor your feelings and reactions but ultimately responding to life's stimuli based on your values and who you want to be.
"I can feel myself getting reactive to this, I want to be able to share this with you in the best way possible- can I come back and try again later?"

Blame Game: Isaiah 58:9-10: “do away...with the pointing finger..."

Ephesians 4:15 - Speak the truth in love.Psalm 16:8

Jen's Recommended Resources:

Book: Emotionally Healthy Spirituality
Book: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
ACT: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Resources – Hayes, Harris
Russ Harris Videos on YouTube
Podcast: theartofintimatemarriage.com
Retreats:
- Alaska Retreats
- Sabbath Rest

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Patty Mata joins us for a chain-breaker of a conversation based on IMAGE; our perceptions of self. So often we can find ourselves frazzled by the pressure to shape ourselves- spiritually, but also in our physical bodies. At the core of our being, we are pursuing wholeness, and we won’t ever find that in a culturally contingent ideal. Psalm 23:3 says, “He makes me whole again, steering me off worn, hard paths to roads where truth and righteousness echo His name.” The Scriptures invite us to a healthier narrative based on trust, submission & even delight in being formed, and loved, by God himself.

About the Speaker:Patty Mata currently serves as a campus pastor in MD and is a soon to be church planter in the DC area. Canadian born and a Social Worker by trade, Patty has a passion for serving her community and helping people find freedom in Christ. She also loves her dog and husband, believes coach potato-ing is a lifestyle and has the tendency of laughing at her own jokes.

Episode Notes:

Who am I reflecting? And why?

The truth is that image does matter and isn’t just superficial… it matters to us because it matters to God. But there’s healthy and unhealthy directions this can go.
The Beauty Myth: How Images of Beauty Are Used Against Women by Naomi Wolf
What matters most to God is that we reflect HIS image.. not the carbon copies that our culture has to offer.
Image- your perception of self based on larger context of influence.

Q: What is God’s heart around image?

“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them… God saw all that he had made, and it was very good…” Genesis 1:27, 31
We HAVE been created in HIS image, and He already deemed us as GOOD- before any shaping by our own efforts.

God as architect of the temple:

1 Corinthians 6:19-20, he asks, “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
Am I submitting to God as the architect of ME? In my body and as a person?
Or am I trying to take the reins as the architect versus temple maintenance?

Isaiah 64:8- The voice— Still, Eternal One, You are our Father. We are just clay, and You are the potter. We are the product of Your creative action, shaped and formed into something of worth.”

2 Corinthians 4:4- “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God”

Comparisons and cultural beauty narratives can actually create barriers to unity.

Building habits based on freedom versus based on fear.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7…”Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
These characteristics of love - is this how we love our own bodies? Am I patient with my body? Am I kind to it? etc….

Connect more with Patty: Jesus Ate Too

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In this episode, Jewel Burton joins the podcast to discuss the sweetness of friendships and the beautiful truth that God wires us for meaningful community. Sisterhood is such a gift, and at the end of the day, we need each other. What growth and abundance may await if you open yourself up to new, or renewed, friendships?

About the Speaker:Jewel Burton is passionate about God and His word, but also the beauty that God gives us in relationships with other women. She has the privilege to serve as Women’s Ministry Leader, alongside her husband, in the Turning Point Church. She is not only a follower of Jesus but a mother, sister and friend.

Episode Notes:

Main Passage: Ruth 1:1-22

We NEED each other
V.16-18
Hebrews 10:24- And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,
Relationships with other women upgrade us… they have the potential to "upgrade" us rather than diminish one or the other.
We really are better.. Friendships can help us on our journeys of spiritual formation— if we let them!
“People who think they’ve arrived never stop to ask for directions” (John Mark Comer)
Article Reference: It’s Science: Having Sisters Helps You Become A Better Person
Our differences connect us
1 Corinthians 12:12-27 (One body, many parts)
“Iron will never sharpen iron in an echo chamber”
- @aussiedave
- People who look, act, and think like you won’t always help you become the best version of yourself.
Allow God to surprise you
Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV)
“Once in a Lifetime” moments, experiences and relationships
1 Samuel 3:11(ESV)
Question to consider: How have you been giving the different & unique women you are surrounded by chance?

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In our content flooded culture, do you ever experience the spiritual tug of war between clarity and confusion? Maryann Rose joins the podcast to remind us of the accessible truth of the Scriptures and their ability to help us reclaim confident ground. God's word is filled with insights that will equip us for each season as we move through ambiguity and into refinement.

About the Speaker:

Maryann Rose has a Master's Degree in French Literature from Arizona State University and has been an educator and a writer for thirty years. She and her husband Keith have two married children, and they are grandparents to three adorable grandchildren. An avid traveler, reader and yoga enthusiast, Maryann loves discovery and adventure. She and Keith make their home in San Diego, California.

Episode Notes

“The Bible was true in it’s inception, and is true today”

In a content-filled culture, we have a lot of opportunity to collect ideas.

The Bible is the authority:
2 Tim 3:16-17
- Useful- this ancient book is useful!
- Bible equips us, guides us. In every season and in each aspiration to His glory.
- “We all have tons of content from which to choose these days and I’m encouraged by so much of what I read and the ‘influencers’ of the world, but the Bible still needs to be my main source for wisdom- and I can come to insight and conclusions on my own.”
The Bible is (and should be) at the center of regular Christian fellowship.
It is meant to be taught day-to-day by average disciples of Jesus, irrespective of title, education or standing.
1 Peter 2:9
Christianity isn’t a “Sunday” thing, it’s a daily lifestyle that should permeate every corner of our lives.
“The essential thing ‘in heaven and earth’ is that there should be a long obedience in the same direction…something which has made life worth living.” -Nietzche
Verbiage that Maryann unpacks: Refinement//Evolution; Refinement & Clarity//Nuance
Nicodemus reference- John 3; When people bring Jesus nuance, he gives them clarity.
The Word of God is relevant for a lifetime
Managing expectations for “quiet times”— Consistent > Ideal
Ephesians 4:17-20
It’s so much more than just being “good”, it is about living a life that isn’t futile.
Futility def: pointlessness or uselessness.
Beware: Futility found in the influx of content available to us.
Hosea 10:12

What if I proceeded in faith? Being sure of what I hope for and certain of what I do not see?

We can take the time to vet and evaluate our resources; hold them up to the Scriptures- to not just absorb someone else's insight, but gain our own.

Philippians 4:8-9 to carry with you as you go into whatever comes next for you today- “Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.”

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Maggie Butterfield joins the podcast to discuss community and shares some refreshing perspectives on embracing social circles in new and different ways. There’s so much richness to be found in life as we take small steps to establish connections and build friendships without agenda. We can give the Spirit room to move as we build bridges to share the gospel and learn a lot from others as we love people deeply without contingencies.

About the Speaker

Maggie Butterfield leads the Springfield, MO Church of Christ alongside her husband, Arlee. They are raising their 3 daughters, Madelynne (13), Maylee (10), and Abigail (5) to be countercultural ladies! She has a heart for the small church and loves building community where she is planted. Maggie loves all things foodie and health and wellness and is currently studying the brain and trauma. She can also be found running a podcast with her gal pals called The Artichoke Heart. You can find them on facebook, Instagram or Spotify. She would love to have you join her online community!

Episodes Notes

Maggie’s definition of Community: A group that comes together over a common interest, passion, or a sharing of space with others.

We are designed and built for community. Doing life with others matters- to our lives on Earth, but ultimately before God and His plans & purposes.

Isaiah 43:18-19- “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

Small steps to establish connections and friendships are so important- this doesn’t just help us socially but spiritually as well. We can share the gospel and also learn a lot from others.

Connecting agenda-free with people who have different belief systems makes us well rounded and able to build bridges with others.

Community is about loving people deeply, not having an agenda or timeline.

Barriers to building new or meaningful community:

Focusing on the differences instead of the commonalities.
Having an agenda or forcing a narrative.
Assuming that you will be the influencer of the group
Our own fears or assumptions.
Holding on to ideas that we have picked up over the years.
Shutting down when people don’t think or communicate exactly like you.

“You miss out when you let the barriers get in the way of the richness of what could be and how God wants to work.”

We can seek to love people well in our communities, not just “convert” them.

Build community in a spot where God already has you- instead of adding something else, just be more intentional where you already are…

The Artichoke Heart- community that reaches families, builds bridges etc.

“Be the community that you want to have”

Give yourself permission to not have all the answers.

Romans 12:1-2 living sacrifice reference- changing our posture in the communities we are already in.

“Don't ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” Howard Thurman

Check out The Artichoke Heart community!

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Lauren Malcolm joins the podcast to unpack Active Listening and the power and potential of this spiritual skill. Lauren helps us consider ways we can approach & respond to others that leads to unity, mutual understanding and ultimately individual and collective growth.

As followers of Jesus, we are learners, & most learning is contingent upon listening. There is so much opportunity to glorify God & advance His purposes through building a community of active listeners amidst a culture of contempt. God is equipping us to take his Kingdom to deeper places by banding together and hearing each other out.

About the Speaker

Lauren Malcolm lives in State College, PA with her handsome husband Jamison, three wonderful children (Rory, Luke and Jordan), and mini golden doodle Miley. Born in the Midwest and raised in CA with a brief interlude in Jersusalem, Israel, Lauren has grown up in diverse environments and attended The University of Georgia for college where she studied Latin American and Caribbean Studies. Later she attended the University of Pennsylvania where she got her Masters in Social Work. She currently leads the Nittany Church alongside her husband. She loves talking and connecting with people and has had to learn to be a better listener.

Active Listening implies engagement, reflection, and asking clarifying questions. You aren’t just listening to get someone off your back or to get to your point, but you are listening with the intent of making them feel heard and learning alongside them.

1 Kings 10:1-5

Example of Solomon and Queen of Sheba

Take aways:

Come with questions:

She recognized an opportunity to learn!
She came with the intent to learn.
Learners' spirits- We need to be eager to ask questions and seek understanding.

Be honest with what’s inside:

We need to bring our full selves to what we do and not be afraid to share honestly where we are stuck and struggling.

Accept the test:

Solomon was not reactive!
We accept the test by putting on humility...he didn’t get threatened by her questions or react defensively- the true test was her trust in God.

Invest:

Trust has to be built first. Manage expectations.

"When I take the time to draw out someone’s heart rather than defending myself, I am able to learn and own my part and they are able to learn and take responsibility for their part."

Are we going to miss the opportunity to grow in the character of Christ and in relationships that build up the Kingdom JUST because of the way the information is presented?

Practically how can we engage in active listening:

Be attentive - Mindful of body language, eye contact, distractions, etc.
Ask Open-Ended Questions “How did what I say land on you?”
Ask Probing Questions - Dig to get to the heart of what they’re trying to communicate.
Request Clarification “I’m a little confused by this piece, can you help me understand?:
Paraphrase “So this is what I hear you saying….”
Be attuned to and reflect feelings “I imagine that you felt _____, is that what you felt?”
Summarize “Here’s what I’m taking away from this conversation… is there anything else?”

God is equipping us to take his Kingdom to deeper places by banding together and hearing each other out.

We have so much to be learned from each other and the future of the church depends upon it. So let us become active listeners who truly seek after wisdom.

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In this episode, our TREASURE of a friend, Leigh Kinnard, joins the podcast to share her insights on "waiting" in life. Instead of reluctantly hoping for God to fix things as we would like for Him to, how can we learn how to go through these times of waiting WITH Him? Rather than existing consumed by outcomes or results we are invited to live presently, intentionally entwined with God, for every step of the nuanced journey of life this side of eternity.

About the Speaker:
Leigh Kinnard has been a disciple of Jesus for 38 years. She and her husband , Steve
moved from the south to be a part of the New York City church of Christ a few
months after it began in 1983. They have lived for months at a time in Africa and
Israel working with the churches in those countries and currently are a part of the
Hudson Valley Region of the NYC church. Steve and Leigh recently celebrated their
40th wedding anniversary. They have 2 adult children and two grandsons.

Episode Notes:

Waiting is a necessary part of our lives. HOW we wait is a decision.

What are you waiting for right now?

How are you handling your “wait?” What do you struggle with as you wait?

Instead of waiting for God to fix things as we would like for Him to, He wants us to learn how to go through these times with Him, trusting the outcome to Him.

It is so easy to focus on the end result instead of the journey.

Two truths -

God is always moving
Trust His timing

Who will I be as I wait?

How does God define waiting? (Most verses will be from the Passion Translation)

Psalm 27:13,14
Psalm 25:3-5
Qavah – Hebrew word-means to “tie together by twisting, entwine, or wrap tightly”
Picture a rope twisted tightly together, entwined-strong – all strands connected. When one strand disconnects, the rope gets frayed, unraveled – eventually affects the whole rope....
How do we wait this way with God?
- Psalm 131

HUMILITY-decide to be a true learner-What does God want me to learn in this process of waiting?

We GET to learn.

What helps me:

Ongoing list of scriptures on God is always moving/working – so many in OT
- In NT – Jesus carries this on and shows us how John 5:17
Pray through the scriptures Psalms 130:5,6
- Gets his emotions out, connects to God, reminds himself of the truth
- Rev 8:3-4 – Prayers keep working
Put Jesus in the room
- Instead of trying to “fix it” fix my eyes on Jesus
- Matthew 11:28-30 exp v 29 – “Bend your neck” decide to focus on being connected to Jesus-trusting Him to do the hard part.
Trust Gods timing
- John 11:4 – Its about God getting the glory, people seeing Jesus, in God's time – not me getting what I want when I want it. He is always listening.
- Micah 7:7,8

How I wait affects others – Strive to be who God wants us to be as we are waiting – entwining our hearts with Gods heart-hold on tight and refuse to let go.

Isaiah 40:28-31

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Elaina Rosenquist joins the podcast to share her refreshing journey of embracing rest and the life-giving and biblical invitation to Sabbath. Through Shabbat, we are called out of the crushing pressure of striving and into a liberating exodus from tension. How can we cultivate rest, worship, and delight in our lives in this hectic side of eternity?

About the SpeakerElaina Rosenquist leads the Pittsburgh Church of Christ with her husband, James. They have two children Jack (5) and Anna (2) and a fish named Happy. Elaina loves exploring her beautiful city, drinking tea, doing yoga and working as a nurse which she gets to do twice a month at a hospital. She has an Instagram account where she posts some spiritual thoughts and lessons she is learning @plantedby_thewater. Follow her for more content!

Episode Notes
A Check-In question to ask yourselves: What does my body need and what would be helpful to make the rest of the day go well?

Psalm 73:26

Psalm 46:10 NASB- “Stop striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted on the earth.”

Rest in a biblical sense, requires surrender and humility.

Matt 11:27-29 Jesus invites us to rest

Matthew 14:15-16 humility of Jesus

When we are tired how often do we honor that request from our body to give it what it needs?

"Remember everything you are doing, and then be gentle with yourself."

John 5:19-20

My working definition of sabbath:

time frame where we delight in God, creation, in Gods work and the work we have done
it is a time frame where we do not work
it’s not a date but an atmosphere
it’s an “exodus from tension”
it’s a gift from God to mankind
it is refreshment
a time of rest
a time of celebration
it’s having that living water John 4
sabbath means I have enough and I am enough
it’s a command from God in the Old Testament, it was practiced by Jesus (differently than how the religious teachers of the day practiced it)
practiced by Jesus followers even after his death (the women waited till after sabbath over to tend to Jesus dead body)
sabbath is wisdom
it’s not just a day off but a day of resting in and celebrating God.

*which ones resonate with you- what would YOU add to this working definition?

“Sabbath is more than just a day, its a way of being in the world. It’s a spirit of restfulness that comes from abiding, from living in the Father’s loving presence all week long.”

Sabbath boundaries- might be different for people.

Practicals -

Prepping- "What can I do today that will make tomorrow more restful?"
Pick a day or time period ahead of time
Write down boundaries

“For many of us the great danger is not that we will renounce our faith, it is that we will become so distracted and rushed and preoccupied that we will settle for a mediocre version of it. We will just skim our lives instead of actually living them.” Ortberg

Resources for sabbath and rest:
* John Mark Comer books- “Ruthless Elimination of Hurry” and “Garden City” * Peter Scazzero “Emotionally Healthy Leadership” * Abraham Joshua Heschel “The sabbath” * (Not spiritual) “The Highly Sensitive Parent” by Elaine Aron

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Pam & Kim Bowers join us on the podcast to affirm a lot of the wonderful things you are already doing as parents & caregivers, but also provide some insights on anchoring our perspective of what it means to parent our children in the Lord. Developing faith is not mutually exclusive from a child’s development; don't miss this dream-team's inspiring perspective rooted in proactivity & intentionality for facilitating faith in our children.

About the Speakers

Pam- Hailing from simple Henderson, Nevada, Pam Bowers has been a Christian for over 30 years. Her walk with God began in the early ‘80s when she was met while playing professional golf. God knew exactly what she needed when in 1990, she met and married her faith-filled husband, Dale. Together, they have served in God’s kingdom in many different capacities, from small-group leaders to Elder/Elder’s Wife. They have two incredible friends in their adult children—both of whom are pursuing doctoral-level graduate studies. Professionally, God has blessed Pam abundantly, as she is a Top 50 Master Kids Golf Instructor and co-instructor at the Bowers Golf Academy. Recently, God has brought to fruition a long burning dream for Pam and her daughter, Kim, to publish a series of children’s books, which teach social-emotional development anchored in God’s word. Through the many twists and turns in life, God has been the Ultimate Friend and anchor for Pam—she cannot wait to see what adventure lies around the next bend.

Kim- Kim Bowers is a 25-year-old coffee-drinking, fun-loving daughter of God. She has been a Christian for almost 10 years. In those 10 years, God has taken her from a high school student in Nevada to a Psychology PhD student in Colorado. Sometime in between, Kim earned her MEd in Elementary Education and taught first grade. God has also used her in a variety of ways to serve his kingdom: from small-group leader to young professionals ministry co-leader. Most recently, God has taken her talents and experience down a new route. Alongside her incredible mother, Kim has co-authored children’s books aimed to help children learn the necessary skills to regulate their emotions—while also equipping parents with the skills to facilitate their child’s social-emotional learning. With all that lies ahead, Kim is looking forward to the many adventures God has in store for her.

Episode Notes:

We’re very deliberate in helping our children meet their developmental milestones, but how deliberate do we need to be to ensure our kid’s are hitting their spiritual milestones?

Developing faith is not mutually exclusive from a Child’s development.

Three different lenses of parenting- parent-centered, child-centered, God-centered

Definition of God-centered parenting: custodial posture- place of humility, being accountable before God for the molding of a life.

What does God-centered Parenting look like?

Proactivity

Partly windows due development
Zones of Parenting Handout

Intentionality

Relationship over Rules

A word of encouragement

One day at a time
Do your best and God will do the rest - go off of the strength that you have

The books are now available for order through their website: www.smoothsailingbooks.com. You can also purchase them online through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

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In this refreshing episode, Jenn Schultz joins the podcast to discuss waiting & watering. Although seasons of planting and harvesting can be exciting, so much of life is just about showing up in the in-betweens. "It’s time to get excited about this stage, to appreciate the process God has us in, and to put on lenses of faith to see the transformation that is happening within us as we water.” Don't underestimate God's hand in seasons of watering, there's miracles in the mundane!

About the Speaker:Jenn is a recovering perfectionist and a writer at Whatyoumakeitblog.com, encouraging women to live loved and wholehearted, right where you are. She’s a wife and mom living in the Pacific Northwest, and you can usually find her with a cup of decaf coffee and a good book.

Episode Notes:

Appreciate the Process; Miracles are happening in the watering. There’s something growing, even if you can’t see it. Why? Because God is behind the growing.

It’s time to get excited about this stage, to appreciate the process God has us in, and to put on lenses of faith to see the transformation that is happening within us as we water.

The Bible talks so much about water!

Baptism - Romans 6:3-4 - we were baptized into Jesus’s death and raised with him!
Streams in the desert - Isaiah 35:3-7 - God comes to save us and water comes and refreshes a land that was once parched and dry and hopeless - Moana
The Word rains on the earth - Isaiah 55:10-11 - the Word always achieve God’s purpose
Living water - John 4:13-14 - you never thirst with it - it becomes a spring welling up to eternal life
Quiet waters - Psalm 23:2-3 - he restores my soul
Parting of the Red Sea - Exodus 14:29-31
Jesus walks on water - Matthew 14:25-27
Jesus calms the waves - Mark 4:39-41
Jesus turns water into wine - John 2:7-10

THERE IS TRANSFORMATION IN WATER.

Don’t disparage the time of watering! It is a valuable time.

It’s important to remember: All the miracles that happen are God’s…BUT - we participate in the transformation and the miracles. How? By showing up.

The Bible tells us of both one-time and ongoing sanctification.

God has made us holy, AND we are still being made perfect. (Hebrews 10:14) God has forgiven us from our sins AND he continues to refine us.

We train; God transforms.

4 ways to water well

Posture
- What stands out to God?
  - Humility - David - “a man after God’s own heart” - Psalm 18:27-32
  - Faith - the bleeding woman - Mark 5:25-34
  - Eagerness - Bereans - Acts 17:11
Practice
- How do we train spiritually?
  - Keeping in step with the Spirit - growing in fruits and setting aside acts of the flesh - Galatians 5:19-25
  - Participate in the divine nature and keep growing - 2 Peter 1:3-9
  - Offer yourself as a living sacrifice and renew your mind - Romans 12:1-2
Patience
- 2 Peter 3:8-9
- Philippians 1:6
- Romans 8:28
Progress
- how are you keeping track of your goals and wins, even in the mundane? journaling, planners, prayer journal, etc

Jeremiah 17:7-8

Follow Jenn on Instagram or check out her blog!

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In this episode, Gina Poirier joins the podcast to share some refreshing insights on stress and spiritually healthy ways to respond to it. She unpacks toxic thinking, the good work of boundaries, and our God-given, counter-cultural invitation to rest. If you are approaching the end of your metaphorical rope, or you’re already crispy from burnout, then do not miss this episode!

About the Speaker
Gina is a happily married mom of four, stress management coach, and writer who helps overwhelmed, exhausted moms find peace and purpose in the everyday. She creates resources for Christian moms at ginampoirier.com, where “Wiping noses for Jesus is legit!”

Episode Notes“Burnout is nature’s way of telling you, you’ve been going through the motions your soul has departed.” Sam Keen

1. Understanding stress

Stress is not an inherently negative thing! It is the way God designed our bodies to respond when something we care about is at stake, and it can ultimately help us grow
The Upside of Stress byKelly McGonigal
James 1:2–4
Curiosity is a great way to approach stress and while we often want to shove it away or get it over with; there is a process there.

2. Recognizing what we can and can't control

Most of the variables that cause stress are out of our control. By letting that go and giving it to God (Matthew 6:25–27), we can focus on the variables we can control, which are usually much more manageable.
A lot of things we can stress about are hypothetical or completely out of our hands; processing that objectively can be helpful.
Some choices make us more resilient, while some choices (i.e. escapism) can actually aggravate the stress response.

3. Taming toxic thinking

This is hard, but it is one of the variables we can control that make a big difference in the way we respond to stress
Toxic thinking aggravates the stress responses and leads more quickly to burnout.
2 Corinthians 10:5
We get into these toxic thinking cycles and it really aggravates the way our bodies can respond to stress.
"When we approach our minds with curiosity and work towards taming toxic thinking, that goes a long way in dealing with burnout and stress."
Caroline Leaf & Neuroplasticity

4. Setting healthy boundaries (i.e. taking ownership)

This is also hard, but again boundaries are variables we can control and make a difference in making us more resilient to stress.
Galatians 6:2–5

5. Choosing rest

This is a huge lesson, especially for performance-oriented people.
God established rest from the beginning of Genesis, and it is a gift we can choose to accept- physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
There's both a posture and a practice of rest.
Matthew 11:28-30

For a free video series with more practical stress management strategies, subscribe to her newsletter here! And to connect with Gina and see more of the resources she offers, check out this link to her site!

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Elizabeth Thompson joins us again to discuss, “When God Says, ’No’: Facing Disappointment and Denial Without Losing Heart, Losing Hope, or Losing Your Head.” We’ve all faced our share of no’s from God, especially in the last year. Elizabeth’s words minister to those who are grappling with God's nos, seeking to find Him in the middle of heartache and disappointment. She encourages us that we can maintain our faith, friendships, and hope through it all. Don't miss this life-giving perspective!

About the SpeakerElizabeth Laing Thompson is the author of many books, including All the Feels and the When God Says series. As a minister, speaker, and novelist, she loves finding humor in holiness and hope in heartache. She lives in North Carolina with her preacher husband and four spunky kids, and they make her feel humbled but happy, exhausted but exhilarated, sometimes stressed but often silly... well, you know… all the feels. You can find her online at ElizabethLaingThompson.com.

Episode Notes

Finding Hope in Heartache

We can still find God in the midst of outcomes we didn’t hope for… how do we guard our hearts from bitterness?

Importance of allowing ourselves to grieve when God has said no.

Surrender doesn’t necessarily mean you have to be tickled pink. Grieving the nos are important as demonstrated in scripture.

Give yourself room to grieve Different Types of No:

BIG Nos - the life alerting ones
Smaller No's - still significant and need to be grieved

When there’s unworked through sadness it can quickly turn into bitterness. The grief process actually protects our connection to God.

There's an important distinction between lament and complaint.

“What relief we feel when we realize that our circumstances don’t reflect God’s approval! Then we can simply hurt without the miseries of guilt, shame, blame, mistrust, and distance. We can take our pain to God, confident that He hurts with us…”

When we don’t get the answer we want from God, it’s tempting to wonder why and to speculate: “God isn’t saying yes because…”

Dangers of trying to “read God’s mind”

use caution in saying these assumptions to others as their navigating nos
These can hurt our faith or the faith of others

“God is too good to be unkind and He is too wise to be mistaken. And when we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart.” Charles Spurgeon

2 Kings 5 - Story of Naaman

Vulnerability usually precedes healing

It’s amazing what happens when you pray to see God work in your life and then you look for His fingerprints with eyes of faith.

Surrender doesn’t mean jumping for joy on the grave of your dreams.

In the bible, we see God say no to one dream, and then He gives them a new one.

If you’re still here, there’s more in store.

This may not be the life I picked, but I’m gonna live it and find some fresh joy!

If you want the book you can find it wherever books are sold! Click here for direct links for purchase. Enjoy!

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Mallory was left unsupervised and talks for 20 minutes about the mind-blowing implications of God’s presence throughout history and in our lives as individuals. Whatever you’re carrying, you don’t need to carry alone. Join us as we contemplate the immanence of God with renewed wonder today!

“But as for me, God’s presence is my good. I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, so I can tell about all you do” (Psalm 73:28).

About the SpeakerMallory is your hyphenated host that deeply loves her family, God, and buffalo wings. She is in the full-time ministry and all of her cardio comes from chasing around her spunky toddler. She is passionate about cultivating consistent platforms for women to connect and empower one another and she adores the Woven in Truth community.

Episode Notes:

God comforts us with His presence:

Isaiah 41:10a
Psalm 118:6a
Psalm 94:19

“Feeling deeply overwhelmed may be a signal, not that our trials are insignificant or that our emotions are too strong, but that we have been carrying them alone.” Stephanie Tronson

“Every other religion explains how we get to God, only Christianity explains how God came to us.”

Question for everyone: What feeling does God’s presence solicit in you?

Read excerpt from “Forming: A Work of Grace” by David Takle

Immanuel or “God with us” is a Hebrew name which appears in Isaiah 7:14

Then we see the fulfillment of this 400 years later in the literal PERSON of Jesus… Matthew 1:18-23

“But as for me, God’s presence is my good. I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, so I can tell about all you do.” —Psalm 73:28

Biblical Progression of His Presence:

In the Garden (Genesis 3)
Ark of the covenant (Numbers 7:89)
Tabernacle (Exodus 40:34)
Temple (1 Kings 8:11)
Jesus! Immanuel
Holy Spirit
New Jerusalem Foreshadowing/Revelation 21, etc.

Question: Do you allow God’s presence to minister to you? What would that look like? Feel like? How would that change things…

God’s Presence is multi-faceted

Omnipresence (Psa. 139:7 ESV).
Transcendence - God is not bound by any physical or time constructs
Manifest presence- this is physical presence, something you can process with human senses
Immanence- This is God’s presence WITHIN creation.
Indwelling Presence- “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Col. 1:27).

CS Lewis quote- “God has infinite attention to spare for each one of us. You are as much alone with him as if you were the only being he had ever created.”

Question- When or where do you connect with God’s presence the most?

Reference to Aundi Kolber’s book, “Try Softer”

“You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.” Psalm 139:5

We cannot forget that the presence of God came to earth and dwelt among humanity, not to condemn it but to save it (John 3:17).

“The result of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quiet confidence forever” Isaiah 32:17

How can we be women who fully embrace & embody the Spirit who lives inside of us?
Do you abide in God’s presence or are you nomadic?
What would that look like? FEEL like? How would it change our perspective and interactions?

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Anne-Brigitte Taliaferro speaks to our cultural moment and encourages our weary hearts with her faithful, eternal perspective. Our circumstances can be scary, and life can’t be tamed by our management skills. But we can find peace and cling to our hope of eternal life in the midst of earthly suffering. Many of us are in lonely or difficult times, but we can fight to keep soft, settled hearts and even find places to rejoice. 1 Peter 1:6 reminds us, “So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while.”

About the Speaker:Anne-Brigitte Taliaferro has been a disciple of Jesus for 36 years. She began her ministry calling in 1983 in New York City as part of a church planting. In 1987 she and her husband Mike began a church in São Paulo, Brazil. From there they moved to Africa in 1989 and lived there for 14 years. They have planted churches in Zimbabwe, Kenya and the Ivory Coast. Johannesburg, South Africa was home for 11 of their Africa years. They currently live in San Antonio, Texas and have been there since 2003. Anne-Brigitte has a passion for working with young women to raise them up as women ministers. She has been married for 39 years and has three sons - all of whom are married.

Episode Notes:

Esther 4- For Such a Time as THIS? I’d prefer such a time as THAT!

Psalm 107

Unfailing love rescues us from the storms.
Jesus helps us in the storms- He either calms them or enables us to walk through it with our eyes fixed on Him.

2 Timothy 3:1

There WILL be terrible times, this isn’t Heaven yet- don’t be surprised at difficult times, they will come. There will be mountains and there will be valleys.

1 Peter 1:17

“Since you call on a Father who judges each person's work impartially, live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear.”
Process with this level of awareness, this isn’t our final home.

Hebrews 3:8

“do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the wilderness…”
It’s a lonely time, but we can fight to keep a soft heart.

How do we keep soft hearts?

Read scripture
Talk to People
Be open about thoughts and feelings

“So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while.” 1 Peter 1:6

You have the hope of eternal life! Cling to this.

2 Thessalonians 3:16- “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.”

It’s the Lord of peace that gives me peace, it’s not a situation working out a certain way.

Romans 5:6- "You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.

God knows our times

1 Peter 1:3-7 (SO GOOD!)

Find places to rejoice

In God’s mercy
Our living hope
Resurrection of Jesus
Our eternal inheritance

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“Grief is not a problem to solve, it’s an experience to be carried.” In this episode, LaShanda Milner joins the podcast to discuss helpful tools & perspective for navigating our individual grief journeys. God desires to walk with us through our grief and He creates space to bear compassionate witness to our pain. We’re invited to create space to do so as well.

About the Speaker

LaShanda Milner serves as a Bereavement Coordinator for Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care providing grief education and support to individuals and families. LaShanda is passionate about walking alongside bereaved as they navigate the unknowns of many different types of losses. LaShanda also serves as the MO/KS Director of Crossroads Kids; an annual grief camp for children ages 6-12 that offers a therapeutic environment for kids to grieve and grow! LaShanda is a dedicated wife of 23 years to Rob Milner and has two amazing children, Jaydin and Marcel. LaShanda has a MA in Counseling and is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist. She is a woman of deep faith with a mission to help others.

Episode Notes

“You’ve kept track of all my wandering and my weeping. You’ve stored my many tears in your bottle—not one will be lost. For they are all recorded in your book of remembrance.” (Psalm 56:8)

“Grief is like the ocean; it comes in waves ebbing and flowing. Sometimes the water is calm, and sometimes it is overwhelming. All we can do is learn to swim.” -Vicki Harrison

Loving Kindness Mediation

Grief Defined

The normal and natural reaction to a loss of any kind
Conflicting feelings caused by the change in a familiar pattern of behaviors (can be non-death losses- lay-off, divorce, loss of safety, etc)
Grief is very unique to the individual

Reactions

We can normalize the symptoms of grief -physical, emotional, mental
Fatigue
Can be a range- Helpless, hopeless, lonely, even relief. None are bad.

Coping

Practice self-care & creative expression
You feel how you feel- don’t try to get yourself over anything
HALT- hungry, angry, lonely, tired
Take a moment to get in tune with your body. Journal, exercise, run- ask a friend to check in with you.

Support

If you’re supporting someone in grief, the HUSH acronym is helpful when choosing your words…
- Is what I’m about to say… Helpful, Useful, Sincere, Honoring
Do’s & Don’ts-
- Do- share your sentiments, your desire to be there for them
- Don’t- use phrases that could incite shame or guilt cycles

Meaning

“Some things cannot be fixed; they can only be carried. Grief like yours, love like yours, can only be carried.…” (Megan Devine- It's OK That You're Not OK)
Making meaning VERSUS Creating Meaning
Not trying to make sense or comprehend an existential lesson from the loss, but rather cultivating something positive to honor the loss as your move forward.

Psalm 23:4- “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me...”

“Those who walk the fields to sow, casting their seed in tears, will one day tread those same long rows, amazed by what’s appeared.” Psalm 126:5 The Voice

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Who is ready for a Negativity Detox? In this episode, Melissa Abello returns to unpack the wiring of our brains and the spiritual truths we can wield to build new neural pathways and fight toxic negativity. She discusses God’s intricate design, privileging the positive, interrupting negative inputs, and creating margin in our lives. Shirley MacLaine said, “Dwelling on the negative contributes to its power.” Let’s find a better way.

About the Speaker:
Melissa Abello has been serving for the last 10 years in the full time ministry. She is married to Janus Abello and has two daughters: an angel in Heaven named Naomi and Ruth who is 1 year old. Melissa is also a licensed mental health practitioner in the state of Missouri. Her and her husband serve currently as Evangelist and Women's ministry leader in Columbia, MO.

Episode Notes:

Contributing Factors this year: Doomscrolling, Toxic Rumination, Isolation, Pandemic, Divisions & Tensions, Personal/Individual Loss, Etc.

Romans 15:13

Why do we veer towards negativity?

God designed the fight or flight part of our brain as built in protection, but Satan has tried to use this to his advantage since the fall.
Brain does not differentiate physical from emotional pain.
our brains are picking up that information about pain and storing it. Remembering it so that it can preserve and protect itself.
When something poses a threat or we perceive potential pain it fires, sending us into negative spirals!
It is the path of least resistance in our brains - we will automatically want to go the direction of negative and fear based on our previous broken experiences.

The other side of this:

If you travel down different pathways you weaken old ones. If consciously do this more often then it will begin to go on autopilot.
When we go the opposite direction we change hundreds of billions of neurons in the brain.
Engage in positivity - increase activity in the left prefrontal cortex - continue to do this we can essentially rewire our brains.
Feel the hard feelings and then also privilege the positive.

God talks about our minds a lot in the bible, He wants to help us overcome…

“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” -Col 3:2
Metanoia= MIND CHANGE
2 Corinthians 10:5
Philippians 4:8
Isaiah 26:3

"Guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Above all else, do this!” -Proverbs 4:23

Jesus was so good at not absorbing the negativity of circumstance or the negativity of others. His mind was set on things above.

How do we guard our hearts?

STOP- We have to stop when we notice that we’re being negative.
LOOK- Consider- “What puts me on the negative highways?”
LISTEN- Acknowledge and process what you feel
REFOCUS- Reframe. This takes trust in God.

Be Mindful of Negative Inputs

“Don't be deceived, bad company corrupts good character.” Company is what you’re reading, watching, listening to.

Create space in your life-

“What do I need to do to create margin in my life?”
We can’t put ourselves on the back burner constantly.
We can’t fight negativity if we don’t have any energy.
Satan wants to rob us of the good God is doing.

1 Corinthians 10:13

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“Am I Enough?” As we struggle with this fundamental question, we usually compensate or we hide- leaving our deep wounds untended. In this recording of Woven in Truth’s first ever live-podcast, Robin Weidner shares powerful perspective, personal experiences and her current understanding of her value in Jesus- our mediator. Don’t miss this healing episode as we learn how to dismantle self-judgements and bring our wounds into compassionate light with the scriptures.

About the Speaker:

Robin Weidner is the author of Secure in Heart—Overcoming Insecurity in a Woman’s Life; Eve’s Song; and her new book Grace Calls: spiritual recovery after abandonment, addiction or abuse. Robin ministers to women in the arenas of purity, codependency and security, while co-leading marriage seminars alongside her husband of 35 years, Dave, through their Purity Restored organization. Robin’s Bachelor’s degree included concentrations in Bible, Social Work and English. Their home is in Idaho where they enjoy riding bikes, paddleboarding, camping and spending time with their 3 adult children and one grandchild.

Episode Notes:

Handout

Am I Enough? - This question can be tied to so much in our past or present.

We can strive for performance or strength based “enoughness.”

Sometimes in our efforts to be enough, we can even start to feel like we are too much!

Question: Do you remember an early or a recent moment when you felt like you were not enough

Perfectionism is striving for enoughness. It’s an effort to avoid rejection. We either compensate or we hide.

There’s usually some wounds that lead to this question… then there’s the self-judgements we place around the initial wound.

Hebrews 12:1 TPT “As for us, we have all of these great witnesses who encircle us like clouds. So we must let go of every wound that has pierced us (or “get rid of every arrow tip in us.”) and the sin we so easily fall into.”

Bring wounds into the light. Let the wound speak. Cradle the wound with compassion.

Jesus loves us in our woundedness.

John 8:1-11- The Adulteress Woman

Can you imagine if this was you? If YOU were caught?
The humiliation, the shame, the pain, etc. Can you imagine the self-judgment?
Jesus steps between you and your own self judgment, just like he did with the woman.
Jesus allows us to let go of others condemnation, but also your own. We have to invite Jesus into the wounds. He’s the light of the world, and our wounds need light.
This woman needed a mediator. We do too. Jesus stands in the middle.
We can learn to love ourselves THROUGH Jesus. Not through our enoughness or striving.

Psalm 16 TPT

-Verse 2- “So I said to the Lord God, “You are my Maker, my Mediator, and my Master. Any good thing you find in me has come from you.”

God has a pitcher FULL of goodness, and He’s pouring it into my life.

Psalm 66:12 TPT- “We’ve passed through fire and flood, yet in the end you always bring us out better than we were before, saturated with your goodness.”

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Join Mallory and Chanelle as they unpack GRIT, rock collecting, and the power of approaching life with a growth mindset. In different capacities, we all navigate adversity and life-changing hardship. But how can we accept that, adapt, and then emerge even stronger than before? "A gemstone is so beautiful, not because it’s existed untouched, but because it HAS endured darkness and tumbling. The beauty was there all along, but the tumbling process revealed it."

GRIT DEFINED

Small loose particles of stone or sand. This is the grit that’s used in the refining process of precious gems.
unyielding courage in hardship; fortitude, toughness, endurance, spunk, gumption… it’s passion fused with perseverance

Romans 5:2

2 Timothy 2:10“Not a single ounce of your suffering is wasted in God’s economy. Our enemy works to grind us down with gritty circumstances, but God uses the same circumstances to forge endurance and character in us if we’re willing. Like those rocks, the grittiness doesn’t remove beauty in us — it reveals it.” - Meredith Carr

A gem is so beautiful not because it’s existed untouched, but because it HAS endured darkness and tumbling. It’s striking not because something is glued on to make it shiny, but because the beauty was there all along, AND THE TUMBLING process revealed it.

Isaiah 50:7 TPT- The Lord Yahweh empowers me, so I am not humiliated. For that reason, with holy determination, I will do his will and not be ashamed.

Question: What would it look like for you to face your current tumbling with HOLY DETERMINATION?

Be TOUGH MINDED, but tender hearted. Life is tough but so are YOU.

THIS is the heart of Jesus, who said “be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.’ In Matthew 10:16

“Mental toughness is like a muscle. It needs to be worked to grow and develop. Prove to yourself — in a thousand tiny ways — that you have enough guts to get in the ring and do battle with life… it’s about building HABITS. Mentally tough people don’t have to be more courageous, more talented, or more intelligent — just more consistent.” -James Clear

Mary Anne Radmacher — 'Courage does not always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, 'I will try again tomorrow.

Grit and growth mindset- grit isn’t a personality trait that you either have or don’t have … any of us can grow our capacity to endure and even grow from hardship.

GRIT GAINZ -loosely adapted from the APA’s recommendations to build resiliency in hardship:

Recognize & Reclaim CONTROL over what you CAN CONTROL
Acceptance
Negativity Detox
Acknowledge and celebrate growth
Proactive PURPOSE

2 Corinthians 4:17 “We see our difficulties as the substance that produces for us an eternal, weighty glory far beyond all comparison…”

Psalm 46:1&5 “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble…God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.”

“Take Courage, dear heart. Little by little, one walks far.”

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Tesia McBride joins the podsquad to talk through her 2020 journey as she’s navigated marriage/working from home, a new baby and postpartum depression. She shares how to practice humility amid the hardships and experience grace in the growth. We are all evolving this year as women; how can we lean into, value and maybe even find joy in the process?

About the Speaker:
Tesia is originally from Los Angeles, but moved to Denver, CO in 2012 and absolutely loves living by the rocky mountains! She met her husband Kevin in the Denver Campus Ministry and was married in 2016. She also recently became a first time mommy to her baby girl Lyla and is learning to enjoy the incredible love, joy and stressful times that come with having a newborn! Tesia is passionate about coffee and chocolate and while Colorado provides a vast arrangement of outdoor activities, she likes to "dress the part" but stay cozied up by a fire with a good book (guess you can't totally take LA out of the girl).

Episode Notes:
Vulnerability may lead to humility, but they do not equate each other. Just because I've been vulnerable doesn't mean I've been humble: humility requires repentance, vulnerability does not.

Humility requires repentance, and vulnerability doesn’t… need a plan to address and change the sinful or hurtful behaviors.

“Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love.” Ephesians 4:2 TLB

Scriptures that have helped:

1 Corinthians 9:25-27
2 Timothy 1:7
Ephesians 4:2- “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.”

Quote: “Fighting is not sinful. But being unwilling to compromise or unwilling to work with each other is.”

Motivation matters- what is my goal in bringing up this feeling, emotion, or hurt? Goal isn’t to be right, it’s to righteous.

Who do you want to be on the other side of this pandemic?

We have to remember the bigger picture. The goal is growth, maturity, resolution and ultimately- unity.

“The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never.” – Osho

I am not the same person and learning how to be a new person in a pandemic is super difficult!

Even if you aren’t a new mom- you are not the same woman you were last year! Give yourself permission to evolve! Embrace and give yourself grace.

Scriptures that have brought me some peace in this journey

Isaiah 66:13
Proverbs 31:25

Number one thing that has helped: getting open and talking with friends

Everyone’s experience is different. You can ask “How can I help?” or “What do you need?”

During a Pandemic, mental health is harder than ever for a lot of people – grow deeper in understanding different triggers, roots of issues, etc.

We can respect boundaries and still find ways to stay connected.

Give yourself space to evolve. The goal isn’t to get back to the woman we were before. We can enjoy and adapt to the places God is taking us. We can VALUE process.

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Kathryn Peckman, a fellow recovering perfectionist, shares her journey to a biblical understanding of the encompassing identity of our gracious God. She also shares the powerful impact that has had on her Christian life as she embraces her own identity "soaked with grace." Kathryn shares, “Every individual who met with Jesus was changed; not just changed behavior but a changed identity. We see lepers become spotless, adulterers become blameless, and the weak become strong. God’s identity changes people’s identity”… do you let it define yours?

About the Speaker:Kathryn Peckman is a wife, mom, and Campus Minister from Southern California. She and her husband Dustin have served in the full-time ministry for five years. She enjoys baking, cooking, reading with her three kids, and spending time in nature. She is a recovering perfectionist who seeks God’s grace in every season & loves helping others do the same.

Episode Notes:

There’s no such thing as a happy perfectionist

Book Rec: The Complete Guide to Grace, by Jim Lefler

Isaiah 55:8-9

We can’t look to the world or pop-Christianity to understand grace, we need to look in the Word.

Definitions- what do you THINK grace, mercy, and forgiveness mean? These are unique and not synonymous although they feed into each other.

Grace: charis (Greek) chen (Hebrew): favor, charm, generosity, gift “charisma;” not in the definition: merit
Mercy: eleos (Greek) checed (Hebrew): goodness, kindness, compassion, especially toward the afflicted; not in the definition: judgment or pity
Forgiveness: aphesis (Greek): release from bondage or imprisonment, pardon of sins as though they never were committed, drop & leave behind (ex: when fishermen “leave their nets & father behind” to follow Jesus); not in the definition: keeping score

Gracious God: Grace is God’s identity. It’s the subtitle on his autobiography.

Grace or gracious is used as a descriptor of God over 125 times in the Bible.
One phrase is used by 5 different authors to describe God: “The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.” Exodus 34:6, Nehemiah 9:17, Psalm 86:15, 103:8, 145:8, Joel 2:13, Jonah 4:2

Isaiah 30:18-19

Interacting with the gracious God means changes for your own identity as well.

Grace Identity- John 10:1-18

v.3 “The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own* sheep by name and leads them out.”
He doesn’t just want us to know His scripture or know the church but to KNOW HIS VOICE… Can I recognize it?
*Idios (greek): pertaining to one’s self, one’s own, belonging to one’s self

v.10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. I am the good shepherd.”

d) diabolos (greek): prone to slander and accusing falsely. How does the thief steal, kill, and destroy? Through accusation, shame, & often, wounds
e) You can’t follow the shepherd while you listen to the stranger’s voice
f) Grace, mercy, and forgiveness are the OPPOSITE. They are intended to heal the wounds, silence the accusations, and free us from shame.

We didn’t become disciples to become slaves again to a set of rules or accusations or false labels.

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Where do our feelings fit into our faith? Elizabeth Laing Thompson, in all her sweet, spiritual brilliance, stops by to discuss her new book and help us make sense of this age-old question! Elizabeth drops some major truth bombs on the importance of acknowledging, appreciating, and processing our feelings in a way that honors our big-feeling God. As we switch off the "airplane mode" on our feelings, we can create healthy boundaries while simultaneously embracing the God-given depths of our emotional makeups. If you are in need of some soul-validation or direction, you DO NOT want to miss this episode!

About the Speaker:
Elizabeth Laing Thompson is the author of When God Says, "Wait" and When God Says, "Go." She writes at elizabethlaingthompson.com about clinging to Christ through the chaos of daily life. As a speaker and novelist, she loves finding humor in holiness and hope in heartache. Elizabeth lives in North Carolina with her preacher husband and four spunky kids, and they make her feel humbled but happy, exhausted but exhilarated, sometimes stressed but often silly well, you know . . . all the feels.

Episode Notes:
Where do feelings/emotions fit into our faith?
How does God feel about our emotions and why did he create us with them?
How does the scripture help us to use our feelings as a way to honor God

Big Feelers:

Feel it and feel it big.
Gifts: Empathy, intuition, etc.
Sometimes hard to make space for other's feelings and hard to pull out of the dark places.

Steady Feelers:

Can feel things deeply, but not as often. Don't LIVE in the big feels.
Gifts: Can plan & feel simultaneously : Forward moving & can compartmentalize
Can find it confusing when they are spinning from big feelings- Have a hard time processing their feelings.

Reluctant Feelers:

Can see feelings as being illogical, unproductive and distracting
Gifts: Clear thinkers, logical, fair-minded, focused on facts & truth
They DO have feelings, just usually don't LIKE it. Can shove things down and then it can explode in unhealthy ways. Can be invalidating or condescending of others' feelings.

If it matters to you, it matters to God. That sets you free to feel what you feel and take that to God. The more we go to God with all of our emotions & pain, the more pressure it takes off of our human relationships.

Many Christians think we should put our feelings in airplane mode when it comes to our faith. Telling yourself you shouldn't feel it doesn't make the feeling go away.

Even if you don't want to feel a certain way, you can still work through it, instead of around it, through the scriptures and Godly processes.

What does God want us to do with our feelings? Even the ones that feel or seem "unacceptable"? He wants us to bring it Him and ask for His help, intervention, and direction.

Thoughts & feelings are extremely connected. We may need to reframe and inject more faith into our thoughts, but we can work through our thoughts in the presence of God.

Psalm 139- God Himself is Emotional

He made you the way you are- you are wired that way for a reason.
Your feelings are a way to connect with God and reflect His heart.

Buy the book by clicking here!

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In this episode, Kaylee & Mallory have a dialogue regarding performance-based Christianity and our efforts to unlearn some misunderstandings in our faith all while continuing to pursue righteousness & spiritual growth. God desires authentic connection over curated perfection every time... so what would it look like for YOU to live KNOWN?

The problem of Christian Perfectionism:

It's living under the gospel of grit rather than the gospel of grace- implying striving, hard work, earning holiness, etc. It's a pressure to perform
- some thoughts & definition credit to Rachel Moreland in "An Open Letter to Christian Perfectionists Everywhere
Please note: Pursuing holiness AND practicing obedience is RIGHT and biblical. But we can’t operate out of a performance trap or Christian perfectionism…
Quote from John Mark Pantana- “Identity can’t birth from performance. But performance will birth from your identity....You can do everything in the Christian life for acceptance or from acceptance, and this distinction is the difference between life and death. "
Veneer Definition: cover or disguise (someone or something's true nature) with an attractive appearance. *Oxford

So why practice it?

Some of this trained or learned - misunderstandings
Quote from Tauren Wells - “I’ve come to the unfortunate realization that there is a version of Christianity that many of us have bought into that has trained us to be professional pretenders. We must shatter the veneer of polished Christianity and to step into the vulnerability the Gospel requires before the great work of grace can transpire in our lives…After all, Jesus didn’t die for the image we project. Jesus died for who we really are.”
There’s also costs to living known so that’s another reason we avoid it…
A quote published in the New York Times by Timothy Kreider… “… if we want the rewards of being loved, we have to submit to the mortifying ordeal of being known.”
Current Culture makes this harder
- Church Culture
- Larger social spheres & exposure because of technology
- Social Media- curated imperfection

Motivation Matters

“To be loved but not known is comforting but superficial. To be known and not loved is our greatest fear. But to be fully known and truly loved is what it means to be loved by God.”–Timothy Keller
I love God because he first loved me.
I obey because he loves me not SO he will love me.
(Parable in Luke 15)- Older son that performed had bad attitude

So how do we get out of this performance Christianity?

We look to the one who did all the proving FOR us… Romans 5:6
Jesus Himself rejected “performing” in order to be accepted…And we can as well.
Quoted long excerpt from Tauren Wells Study
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 NIV

The Freedom of Living Known

God wants connection, not perfection
Samaritan Woman at the well in John 4.
Living known isn’t contingent upon how others respond to this kind of vulnerability.
Known & Accepted- Romans 15:7
Known & Significant- Psalm 62:7 the voice
Known & Valuable
Known & Whole- Colossians 2:10

What would it look like for you to live out your life and faith with nothing to prove?

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This special episode is a lesson and dialogue with our inspiring friend, Fadia- a resilient and faithful disciple from the Middle Eastern country of Jordan. Fadia has endured devastating trials, many on account of her faith in Jesus, including the imprisonment of her beloved husband. She shares with us the courage and convictions that have carried her through even the darkest of valleys, and the strength and purpose she finds in God.

Episode Notes:

Judges 4-5 -God appoints Deborah

Deborah responds to God's call and plan- using her gifts, talents, and wisdom.

Deborah was committed and obedient to God, even in hard times
When we are women that are committed to God's plan, we can find strength we never knew we could possess.
We don't like the times when we endure trials- but these are when we grow closer to God and find strength and direction from Him.
It takes courage to trust that God is in control.

When I am Weak, Then I am Strong

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 - "But {The Lord} said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

Are you obedient to God's commandment and voice, even in the hard times?
When Deborah achieved victory, she didn't forget the victory belonged to God.
She praised and celebrated God after He worked powerfully and gave the vicory. (Judges 5)
When WE have victories in our life, we shouldn't give credit to ourselves and "our" strength, we should give Him all the glory! We can celebrate the victories WITH God.

He is an Almighty, Holy, and Loving Lord- He has a purpose and a call for YOU.

We can be women that are committed to God even in the hardest times. We can be courageous through trusting God and His word, and sharing God's love with others.
We can be thankful to God for His work within and through us.
Faith is built in the darkest of valleys.
No man can fill the role that designed for women.

Satan will try to tell us lies- that we are inferior or inadequate. We must denounce his lies as we fill ourselves with God's truth.

Respond to God's call
Be committed in any circumstance or situation.
Be courageous by trusting God to work- He will never forsake you.

Let's pray for our sisters in the Middle East!

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Healing is not possible when hurts are neglected. This episode is for those who are intentionally seeking to listen, learn, and lament over the hurts of our sisters because of racism. In this dialogue, we seek to better understand their experiences in hopes of cultivating a spiritual space for humility and understanding- in our hearts, in our church family, and in society.

“A new day is dawning: the sunrise from the heavens will break through in our darkness, And those who huddle in night, those who sit in the shadow of death, Will be able to rise and walk in the light, guided in the pathway of peace.” -Luke 1:78-79

About the Speakers:

DeShonda Roberts has been a Christian for more than 26 years in the San Diego Church of Christ. She and her husband of 28 years, Raymond, are the parents of 3 amazing adult children and 3 grandchildren.
Morgan Roberts is a wife and working mom of a two year old, Capri, and one month old, Cairo - needless to say, her hands are full with loves, snuggles and messes! In her spare time you can find her in shavasana or sipping an extra hot latte at Peet’s.
Shantae Watkins is from Arizona, attended college in California, and now lives in Virginia. She has a degree in Social Work and currently works for a non-profit organization as an Operations Coordinator. She is 28 years old, biracial, and has been a disciple for 11 years.

Episode Notes:

DeShonda, Shantae, and Morgan have provided resource recommendations that will be posted on our website's resource page at this link if you’re interested in learning more. The compiled guide is in Word Document format for easy access to the links.

Scriptures Referenced in Episode:

Luke 12:48b- "When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.”
Jeremiah 33:6- “Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security.”
Isaiah 40:29- “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
Galatians 6:9- “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
1 Samuel 16:7b- “The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
Psalm 62:5-8- “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.”
Romans 12:14-16 "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.”
Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Ephesians 4:29 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Romans 5:5 "hope doesn't disappoint us, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit….”

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In this episode, our friend Tabitha joins the pod squad to share her passion for a healthy relationship with food, body image issues, and a God-focused perspective on health overall. Tabi shares about the powerful spiritual and physical health freedom that she believes God offers us all on the other side of “diet-culture,” through the principles of Intuitive Eating, Health at Every Size®, and the scriptures.

About the Speaker:Tabitha is an anti-diet, weight inclusive, Registered Dietitian to be. She is currently completing a Master’s of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics and a Dietetic Internship at Virginia Tech. Her passions include: Intuitive Eating, Health at Every Size®, and helping people leave dieting behind for good to cultivate a peaceful relationship to food and their body.

Episode Notes:

Ephesians 2:10 says: “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
Psalm 139:14 says that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. God delights in you guys, truly. No matter where you come from, God delights in you.
1 Samuel 16:7 says: “...The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
Hosea 7:9a says: “Worshiping foreign gods has sapped their strength, but they don’t even know it.”

Our bodies are something amazing given to us by God.

Our culture (at least in America) is obsessed with thinness. A disordered relationship to our bodies and food is normal in our culture. We moralize health, food choices, and body size.

God does not want that to consume our brain.

10 Principles of Intuitive Eating Taken from their website:

Reject the Diet Mentality
Honor Your Hunger
Make Peace with Food
Challenge the Food Police
Respect Your Fullness
Discover the Satisfaction Factor
Honor Your Feelings without Using Food
Respect Your Body
Exercise—Feel the Difference
Honor Your Health with Gentle Nutrition

Health at Every Size®- 3 Principles:

Respect
- Celebrate body diversity
Critical Awareness
- Challenges scientific and cultural assumptions
Compassionate Self-Care
1. Finding the joy in moving one’s body and being physically active.
2. Eating in a flexible and attuned manner.

Questions to ask ourselves:

How do we define health? Where do those beliefs come from?
Has shaming your body ever helped with anything in your life?
What if your body never ever changed, consider thinking about would you care for it?
Have you ever considered that your body is meant to change? To evolve as you evolve? To change as your life goes on?
If you let God define who you are to your absolute core, how would this change the way you see your body?

Resource Recommendations

A Few Books mentioned (these all cite amazing studies!):
- Intuitive Eating Book
- Intuitive Eating Workbook
- Health At Every Size® Book
- Body Respect Book
Websites:
- Intuitive Eating Website
- Health At Every Size® Website
- Association for Size Diversity and Health
Podcasts:
- RD Real Talk Podcast
- Food Psych Podcast
Tabi's instagram: @tabithap_rd2be

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Challenges make life difficult, but overcoming them makes life meaningful. In this episode, Ruth Kang joins the pod squad to talk about the refreshing empowerment we can find through God's spirit to overcome life's challenges.

About the Speaker:
Ruth Kang was born in the Philippines and moved to Canada when she was 15 years old. She became a disciple of Jesus Christ in 1995 while attending the University of Toronto. She began serving in the full time ministry in 1999 and was married to Mark Kang in 2000. They have 3 wonderful boys with one about to go to college. Together they have led ministries in Toronto, Indiana, Wisconsin; and, they are currently leading the Detroit Church of Christ. Ruth loves going for nature walks, yoga, volleyball, card games and making things beautiful!

Episode Notes:

Everyone faces challenges — some more traumatic than others — but hardships none the less

• Question: How do we respond when we are hit hard? Where do our hearts and minds go when challenges come?

We can become prisoners to ourselves and the past. In the words of the apostle Paul in the book of Romans: “I’ve tried everything and nothing helped. I was at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me?”

Mind you this thinking is so pervasive - I have to constantly tether myself to what is true — about me and how God feels and thinks about me.

John 11- Mary and Martha’s story when their brother Lazarus died.

These two women lost their big brother who was their leader, protector and provider.

What can we learn from them?

Point #1 — Pour Out Your Heart to Jesus

We often equate hardships with Hardships = Being Unloved (or other lies) But this is not true John 11:4

When we don’t take time to talk over our issues with God we tend to conclude that God somehow forgot about us or that we don’t matter to Him.

But we see here that Jesus welcomes us as we are — even as we misinterpret him and our lives.

It’s okay to wrestle with your thoughts Growth starts when we face what’s on our hearts and minds—

And we must be careful to bring them to Jesus and not to false “gods” - Like food or Netflix.

Q. What thoughts/feelings are simmering in your life that you think are too much to expose? Too difficult to dive into? Maybe it’s time to go to Jesus with whatever that is for you.

Point #2 — Anchor Yourself in Christ - your perspective matters

The waves and winds will come — especially in the next few months. You need to anticipate this — be aware of your thoughts and emotions

We must beware of this — Trials can change the way we feel about God. So anchor yourself in what is true.

Q. What truths can we hold on to during hard times?

Point # 3 — Look for God in the challenges

Psalm 27

Friends, God is waiting to be with you in those hard places — but you must invite him and look for him. He wants to show you his love.

The world may be going crazy - we don’t have to. God is our hope. God is Defining himself to you

Practical — Journal, pray through your feelings and thoughts, confide in trusted and helpful friends; take time to listen to God

There is a choice — we can overcome. The greater the hardships, the more we need to pour out ourselves to Jesus; The more we must anchor ourselves in Christ and his words, and lastly, we must look for God in these challenging places.

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In this episode, our inspiring friend Melissa Abello joins the podcast to shed some light and insight on managing anxiety. As both a licensed mental health practitioner and a full time minister, Melissa fuses the academic and spiritual perspectives. She not only helps us understand anxiety physiologically, but also provides tools to navigate it in the context of our daily Christian lives.

About the Speaker:
Melissa Abello has been serving for the last 10 years in the full time ministry. She is married to an amazing man of God named Janus Abello. She has two daughters: an angel in Heaven named Naomi and Ruth who is now 8 months old. She also is a licensed mental health practitioner in the state of Missouri. She predominately works doing marriage therapy specializing in marriage communication, affair recovery, sexual addiction, and sex therapy. Furthermore, she works exclusively with women around anxiety and depression. Her and her husband serve currently as Evangelist and Women's ministry leader in Columbia, MO. She enjoys spending time with family and decorating!

Episode Notes:
We all handle anxiety differently and we all have anxiety! Some have it more chronically than others, but we all experience it!

• Goal today is to share God’s heart for anxiety, share he wired our bodies so you can understand the complexity of how he designed us, then to share how to practically we can help our anxiety and how that connects and relates to exactly what God talks about in the Bible!
• My hope is that this deeper understanding of how God designed us could equip each of us in how to handle and cope with our anxiety so we can really love God with our whole heart and mind!

Philippains 4:4-8

How is it that God commands us not to be anxious when it feels like a reaction that somehow is just happening to me!
The greek word for anxious in the text here is: Merimnao: Properly drawn in opposite directions; divided into parts

How We Develop Anxiety?
Core emotions are fear, anger, disgust, joy, excitement, and sadness. Anxiety is an inhibitory emotion. The other two inhibitory emotions are guilt and shame. They inhibit emotion on purpose. They serve as a protective mechanism.

What happens when we get anxious?
Anxiety is a physiological response of distress.

What are the ways you think about anxiety?• Do you catasprophize it and give it to it?
• Do you resist feeling it?
• Do you shame yourself for experiencing?
• Do you lean into it and attempt to follow it and understand it?

Practicals to help us with our Anxiety:
1.) What is are you noticing in your body?
2.) Accept responsibility
3.) Accept feeling
4.) Talk to your body (Mindfulness, Breathing, Grounding)
5.) Talk to yourself: explore what you are feeling more
6.) Talk to God
7.) Talk to someone else

Emotional Workout: This needs to be done consistently! Train yourself in this!

Resources Melissa Recommends:
1. Feeling Wheel
2. Worksheet & Other Resources

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Heather McKean, inspiring author of Mind Change, joins the podsquad to discuss the fascinating mind/body/bible connection. She shares her personal journey from crippling diseases to recovery and physical, mental, and spiritual wellness.

About the Speaker:
Heather McKean can usually be found at her home on the magical island of Maui hunting for sea glass with her husband, two girls, and a slobbery but lovable English Bulldog. Heather is the founder of MindChange.com and the creator of the Mind Change Method™ and the Metanoia Method™. It is her goal to "change the world, one mind at a time".

Disclaimer: We live in a broken world, and everyone’s suffering and health battles are unique and valid. In this thirty minute episode, Heather shares her individual experience and journey and she obviously cannot draw out every explanation and qualifier. We encourage listeners that want to know more to check out her book or website.

Episode Notes:
Heather's Journey to find wellness and freedom- "Could something from my past have something to do with what is happening in my body physically?" this can become a rabbit hole, so use caution and discernment**

"Our mind is so powerful, we can create scenarios in our minds and then our physical bodies will follow. "THE BIG QUESTION: Is this in the Bible?

ANSWER: The mind/body connection is all throughout the Bible.

Metanoia- Can change your mind and life physically, emotionally, and most definitely spiritually!

Sometimes we think we have overcome things or found victory just because we can talk about trials or trauma. This isn't necessarily true.

Sometimes our minds subconsciously try to have a "conversation" with us about things that haven't been fully dealt with through our physical bodies.

We try to cope any way we can... through finding outlets or things that appear productive all while our bodies pay the price.

How does the Bible deal with sickness? Study out the healings in the Bible.

In the Bible, sickness is very rarely just dealt with as a physical ailment.

When you see the way Jesus interacts with people- he helps them make connections between physical ailments which are deeply connected to their hearts and their spiritual ailments... Jesus is very tender with people and their sickness. He handles each of their sicknesses very individually.

John 5:1-15- Healing of the man at the pool

Jesus asks this man if he WANTS to get well. There really is a choice- and it isn't necessarily always a "yes!" There is a cost to wellness- it requires change and discomfort.
Secondary gains- We get something from our ailments or our sickness. We don't just do this for no reason- sometimes it feels safer for us to have our ailments.
If this man gets well, his entire world is going to change. This is true for us as well.

"We are conditioned to believe that following Jesus means suffering."

Be careful and compassionate: Telling someone (or yourself) that they are responsible for their sickness, or that it is their own fault, is very triggering.

Your body is not against you, it is for you. What if you listened to it? What if we got quiet enough so that we could hear?

Starting this conversation: My ___________ hurts, what might this be? Where might this be coming from?
Example: Could my hurting back be reminding me that I'm not feeling supported in life?
(The Mind Change Workbook is very helpful)

Heather's Website & Book Link: https://www.mindchange.com

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In this episode, Jessy Tohme from Lebanon takes us back to the essentials of our faith. The majority of women are burnt out, worn out, & stressed out. Sometimes we open our eyes spiritually and realize we’ve drifted from the joy and zeal we once had in Christ. Jessy reminds us of the battle we are in and the mission we signed up for when we said “yes” to Jesus.

About the Speaker:

Jessy was born in Lebanon, the country that is worldwide famous for its years of wars. She spent most of her childhood hiding with my family in shelters…By God’s grace, she became a disciple of Christ in 1999, and married her husband Moufid in 2000. God has been generous and blessed them with two adorable kids, Abigail and Andrew. Her and her husband have led a church in Lebanon for many years and now they oversee the Middle East region of our churches. She currently has her own TV show has hosted a Radio Show for 10 years. As a marriage facilitator, her main goal is to prepare couples for their marital journey and council those who are already struggling with their marriages.

Episode Notes:

Sometimes we forget that we are in a war- a spiritual battle. We open our eyes and realize we’ve drifted spiritually.

#1. Remember you are in a battle

John 10:10- The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
What has satan killed in your heart? Maybe your dreams. What has he destroyed? Maybe some of your relationships?
We get off track when we forget that our battle is spiritual and we start battling people… we pick the wrong battle. Our enemy is not our sisters, our family, etc- it is against satan, against the forces of evil
The battle is tough, but it is so worth it.
We must be united in order to win this battle- he will work so hard to divide us.
We must put our pride, our rights, our position, our earthly treasures to death- just like Jesus did… what are we willing to lose in order to gain Jesus and gain influence?

#2. Remember your enemy

Majority of women are burnt out, worn out, stressed out.
We can forget our mission. Our joy and zeal can be hard to find after “life gets in the way”.
In what areas are we ignoring God’s voice in our lives?
Mark 11:1-11: Jesus asks for a donkey… He needs a donkey to carry Him & message… Are we willing to be the donkey?
We shift into just asking God for things instead of just be willing to do whatever He is asking of us… we need to remember our mission.
Matthew 27:57-60
- As evening approached, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him.Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away.
How well do you care for the body of Christ? Even when you aren’t “getting anything out of it” or it doesn’t seem appealing?

#3. Keep your priorities right

We need to delegate, but we also need to empower others around us.
We need to prioritize loving God & Jesus, loving ourselves and caring for ourselves, & loving our families.
This is how we avoid burn out… we can live and die happy & joyful.

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This episode is like a hug for your soul as Simara Blair stops by to refresh our minds and perspectives. Our hearts are deep waters, and Simara’s words help us articulate and validate what we might be experiencing. Coping with a global pandemic is no small feat; many of us are unpacking big emotions in unknown territories. Simara reminds us to give ourselves permission to feel what we feel, then we can cope and adapt out of that honest space. Your feelings matter and we need to be gracious with ourselves as we navigate this together.

About the Speaker

Simara is a creative and compassionate Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Ft Lauderdale Florida. She is the owner of Strength & Serenity Counseling Services, a private practice that addresses Perinatal Mental Health and Couples Issues. Simara has been practicing therapy for over 10 years and has a history in Youth & Family Ministry. Simara has been a Christian for 12 years. She’s a wife, mama bear of 2, and a lover of DIY and essential oils.

Episode Notes

Proverbs 20:5 “The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out.”

-Anticipatory grief- Attempting to cope with current crisis as well as the anticipation of possible future implications or losses. People are experiencing loss of what they were hoping for or dreaming about. Many of us aren’t equipped for how to deal with loss.

-We need to give ourselves and others a lot of grace right now.

-We need to stop placing judgements on what we feel. Your hurt is valid. Someone else’s experience doesn’t negate your own.

-Let whatever you feel “be”— healing happens when we operate out of an honest space. Acknowledge your experience.

-It’s human nature to adapt. God created us for adaption. We will learn how to adapt- but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt.

-Give yourself permission to feel what you feel, then you can heal and adapt from that honest place.

-Feeling lethargic or extra tired? You’re very normal! Stressors mess with sleeping patterns. Your body physically responds to the emotional weight you are carrying. We are experiencing so many changes.

-Practice mindfulness - Create intentional transitional moments as you switch into different “gears” or “modes”

-We need to create safe places where we can be honest about the hard or negative things. Take the time to name your feelings so you can process them and adapt.

--Staying Connected is obviously important- We are women that are used to "doing" for others, including God - how can or should we adjust to this new normal?

Create “space” for people
Check in with no agenda
Listen, Affirm, and Resist the urge to “fix” what the other person shares
Practice basic “Thoughtfulness”- thinking of others
Adapting socially- we can intentionally shift from thinking “I don’t have community anymore” TO “How can I create community now?”

Feel empowered to create new experiences to cultivate social exchange.

Simara’s mantras that are helping her cope:

Anyone can suffer for a short period of time.
This is temporary.
God has given me everything I need. (Take the time to figure out what you need and how you can find and use the resources God gave you)

For more of Simara’s content visit for website: https://www.strengthserenitycounselingservices.com or follow her on Instagram @simarablair

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In this interview, Vania Salim from Jakarta joins the podcast to share about her life, her journey of faith, and her unshakeable conviction that God is Always God.

About the Speaker:

Vania has been a faithful follower of Jesus for over 25 years. She and her husband, Harliem, live in Indonesia and they have two adult daughters. Together, they oversee many Christian churches in predominantly Muslim & Buddhist nations and she also operates a private school to provide Christian-based, quality education for children in Jakarta.

Episode Notes:

There are many times in your life, when God becomes so real.

When God is God, He is the Ultimate- no matter what happens in our life.

We have some “moments of truth” in life when the quality of our faith is put to the test.

Colossians 3: 1-2- “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

Question to Consider: Do I only trust God when things are good?

As long as we set our minds and hearts on God, we can handle anything that comes our way.

Circumstances can’t change convictions based on truth.

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In this interview, we glean some wisdom from Michele Carrillo who shares the convictions that have carried her through many uncertain times in her life: 9/11, Dengue Fever, a broken back, Hurricane Andrew, and more. Listen as we learn where to steer our anxious hearts in these uncertain times.

About the Guest
Michele Carrillo has served 30 years in the full-time ministry planting and leading churches in Mexico, Jamaica, Puerto Rico and across the US including New York, Florida, and California. Along with her husband Robert, she has raised three kids and loves oil and glass painting. She and Robert currently serve the Los Angeles Church of Christ.

Episode Notes

This time in life is so revealing of how easy it is to put our hope in things other than God… in infrastructure, in our plans, etc.

Consider: What are you letting linger in your heart?

Be informed and wise, but don’t let it dominate your heart and mind.

Fill your mind with things above:

Don’t forget to focus your mind on God
Have deep and intentional quiet times
Hebrews 10:22- Draw near to God with a sincere heart and with full assurance of what faith brings…

What we set our hearts on TAKES EFFORT

Clinging to God, Meditating on Specific scriptures that minister to your current feelings and circumstance.

Hebrews 10: 22-23

“Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful…”

These are the times, these are the experiences, that really build our faith.

Where do we start?

Sit silently. Ask God to show you what you need.
Try to figure out what is in your heart- if you feel anxious, take some time to really identify what it is that you’re most afraid of.
Look up scriptures that address the fears or feelings you have and then meditate on those.

Deuteronomy 4:7 & Matthew 1:23

Jesus is Immanuel- God WITH us.

We don’t need to “find God” right now— he IS with us! God is NEAR. He is already HERE for us in these times of uncertainty.

An easy way to battle worry is with gratitude.

“Worry refuses to share the heart with gratitude. One heartfelt “thank you” will suck the oxygen out of worry’s world.” - Max Lucado, Anxious For Nothing Book

Colossians 2:6-7 “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him,rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”

“We do not know what the future holds, but we do know Who holds the future.” -Linda Brumley

Isolation can magnify your fears, so please be intentional about staying connected with spiritual and encouraging influences. PLEASE CHECK ON YOUR FRIENDS- we need each other!

MICHELE’S MESSAGE TO THE MAMAS- If you are okay, then your kids are going to be okay. Take care of yourselves emotionally.

We’ve got to stay rooted in God in these times. When the winds come, we won’t fall if we have deep roots!

The pod squad is going to keep providing content for you all in these times, let us know what’s been helping you!

Link to Robert Carrillo’s Videos: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7GClVSEV_NGmu56a81ie5A

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In this episode, Yung Gore directs our hearts to God and the ultimate storm-calmer, Jesus. There is so much going on in our world, lives, and hearts right now with the COVID-19 pandemic, but the scriptures navigate us back to the calming truth of who Jesus is and the peace he offers our souls... so the question is, where do we go when we are afraid?

*The audio quality is not our normal standard, our apologies- we're here for all of you!

Episode Notes:

Declutter Your Mind- Write down or share with a friend ONE THING YOU NEED TO empty out of your mind, put aside, or throw out so you can focus

Take a big breathe in and big breathe out.

PRAY TRUSTING GOD THAT IN THIS TIME, WE ARE SAFE, PROTECTED, CARED FOR AND ALL OF OUR NEEDS ARE MET.

Perception is reality! How do you naturally respond to fear? Fight, Flight, Freeze or Face the fears.

Mark 4:35-41 John 16:33; Isaiah 55:8-9 ; Psalm 91

1 Peter 5:7 take care of our own heart by cast our anxieties onto God.

Hebrews 13:16- share with those in need

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In this episode, Kay McKean joins the podcast to chat about aging and identity in Christ. Kay shares that at every stage of life it’s so important to know what you have to give and how you can be used by God to impact this world. It’s all too easy to just let the years pass by staying distracted or even discouraged. So the question is, are you still living in expectation of all God can do with your life?

About the Speaker:Kay Summers McKean was raised in Miami, Florida, and baptized into Christ while a student at University of Florida. After graduating with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, Kay married Randy McKean in 1977 and began serving in the ministry. Along with their two children, they have lived and worked in South Carolina, Tokyo, Munich, Paris, and Boston- and since 2007 have led their beloved church in Northern Virginia. Kay has written and co-written several books, the latest being "Radical Love" and has taught and spoken for conferences and workshops around the world. Kay and her husband plan to retire in 2020 and hope to spend much of their time with their children and grandchildren, who live on opposite ends of the globe: Saudi Arabia and Maui.

Episode Notes:

“The best times of your life have not yet been lived.”

Our culture: obsessed with youth; staying young- As women get older, they can feel devalued

Bible gives plentiful examples of men and women of a certain age who were definitely not sissies.

Sarah
Elizabeth
Moses
Caleb
Anna

They weren’t just waiting around to die. They teach us what old age is supposed to look like.

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.Therefore we do not lose heat. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” (II Corinthians 4:7, 16)

Truly our bodies are but jars of clay, and regardless of what we do, those jars will get a little older, becoming chipped and cracked

If we are being renewed by God daily, we will have the zest and zeal to live. If we are learning and growing and keeping a curious mind, we can continue to be used by him.

At every stage of life, it’s important to know what you have to give.

Identity = knowing who you are, your sense of self

Identity = staying the same under varying conditions, being true to what you believe, regardless of the circumstances.

“Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, Move from here to there, and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:20)

A mustard seed expects to become a mustard tree. If you were able to ask it what it wanted to be when it grew up, the answer would be simple: I’m going to be a huge tree! The mustard seed knows its purpose. Jesus used this example to help you and me know that we were made for something more.

Question: Are you living in expectation of all God can do with your life?

Here’s the test to find out if your mission on earth is complete: If you’re alive, it isn’t!

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In this episode, Patty Asaad joins the podcast to answer the question, “What do you do when life knocks you over?” Patty quotes that as Christians in times of fear, “We are not necessarily doubting that God will do the best for us; we are wondering how painful the best will turn out to be.” She shares her recent journey of battling fears she never thought she’d face and how that suffering has led her to new levels of reliance on God.

About the Speaker:
Patty Asaad serves as Congregational Women’s Ministry Leader for the Dallas/Fort Worth Church. She has served in the full-time ministry for more than 30 years. Patty was baptized in Columbia, Missouri in 1980 while she was earning her degree in journalism from the University of Missouri. Patty moved to Texas in 1996 along with her husband, Todd, and two sons. Before coming to Texas, Todd and Patty served in several churches in the Midwest. They were married in 1988 and have two sons and a daughter-in-law in Austin, TX.

Episode Notes:

What do you do when life knocks you over and you’re dealing with issues you never thought in a million years you’d be dealing with?

What can we learn in our times of suffering?

Faith lessons
Fight to trust God –don’t let yourself go down the “What If…?” Road. Times of fear are very overwhelming: Remember that God will give you what you need in the moment.

“We are not necessarily doubting that God will do the best for us; we are wondering how painful the best will turn out to be.”

We can learn to be more compassionate and love unconditionally

Hosea 11:3-4

“It was I who taught Ephraim to walk, taking them by the arms; but they did not realize it was I who healed them. I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love; I lifted the yoke from their neck and bent down to feed them.”

We don’t need to be glad or happy about the suffering in our lives, but we can rejoice in the faith lessons learned and find joy in the things that we might not have ever realized without the trials.

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In this episode, Kelly Brown joins the podcast to talk about God’s enduring goodness- regardless of what we can see, what we feel, or the depths of our suffering. We all have something sacred that Satan will touch in our lives, but during the storms we have to look for the faithful hand of God and hold tightly to truth. Satan can give us his best shot, but God’s goodness still reigns. This episode helps us evaluate and redirect our hearts back to truth as Kelly asks the question: “Where do you go when life hurts?”

About the Speaker:
Kelly Brown has been a committed disciple for over 45 years. She and her husband, Tom, were baptized while attending the University of Florida where Kelly received her BS in Mathematics. She married Tom in 1975 and then moved to Boulder, CO to begin a campus ministry at the University of Colorado that grew from 1 to over 250 students while the Browns served in Boulder. They have continued to help build dynamic campus ministries and churches in San Francisco, Boston, Los Angeles and now in Atlanta. One of Kelly’s greatest convictions is that the young women in our churches are the future and that mature sisters in Christ must continue to teach the younger so they can benefit from all that we have learned through the years. She is known for her youthful spirit and creativity and has two children and two grandchildren. Kelly and Tom currently serve the North River Church of Christ in Atlanta.

Episode Notes:

God is Good All of the Time

In the best of times and in the worst of times. His love and faithfulness is lasting its not fickle.

Psalm 23:6: “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Psalm 27: 13: “I remain confident of this that I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.”

Question: Have you ever felt like nothing good could come out of the situation and then later on you see the blessings God wanted to give you all along?

No matter what we experience or feel: the enduring truth is the goodness of God was there all along.

When Satan touches something sacred to us that is the biggest challenge of all.

Question: What is sacred to you? Where does Satan try to hurt you the most?

There are times our view of God changes when we suffer and don’t see God’s goodness in the pain.

There are blessings in disguise in the midst of these storms. But we have to look for them. We have to look for the enduring goodness of God.

Ask yourself, when life hurts what do you do?

Do you focus on the pain or on the blessings to come? -Rom 8:28 Promises that God works for the good in all things to those that love him and are called according to His purposes.
Do you pray more or less? -Psalm 69: 16
Do you continually surrender it to God or do you try to fix it? -Psalm 37

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In this second episode of the Legacy Series, our friend Kim Evans stops by to inspire, encourage, and call us back to the powerful opportunity we have to let God to use us. We can get so discouraged when our lives and faith can feel dull or dysfunctional, but do not lose heart, God is not done with you. Stay faithful, take courage, and watch God work in and through your life.

About the Speaker:Kim Evans is from Philadelphia and she has been a faithful follower of God for 40 years! Kim has been married to Walter for 36 years and together they have 3 adult children, 4 grandchildren, and a giant grand-dog named Charlie. Kim just lost her beloved father, Robert Gempel, late last year but works to continue the family legacy of service to those in need around the world.

Episode Notes:

Pray, Anticipate, and Watch God Work.

Pray GUM- God Use Me. You might be surprised what God has in store.

Luke 1:26-45

It’s okay to question, struggle, or be afraid; but ultimately land in a place of trusting God and letting Him use your life in powerful ways.

Luke 22:43

God sent an angel to comfort Jesus in His time of need. God does this for us too.

John 14:12- Even greater things; this only happens when we let God use us.

We don’t always like the ways God moves, but He moves powerfully.

God is not done with you, friend.

As women we can be so triggered by the idea of being used- we can accept that life isn’t fair; while simultaneously trusting that God loves us and will take care of us even in the injustices of life.

Lordship is huge- giving God the driver seat of your life. But we are submitting to a good, gracious, and sovereign God. It is so important to work to REMAIN under the lordship of Jesus.

Letting God use you requires a deep surrender.

How do you distinguish the voice of God from the voice of our own desires?

Communicate to God what you want but then get to a place of surrender.
Surrender usually includes waiting.

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We're kicking off our "Legacy Series" and this is an episode you don’t want to miss! Anne-Brigitte Taliaferro joins the podcast to discuss the topic of cultivating biblical hope in every season, life stage, and circumstance. She shares about her own journey of discovering what it actually means to put our hope in God himself rather than particular outcomes. Regardless of how we feel or what we can see, we can be women who hope because of the eternal truth of who God is: we can wait well with a confident expectation in what God has promised.

About the Speaker:
Anne-Brigitte Taliaferro has been a disciple of Jesus for 35 years. She began her ministry calling in 1983 in New York City as part of a church planting. In 1987 she and her husband Mike began a church in São Paulo, Brazil. From there they moved to Africa in 1989 and lived there for 14 years. They have planted churches in Zimbabwe, Kenya and the Ivory Coast. Johannesburg, South Africa was home for 11 of their Africa years. They currently live in San Antonio, Texas and have been there since 2003. Anne-Brigitte has a passion for working with young women to raise them up as women ministers. She has been married for 38 years and has three sons - all of whom are married. (yay!!)

Episode Notes:

References - Psalm 72; Psalm 33:20-22; Romans 15:13; Romans 4:17-21; 2 Cor 4:16-18

•What hope is:

-Biblical hope is so much deeper than wishful or positive thinking.

-It is a confident expectation in what God has promised.

Why it can be so hard:

the waiting
when we put our hope in things other than God
The vulnerability
particularly hard seasons or circumstances

What the Bible says about hope

What it looks like when we hope in God (the blessing of waiting)

God being enough for me - I can hope because of the truth of who God is..

Too often we put our hope into a particular circumstance rather than God himself.
Hope isn’t something we can work ourselves into… it is a supernatural gift from God.
Hope can also be a discipline. It isn’t just an emotional state or fleeting thoughts.
Everything I’m going through, from God’s perspective, is light and momentary. He has the big picture of eternity.
Too often we want hope, but we don’t want to wait. We get insecure in the vulnerable waiting times.

So if we can’t “work ourselves” into a place of hope, where do we start?

Look at the scriptures of people waiting: Hannah, Elizabeth, The Israelite Nation
Decide to embrace the process.
Walk through the waiting with God.
Trust that God is working.
Remember Romans 5:3-5: Waiting produces so many good things in us and in our walks with God.

How to identify if you’ve lost hope and are dealing with bitterness or self-pity:

Be self-aware
Look out for envy in your heart or minds
Ask the people that are close to you
Be honest and open about your disappointments.
Acknowledge the expectations or the narative that you’ve developed for your life and take that to the feet of God as you reset your hope on Him.

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"You're still single?!" Oh, the joyous question you may have been asked over the holidays by your aunt Karen. Or maybe you're feeling like there are other milestones or desires in life that you're waiting for or missing out on? In this episode, our feisty friend Haley joins the podcast to take on these hard questions and shares her current journey of finding fulfillment in God as she lives her best life: with confidence, faith and contentment.

About the Speaker:
Haley Schultz is 26 years old and lives in Sunny San Diego California. She currently works full time as the Communications Officer for HOPE worldwide. Her other talents include photography, social media management and web design. In her spare time she loves hanging out with her friends, traveling, eating great food and drinking lots of coffee. She is currently single and advocates for living an exciting, fulfilled life with or with out a spouse, although she hopes to be married someday! She embraces a passion in life to love her God, her family and her friends with everything she has and to always see the optimistic side of life!

Episode Notes:
First I had to realize that there’s nothing wrong with being single and second that God isn’t holding out on me.

2 Corinthians 12:7
Romans 3:23

Is God enough for you?

How can we grow in our contentment?

We have to remember that we cannot earn any of our blessings.

2 Corinthians 5:14

So here are the key things I learned on this journey to really believing and trusting that God is enough.
1. The first key thing that I focused on was what I can do with my life instead of trying to be worthy of the blessing I wanted. The most important thing I can do as a woman is fulfill the greatest commandment. (Matthew 22:38)
Luke 6:38 & Proverbs 11:25
2. The next key is that I want to strive to be the best version of myself I can be for God. Matthew 6:33
3. The last key thing we can do and what I may argue is the most important, is pray like the persistent widow. (Luke 18)

Even when things don’t feel good, God always is."The more we celebrate in life, the more there is to celebrate." -OPRAH!

1 Timothy 6:6

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In this episode Megan Bliley from New Zealand joins the pod squad to discuss her convictions on our call to be modern day missionaries regardless of where we live or what life stage we are in as women. Her passion and perspective is refreshing, inpsiring, and a spiritual kick in the pants to get us re-focused in the amazing adventure God wants us to be on alongside our sisters in Christ.

About the Speaker:Megan Bliley was born in the US and raised in Australia in a missionary family. She has been a disciple for 26 years. After working as a Pediatric nurse for 6 years, Megan went into the ministry in Virginia in the US with her husband Dave. She currently leads the church with her husband in Auckland, New Zealand and they have three children ages 4,6 and 9.

Episode Notes
-At baptism we become missionaries regardless if we get “sent out” or not, we become foreigners in this world- we have dual citizenship, here on Earth, and in Heaven where our true home is.

Luke 10:1-12

1) The Power of Two

-Find a friend to be a missionary with, God knows we are better in pairs! We need collaboration and camaraderie over common purpose.
-God wants to send you to all the “places”- within your geographic sphere, there are still “places” where people need to hear the gospel. We have so much work to do!
Q: Do you have a partner in the mission? Regardless of your life-stage, find a partner in the mission.

2) Lambs Among Wolves

-God wants us to be focused and feisty when it comes to the Mission.
-Focused: verse 4, Jesus trains his disciples, and us, to not be distracted.
-Jesus taught them to ignore the social etiquette of their culture in order to prioritize His purposes.
-If your time is filled with people, are those people being saved?
-It’s not easy, don’t expect it to be.
-God desires for us to become emotionally resilient: Satan would love to have us wallow or get inward focused.

3) The Kingdom of God is Near

-We have a powerful message that women are desperate to hear.
-Our Mission is not an activity or a compartment of our lives.

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In this episode, our phenomenal friend Betty joins the podcast to discuss the spirit of fear and ways to battle it as women. Betty is from Lebanon and has grown up in a tumultuous environment physically, politically, and even personally. She shares her own journey to faith as well as the power that God and His truth can have over fear in our lives.

About the Speaker:

Betty Maamari is a proud Christian woman from Lebanon. She has 3 wonderful kids and her eldest is Kurt who is on the Autism Spectrum. Betty has been a grateful disciple for 10 years and her husband came to faith 4 years ago because of the miracles they saw at home with the beloved son, Kurt. Betty is a an advocate for exceptional families in the Middle East and is currently leading the Parent 2 Parent Support Group in Lebanon with the SKILD Center. She is an active person who likes to spread the good news through social media and fun activities to show the world that Church is anything but boring!

Episode Notes:

Regardless of where you are in the world, fear is a huge battle we face.

“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” -Teddy Roosevelt

Fear leads to failure. It can lead us to sin as we try to grab ahold of things and control that ultimately belong to God.

The bible says “Do not fear” over 365 times. Over time, it can be easy for us to “talk the talk” of trusting God, without actually living it out. Fear can be crippling.

Jesus himself experienced fear- God in the flesh experienced fear!

Fear is not an emotion, it is a spirit that attacks us.

Luke 22:39-46

We need to follow the example of Jesus, and pray MORE earnestly. Jesus Himself had to pray 3 times to overcome the spirit of fear- how much more should we expect to have to continually take our fears to God.

“God will always meet us where we are at, but He loves us too much to leave us there.”

What we are struggling with is not new. God’s people have always had to battle the spirit of fear.

Fear clouds our eyes from eternity. We need to pray to see things from God’s perspective.

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In this episode, Mallory moves to the other side of the microphone to talk about her recent study and journey of cultivating gratitude. She shares that the peace of our souls as women has a direct correlation to our thankfulness to God. In a world that tells us to dwell on what we don’t have and who we are not, how do we foster gratitude and care for what we’ve already been given?

About the Speaker:
Mallory Melcher-Post is your hyphenated host on the Woven in Truth podcast. She is a 28-year-old mom of a toddler named Ellie Jo and has been obsessed with her husband, Jeremy, since she was 19 years old. She lives in San Diego, California but is forever a midwesterner at heart. Mallory is passionate about facilitating platforms for women to connect, inspire, and biblically empower one another. She spends a lot of her time looking for rocks with her toddler, walking aimlessly around Costco, or crying over heartwarming videos on Facebook.

Episode Notes:

Metacognition- What we allow ourselves to dwell on, what we focus on, is what develops in our lives- it’s what grows.

Proverbs 23:7- “For as she thinks in his heart, so is she” {Pronoun changed by Speaker}

God has been teaching me that the peace of our souls must be tied to our gratitude to Him.

Gratitude is the active and engaged certainty, awareness & acknowledgment of the presence and provision of God himself.

“If you want to find happiness, find gratitude.”

What stops us from being grateful?
-Comparison, goals, entitlement, discouragement, distractions

Regardless of which of these is standing in the way of my gratitude, they boil down to the same root- I genuinely believe it’s a matter of perspective:

“What a glorious God! He gives us salvation over and over, then daily he carries our burdens! Pause in his presence”

Psalms 68:19 TPT

1. PAUSING FOR PERSPECTIVE

-Psalm 19:14 May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Is what you are focused on, is your current attitude and perspective, pleasing to God?

Colossians 3- set your hearts on things above, not on earthly things. But it’s so easy to zoom back in to my worldly, human, and present perspective if I’m not intentional.

You know even in my relationships. I can get so focused on the day to day difficulties, interactions, needs I have, expectations that are getting disappointed- that I can lose perspective.

Biblical gratitude doesn’t diminish or invalidate our trials, it just puts them in the correct lighting.

2 Corinthians 4:17

“We view our slight, short-lived troubles in the light of eternity.

PRACTICALS

Gratitude journal
Trying to limit or manage distractions so you have the room to pause
Dedicating prayers to exclusive gratitude

Resenting present circumstances keeps us discontent. Keeps us waiting. As if our best life was still on layaway- waiting to be lived.

2. GRATITUDE CANNOT BE TIED TO CIRCUMSTANCES

Its not our circumstances that take us out, but it’s how we think about them.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 — “In every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.”

Psalm 106:1, “Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.”

“The secret is Christ in me, not me in a different set of circumstances.” -Elisabeth Elliott

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Hey mamas, this one is for you! Meegan Zillman joins the podcast to discuss how to cultivate gratitude in our homes and in our hearts and stay engaged with God and the mission of Christ. How do we accept and adapt spiritually to our season of life as mothers? If we have the correct mindset about motherhood, the benefits of this season are remarkable! As moms, we are managing blessings and in order to manage them well (and maybe not go crazy) we need to change our mindsets. We don’t need to compromise- we don’t need to choose between God’s work and our families, but we do need to change how we think about what that is going to look like for us in this season. God sees you, Mama- you matter and so does your mindset.

About the Speaker:Meegan Zillman grew up in a little farm town in Indiana. To her great good fortune, when she was 14 she met Chris, her now husband of 21 years. In 1995 she moved to Massachusetts to attend Smith College and became a disciple of Jesus during her first semester (as did the boyfriend). The Zillmans have spent the past two decades having and enjoying raising their 5 kids, working in churches in New England and the Midwest, and laughing often. Meegan loves reading nerdy fantasy books, quoting Nacho Libre, and finding treasures at thrift stores. The Zillmans currently lead the Denver Church of Christ.

Episode Notes:As moms, how do we stay engaged spiritually?

Mindset is everything- how are we supposed to think about our role as moms in the context of God’s will for us here on Earth?

Kids have always been apart of the kingdom!

2 Timothy 3:15 - Timothy learned the scriptures from infancy!
Matthew 19:14- Kids ARE the work of the kingdom, not an obstacle. Children are a vital part of Jesus’s kingdom vision.
Matthew 24:19- Jesus sees us as mothers- especially mothers of little people! He acknowledges and validates that this season in life has special challenges.

This is a SEASON of life. SEASONS MEAN THAT CHANGES MUST COME. You have a choice- adjust to the season, or fight it and be miserable and uncomfortable.

When things feel too hard or too complicated, we might need to check our mindsets. So much of our angst in this season of life comes from comparing our current limitations to our former abilities.

Too often young moms pull away from the dreams and goals they had for the kingdom of God- they disengage because they are overwhelmed and pull back completely.

So much changes after kids: Energy Level, Focus Level, Emotional Bandwidth, Productivity, Schedule, Opportunities. All of this is changes, so our mindset does as well! We have to start to think differently.

Principles (These look different for everyone):

Walk with God- find ways to stay connected and inspired.
Decide: What is your attitude going to be? If you don’t practice gratitude then this will be a miserable season of life.
Don’t complain.
Embrace the chaos!
Know your priorities.
Stay engaged in bringing light to the world.
Serve. Keep yourself engaged and refuse to be isolated.

Embrace the season of life, enjoy your children, and love God and His Kingdom.

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In this episode, Irene Renton of South Africa joins the podcast to explore the definition and the implications of “wounded idealism.” In our lives and in our faith, we experience lows which can leave us disillusioned and disappointed- Irene helps us peel back the layers of these inevitabilities and identifies that faith and idealism are very different things. Whether you identify as idealist or realist, we can all be women that see our lives, circumstances and others in the light of the truth and with eyes of faith. She discusses her book The Wounded Idealist: A Guide Back to Faith for the Christian Cynic, and also the follow up, The Humble Idealist: The Handbook to Healing of the Wounded Idealist- both of which are available on Amazon and IPIbooks.com.

About the Speaker:

Irene Renton was baptized as a teen and then again as a campus student in Cape Town, South Africa. She went into the ministry after graduation in 1992 and married to Justin Renton in 1997. Together they have 2 children, Elena who is 19 and Luke who is 16; they are both disciples by the mercy and grace of God. In 2007 Irene moved from Cape Town to Johannesburg to oversee the church plus all the churches in Southern Africa. This is where she became a very wounded idealist, very disillusioned in her faith and perspectives on life. Irene battled depression amongst other things and finally recognized that faith and idealism were not the same thing, plus 100 other things. In 2017 she wrote a book on the subject- The Wounded Idealist and then in 2019 wrote the follow up, The Humble Idealist.

Episode Notes:

Sometimes life can leave us wounded- we can start to feel cynical.

“If you scratch under the surface of a cynic, you’ll find a wounded idealist.”

How can faithful people, live in a very disappointing world?

Identifying Idealists:

Great hope
great expectations
dreamers
visionaries
peace-makers
Inspired/Inspiring

Idealism and faith are not the same thing.

Isaiah 7:9

Weaknesses of Idealists:

Easily disappointed and surprised when things don’t go as planned
Talkers more than do-ers
See things very right vs wrong: can come across as merciless
Hate and avoid suffering- constantly want to alleviate hurt
Impatient, can give in to self-pity

Relational hurts can deeply disappoint and disillusion us, especially if they occur within the church.

Disappointment is the gap that exists between reality and expectation.

Even if you identify as a realist, it’s difficult to have compassion and love for our cynical friends and family. But if you recognize that they are just wounded idealists, it’s easier and it’s essential to have compassion.

**Differences between an idealist and a person of faith

There’s so much hope for wounded women of faith!

If you look in the Bible, so many of the great people of faith had devastating circumstances but their faith and depth of love grew through those situations, not in spite of them- humility is the key and humility enables faith.

It’s entitlement, and not just disappointment that wounds idealist.

Practicals for having compassion on wounded idealists:

Ask: What were you hoping for? What were you expecting?
Help them identify their expectations that were disappointed.
Hear them out, don’t dismiss them

Humility is always our way out and our way to faith! There's nothing like being completely known and simultaneously completely loved. We can journey from

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In this fascinating episode, Griselda Lua joins to the podcast to talk about the spiritual practice of spiritual mindfulness attained through the practice of focused breath prayer. Are you ever at a loss for words in prayer? Maybe you get distracted or too overwhelmed in prayer? We are called to love God with all of our minds- but how do we do this practically? Prayer is what helps us be continually aware of the presence of God each moment of our lives and in every breath we take. Griselda teaches on the challenge of dealing with distractions & big emotions so we can effectively set our minds on God and His Truth.

About the Speaker:
As of 2019, Griselda has been married to the love of her life, Rafael Lua, for 24 years. They have three adventurous children: Daniel-20, Adrian-19 and Bianca-16. She’s had the amazing blessing of being reached-out to, raised-up in and is now ministering in the central area of the Los Angeles Church where she was baptized as a college student. In addition to their local ministry, Rafael and Griselda serve as the Pacific SouthWest Church Family Chairpersons and have mentored church leaders in Moscow and Mexico City. She was recently elected by the PSW as their first female delegate. Griselda is grateful to God for His mind-blowing grace & steadfast love.

Episode Notes:Spiritual Mindfulness - the practice of paying attention to the presence of God in this present moment. (Giving your full attention, non-judgmentally, to where God is leading you).

Jesus expressed this desires for us in John 17:20-23 NIV

Q. How often do we truly stop to reflect on the actual presence of God in our lives?

Q. How would our lives be different if each step we took and each breath we took was connected to the awareness of the presence of a God?

Would we respond differently to conflict? Challenges? Temptation?

The scriptures often call us to engage our minds:

“Be still, and know that I am God”. Ps.46:10
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”
“ The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:6
“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is been corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your mind...” Eph.4:22
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Col 3:2

Q. How much focused time are we really spending to train our minds? This takes intentionality.

Jesus got up early to spend solitary time away from any interruptions and to concentrate on setting His mind on things above.

Our bodies are connected to our minds; they are one. Each influences the other.

without concentration, getting rid of distractions and interruptions, prayer cannot bear fruit.
The fruit of prayer is peace, calm, reassurance in our faith, stability and strength, hope, connection to God himself.
prayer is not the act of submitting a request and getting an immediate answer. We all know this, but in our hearts and minds do we practice this?

Q. Or do we become frustrated or discouraged when our sincere request goes unanswered?

Phillipians 4:6-7 reminds us:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

What do to when you are not at peace:

When we are anxious we take short shallow breaths... But our body needs lif

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This part 2 episode of our Peacemakers Series digs into the complicated topic of conflict resolution. Annie Silipo is covering this crucial aspect of our lives as human beings- the pursuit of peace in the midst of conflict. This episode helps us see conflict as a great opportunity to glorify God instead of a hassle to avoid. When we have this biblical perspective the outcome will be peace with God, ourselves and others.

About the Speaker:
Annie was born in Havana Cuba. Her family immigrated to Miami, Florida in the early 60’s. She attended the University of Florida where she obtained her Animal Science degree and more importantly became a disciple of Jesus. Shortly after graduation she moved to Boston to train for the full time ministry. While in Boston she met her husband Joe and they were married in 1986. Her and Joe have three wonderful children- Lynda, Joseph and Sammy. They have had the pleasure of serving in the full time ministry in several different churches including as missionaries in Milan, Italy. They are very grateful to currently be serving in the San Diego Church of Christ.

Episode Notes: Conflict Resolution Class 2

Matt 7:5 Take responsibility first before pointing the finger. Look at your own heart first.
-Humility breeds humility. We can’t see the situation clearly without clear eyes.

In this position of looking at your own heart first, it is possible to have one of two types of faults:

Overly sensitive/easily bothered
Contribution through your own sinful behavior.

We can learn to overlook minor offenses: Prov 19:11, 17:14, 1 Peter 4:8 Eph 4:2, Col 3:13
-When we overlook offenses we imitate God’s extraordinary forgiveness towards us. do not overlook if it is a hurtful pattern in that person's life.

How to overlook? Phil 4:4-9

Rejoice..joyfully god centered, grateful
Gentleness, forbearing, large hearted, considerate, lenient, moderate, etc

3.Rid of anxious thoughts replace these with prayer and petition w/thanks to become confident and trusting

4.Shift your focus to the positive. ..Prov 11:27: if look for bad, you will find it!

Avoid unnecessary conflict...

Think through: is it worth it? What is the cost? does it really matter? pick your battles!
-Being heard and validated cannot be the only goals in conflict resolution.

1 Cor 10:23-24 is it permissible for me to defend myself?Yes...but a better question, is it beneficial?

1 Cor 10:31-11:1

Conflict begins in the heart

James 4:1-3 reasons for conflict with others:
1. Do not ask God, trust God, give way to fear

Wrong motives, desires or comfort… where are we looking for fulfillment?

Desires can become demand, or something we deserve in order to be happy or fulfilled or be ok with that person.

Luke 12:29-31- Idolatrous demands usually leads us to judging others..when people fail to live up to our expectations or fail to satisfy us we criticize, condemn them in our hearts even words.

James 3:13-4:1-3, 7-12 - There is a time to judge rightly

Matt 7:1-5, but we cross the line when we sinfully judge..describe..superiority, condemnation, speculation of motives, resentment, bitterness. In this kind of judgement we are playing God..it is an absence of love and concern for the other person.

Exodus 20:2-3 must struggle through these things to get rid of our idols or they will take us away from God and the people we love the most.

Confession is the cure

James 5:16, Prov. 28:13 the greatest change begins with confession.

We are so easily self deceived- The heart is deceitful - we are a

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This part 1 episode of our Peacemakers Series digs into the complicated topic of conflict resolution. Annie Silipo is covering this crucial aspect of our lives as human beings- the pursuit of peace in the midst of conflict. This episode helps us see conflict as a great opportunity to glorify God instead of a hassle to avoid. When we have this biblical perspective the outcome will be peace with God, ourselves and others.

Episode Notes:
Matthew 5:9 “Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called sons of God” What a privilege to be called a son and daughter of God. We should have a goal of becoming peacemakers. Lets get good at it for our sake and for the sake of others.

1 Corinthians 10:31 “In all things for the glory of God” The goal of conflict resolution is to glorify God. Only in this process of glorifying God is where we find joy and peace in relationships.

So how do we glorify God through conflict?

Believe that conflict provides opportunity. It provides an opportunity to honor God.
What are some causes of conflict?
- Misunderstanding due to poor communication
- Differences in expectations,values, opinions, goals and interests
- Competition over limited resources
- Sinful attitudes and habits
Live at peace with each other
Romans 12:17-19 “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as long as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge my friends but leave room for God’s wrath”.
The opposite of conflict is peace. The world is desperately seeking peace. God communicates in the Bible his deepest desire to bless us with peace.
Ephesians 4:3 “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Peace binds us. It is God’s desire and his command for us to make every effort to keep this bond.
Nothing reveals God’s concern for peace and unity more vividly than his decision to send his son.
God understands that without this peace and unity we can never influence the world for him.
John 17:23 “May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me”
He also teaches us that we can not love and worship properly if we at odds with each other and have not made every effort to reconcile 1 John 4:19-21……
Trust God and do His Will
Psalm 32:10 “ Many are the woes of the wicked but the Lord’s unfailing love surrounds the man or woman who trusts in him.”
Romans 8:28 “ And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him”
Sometimes we spend more time trying to figure out God’s motives (the why) vs spending time understanding his loving lessons, truths about his character and trusting in his sovereignty.
We must begin to see that conflict is a great opportunity to glorify God instead of a hassle to avoid. When we do the outco

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In this episode our friend Jana joins the podcast to share about her recent journey through devastating trials in which she was forced to stare her worst fear in the eye. She shares some crucial scriptures and biblical practicals that have helped her not just survive this trial, but thrive in the life God has given her. “My friends, no matter where you are or what is happening in your life, cling to God. Choose Him. Because He alone can bring healing to any wound and joy to any heart.”

About the Speaker:
Jana Lusk was baptized at age 14, and life went a little bit differently than how she imagined it would! Recently, Jana went through a devastating trial, but was blessed to discover that her true treasure is guarded by angels in Heaven. She now lives an authentic and joy-filled life in Denver, Colorado, surrounded by the best tribe I girl could ever dream of. She enjoys writing, audiobooks, eating French fries, and going on long walks with her fur baby, Louie

Episode Notes:

The question is not will tragedy strike; the question is what will you do when it does?

I knew as soon as I asked myself that question that I had to cling to God. I felt that if I didn’t have Divinity holding my heart, it would shatter completely and I would die or go crazy. So I chose to cling to God.
Even if the ocean of grief in front of you feels overwhelming, you can cling to God and walk with Him through it.

Practicals: Clinging to God During Trials

1.) Know and continuously remind yourself that God is only good

James 1:13-17
Here are some scriptures that you can read that talk about God’s goodness:
Exodus 34:6
Psalm 23:6
Psalm 34:8, 15, 17-19
Psalm 145:9
Nahum 1:7
Matthew 7:11
1 John 1:5
Romans 8:28

Take the time to study this out until it is a deeply held conviction in your heart.

2.) Find your anchor scriptures

When everything fell apart, I knew that whatever I repeated to myself would become what I believed.
John 11: 1-44. Not only does God hear my cry when I pray to Him; He knows my pain and weeps with me.
Proverbs 31:25
Nehemiah 8:10 My strength is not in my life circumstances or earthly blessings. It is in the joy that He alone gives me.
This last scripture is talking about how to handle divorce in the kingdom:1 Corinthians 7:12-13, 15

Whatever your situation, find your verses. Cling to them like life rafts and say them over and over until you believe them with your whole heart.

3.) Lean on your tribe

We were created to be in community in both the good times and the bad.
Proverbs 17:17 “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
Proverbs 18:24 “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
Do you have people that you would call if your world fell apart? Are you that person for someone else?
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Do you have people that can help you up when you fall? If you don’t, I would strong encourage you to invest your time and resources in those relationships.
God uses the people in our lives to bring us His healing.
If you are going through a hard time, cling to your people. And if you aren’t going through a hard time, invest in your people. You never know when life might take an unexpected turn and you need to call on those relationships.

My friends, no matter where you are or what is happening in your life, cling to God. Choose Him. Because He alone can bring healing to a

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In this episode Angela Clouse joins the Woven In Truth Podcast to guide our thoughts on how to take your prayer life from a ritual to a relationship! Prayer is connection with the creator of the universe- He hears you, He cares, and He is working. Angela shares her about her personal prayer life and the amazing ways that prayer has powered her through the hardest of circumstances to help her tap into God's strength and peace- even in the most devastating of times.

Episode Notes:
God loves when we come to Him with our hearts and requests!

Romans 12:12 - Are you faithful in prayer?

What is prayer? Its connection to God! It's never been about us or our power- it's about interacting with God who actually does have the power!

How do you feel about communicating with God?

Psalm 42:1

Prayer is essential. The love for it doesn't happen over night but it can be cultivated into a lifeline.

Psalm 5:3- God hears you. We can lay our requests before Him and then we need to be patient and wait.

We are transformed through prayer. It's not just about asking for things.

Authentic peace and comfort only come through prayer.

Practicals:
1. Don't Give Up. Even when it feels like it's just a ritual or if you don't feel like it. Train yourself to keep praying.
2. Daily Surrender. Make an intentional decision to become a woman of prayer.
3. Daily Prayer. Make it your lifestyle. (Mark 1:35) Have a certain time and place that you spend time in prayer to God.
4. Go to the Throne before the Phone. Have you prayed about whatever you are stressed/worried/frustrated about before you get on your phone? God wants us to go to Him before anything or anyone else.

"To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing. Prayer is simply God's oxygen for the lungs of our faith." -Martin Luther

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In this episode Janet Schalk stops by to discuss the importance and the power of meaningful time with God. She discusses the amazing opportunity we have each day to collaborate with God on eternity! Prayer and Bible Study change us- they also give us knowledge and inspiration to grow and also to help those around us. Listen today to hear Janet's personal journey and also get some great practicals to apply in your own walk with God.

About the Speaker:
Janet Schalk became a Christian as a Freshman in college at the age of 18 and has been a disciple for 39 years. She has been a part of the Youth & Family Ministry, Campus, Singles, Marrieds and now Empty Nester Ministry. She has been a Bible Talk leader most of those 30 years, and has a deep love and appreciation for God’s Word and His Kingdom. Janet has been married for 30 years and has two daughters, aged 22 and 25 years old. She has worked for the San Diego Church of Christ for twelve years doing accounting and human resources, and has also worked in Real Estate Lending and Accounting. Janet has a degree in Finance from San Diego State University.

Episode Notes:

"My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?" Psalm 42:2

What is a Quiet Time, Why is it Important? What makes up a “good” quiet time? How do we have one?

The WHY

We often don’t realize that a Quiet Time can be the most exciting and revitalizing time of our day! Quiet Times Work! Prayer and Bible Study change us, and give us knowledge and inspiration to grow and also to help others.
We get to collaborate with God on eternity!
Our love for God is often suppressed. Ecclesiastes 3:11 God places a longing for Him within us. The best place for emotions: in our time with God!

WHAT makes our time with God special or meaningful?

1) Knowing it is a dynamic and ever-changing relationship - Full of variety

2) No place for self-condemnation or pride

3) Time of gratitude - A longing fulfilled

WHAT will a Quiet Time look like?

1) Bible and Prayer

2) Singing, Meditating and Listening!

3) Times of Lament

4) Writing of songs or psalms, poetry or proverbs

God WANTS to spend time with you! Matthew 1:23 Immanuel – God with us!

· John 14:15-21 He wants to make His home with us!

· Matthew 28:18-20 He promises to be with us to the end of the age!

Learn to APPLY the Bible through Inductive Bible Study which involves thought-provoking questions which consist of three components:

Observation
Interpretation
Application

A Quiet Time is a time of “Renewing our Minds” so we can be transformed by the Spirit of God. Romans 12:2 And not by listening to just “the latest ideas” Acts 17:21

Who do we want to be shaped by? Knowing God versus knowing about God.

PRACTICALS

First, I recommend keeping a special notebook of what you are learning each day.

1) When you are reading a book or passage in the Bible, ask yourself OBSERVATION questions. Observation questions help us understand the content of a passage by asking about the facts: Who, what, when, where and how.

2) INTERPRETATION questions delve into the meaning of the passage. When we interpret, we seek to understand the facts discovered through observation.

3) APPLICATION questions help us discover its implications for us and how we can learn and gr

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In this special episode of the podcast, Jessica Paige and Lupita Sandoval share their journey of grieving in the arms of God. These two friends stop by to open their hearts to all of us and share the healing that has taken place in the midst of their mourning. Jessica, 27, lost both of her beloved parents in recent years and Lupita, 26, lost her mother last year just one short month after she received a cancer diagnosis. They answer the question that lies heavy on any grieving heart: “Where do I go when hope is gone?”

About the Speakers:

Jessica is a San Diego native who loves to travel, try new Airbnb's, and discover the best chai tea lattes at different cafes! She is currently taking on photography as a hobby that might turn into a career. She has been a disciple of Christ for almost 9 years and couldn't be more sure that following God was the best decision she ever made.

Lupita is also a San Diego native and a nature lover. As she pursued her major in Environmental Science, she learned about God and became a member of the San Diego Church of Christ.

Episode Notes:

Lamentations 3:18-21: I have been deprived of peace; I have forgotten what prosperity is. So I say, “My splendor is gone and all that I had hoped from the Lord.” I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.”

Q: Where do I go when hope is gone?

John 11:4

We need to acknowledge the kingdom and the ways God wants to use His people to share His comfort with you.

Philippians 4:7- And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

You have access the peace that passes understanding through God’s love and comfort.
Thanksgiving and grief go hand in hand.

Reference to “A Shepherd’s Look at Psalm 23”

It’s in the valleys that we find God’s refreshment. Don’t forget- God can restore your spirit.
It is so important to learn what your needs are so that you can communicate them to those around you.

Practicals for those in the valley of grief:

Recognizing WHEN you are grieving can be hard, but we can learn to sit in that and accept the emotions and the questions that come along with it, instead of trying to push them away.
Grief doesn’t have boundaries- it will spill into your work, your relationships, and everything else. And you will feel it in different and unique ways. Acknowledging this is empowering.
Prayer is so important in the grief process- you can come to Him as you are and be real with the rawness of your emotions in order to access some of His peace and comfort.

Tips for comforting those around us that are grieving:

Just Ask. Don’t be insecure. Ask what your friend’s needs are all often because it my change on a daily basis.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions!
What NOT to say to someone grieving: “Well AT LEAST (fill in the blank).” Try to avoid attempting to lessen the hurt because honestly, you can’t.

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In this episode, Shelly Pope stops by to help us identify and throw off falsehood so that we can embrace and become our authentic selves before God and others. As women, we can feel so burdened by the pressure to be something we aren't and we can become overly focused on the areas where we fall short. There is so much freedom in letting go of who we are not and embracing exactly who God made us to be- Authentically You.

About the Speaker:I am a native of Dayton, Ohio and migrated to Marietta, GA with my husband and daughters in 1996. I’ve been married for 27 years this August and have two lovely daughters. In 1997 I was converted and came to Christ at the Atlanta Church of Christ. I was called to serve in the full-time ministry with my husband in 2000. Since then, my husband and I have served in Atlanta for 15 years, Savannah, GA for 3.5 yrs and are now currently serving as the Lead Evangelist and Women’s Ministry Leaders with the Temecula Valley Church of Christ since January of this year. I became a Marriage and Family Therapist in 2015, to better serve the church and the community of families and individuals throughout Georgia and now Southern California. I enjoy teaching and training others in Gods word and working to help families and marriages glorify God, spending quality time with my family and friends and dancing to good music. Episode Notes:

This lesson comes from a Christian series called Emotionally Healthy Spirituality, by Peter Scazzero; Know Thyself So that you May Know God.
In order to mature and grow spiritually, one must recognize the unhealthy emotional habits that we’ve fallen into before we can really begin the journey of growing into our Authentic Self. Here are 10 signs that you may be struggling with Emotional Unhealthy Spirituality:
Using God to run from God
Ignoring emotions of anger, sadness & fear
Dying to the wrong things
Denying the pasts impact on the present
Dividing life in to spiritual and secular compartments
Doing for God instead of BEING with God
Spiritualizing away conflict
Covering over brokenness, weakness and failure
Living without limits (The need for setting healthy boundaries)
Judging the spiritual journey of others (Taking the plank out of my own eye)
Definition of Authentic: not false or copied; genuine; real: having an origin supported by unquestionable evidence; authenticated; verified: representing one’s true nature or beliefs; true to oneself

Let’s look at Saul and David and compare how each of them understood authenticity.

Saul's Inauthentic Self: 1 Sam 15: 2-3,7-24

Confidence came from his prestige, performance, possessions

David's Authentic Self: 1 Sam 17:24-45

Confidence came from God’s grace, power, wisdom and glory

So how then do we learn to live in authenticity like David?
Four ways that have been beneficial:

Learning Silence and Solitude, so that I can truly hear God and what HE has asked, commanded me to do. Psm 46:10 Isa 61:1-3

2. Find a trusted Friend that is wise and spiritually mature to help you to discern the directions that God is leading you to. Prov 27:5-6, Prov 19:20

3. Move out of your Comfort Zone. 2 Tim 1:7

Pray for Courage to go on the journey. Duet 31:7-8

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In this episode, Claire Leong joins the podcast to discuss our call to embrace the power of biblical vulnerability. God created us to live in authentic connection with Him and with others. When we don't feel known, we can feel very isolated, misunderstood, and insecure. There is so much empowerment in vulnerability and this episode will shed some fresh light on it!

About the Speaker

Claire Leong may have been born in the Midwest, but growing up on the west coast has made her a California girl at heart. Growing up in Northern California, Claire established her love for academics, theater, and God – she became a Christian when she was 15 years old. She moved south and earned her Theater degree at UCLA, married her incredible husband Ben, and they now have their two girls, Melody and Hazel. She currently works in the IT department for National University System, and spends her off hours having fun with her family, crocheting, and serving God with her voice and her talents. Through various life challenges, Claire has come to appreciate our need for connection with others, and how Satan can use isolation to keep us from seeing and believing in God’s word.

Episode Notes

1 John 1:5-9 - Living in the light gives us authentic connection to God and others and brings healing.

Confession of sin: we have to confess to find healing!
Wrestling to be approved vs "known"
We feel so separated when we have things we're hiding- because we are! Hiding brings insecurity.

Sometimes we feel like people won't understand our brokenness, so we stop sharing the dark places of our hearts- this isn't how God intended us to live! He wants us to live free and live known.

Admitting our junk & sin doesn't make us less worthy of God's love. His grace isn't based on us, it's just placed on us- so there's no need to stay hidden.

Social media is one of the biggest deceivers of connection.

We find meaningful connection in the hardest of times. But we have to choose to bring ourselves out of isolation.

Practical: Have planned time in your schedule where you connect with people and have opportunities to talk on a deep level.

God wants to know us and for us to be known by others. We are purified by Jesus, we just have to own our brokenness and let others in. We need to take initiative to invite others into our lives, struggles, and hurts.

Vulnerability is intentional emotional exposure. There's a lot of empowerment in vulnerability. Lead by example if others don't do this with you- it gives them permission to be more open with you and ultimately God. We need to be patient and gracious with those we share our hearts with- it's more about being known and honoring God than about their response.

Galatians 6:4 "Let everyone be devoted to fulfill the work God has given them to do with excellence, and their joy will be in doing what’s right and being themselves, and not in being affirmed by others." (TPT)

Challenges:

Think about something that you're really afraid to tell someone. Own it. And then find someone trustworthy you can talk to about it.
If you are not already set up on a recurring date with someone to connect, then add that into your schedule. Find time to be in each other's lives: to be open, honest, and feel connection.

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In this episode Sheri Saretsky joins the podcast to lead our thoughts on the topic of surrender to God's plan. We LOVE to make amazing and calculated plans for our lives and often we can land in disappointing places when things don't play out the way we hoped. But God always has a plan for our lives and our circumstances- even devastating ones.

About the Speaker:

Sheri Saretsky works as an RN overseeing a Vocational Nursing program by day, and a blogger/poet by night. She has raised three wonderful boys and is enjoying her first grandchild immensely. She and her husband lead a Bible Talk in the Empty Nesters Ministry and she is very familiar with the term "Boomerang Children" in her on again/off again Empty Nest. She is very grateful to God for the many blessings he provides and the lessons he continues to teach her.
You can read her poetry and blog at:
https://motheringmarriageandmenopause.wordpress.com

Episode Notes

Jeremiah 29:11

We make really excellent plans for our lives. Sometimes we think that God will get on board with OUR plans. But that is not what He promises us in Jeremiah.

Sometimes we have to stop asking "Why?" and start asking "What's next?"

Proverbs 16:3
Proverbs 16:9
Psalms 20

God can use horrible situations to do amazing things.

Moses

God's plan is based on what He knows about us...and He knows us better than we know ourselves.
God's plan comes with everything we need. Our plans are never all-inclusive!

God doesn't just want blind obedience from us- He desires connection.

We can't minimize or invalidate the devastation that occurs when our plans or our worlds are rocked. But we can take those broken pieces to God and let Him bring healing, peace, and purpose.

Questions to Consider:

So the question for you is what does God have planned for you in your life?
How does He want to use the specific talents and passions that He's given you?
What are the steps you need to take to get on board?

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We all crave deep and meaningful connections and friendships with other women. In this episode, DeShonda and Felicia lead our thoughts on the subject of fulfilling and faith-filled friendships. They take us through their journey of friendship and give us some great practicals and scriptures we can apply to our own friendships - or potential ones!

Proverbs 17:17
Proverbs 27:9

Many women want great friendships, but they aren't willing to do their part to make it great.

Great friendships aren't a 50/50 thing, it's a 100/100- It takes giving 100%! This is true in any relationship.

John 6:14

If you want to have a friend you have to be a great friend.

We can be comfortable in our differences. It's more about being open and honest- sharing the deep parts of our hearts. But it's also about having fun and enjoying each other!

Four C's of Friendships:

Comrade: A person or friend you've been through battles and difficult times. (Ex. Moses and Aaron) Are we supporting our friends in their dreams and goals?
Confidant: Someone you share your soul with. (Ex. David and Jonathan)
Companion: Someone who goes along with you through life. A relationship that isn't just circumstantial. (Ex. Ruth and Naomi)
Coach: Mentor, Trainer, etc. Someone who helps you be your best. Sometimes we have to be secure enough to let our friend's shine.

All friendships aren't good friendships and biblical discernment is important. We shouldn't enter into friendships haphazardly.

Luke 23:12
Proverbs 12:26
Jeremiah 9:5
Proverbs 18:24

When evaluating a friendship or a potential one, ask yourself these questions:
1. What do we share in common?
2. Does this relationship bring about things that please God?
3. Do we help each other be our best or something else?
4. Am I compromising my convictions when I'm with this person?
5. Am I a good friend?
6. Is this relationship healthy?

Social media complicates this for many of us. It gives us the illusion of connection or friendship, but not the meaningful relationships.

Jesus is the master friend. He teaches us how to be and have that in our life.

John 15:13

It's in our sinful natures that make us want to be competitive, selfish and critical of our friendships. We have to be aware of this and die to these sins repeatedly in order to love our friends.

James 2:23

Faith and friendships go hand in hand.

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In this episode Bri Grimes joins the podcast to lead our thoughts on a tough topic. How do we trust God- His goodness and His sovereignty, when are hearts are broke? She shares vulnerably about her journey of infertility and all that she learned and experienced in the loving arms of God in the midst of loss. Take some time to listen, learn, and be inspired!

About the Speaker:Bri Grimes is a 28-year-old wife and mother to a sweet baby boy named Parker. She serves in the full-time ministry and leads the campus ministry in the San Diego Church of Christ alongside her husband, Evan. Bri loves her family, refinishing furniture, and eating Cane's chicken fingers.

Episode Notes:

A question most of us have asked is "If God is in control, then how can he be good during traumatic circumstances?"
David in the bible teaches to wrestle with God- because He can handle our emotions!
"Even if I don't understand, will I still trust God?"

Proverbs 21:30- God is ALWAYS in control!
Lamentations 3:37

God's sovereignty and His goodness are always in harmony with each other! He never pursues His glory and the expense of His goodness.
God doesn't just create something and walk away- He sustains all things!
Our confidence in God's sovereignty is what enables us to trust Him in the midst of any circumstances- His way is perfect. (Psalm 18:30)
"Trusting God isn't a matter of my feelings, but a matter of my will!"

Psalm 118:6

Satan always works to get us to question God's goodness. He wants to convince us that God is either in control OR that He is good. But the truth is that He is both! And although we might not get answers to ALL of our questions, we can trust in God's sovereignty and goodness.

Psalm 32:10
1 John 4:8
2 Timothy 2:13
Isaiah 49:16

God is doing everything in His all-encompassing power to bring you good! This isn't the prosperity gospel, it's the loving heart of a father to His precious daughter.

"The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:17-18

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In this episode Brook Mesenbrink joins the pod squad to share her amazing journey of being adopted and the love God has shown her through that experience. She vulnerably shares about the struggles and insecurities that God has carried her through- all issues that we can relate to as humans: to feel wanted, validated, and unconditionally chosen.

About the Speaker: Brook is a California girl who was adopted into a multiracial physical family as a young child. The feeling of abandonment and disconnectedness typically experienced by adopted children motivated her to search for God and become adopted into a spiritual family when she was twenty years old. In this podcast, Brook shares about her journey of how she healed her brokenness and is able to extend compassion to others through experiencing God's true love.

Episode Notes:

Psalm 68:5 "Sing to God, sing in praise of his name, extol him who rides on the clouds; rejoice before him—his name is the Lord. A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families."
Ephesians 1:4-5 "..even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will..."
Ephesians 2:19 "Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household"
God's grace and mercy empowers us to extend that same compassion and understanding to others around us.
We all want to feel like we belong to a group of people- especially those who really know us as individuals.
Luke 13:34 "How often I have longed to gather your children together as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you would have none of it!"
We can be women of compassion and conviction when we live in the overwhelming love of God and imitate His son, Jesus.

Psalm 145:13-19

God is trustworthy! He is faithful to us! He has compassion on us
He disciplines our characters as His beloved children- and His discipline is perfect. Hebrews 12:5-11

Acts 17:26-28You, my friend, are chosen, genuinely seen, and unconditionally loved.

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In this episode Linda Brumley leads our thoughts on the confusion between fantasy and faith and the spiritual perspective that God calls us to as His daughters. Listen in and hear her share God's powerful word and the uplifting message of the hope that a heavenly perspective can bring our hearts.

About the Speaker:

Linda Brumley, along with her husband, Ron, has served in the ministry in San Diego, Chicago, Denver, and Seattle. She and Ron make their home in San Diego, California. Her greatest joy in life is friends and family (four children and 10 grandchildren). Because she feels so blessed to have learned from mentors in her life, she hopes to offer that same blessing to women that God enables her to influence for Him. Linda has written many books including, Hand in Hand with God: Finding Your Path to Forgiveness, My Beggar’s Purse and Other Spiritual Thoughts, and Golden Rule Membership.

Episode Notes:

Eternal vs. Temporary
Word became flesh- this is crazy! (John 1)
Nicodemus- born again- physical vs. spiritual (John 3:4)
Woman at the well- Living Water (John 4:1-26)
Jesus' food vs. Physical Food (John 4:34)
Demand for a sign/moving mountains- (Matthew 16) We are called to believe in the signs and wonders- in the miracles that we cannot see with physical eyes. We've already seen God do so much! We already have enough evidence.

Questions to consider:

What would we see if we weren't looking for our fantasies?
When our circumstances are bleak we think its bad news. But maybe its good news... Maybe its the exact mountain that God wants to move.
If we only value the physical results we pray for, are we really living by faith or by fantasy?

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In this episode Claudia shares her biblical convictions on our call to spread the good news- the hope and purpose we have in Jesus. She describes the importance of developing a heart for the hurting and the lost and shares both radical and practical ways to follow the example of Jesus and make "the mission" a lifestyle instead of a task.

About the Speaker:Claudia Teran is a 29 year old woman who loves to serve in the campus ministry in the Pomerado Region in San Diego. Growing up catholic, her passion for helping and serving others originated at a young age when she joined a monastery and later a convent considering becoming a full service nun. After studying the Bible herself, she is driven by the love of Jesus to teach and spread the gospel around the world with a special passion for the Middle East.

Episode Notes:

The Mission isn't just a part of Christian life- it IS the Christian life!
God has always been in the business of sending (John 3:16-17)
- Abraham
- Moses
- The prophets
- His Son, Jesus
- The Holy Spirit
Sharing your faith is a lifestyle, not a task.
The mission doesn't have to be overseas, it could just be sharing your life within your circles! This is a heart issue.
Dare to dream big! Don't ignore God's callings and pray big prayers!
Romans 10:13-14 "Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved." How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?"
Obedience over convenience.
Persecution is real- but God wants to walk with you through it! Resistance is part of the strengthening process. We need to be there for our sisters- we're in this together!
The dark needs the light, so don't be surprised if God sends you into the dark!

Questions to consider:

If you haven't been sharing your faith, what is stopping you?
Am I making the gospel available to people that don't have access to it in my community?
Am I too focused on my own spiritual growth that I'm not concerned with the spiritual well-being of those around me?
The Mission is personal- what passion or talents has God specifically given you and how does he want you to use those to advance His kingdom?

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In this episode Yung Gore joins the podcast to talk about Facing the Unknown with faith. She shares vulnerably about her journey with the unknown and what God has and is currently teaching her through it.

About the speaker:

Born in Vietnam with 13 siblings Yung Gore was baptized into Christ at the University of San Diego in 1997 while studying International Relations. Yung later received her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has been married to her dream come true, Jon for 14 years and has two children, Imani and Aedan. She has served in the full-time ministry for 15 years and is a Women’s Ministry Leader in San Diego.

Episode Notes:

Genesis 15:1- where God calls Abraham out of his tent and says “I am your shield and your great reward.”
Genesis 12:1-4
Psalm 16

This is the Johari Window that Yung references in her lesson.

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In this episode Morgan Roberts leads our thoughts on something we are all too familiar with: Stress! She discusses the peace that God calls us to as women, and the wholeness that accessing that peace can bring our hearts. Listen in as she shares her own journey with stress and shares some amazing scriptures and practicals on the topic of living a peaceful life even in the midst of stressful circumstances.

About the Speaker:

Morgan is a wife and working mom of a one year old. In her spare time you can find her in shavasana or sipping an extra hot latte at Peet’s

Episode Notes:

What is God's will for me right now?

Live in peace (Heb 12:14)
Love one another (John 15:12)
Care for the widowed and orphaned (James 1:27)
Share my relationship with Jesus with my coworkers and friends (Mark 16:15)

Understanding that peace means “wholeness”. I can’t reach wholeness on my own because I’m broken, only God can provide wholeness.

Isaiah 26:3
Psalm 46:5 "God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day."

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In this episode Kathi Norris leads our thoughts as she shares about her life journey with God. She discusses our one-on-one time with God and the importance and power of that connection- and more specifically the importance to keep showing up.

About the Speaker:

Kathi grew up in the Midwest in a christian home. She is a twin and the youngest of five children. She began to pursue her own relationship with God in her 20’s. She has been married to Rick over 26 years and has 4 grown children with amazing spouses, and 3 grandchildren. Kathi is a Realtor and enjoys working with people. Her passion is her family time, travel, and helping women to know God better.

Episode Notes:

Deuteronomy 4:39
2 Chronicles 16:9
Romans 10:17
Romans 12:2
God shows up so I must show up.
Do the Work.
Enjoy the Transformation!

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