The Blue Cord, by iHOPE Ministries: Recent Episodes
Karen Bejjani
For Christian women who are hungry to know God and make Him known. Host Karen Bejjani (author and iHOPE Ministries' Co-Founder) dishes up a fresh dose of inspiration and moral courage through conversations with faith-filled women who are living as authentic witnesses across cultures in their daily lives. For more inspiration visit TheBlueCord.org.
In this message preached at a recent church gathering, Renod Bejjani, founder of iHOPE Ministries and author of several books, addresses one of the most important ministry realities facing the Church today: the rise of Islam in North America. With pastoral clarity and biblical conviction, Renod challenges believers to see this moment not simply as a cultural shift but as a profound Gospel opportunity.
To learn more about the ETHNOS™ Discipleship Pathway, The Blue Cord™, or bringing this message to your church or community, visit iHOPEMinistries.org. And if this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe and share it with a friend.
LINKS
- Join the iHOPE community of global believers who are sharing Jesus across faiths, generations, and nations.
- Visit TheBlueCord.org Find out how you can move from "I can't" to "I do" share Jesus across faiths
In this special-edition Blue Cord episode, host Karen Bejjani talks with gifted producer and scriptwriter Nancy Sawyer Schraeder about how her behind-the-scenes work on iHOPE's new ETHNOS Course reshaped her view of cross-faith outreach. Hear Nancy’s personal journey from hesitation to boldness—and how God is using iHOPE's ETHNOS and Blue Cord Programs to mobilize everyday believers to share the hope of Jesus across faiths.
LINKS
- Join the iHOPE community of global believers who are sharing Jesus across faiths, generations, and nations.
- Visit TheBlueCord.org Find out how you can move from "I can't" to "I do" share Jesus across faiths
Did you know Islam has its own end-time prophecies that shape thoughts on Middle East wars, Israel, and the West? In this special edition episode, Karen and Renod Bejjani, Authors and Founders of iHOPE Ministries, unpack what Muslims believe about the end times and why it matters for Christians seeking to share their faith. Discover how Islamic and Christian end-time prophecies influence global conflict and personal relationships.
You’ll learn:
- Key differences and similarities between Islamic and Christian eschatology
- Why Muslim perspectives on Israel and Armageddon matter today
- Real stories of transformation through spiritual conversations
- How to confidently witness to Muslim neighbors, friends, or colleagues—right now
Walk away with practical steps to engage Muslims with grace and courage during uncertain times, and become a bold ambassador for Jesus wherever you live.
Next Steps:
- Join the iHOPE Ministries’ community of believers who are shining the hope of Jesus across faiths, generations, and nations. You’ll get weekly iHOPE emails full of inspiring stories (like the Smiths), resources, and a FREE download on how you can start spiritual conversations across faith in your daily life.
- Take the ETHNOS Course. It's a natural next-step after doing The Blue Cord Book Study! God is not far from your other-faith neighbor because you live there. Learn 5 ways to be an authentic Christian witness across faiths (like with Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and more) in your daily life.
LINKS
- Join the iHOPE community of global believers who are sharing Jesus across faiths, generations, and nations.
- Visit TheBlueCord.org Find out how you can move from "I can't" to "I do" share Jesus across faiths
About the Guest:Renod Bejjani: Renod Bejjani is a former Christian who experienced intense persecution in several Islamic world nations. After years of anger and hatred towards Muslims, he had a transformational encounter with God and now serves as an instrument of God's love to Muslims. Renod is the author of two books, "Muslims: Five Biblical Essentials Every Christian Should Know and Do" and "The Way to Paradise," a Bible study.
Episode Summary:Welcome to the final episode of Season 6 of The Blue Cord Podcast. In this episode, host Karen interviews her husband Renod Bejjani, who shares his personal journey from anger and hatred towards Muslims to becoming an instrument of God's love for them. Renod discusses how Jesus prepared his disciples to engage with people from other faiths and cultures and emphasizes the importance of knowing scripture, having a personal relationship with God through Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, and actively meeting people of different faiths and cultures. The episode also explores what different religions believe about God, Jesus, salvation, and the afterlife, highlighting the unique aspects of Christianity in comparison to other faiths. The episode concludes with a call to action for Christians to engage with people from other faiths and cultures and share the hope of Jesus.
Key Takeaways:Jesus prepared his disciples to engage with people from other faiths and cultures by modeling the use of scripture, emphasizing a personal relationship with God through Jesus, empowering them with the Holy Spirit, and encouraging them to meet people of different faiths and cultures.
Christianity is the only religion where God has a personal relationship with individuals.
Other religions have different beliefs about God, Jesus, salvation, and the afterlife. Islam respects Jesus as a prophet but denies his deity, while Hinduism has millions of gods and Buddhism sees God as an abstract void. Only Christianity believes in the Trinity and the deity of Jesus.
Most religions, except Christianity and Islam, teach that being a good person leads to a good afterlife. Christianity and Islam believe in a judgment day where individuals will go to heaven or hell based on their faith and actions.
Christianity, Islam, and secularism are the only religions actively evangelizing. Other religions, such as Hinduism and Buddhism, focus on merging into divinity or achieving a state of oneness.
Notable Quotes:"In all other religions, it depends on me, my works to make it to the afterlife. But in Christianity, my salvation depends on what Jesus did, what he's already accomplished because he did what needs to be done to redeem me out of hell." - Renod Bejjani
"The best way to prepare is to get to know people and follow the process that Jesus prepared his disciples with." - Renod Bejjani
Resources:Renod Bejjani's books: Muslims: Five Biblical Essentials Every Christian Should Know and Do and The Way to Paradise
Thank you for listening to the final episode of Season 6 of The Blue Cord Podcast. Stay tuned for more inspiring content in Season 7.
About the Guest(s):Cathy is an experienced Christian missionary and disciple-maker.
She has led gospel sharing teams in multiple countries and currently disciples a group of new believers in Pakistan.
Cathy is actively involved in helping everyday believers live out their calling to make Jesus known through her work with iHOPE Ministries.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen and Cathy discuss the challenges of inspiring and empowering Christian friends to share their faith across different faiths and cultures. They address the opposition that may arise and the apathy or fear that some Christians may have towards evangelism. Cathy shares her personal experience of moving to a new city and struggling to find like-minded individuals who were willing to engage in faith sharing. However, through her involvement with The Blue Cord study, she was able to build a community of women who are now actively sharing the gospel both locally and internationally. The Blue Cord study combines biblical concepts with behavioral science to inspire and empower individuals to share Jesus in a natural and effective way. Cathy encourages listeners to step out in faith and start small, as even the smallest acts of obedience can have a significant impact on the world.
Key Takeaways:Many Christians may be hesitant or apathetic towards sharing their faith across different faiths and cultures.
The United States is one of the nations with a significant number of unreached people, and the growth of other religions, such as Islam, is outpacing Christianity.
The Blue Cord study provides a practical and effective way to inspire and empower Christians to share Jesus with people of other faiths and cultures.
Starting small and building a community of like-minded individuals can lead to significant multiplication and impact.
The joy of sharing Jesus and seeing lives transformed outweighs any fear or opposition that may arise.
Notable Quotes:"The comfort zone is a lie from Satan. The joy zone is where it's at." - Cathy
"The Lord can impact the world through your saying yes and stepping out in faith." - Cathy
Resources:The Blue Cord - The website for The Blue Cord study and resources.
iHOPE Ministries - The organization Cathy is involved with, helping believers live out their calling to make Jesus known.
Listen to the full episode to gain more insights and be inspired to share Jesus with people of other faiths and cultures. Stay tuned for more empowering content from The Blue Cord Podcast.
About the Guest(s):Lisa Pack is a second-generation Korean-Canadian from Toronto, Canada.
She has 14 years of global and pastoral ministry and church experience.
Lisa is a global mission strategist and serves on the core team with Rick Warren's "Finishing the Task" initiative.
She is passionate about reaching the world's least reached and mobilizing younger generations for the gospel.
Episode Summary:In this episode of The Blue Cord Podcast, host Karen discusses the resistance factors that often hold Christians back from sharing their faith. She is joined by Lisa Pack, a global mission strategist and member of Rick Warren's "Finishing the Task" initiative. Lisa shares her personal journey of discovering God's heart for the nations and emphasizes the importance of overcoming ignorance and fear in order to be bold witnesses for Christ. She encourages women to find opportunities for sharing their faith and highlights the power of community and sisterhood in supporting and empowering one another. The episode concludes with practical tips for cultivating a prayer life and creating an environment that fosters intentional evangelism.
Key Takeaways:Ignorance and fear are two major resistance factors that hold Christians back from sharing their faith.
Overcoming ignorance involves becoming aware of the number of people who don't know Jesus and understanding the impact of cultural influences on their perception of God.
Fear can be overcome by focusing on God's love and the authenticity of one's own story and witness.
Women have unique opportunities to share their faith and make a difference in their communities and the world.
Building a community of like-minded believers can provide support, encouragement, and opportunities for growth in sharing the gospel.
Notable Quotes:"Ignorance and fear feed into each other and become bigger obstacles to sharing our faith." - Lisa Pack
"You don't have to be a theologian to share your faith. Your story and the presence of the Holy Spirit in you are what persuades people." - Lisa Pack
"The future of Christianity in Africa is in the hands of women." - Dr. Gina Zirlo
Resources:Finishing the Task Initiative
Listen to the full episode to gain a deeper understanding of the resistance factors that hinder Christians from sharing their faith and to discover practical ways to overcome these obstacles. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from The Blue Cord Podcast.
About the Host:Karen is an everyday Christian woman who, along with her husband Renod, embarked on a life-changing adventure to inspire and empower believers to share the gospel.
Renod is Karen's husband and partner in their mission to shine the light of Jesus into dark and hopeless places.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen shares the story of how God used three ordinary believers to challenge her faith and inspire her to share the gospel fearlessly. She recounts her experiences with Muhammad, a former Muslim who boldly shared the gospel despite persecution; Caroline, a refugee who fearlessly shared Jesus with a Muslim taxi driver; and Miriam, a single Christian woman living in a dangerous red zone city who poured into the lives of women suffering from the effects of war. Through these encounters, Karen learned the importance of fearing God more than man and the power of a bold and courageous faith. She encourages listeners to pray for a faith like theirs and to be willing to step out of their comfort zones to share the hope of Jesus with others.
Key Takeaways:Crisis moments can lead to a reckoning and a deeper understanding of who God is and who we are in Him.
Muhammad's bold faith challenged Karen to consider who she feared more, God or man.
Caroline's fearless sharing of the gospel with a Muslim taxi driver inspired Karen to consider sharing her faith in her own community.
Miriam's unwavering faith and courage in a dangerous city showed Karen the power of a life centered around Jesus.
Praying for a bold faith like Muhammad, Caroline, and Miriam can transform our lives and empower us to share the gospel with others.
Notable Quotes:"If they kill me, send 10 more believers to share the good news. And if they kill those 10, send a hundred and if they kill them, send a thousand, no matter the persecution, even until death, Jesus is worth it all." - Muhammad
"Every time I hear that sound, I get down on my knees to pray to my heavenly father that he would be glorified here." - Miriam
Resources:The Blue Cord website
Listen to the full episode to be inspired by the stories of Muhammad, Caroline, and Miriam and to learn how to cultivate a bold and courageous faith that shines the light of Jesus into dark places. Stay tuned for more episodes of The Blue Cord Podcast.
About the Guest:Melanie is a leader of a singles ministry at a large church in Calgary, Canada.
She is an advisory board member of See Global.
Melanie has a passion for reaching people who don't know Jesus and has a heart for evangelism and discipleship.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen and Melanie discuss the importance of intentionally engaging with people from different faiths and cultures to share the message of Jesus. They emphasize the need to be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit and to be prepared to share the gospel in various situations. Melanie shares personal stories of how she has engaged with people from different backgrounds and the impact it has had. They also discuss the importance of being intentional in everyday life, whether it's in the workplace, neighborhood, or through joining clubs or groups. The episode encourages listeners to step out of their comfort zones and trust God to use them as witnesses for Christ.
Key Takeaways:* Being intentional in engaging with people from different faiths and cultures is crucial for sharing the message of Jesus. * It is important to be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit and to be prepared to share the gospel in various situations. * Building relationships and listening to others' stories can create opportunities for sharing the love of Christ. * Engaging with people in everyday life, such as in the workplace or neighborhood, provides opportunities to be a witness for Christ. * Trusting God and stepping out of our comfort zones allows us to be used by Him to impact the lives of others.
Notable Quotes:"We have to have people to disciple. And we don't get a free pass if we're not the evangelist. We don't leave that to the other people. We all need to have some stake in that." - Melanie
"People are not projects. They're not projects to God. They are people that are created in God's image. And we need to love each and every one, and see them how God sees them." - Melanie
"We're all called to shine our light, to know God and help others make Him known to those who do not know Him." - Karen
Resources:Sea Global: Website
Listen to the full episode here. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from The Blue Cord Podcast.
About the Guest:Narmin grew up in a Muslim family in an Islamic ruled nation. After a series of events, she had a personal encounter with Christ that transformed her life. She is currently working with Global Heart Ministries as a social media evangelist and communication liaison, sharing the message of hope and the gospel of Christ to Central Asian populations.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen interviews Narmin, who shares her journey from growing up in a Muslim family in a Soviet nation to becoming a follower of Christ. Narmin talks about her childhood, where she had limited exposure to the concept of God due to the restrictions imposed by the Soviet system. However, after the collapse of the Soviet Union, she had the opportunity to explore different religions and encountered Jesus through Russian Orthodox churches and interactions with Catholic missionaries. Eventually, she met her husband, who played a significant role in leading her to accept Christ as her Lord and Savior. Narmin also discusses the challenges she faced in sharing her faith with her family and the joy she found in serving God through her work with Global Heart Ministries.
Key Takeaways:Narmin grew up in a Soviet nation where talking about God was prohibited, but she had a sense that there was something beyond the material world.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Narmin had the opportunity to explore different religions and encountered Jesus through Russian Orthodox churches and interactions with Catholic missionaries.
Meeting her husband, who was a believer, played a significant role in Narmin's journey to accepting Christ as her Lord and Savior.
Narmin emphasizes the importance of seeking the truth and being curious in one's spiritual journey.
Narmin now works with Global Heart Ministries as a social media evangelist and communication liaison, sharing the message of hope and the gospel of Christ to Central Asian populations.
Notable Quotes:"When I was filled with that joy, I wanted to tell the whole world about Jesus. I couldn't understand how I'm going to do it. I wasn't trained. I only knew what I felt and what happened to me, and that had to be done to the universe." - Narmin
"Sharing the gospel with all the women around you, especially Muslims, but anyone, it's so important. Get out of your comfort zone. And when you do that, the joy of the Lord will come." - Narmin
Resources:Global Heart Ministries
Listen to the full episode to hear Narmin's inspiring journey of faith and her work with Global Heart Ministries. Stay tuned for more episodes of The Blue Cord Podcast.
About the Guest(s):Kimberly is a Christian woman who discovered The Blue Cord about a year ago when she was searching online for how to share her faith with refugees and immigrants around her.
She grew up in a military family and moved around frequently, always prioritizing finding a church in each new location.
At the age of nine, she asked Christ to lead her life and confess her sins to Him.
She initially struggled with finding the right approach to sharing her faith, going from lifestyle evangelism to door-to-door witnessing.
After going on a mission trip to Uganda, she realized the importance of reaching her neighbors and people from other faiths and cultures in her own town.
She is now intentional about building relationships with people from other cultures and sharing her faith with them.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen interviews Kimberly, a Christian woman who has been learning how to overcome the obstacles that hold her back from sharing her faith with people from other faiths and cultures. Kimberly shares her background growing up in a military family and the different approaches she has tried in sharing her faith. She talks about the catalyst for her desire to reach out to refugees and immigrants in her town and the obstacles she faced in the process. Kimberly emphasizes the importance of being intentional and weaving her faith into everyday conversations. She also discusses the need for community and support in this journey and the growth she has experienced in her own faith through sharing it with others.
Key Takeaways:Being intentional is key to overcoming the obstacles of sharing faith with people from other faiths and cultures.
Building relationships based on commonalities and weaving faith into everyday conversations can create opportunities to share the love of Christ.
It is important to give oneself grace and not be discouraged by mistakes or regrets in sharing faith.
Time and busyness can be major obstacles, but carving out intentional time and prioritizing relationships with people from other cultures is crucial.
Sharing faith can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of God's grace and love.
Notable Quotes:"Being able to weave my beliefs into my everyday conversations has been one of the biggest changes I've been able to make and has made it more natural for that to just be a topic of conversation." - Kimberly
"I can't change what I haven't done, but I can change what I'm doing now. And I'm going to keep pressing forward and I'm going to make mistakes. And I'm going to replay conversations and think, okay, next time I'm going to say it this way, or I wish I would have been more clear, but I'm not going to use mistakes as an excuse to stop." - Kimberly
Resources:The Blue Cord website: TheBlueCord.org
About the Guest(s):Becca is a passionate follower of Jesus who has a heart for sharing the love of Christ with people from different faiths and cultures. She grew up in a Christian home and accepted Jesus into her heart at a young age. However, it wasn't until college that she became aware of God's heart for the nations and the importance of sharing the hope of Jesus with people from all backgrounds. Through her involvement in campus ministry and building friendships with international students, Becca has seen firsthand the power of love and authentic relationships in drawing people to Jesus. She is committed to living a life of intentional witness and helping others do the same.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen interviews Becca about her journey of faith and her experiences in sharing Jesus with people of other faiths and cultures. Becca shares how her perspective shifted in college when she was exposed to the diversity of the world and saw the love of Christ in action through her campus ministry. She emphasizes the importance of building authentic relationships and showing love to others as a way to attract people to the Christian faith. Becca also discusses the role of community in supporting and encouraging her in her mission to share Jesus with others. She encourages listeners to take small steps and not overthink the process, but to simply show up and be true to their identity as disciples of Jesus.
Key Takeaways:Love is a powerful tool in attracting people of other faiths to the Christian faith. When people see the love of Christ shining through believers, it piques their curiosity and makes them want to know more.
Building authentic relationships and showing love to others in everyday life is a key way to share Jesus with people from different faiths and cultures. By being intentional and present in the lives of others, believers can create opportunities for spiritual conversations and share how Jesus has impacted their own lives.
It's important not to overthink the process of sharing Jesus with others. Small steps and faithful presence can make a big difference. Each person's journey is unique, and it's important to trust that God is at work in the lives of those we interact with.
Community plays a vital role in supporting and encouraging believers in their mission to share Jesus with others. Surrounding oneself with like-minded believers who are also living intentionally can provide camaraderie and inspiration.
Sharing Jesus with others is not always easy, and there may be times when conversations don't lead to immediate conversions. It's important to trust in God's timing and continue to walk in obedience, knowing that He is at work in the lives of those we interact with.
Notable Quotes:"People are drawn to Jesus because they see Jesus in you." - Becca
"Living missionally in our everyday lives requires grand gestures." - Becca
"Don't overthink it. It could look like just taking a moment to meet your neighbor or inviting someone into your home." - Becca
"The way God has wired you is really good. So operate in that way." - Becca
"It's not about having a big grand story of someone coming to know Jesus right off the bat. It looks like a lot of faithful presence and stepping into the moments when God opens the door." - Becca
About the Guest:Jill Lowry grew up in Bakersfield, California, in a culturally Catholic family.
She accepted the Lord at the age of 11 and felt called to be an evangelist and a missionary.
Jill and her husband served as missionaries in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for over 26 years, working with pastors, women in prostitution, and various other ministries.
They also lived in India for three years, where they worked with the majority Hindu and Muslim populations.
Jill currently serves as the representative to the Western US, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Alaska for International Ministries, formerly known as the American Baptist Foreign Missions Society.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen invites Jill Lowry, a missionary with extensive experience in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and India, to discuss doubts and assumptions that can hinder Christians from being authentic witnesses. They share personal stories and insights about assumptions they had about people from other faiths, the opportunities and threats they see in engaging with different cultures, and the importance of depending on God's power rather than their own abilities. Jill emphasizes the need to trust in God's capacity and to remember His faithfulness in order to overcome doubt and fear in sharing the gospel.
Key Takeaways:* Assumptions about people from other faiths can hinder Christians from starting spiritual conversations, but many individuals are actually hungry to know more about Jesus. * Opportunities to engage with people from different cultures and faiths are increasing as the nations come to our doorsteps. * Trusting in God's power and depending on Him rather than our own abilities is crucial in sharing the gospel effectively. * Remembering God's faithfulness and past experiences of His work can strengthen our faith and confidence in sharing the gospel. * Preaching the truth to ourselves and focusing on who God is and what He has called us to do can help overcome doubt and fear.
Notable Quotes:* "Don't assume that people aren't ready. The Holy Spirit is working on that listener and laying the groundwork for the gospel to be heard and accepted." - Jill Lowry * "When we do our job of staying close to Jesus and being one with Him, He will work through us, and we get the joy of witnessing something miraculous." - Jill Lowry
Resources:International Ministries (formerly American Baptist Foreign Missions Society) - Website
The Blue Cord book by Karen - Website
Listen to the full episode to gain valuable insights and encouragement in overcoming doubts and assumptions in sharing your faith. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from The Blue Cord Podcast.
About the Guest:* Clay is a talented worship leader and church planter. * He has been working behind the scenes editing all the Blue Cord Podcast episodes. * Clay and his wife, Beth, have been dear friends of the hosts for over a decade. * They have traveled the world together, shining the light of Jesus and sharing their faith. * Clay's personal journey has taught him to shine his light for Jesus in his everyday life.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen and Clay discuss the common problem of not knowing how to bring up spiritual topics or share their faith with non-believers. They share personal stories and practical strategies for overcoming the awkwardness and fear associated with sharing one's faith. Clay emphasizes the importance of having a faith worth sharing and allowing God to break your heart for people. He also highlights the power of love as a motivator for sharing one's faith and encourages listeners to step out in faith and identify themselves with Jesus early on in relationships.
Key Takeaways:
- It can be awkward and challenging to bring up spiritual topics or share one's faith with non-believers, especially if the relationship has been established for a while.
- The fear of rejection or judgment often holds people back from sharing their faith, but it's important to remember that sharing one's faith is an act of love and not a withdrawal from the person.
- Asking God to break your heart for people is a transformative step in overcoming fear and awkwardness and developing a genuine desire to share your faith.
- Identifying yourself with Jesus early on in relationships sets a foundation for authentic conversations about faith and opens the door for future discussions.
- Sharing your faith is not about convincing or converting others, but about letting them know why you believe what you believe and allowing God to work in their lives.
Notable Quotes:
- "Do you have a faith worth sharing?" - Karen
- "If you can answer that question with a resounding yes, then it changes everything." - Clay
- "Sharing your faith is not about withdrawing something from the person, but about offering them something valuable." - Clay
- "Let God break your heart for the nations, and everything else will fall into place." - Clay
Resources:
- The Blue Cord Podcast website: TheBlueCord.org
Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes of The Blue Cord Podcast and continue to be an authentic witness in your daily life.
Chapters:
00:01:00 The challenge of bringing up spiritual topics in relationships
00:02:00 Clay's personal experience with sharing his faith
00:03:00 The importance of a heart change and love for others
00:06:00 Overcoming the fear of awkwardness in sharing faith
00:10:00 Practical tools and strategies for starting conversations
00:14:00 Norma's perspective on identifying herself with Jesus
00:16:00 Jesus' authenticity in his relationship with the Father
00:21:00 Clay shares a personal story of sharing faith and experiencing God's provision
00:25:00 Karen's experience of fear and boldness in sharing faith
00:27:00 Authenticity in sharing faith leads to open conversations
02:28:00 Encouragement to overcome fear and let God break your heart for people
About the Guest(s):* Shannon is a passionate advocate for sharing the hope of Jesus across faiths and cultures. * In 2017, she discovered her calling to actively share her faith and realized that it was not just for missionaries. * Shannon's heart was deeply moved during a trip to Indonesia in 2019, where she encountered Muslim women and felt a burden to share the love of Jesus with them. * She has experienced disappointment and rejection from her church friends who did not share the same passion for sharing Jesus. * Shannon is a part of Arise, a movement that mobilizes women to share the gospel locally and globally.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen interviews Shannon, who shares her journey of building a community of Jesus-sharing friends and offers advice for those who feel alone in their desire to share Jesus. Shannon discusses how she initially thought sharing Jesus was only for missionaries and how her trip to Indonesia opened her eyes to the need for sharing the gospel with those around her. She shares her experience of feeling rejected by her church friends and the importance of finding like-minded individuals to run with in sharing the hope of Jesus. Shannon encourages listeners to pray for boldness and to gather a group of friends to study The Blue Cord and learn how to share their faith authentically. She emphasizes the need to break down societal norms and cultural barriers that hinder Christians from sharing their faith. Shannon also highlights the importance of listening to God's voice and being led by the Holy Spirit in sharing the gospel.
Key Takeaways:* Sharing Jesus is not just for missionaries; every believer has a role to play in sharing the hope of Jesus. * It is common to feel alone or rejected when desiring to actively share Jesus, but there are others who share the same passion. * Praying for God to break your heart for what breaks His can lead to a deeper desire to share the gospel. * Building a community of like-minded friends who are passionate about sharing Jesus can provide encouragement and support. * The key to effective gospel sharing is listening to God's voice and being led by the Holy Spirit.
Notable Quotes:* "God broke my heart for the nations in Indonesia in 2019... all made in the image of God, all so very far from God... feeling so much neglect, trauma, and rejection when the Lord creator and author of life is moving toward them with open arms and they have no idea his name or how much he loves them." - Shannon * "With God, there are no barriers... Jesus alone is the only way... unless people hear these truths, here in America and to the ends of the earth, how can they make a choice to follow him, to receive his love if they've never heard his name?" - Shannon
Resources:* Arise: Website * The Blue Cord: Website
Thank you for listening to this episode of The Blue Cord Podcast. Be sure to listen to the full episode for more insights and inspiration on sharing Jesus and building a community of like-minded believers. Stay tuned for more episodes that will empower you to be an authentic witness in your daily life.
Chapters:00:05:00 Encouragement for those feeling rejected and the importance of timing.
00:06:00 The parable of the late worker and the prodigal son.
00:07:00 Trusting God with the urgency of sharing the gospel.
00:08:00 Discussion on the American Worldview study and the responsibility to disciple others.
00:09:00 The importance of abiding in the Lord and discipling others.
00:11:00 The urgency of the current time and the opportunity to share the gospel.
00:12:00 Research on the synchronistic worldview and the need to disciple others.
00:13:00 Shannon's small group study and the impact of the Blue Cord.
00:15:00 Sharing the testimony of a friend who was a Muslim believer
00:16:00 Encouraging boldness in sharing the gospel and the name of Jesus
00:17:00 Building a community of Blue Cord women to shine the light of Jesus
00:19:00 Inviting women to join the movement of proclaiming the good news
00:20:00 Mobilizing friends and multiplying leaders to break down barriers
00:23:00 Collaborating together as women in expanding God's kingdom
00:24:00 Shedding the veil and shining the light of Jesus in community
00:25:00 Breaking out of comfort zones and being used by God
00:27:00 Tools to share the gospel and the importance of listening to God's voice
00:28:00 Importance of listening to the Lord when sharing the gospel
00:33:00 The greatest gift we can give is the opportunity to receive the love of the Father
00:34:00 Removing the burden of getting the words right and depending on the Lord
00:35:00 Taking the next step in sharing Jesus and seeking resources for equipping
00:36:00 Reflecting on resistance and opposition in sharing faith
00:37:00 Encouragement to share what matters most and invite others to do the same
About the Guest(s):* Brandy is a married woman with two daughters and a dog. She works part-time for her church and a healthcare system, where she focuses on team building and culture building initiatives. Brandy is actively involved in her community, leading a weekly small group and attending a leadership group. She is passionate about sharing her faith and teaching others to do the same.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen interviews Brandy, a busy mother and professional, about her journey of learning to share Jesus in the midst of a hectic life. Brandy shares her initial hesitations and fears about sharing her faith, but how a simple encounter with a Muslim mother on her daughter's basketball team sparked a desire to connect and share the love of Christ. Brandy discusses the importance of being intentional and open to opportunities to share Jesus in everyday life, whether it's through conversations with friends, interactions with strangers, or modeling faith for her children. She also highlights the value of community and accountability in her own journey and how she is now leading a Blue Cord small group to encourage and equip others to share their faith as well.
Key Takeaways:* It's easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and overlook opportunities to share Jesus. Being intentional and open to God's leading can help us see the people around us who need to hear the gospel. * Sharing Jesus doesn't have to be complicated or perfect. It's about being authentic, showing love, and being willing to have conversations about faith. * Modeling faith for our children is crucial. By sharing our own experiences and encouraging them to have conversations about faith with their friends, we can help them grow in their own relationship with Jesus. * Community and accountability are essential in our journey of sharing Jesus. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded believers who are also passionate about sharing their faith can provide support, encouragement, and opportunities for growth. * Taking small steps and being willing to fumble or stumble in our conversations about faith is better than not saying anything at all. God can use our imperfect efforts to make a difference in someone's life.
Notable Quotes:* "If we're just willing to take one step, God will shine the light on the next step to take." - Brandy * "We make it harder and more difficult than it should be. It's about being authentic and showing love." - Brandy * "It's not about your delivery. It's about being authentic and letting people know there's a real Jesus who loves them." - Brandy
Resources:* The Blue Cord Podcast * Blue Cord Book * Ethnos Course
Listen to the full episode to gain valuable insights and practical tips on how to share Jesus in the midst of a busy life. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from The Blue Cord Podcast.
Chapters:00:02:00 Realizing the need to share faith with others
00:03:00 Missed opportunities in modeling faith for children
00:04:00 Overcoming fear and inviting a Muslim mom to coffee
00:07:00 Opening eyes to opportunities in everyday life
00:09:00 Learning to share Jesus in a busy life
00:10:00 Taking everyday life and placing it before God
00:11:00 Being intentional and open to conversations
00:12:00 Going to ethnic restaurants to encounter different cultures
00:13:00 Boldly asking a stranger how to pray for them
00:14:00 A stranger's response and sharing faith in Jesus
00:16:00 The importance of being an authentic witness
00:18:00 Encouraging kids to talk about faith with friends
00:19:00 Starting a Blue Cord small group
00:20:00 Overcoming fear and timidity
00:21:00 Moving from fear to overjoyed to share faith
00:22:00 Sharing testimonies of conversations and prayers
00:24:00 The importance of community and accountability
00:25:00 Taking small steps and learning along the way
00:26:00 God can use our fumbles and imperfections
00:26:00 God uses our brokenness to bring glory to Himself.
00:27:00 Sharing our faith doesn't have to be complicated; it's about being authentic and showing love to others.
00:28:00 Reflect on how busyness is impacting your Christian witness and consider being more intentional about sharing your faith.
00:28:00 Sign up for weekly emails on TheBlueCord.org to connect with the podcast and share your feedback.
00:28:00 Encourage others to listen to this episode and do a Blue Cord study together.
00:28:00 Consider leaving an online review to help others discover the podcast and book.
About the Guest(s):* Karen Bradford: Karen Bradford is a former high school reading teacher who has a passion for sharing her faith with others. After working in industry and traveling to Indonesia, she developed a heart for reaching the nations with the gospel. Karen has been involved in various outreach efforts, including training on how to reach Muslims with the gospel. She is dedicated to modeling and teaching others how to start spiritual conversations and make a difference in their everyday lives.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen Bejjanni and Karen Bradford discuss the importance of starting spiritual conversations and how to overcome the fear and hesitation that often comes with sharing one's faith. They address the current cultural climate and the need for believers to be bold and intentional in sharing the gospel. Karen Bradford shares personal stories and practical tips for starting spiritual conversations, emphasizing the power of prayer and the importance of modeling the behavior for others. The episode concludes with a reminder of the eternal value of sharing the hope of Jesus and the importance of passing on the faith to the next generation.
Key Takeaways:* Overcoming fear: To start spiritual conversations, believers need to push past the discomfort and fear of being perceived as pushy or intolerant. Trusting in God's plan and understanding the importance of sharing the gospel can help overcome these obstacles. * Having a faith worth sharing: It is crucial for believers to have a deep understanding of their faith and the truth found in God's Word. Regular Bible study and prayer can strengthen one's faith and provide the confidence needed to share it with others. * Modeling the behavior: Discipling others and intentionally investing in their lives is an effective way to pass on the faith and teach others how to start spiritual conversations. By modeling the behavior and showing others that spiritual conversations can be natural and accepted, believers can inspire and equip others to do the same. * Divine appointments: Praying for God to show opportunities for spiritual conversations and being open to His leading can result in divine appointments. By being attentive and obedient to the Holy Spirit's nudging, believers can engage in meaningful conversations and share the hope of Jesus with others. * The power of prayer: Asking someone if you can pray for them, especially in the name of Jesus, can be a simple yet powerful way to start a spiritual conversation. Many people are open to receiving prayer, and it can lead to deeper conversations about faith and the gospel.
Notable Quotes:* "You have to get out of your head and put your eyes on who your God is." - Karen Bradford * "The fear of man is a dangerous trap. Trusting the Lord brings safety." - Karen Bradford * "The only way to identify a counterfeit is to know the real thing. And the only way you're going to know the real thing is by being in the Word and hearing exactly what the Lord has to say to you." - Karen Bradford * "Starting spiritual conversations is so important. It has eternal value. This is eternal." - Karen Bradford * "We hold the keys to the faith of the next generation. We want to make sure we're passing that baton of faith to the next generation and doing it well and with intention." - Karen Bejjanni
Resources:* iHOPE Ministries - The website mentioned in the episode where listeners can sign up for a course on starting spiritual conversations. * The Blue Cord - Karen Bejjanni's book mentioned in the episode, which provides guidance and resources for sharing one's faith and passing on the baton of faith to the next generation.
Don't miss out on the full episode of The Blue Cord Podcast to gain valuable insights and practical tips on starting spiritual conversations and making a difference in your everyday life. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from the podcast.
Chapters:00:00:00 Starting spiritual conversations
00:01:00 Discussion on syncretism and the need to reach people with different beliefs
00:02:00 Personal experience of realizing the opportunity to share faith with people from different backgrounds
00:03:00 Overcoming fear and self-doubt to start spiritual conversations
00:04:00 Importance of knowing the Bible and having a faith worth sharing
00:05:00 The danger of being distracted from the call to share the gospel
00:06:00 The importance of knowing the truth and identifying counterfeits
00:07:00 Sharing the gospel with love and compassion
00:08:00 The fear of man and trusting in the Lord
00:09:00 The power of prayer in starting spiritual conversations
00:10:00 A practical framework for starting spiritual conversations
00:11:00 A spiritual conversation with a woman at a bus stop
00:14:00 Encouragement to start spiritual conversations and take the ethnos course
00:16:00 Modeling behavior and doing life with others
00:19:00 Importance of mentoring and discipleship for young women
00:21:00 Overcoming fear and becoming bolder
00:25:00 Invitation to read "The Blue Cord" book and purposefully disciple others
About the Guest(s):* Linda is a seasoned traveler and worker who has spent over a decade working with immigrants, refugees, and church planters in Europe. * She has been actively engaged in reaching out to people from other faiths, particularly Muslims, and has a heart for sharing the love of Christ with them. * Linda is affiliated with a European church planting organization and has been involved in training and equipping Europeans to engage with people from other faith backgrounds.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen and Linda discuss the transformative power of God's love and how it affects our witness to people from other faiths. Linda shares her personal journey of initially being reluctant to engage with non-believers and how God's love compelled her to step out and reach out to refugees and immigrants in Europe. They emphasize the importance of being intentional and strategic in loving others and provide practical tips for engaging with people from other faith backgrounds. The conversation also highlights the proactive efforts in Europe to welcome and minister to refugees and immigrants, as well as the need for Christians to model and pass on the love of Christ to the next generation.
Key Takeaways:* God's love for us is overwhelming and beyond our full understanding. It is through the power of the Holy Spirit that we are equipped to love others, especially those from other faith backgrounds. * Christians need to be intentional and strategic in loving non-believers. This includes praying for opportunities, positioning ourselves to engage with people from other faiths, and being bold in sharing the love of Christ. * Europe has been at the forefront of welcoming and ministering to refugees and immigrants, with organizations like Refugee Highway Partnership and Diaspora People of Europe providing resources and training for engaging with people from other faith backgrounds. * There are significant movements of God among different refugee communities in Europe, including Iranians, Syrians, and Ukrainians. Indigenous church planting and discipleship efforts are taking place, with refugees themselves being trained to reach their own people. * As parents and grandparents, it is crucial to model and pass on the love of Christ to the next generation. This can be done through intentional conversations, engaging in field trips to ethnic markets or coffee shops, and sharing personal experiences of reaching out to people from other faiths.
Notable Quotes:* "We cannot fully understand or grasp the love of God for us. We just, in our human weakness and sinful nature, Ephesians even says, it is too great to understand fully. But, then it goes on in Romans, and it says, He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love." - Linda * "Muslim women are desperate for God's love." - Karen * "We have access to every tool we need. It really is a matter of us going before the Lord and saying, we just want to let you use us." - Linda
Resources:* Refugee Highway Partnership
Listen to the full episode here to gain more insights on how God's love can transform our witness to people from other faiths and how to practically extend love to immigrants and refugees. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from The Blue Cord Podcast.
Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction to the topic of how God's love affects our witness
00:01:00 Reflecting on the struggle to practically love people from other faiths
00:02:00 The importance of being intentional and strategic in loving non-believers
00:03:00 Understanding that God fills us with His love to love others
00:04:00 Being purposeful in cultivating a community that shares the same mission
00:05:00 The transformative impact of God's love on immigrants and refugees in Europe
00:06:00 Organizations in Europe focused on welcoming and ministering to refugees
00:07:00 Praying for opportunities and being bold in engaging with people from other faiths
00:08:00 The proactive approach of Europeans in reaching out to refugees
00:09:00 The foreshadowing of the immigrant and refugee situation in North America
00:10:00 The need for North Americans to learn from European experiences
00:11:00 The strategic efforts in reaching specific immigrant groups in Europe
00:12:00 The ongoing awareness and active ministry to refugees in Europe
00:13:00 Empowering families to be authentic witnesses across cultures
00:14:00 Practical ways to extend love to other faith immigrants and refugees
00:14:00 Linda emphasizes the importance of passing on love to future generations
00:15:00 Linda suggests inserting conversations about other nations and faiths into everyday discussions
00:16:00 Linda shares her experience of talking to Muslim women and the importance of sharing God's love with them
00:17:00 Karen discusses the impact of meeting believers from other faith backgrounds and the role of love in their journey to Christ
00:18:00 Karen encourages senior citizens to pass on their faith to the next generation and start small in sharing their faith
00:19:00 Linda shares her experience of mentoring students and taking them to engage with people of other faiths
00:20:00 Karen suggests going on field trips to ethnic markets and coffee shops to interact with people of different faiths
00:21:00 Linda emphasizes that loving others is a command from God and that He equips believers to share His love
00:22:00 Linda encourages believers to let God use them and embark on an exciting adventure of sharing His love
00:23:00 Karen invites listeners to get her book, "The Blue Cord," to help them embrace God's love and shine their light
00:24:00 Karen prompts listeners to reflect on their thoughts and feelings about loving their other faith neighbors and how they experienced God's love
00:24:00 Karen encourages listeners to share the episode and leave a review if they enjoyed it
About the Guest:Andrena Sawyer is an author, business strategist, and survivor of the civil war in Sierra Leone. She left Sierra Leone at the age of nine and experienced her first encounter with God at the age of seven or eight during an altar call at church. Adrena's family was able to leave the country during the civil war due to her mother's employment at KLM Airlines. Adrena's parents were on fire for the Lord when they arrived in the United States, and she followed in their footsteps, becoming involved in ministry and youth outreach. Adrena has faced doubt and unbelief in her Christian witness but has learned to overcome these challenges through surrendering to God and remembering His faithfulness.
Episode Summary:In this episode, host Karen interviews Adrena Sawyer, an author and business strategist who shares her journey of faith and overcoming doubt in her Christian witness. Adrena discusses her early encounters with God in Sierra Leone and her family's miraculous escape from the civil war. She shares how her parents' faith influenced her own and how she became involved in ministry and youth outreach. Adrena also opens up about the impact of doubt and unbelief on her Christian witness and the process of surrendering to God and rebuilding her faith. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing doubt as spiritual warfare and the need to trust God's character and provision. Adrena's story serves as an inspiration for anyone struggling with doubt and seeking to deepen their relationship with God.
Key Takeaways:* Adrena's first encounter with God came at a young age during an altar call at church, which sparked her awareness of a personal relationship with Him. * Adrena's family was able to escape the civil war in Sierra Leone due to her mother's employment at KLM Airlines, highlighting God's provision and protection. * Adrena's parents' strong faith and involvement in ministry influenced her own journey and led her to become involved in youth outreach and evangelism. * Doubt and unbelief can impact one's Christian witness, leading to a desire to please others and compromising one's faith. * Surrendering doubt to God and remembering His faithfulness are key in overcoming doubt and deepening one's relationship with Him.
Notable Quotes:* "Be gracious with yourself because it's a process. I've gone through many stages of attempts at people-pleasing... But the outside of that was really just the Holy Spirit and just the grace for compassion." - Adrena Sawyer * "Recognize doubt for what it is, which is spiritual warfare... Be okay with surrendering that to Him and not feeling like you have to fight the doubt yourself." - Adrena Sawyer
Resources:* Adrena Sawyer's Linkree
Listen to the full episode to gain valuable insights from Adrena Sawyer's journey of faith and overcoming doubt in her Christian witness. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from The Blue Cord Podcast.
Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the podcast and guest, Adrena Sawyer
00:01 Adrena's first encounter with God at a young age
00:02 Adrena's family's escape from Sierra Leone during the civil war
00:04 Adrena's pursuit of the American dream and involvement in ministry
00:06 The impact of doubt and unbelief on Adrena's Christian witness
00:08 Overcoming people-pleasing and finding identity in God
00:10 The process of rebuilding and rediscovering faith
00:12 The power of affirmations and reminders of God's love
00:13 Conclusion of the rebuilding season and affirmation of identity
00:14 Impact of doubt on relationships and trust
00:15 Doubt shapes the way we live and pursue goals
00:16 The story of the Israelites in the wilderness and expectations
00:17 Recognizing doubt as spiritual warfare
00:18 Surrendering doubt to God and trusting His provision
00:19 Sharing the experience of peace and freedom in faith
00:20 Encouragement to remember the faithfulness of God
About the Guest(s):* Amy McBrayer: Amy is a busy mom of two sons, a teacher at a local school, and a PhD candidate working on her thesis on the topic of modeling sharing faith across cultures. She is intentional about teaching her children to be authentic witnesses in their daily lives and has practical tips to share with other parents.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Karen interviews Amy McBrayer, a mom and teacher who is passionate about modeling sharing faith across cultures for her children. Amy shares five simple ways that parents can teach their kids to be authentic witnesses in a multicultural world. The first step is to talk with your kids about your Christian faith and the foundational beliefs of Christianity. The second step is to talk about world religions, helping your children understand the differences between various faiths. The third step is to take family field trips to experience different cultures and cuisines. The fourth step is to tithe your time by serving with organizations that work with refugees or international students. Finally, the fifth step is to model being an authentic witness yourself, showing your children what it looks like to live out your faith in everyday life.
Key Takeaways:* Talking with your kids about your Christian faith helps them understand the foundational beliefs of Christianity and prepares them to share their faith with others. * Discussing world religions with your children helps them understand and respect the beliefs of others, while also deepening their own understanding of their faith. * Taking family field trips to experience different cultures and cuisines helps children appreciate the beauty and diversity of the world and fosters a curiosity about other cultures. * Tithing your time by serving with organizations that work with refugees or international students provides opportunities for your children to interact with people from different backgrounds and learn about their experiences. * Modeling being an authentic witness yourself is crucial, as children learn by example and are more likely to embrace their faith and share it with others when they see their parents living it out.
Notable Quotes:* "Our kids are being their friends and our kids are going to school with them and our kids are wanting to go play outside with them. And it's really important as a follower of Christ, and we're pointing our children to Jesus that they can also do the same thing with their friends, but we have to have conversations with them. We have to be talking about that and making sure that they're ready for that." - Amy McBrayer * "If you want your kids to love God, then you have to love God. If you want your kids to believe in prayer, you have to believe in prayer. If you want your children to love God's word, then you have to love God's word." - Amy McBrayer
Resources:* The Blue Cord Podcast
Don't miss this insightful episode where Amy McBrayer shares practical tips for modeling sharing faith across cultures for your children. Listen now to learn how you can prepare your kids to be authentic witnesses in a multicultural world.
Chapters:00:01:00 Importance of modeling faith across cultures for kids
00:02:00 Kids as missionaries in their elementary schools
00:03:00 Living in a multicultural world and passing on the faith
00:04:00 Talking about Christian faith in daily family conversations
00:05:00 Sharing personal experiences of faith with children
00:06:00 Patience in children's journey of faith
00:07:00 Talking about world religions with kids
00:08:00 Differentiating between different beliefs and faiths
00:09:00 Navigating conversations about Islam and Christianity
00:10:00 Understanding the difference between the God of the Bible and other faiths
00:11:00 Sharing Jesus with friends from different backgrounds
00:12:00 The beauty of God's grace and salvation in Christianity
00:13:00 The Holy Spirit guides children to be bright lights in sharing their faith
00:14:00 Taking kids to experience different cultures through ethnic food and conversations
00:15:00 Tying family time to serving others and engaging with different cultures
00:16:00 Volunteering with refugee families and involving kids in the experience
00:18:00 Serving with international student organizations to engage with different faiths and cultures
00:20:00 Modeling authentic witness by praying with others and sharing stories of conversations about faith
00:22:00 The importance of parents modeling their own faith for their children
00:25:00 Encouragement to love God, believe in prayer, and love God's word to inspire children's faith
00:00 Introduction to the topic of parenting and sharing faith
00:27 Reflecting on preparing kids to be authentic witnesses
00:27:00 Considering the Holy Spirit's guidance and modeling faith sharing
00:27:30 Identifying barriers to sharing faith
00:28 Encouragement to start sharing faith
00:28:30 Suggestion to share the episode with others
About the Guest
Lily (pseudonym) is a former school administrator with a heart for engaging the nations who live among us. She is currently engaged in purposeful interactions with people from various nations in a large city in North America. Lily is intentional about cultivating compassion for those who don't know Jesus and seeks to be an authentic witness in her daily life.
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Karen and Lily discuss the importance of cultivating compassion for people who don't know Jesus. They explore personal experiences and moments of compassion, emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and empowering believers to share their faith. Lily shares stories of connecting with individuals from different backgrounds and cultures, demonstrating the transformative power of compassion and the impact it can have on others. The conversation highlights the need for believers to step out of their comfort zones, engage with people who don't know Jesus, and pray for a deeper understanding of God's love for the lost.
Key Takeaways:
Cultivating compassion for those who don't know Jesus is essential for effective witness and sharing of faith.
Praying for a love for the lost sheep and asking God to reveal His heart for them can lead to transformative experiences and opportunities to share the gospel.
Obedience to God's prompting and stepping out in faith can result in powerful encounters and moments of connection with individuals who need to hear about Jesus.
Living a life of compassion requires being fully present and immersed in the condition of being human, sharing in people's brokenness, and rejoicing with those who rejoice.
Engaging with people from different cultures and backgrounds can challenge preconceived notions and prejudices, leading to personal growth and a deeper understanding of God's love for all people.
Notable Quotes:
"When we walk in obedience, we may not feel it at first. But as we are obedient to the Lord, He moves in the way that only He can move." - Lily
"If your walk with the Lord is stagnant or you're not seeing God move, get in the harvest because He is there and He is moving." - Lily
Resources:
TheBlueCord.org - The website for the Blue Cord Podcast.
Listen to the full episode to gain insights into cultivating compassion for those who don't know Jesus and discover the transformative power of sharing God's love with others. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from the Blue Cord Podcast.
Chapters:
00:05:00 The importance of praying to know God's love for the lost and how it has changed the guest's heart
00:07:00 Abide in Christ to bear fruit and the importance of understanding God's compassion
00:11:00 The difference between empathy and compassion and how compassion compels us to take action
00:13:00 Praying for the power of the Holy Spirit
00:18:00 Sharing love and experiencing a powerful response
00:21:00 Living out compassion in daily interactions
00:23:00 Encouragement to take a step of obedience
00:24:00 Cultivating compassion for those who don't know Jesus
00:24:00 Confessing and changing hearts towards foreigners
00:25:00 Finding fulfillment in the harvest
00:25:00 Growing faith through sharing faith
00:25:00 Make sure to sign up to get our weekly emails on the website at TheBlueCord.org.
It's a wrap! In this special, year-end BONUS EPISODE, Karen gives you a sneak peek of 3 BIG things coming for The Blue Cord in '24, and ways you can get involved. Watch for new Season 6 episodes in February '24. Until then, make sure you’re on our Blue Cord email list so you get all the latest updates. Sign up at www.TheBlueCord.org. Thank you for being a part of this Blue Cord community. Your heart for God's Kingdom always inspires and encourages us, and your partnership in this great commission work is something we never take for granted. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Key Takeaways:
The second edition of "The Blue Cord" book is launching, featuring a group study guide and links to new videos.
The book is being translated into Spanish, Korean, simple Chinese, and Taiwanese.
The upcoming season of the Blue Cord Podcast will focus on sharing what matters most and preparing the next generation to do the same.
The podcast episodes will cover topics such as assumptions about nonbelievers, overcoming fear, and modeling faith-sharing for children.
A Blue Cord virtual conference and regional events are being planned to bring the Blue Cord community together.
Quotes:
"Sharing our biblical faith can seem risky and counter-cultural right now, no matter where you live."
"The goal of this podcast and the Blue Cord book is to demonstrate what God does when His sons and daughters find sufficiency in Christ alone."
"We hold the keys to the next generation's faith."
"The Blue Cord book will be available through the Blue Cord website and wherever books are sold online."
"Make sure to sign up to get our weekly emails on the website at TheBlueCord.org."
About The Guest(s):
Julie King is an author who grew up in Germany during the fall of the Berlin Wall. She is the founder of Arise, an initiative through East-West Ministries International that focuses on mobilizing and equipping women to share the gospel around the world.
Summary:
Julie King shares her experiences in knowing God and making Him known. She discusses the importance of modeling and sharing the gospel, even in the face of resistance. Julie emphasizes the need for boldness and courage in sharing one's faith in foreign countries and our neighborhoods. She also highlights the power of community and its impact on our ability to share the gospel effectively.
Key Takeaways:
- Start sharing the gospel young to make it a normative part of life.
- The battle precedes the breakthrough in sharing the gospel.
- It's important to step out in faith and do the thing, even when afraid.
- Rally like-minded sisters together to encourage and support one another in sharing the gospel.
- The time is now for global revival, and people are ready to hear the gospel.
Quotes:
- "The battle precedes the breakthrough."
- "Do it terrified together."
- "The time is now, and people are ready to hear."
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and discussion on modeling faith to children
00:28 Importance of creating space to walk by faith
00:29 Sharing the gospel with others as a model for children
00:31 Witnessing revival and the need for workers
00:33 The time is now to share the gospel
00:34 How to connect with Julie and her work
00:35 Reflection questions for the listener
00:36 Conclusion and invitation to leave a review
00:36 End of season five announcement
00:36 Sign up for email list and upcoming book release
About The Guest(s):
- Cathyl: A Blue Cord woman who has led four studies and is starting an international platform.
- Leatrice: A Blue Cord woman who has led three studies and brought nine women to the conference from Ohio.
- Jaiden: The youngest Blue Cord woman who led her first study at 16 and is now sharing her faith on her college campus.
Summary:
Cathy, Leatrice, and Jaiden share their experiences as Blue Cord group study leaders and how it has impacted their faith and the faith of those in their groups. They emphasize the importance of being willing, stepping out of your comfort zone, and relying on God's strength. They also highlight the transformation they have witnessed in themselves and others as they have shared their faith and engaged with different cultures. The Blue Cord study is described as easy to lead and a powerful tool for discipleship and evangelism.
Key Takeaways:
- Be willing to step out of your comfort zone and do it scared.
- The Blue Cord study is easy to lead and can have a powerful impact on participants' faith.
- Engage with different cultures and be intentional about sharing your faith.
- Embrace the discomfort zone and be aware of those who are different from you.
- Live with urgency and share the gospel because we never know how long others will be on this earth.
Quotes:
- "If you're scared, do it scared. God is with you." - Cathy
- "Every encounter is an opportunity to share my faith." - Leatrice
- "We need to live for Christ and intentionally share our faith with others." - Jaiden
Chapters:
00:13 Going to an Arab market and engaging with veiled women
00:14 Praying for the owner of a Chinese restaurant
00:15 Sharing faith and leading others to accept Jesus
00:16 Accountability and intentionality in sharing faith
00:17 Utilizing the Blue Cord book and resources
00:18 Translating the book into Chinese
00:19 Every encounter is an opportunity to share faith
00:20 Urgency in sharing the gospel
00:20 Request for reviews and feedback
00:20 Conclusion and closing remarks
About the Guest: Sarah, a former Buddhist from Burma, shares her compelling journey from a life of uncertainty and striving to the profound peace and transformation she found through encountering Jesus Christ. Her story illuminates the impact of God's love in her life and the remarkable transition from practicing Buddhism to embracing Christianity.
Episode Summary: Karen welcomes Sarah to the Blue Cord Podcast, initiating a conversation about Sarah's upbringing in a predominantly Buddhist environment. Sarah reflects on her pursuit of good deeds, meditation, and rituals in Buddhism, striving to find fulfillment and meaning in life. Despite her efforts, she faced internal struggles and emptiness, yearning for genuine peace and purpose.
Sarah recalls her encounter with an ESL teacher who introduced her to English through passages from the Bible, leading her to attend church for the first time. Through her exposure to Christianity, Sarah initially grappled with the concept of sin and the necessity of Jesus in her life. Over time, she experienced a deep conviction of her need for a Savior and eventually embraced Jesus Christ.
The conversation unfolds to reveal Sarah's transformation from harboring bitterness and hatred towards her aunt to experiencing a profound love and forgiveness, facilitated by her newfound faith in Christ. She emphasizes the substantial difference in her life, finding true peace and assurance through prayer and faith in Jesus.
Key Takeaways:
- The power of God's love transcends cultural and religious boundaries, transforming lives even amidst adversity.
- The significance of authentic love and compassion in bridging cultural gaps and sharing Christ's message.
- The journey from spiritual emptiness to finding true peace and purpose in Jesus Christ.
- The impact of surrendering to God's grace and experiencing His transformative love and forgiveness.
- Encouragement to share the Gospel and point others to Jesus through intentional actions and genuine love.
Quotes:
- "God changed my heart. He transformed my hatred into love, and it was all God's doing." - Sarah
- "The Word of God is powerful. It changed my life, and it has the potential to change others' lives too." - Sarah
- "We just need to obey the Word of God and share the Gospel, for it holds the power to transform lives." - Sarah
These show notes capture the essence of the conversation between Karen and Sarah, emphasizing the transformative power of God's love and the significance of sharing Christ's message across diverse cultures and backgrounds.
About The Guest(s):
Hediah Miramadi is the founder of Resurrect Ministry. She was a devout practicing Muslim for over 20 years and worked in the US government and private sector focused on defeating Islamic terrorism. After a series of life events, she had a personal encounter with Christ and her life was transformed.
Summary:
Hediah Miramadi shares her journey from being a devout Muslim to encountering Christ and starting Resurrect Ministry. She discusses her childhood growing up in a secular Muslim household, her search for God, and her eventual practice of Sufi Islam. Hediah also talks about her career in the US government, working to defeat Islamic terrorism, and how she never heard the gospel until she stumbled upon a video online. She shares the moment she heard Jesus speak to her and the fear and panic she initially felt. Hediah emphasizes the importance of equipping children with the truth about different faiths and the need to be intentional in sharing the gospel with others. She also highlights the need to pray for the salvation of people in conflict-ridden areas like Israel and Palestine.
Key Takeaways:
- Seekers of different faiths are looking for God and need to hear the gospel.
- The Holy Spirit can use the Bible to disciple and guide individuals on their faith journey.
- Christians should be aware of the differences between their faith and other religions, and be intentional in sharing the truth of the gospel.
- Praying for people and offering to pray for them can be a powerful way to show love and draw them closer to Jesus.
Quotes:
- "He will meet you where you are." - Hediah Miramadi
- "We don't do Muslims any favors by saying we worship the same God." - Hediah Miramadi
- "Offer to pray for people, just loving on people, helps draw them one step closer to Jesus." - Hediah Miramadi
Chapters:
00:01:00 Hediah's childhood and her journey to practicing Islam
00:03:00 Hediah's concerns about Islamic extremism and her work to defeat it
00:07:00 Hediah's professional career focused on defeating Islamic terrorism
00:09:00 Hediah's journey to hearing about Jesus
00:11:00 Hediah's decision to leave Islam and move back to Southern California
00:13:00 Hediah's discovery of the simple gospel and its impact on her
00:13:00 The difference between the Jesus of Islam and the Jesus of Christianity
00:14 Hediah's discovery of Jesus through a preacher's message
00:17 Hediah's initial fear and panic after hearing Jesus
00:18 Comfort and guidance from the Lord in her journey
00:20 Creation of Resurrect Ministry to help others find Christ
00:21 Stories of people reaching out for guidance and support
00:23 Importance of equipping children with knowledge about different faiths
00:25 God's heart for the nations and prayer for salvation
00:27 Contact information for Resurrect Ministry
00:28 Conclusion and invitation to reach out for help
00:28 God is at work in people's lives, even if they are not believers
00:29 The power of the living word and the Holy Spirit's guidance
00:30 Being intentional with witnessing and offering to pray for others
00:31 Sharing a personal story of connecting with a Jewish neighbor
00:32 Reflecting on practical takeaways and encouraging listeners to share
About The Guest(s):
- "Zana" - Born in Kenya, Zana came to the United States with her family in early 2000. She grew up in an Islamic household but surrendered her life to Christ at a young age.
- "Abha": Originally from India, Abha moved to the United States in 2001 after an arranged marriage. She grew up in a Hindu background and followed Hinduism. However, after reading the Bible and attending church, Abha decided to follow Jesus and threw away her idols and scriptures.
- "Sarah": Sarah is from Burma and grew up in a Buddhist family. She practiced Buddhism and believed in the teachings of Buddha. However, after meeting an ESL teacher who invited her to church, Sarah accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior and found peace and forgiveness in Him.
Summary:
Zana, Abha, and Sarah share their personal journeys of faith and how they came to know Jesus. Zana grew up in an Islamic household but was introduced to the gospel by her kindergarten teacher. She realized that Christianity was inclusive and accessible to people of all cultures and languages. Abha, who followed Hinduism, married a Hindu priest but became curious about other faiths. After reading the Bible multiple times, she realized that she only needed Jesus for her salvation. Sarah, from a Buddhist background, sought peace and fulfillment through good deeds and meditation but found it lacking. After attending church and hearing the good news of Jesus, she accepted Him as her Savior and found true peace and forgiveness.
Key Takeaways:
- Jesus is everything and knows our stories and names. - Zana
- Following Jesus brings a sense of lightness and freedom from religious rituals. - Abha
- Jesus loves us first and offers forgiveness and peace. - Sarah
Quotes:
- "Jesus means everything. He knew my story, my name. He knew Zanab, you're going to become a Christian." - Zana
- "I only need to follow Jesus for my salvation and stick with the Bible." - Abha
- "I love Jesus because He loves me first and set me free from bitterness." - Sarah
Chapters:
00:01:00 Introductions of the three women and their faith backgrounds
00:03:00 Zana's realization that the gospel is the same regardless of language
00:04:00 Abha's curiosity about other faiths and her husband's conversion
00:06:00 Sarah's belief in Buddhism and her desire to avoid reincarnation
00:07:00 Zana's realization that her efforts in Islam were not leading her to God
00:08:00 Abha's questioning of Hinduism and her husband's influence
00:09:00 Sarah's belief in good deeds and her encounter with a missionary
00:10:00 Abha's decision to follow Jesus after reading the Bible
00:12:00 Sarah's confusion about the purpose of her life and eternity
00:12:00 Meeting a missionary English teacher in Burma.
00:13:00 Searching for peace through meditation and Buddha's teachings.
00:14:00 Surrendering to Jesus, facing persecution, and finding peace.
00:15:00 Surrendering to Jesus, letting go of guilt and rituals.
00:16:00 Surrendering to Jesus, finding freedom and salvation.
00:17:00 Surrendering to Jesus, realizing the importance of inner transformation.
00:19:00 Jesus being everything, breaking generational curses, and experiencing His presence.
00:20:00 Jesus is with us always, a constant reminder through reading the Bible.
00:21:00 Jesus' sacrificial love and being the savior and shepherd.
00:22:00 Reflecting on personal struggles, triumphs, and the Holy Spirit's guidance.
About The Guest:
Renod Bejjani is the author of "Muslims, 5 Biblical Essentials Every Christian Should Know and Do," and "The Way to Paradise," a Bible study for Muslim Seekers. Renod founded iHOPE Ministries with his wife, Karen, in 2011,to empower everyday Believers to be authentic witnesses across cultures in daily life. Renod has extensive experience in cross-cultural ministry and has a heart for reaching non-believers with the love of Christ.
Summary:
Renod Bejjani joins Karen on the Blue Cord Podcast to discuss how Christians can engage with friends and neighbors of other faiths and cultures during turbulent times. Renod introduces the concept of the "5 Essentials", things every believer can do to be an authentic witness across cultures in daily life. He explains how the 5 Essentials can help Christians navigate conversations with people of other faiths (like Muslims and Jews) and plant seeds that lead to a relationship with Jesus. Renod shares practical examples and encourages listeners to rely on the Holy Spirit and the Word of God when engaging with others.
Key Takeaways:
- Love and listen well to friends from other faiths and cultures, even if you don't agree with their views.
- Use the Bible to understand God's perspective and guide conversations to a higher level.
- Pray with others in the name of Jesus, inviting the Holy Spirit to transform hearts.
- Plant seeds of the Gospel by sharing verses that reveal God's plan for the future and the need for salvation.
- Trust God's timing and continue to be an authentic witness, even if immediate conversion doesn't happen.
Quotes:
- "Let the love of Christ flow through us. That is the most powerful, attractive force in the world." - Renod Bejjani
- "God transformed my heart, so I have this fruit of the Spirit." - Renod Bejjani
- "Muhammad became a follower of Jesus. He stopped being a cultural jihadist." - Renod Bejjani
Chapters:
01:00 The importance of understanding the turbulent times we live in
02:00 The five essentials to effectively engage with others
03:00 Essential 1: Love and listen well
04:00 Essential 2: Introduce the Bible and God's perspective
05:00 Essential 3: Pray with them in the name of Jesus
06:00 Essential 4: Look for persons of peace
08:00 Essential 5: Plant the seed of the Gospel
11:00 The process of sharing the Gospel and planting seeds
15:00 Using Revelation 21 to show the end of the story
16:00 Using current events to have spiritual conversations
17:00 Sharing Revelation 20:11-15 and 21:27
18:00 Encouragement to have conversations with non-Christian friends
19:00 Applying the concepts to conversations with people of other faiths
20:00 Story of Muhammad's transformation through love and witness
26:00 Encouragement to spend time with God and take practical steps
00:27 Reminder of our purpose to spread the gospel
00:28 Recommendations for resources and Bible study for Muslim seekers
00:28 Closing remarks and invitation for feedback and reviews
About The Guest(s):
Renod Bejjani is the author of "Muslim's Five Biblical Essentials Every Christian Should Know and Do" and the president of iHOPE Ministries. He grew up in the Middle East and North Africa and has a deep understanding of the Muslim culture and worldview.
Summary:
Renod Bejjani joins Karen on the Blue Cord Podcast to discuss the ongoing conflict in the Holy Land and how Christians can engage with Muslims in a wise and gracious manner. Renod provides a historical and cultural context for the conflict, emphasizing that the root of the problem is sin. He explains that the solution lies in Jesus Christ and His ultimate return as the true ruler. Renod also highlights the importance of understanding the perspectives and worldviews of Muslims, shaped by their religion and the media, when engaging with them.
Key Takeaways:
- The ongoing conflict in the Holy Land is rooted in sin and the rejection of God's rule.
- Muslims have a religious mandate to spread Islam, which can be done through persuasion or force.
- Muslims often have a preexisting bias against Israel and the United States due to media influence.
- Engaging with Muslims requires wisdom and understanding of their perspectives and worldviews.
- The ultimate solution to the conflict lies in Jesus Christ and His return as the true ruler.
Quotes:
- "The problem is sin. We as human beings are sinful." - Renod Bejjani
- "The only true solution is Jesus Christ as Lord of Lords and King of Kings." - Renod Bejjani
- "They have a preexisting bias, just like we do, and they're also dealing with trauma." - Renod Bejjani
Chapters:
00:00:00 Introduction to the podcast and the current situation in the Middle East
00:01:00 Practical tips for engaging with Muslims
00:02:00 Introduction of Renod Bejjani and his background
00:03:00 Renod's experience with persecution and his transformation
00:04:00 Overview of the conflict in the Holy Land
00:05:00 Demographics of Jews and Muslims in the Holy Land
00:06:00 Division between Jews and Palestinians
00:07:00 Historical claims to the land by both groups
00:08:00 Ongoing conflict and failed attempts at a solution
00:09:00 The root of the problem is sin and the flawed human solutions
00:10:00 The need for dependence on God and Jesus as the ultimate solution
00:00:00 Introduction to the topic of finding a decisive victory
00:15:00 Discussion on the cultural war and its impact
00:16:00 The biblical perspective and the role of Jesus
00:17:00 Practical engagement with refugees, international students, and others
00:18:00 Understanding the backgrounds and views of Muslims
00:19:00 The religious and media influences on their thoughts
00:20:00 The mandate of spreading Islam and their negative view of America
00:21:00 The bias and victim mentality of Muslims
00:22:00 Being wise when engaging with people from other nations
00:23:00 The anger and trauma experienced by Muslims in these situations
About The Guest(s):
- Kim: Lifelong Christian with over 30 years of ministry experience, currently a fourth-grade teacher.
- Nita: Retired teacher of teachers, serves with ISI (International Students Inc.) and the Richardson Faith Alliance.
- Asma: Mom of young kids, former Muslim, now shares her faith with Muslims globally and locally.
Summary:
Kim, Nita, and Asma share their experiences of being authentic Christian witnesses across cultures in their everyday lives. They discuss the negative self-talk thoughts that initially stopped them from sharing the gospel, but how they overcame those barriers. They emphasize the importance of being intentional with their time and being available to share Jesus wherever and whenever God leads them. They also share their scariest faith-sharing moments and how they realized that sharing their faith wasn't as hard as they initially thought.
Key Takeaways:
- Be intentional with your time and make a decision to be available to share Jesus wherever and whenever God leads you.
- Overcome negative self-talk thoughts and fears by relying on God's strength and power.
- Recognize that the nations are right here among us, and be open to sharing the gospel with people from different cultures and backgrounds.
- Trust in God's timing and guidance when sharing your faith, and be open to unexpected opportunities.
- Remember that you don't need to be qualified or have all the answers to share Jesus. Just show up and let God work through you.
Quotes:
- "I realized that they are okay with me mentioning the word God. And they actually had questions." - Kim
- "All he wants us to do is to show up." - Asma
Ever wondered how you can step out of your comfort zone and truly be the church scattered?
Join Karen and Deanna Sanders in this enlightening episode as they unravel the impactful story from the Gospel of Mark—bringing people to Jesus, reaching out, and igniting faith. Delve into the crucial importance of sharing your faith across diverse cultures, understanding the challenges, and embracing the call to be the light.
So, how can we engage with the unseen people around us, transcending cultural and faith barriers? Deanna's incredible journey and insights reveal the way. Overcoming fears, intentional faith-sharing, and partnership with missionaries—these are just the beginnings. It's about opening our eyes to the needs and being willing to extend the hope of Christ beyond our comfort zones.
Tune in, and let's collectively embrace the call to scatter, share, and shine the light of hope where it's needed the most. Ready to step into this transformative mission? Join us, and let's be the church scattered, making a difference one heartfelt connection at a time.
Show NotesAbout The Guest(s):Deanna Sanders is a writer with a heart for reaching people of different faiths and cultures. Growing up as a preacher's kid, she developed a passion for sharing the love of Jesus with those who have not yet heard the message of hope. Deanna has written a book titled "Unseen People: Sharing Light and Life with Your Neighbors in the Nations," which focuses on reaching out to Muslim communities. She is actively involved in her local church and seeks to inspire others to look beyond themselves and see the unseen.Summary:In this episode of the Blue Cord Podcast, Karen and Deanna discuss the story in the Gospel of Mark about bringing people to Jesus to touch his hem. They explore the importance of sharing one's faith across cultures and the challenges and fears that may arise. Deanna shares her personal journey of reaching out to Muslim communities and the impact it has had on her life. They emphasize the need to open our eyes to the needs of those around us and to be willing to step out of our comfort zones to share the hope of Christ.Key Takeaways:1. The story in the Gospel of Mark shows the importance of bringing people to Jesus for healing and the faith and passion of those who sought him.2. It is essential to overcome fears and be intentional about sharing one's faith with people of different faiths and cultures.3. Living in a small town is not an excuse to not engage with the nations, as there are unseen people everywhere.4. Praying for people and partnering with other believers can be powerful ways to engage with different cultures and share the love of Christ.5. The goal is to open our eyes to see the needs of those around us and to be willing to step out and share the hope of Christ.Quotes:- "We're great at going to Bible studies and going to worship services. And now it's time to be the church scattered." - Deanna Sanders- "God didn't call us necessarily to a safe bubble. He calls us to share faith in our world, in our cities, our communities, and into all the world." - Deanna Sanders
About The Guest(s):
Growing up as a preacher's kid, Deanna Sanders developed a passion for sharing the love of Jesus with those who have not yet heard the message of hope. Deanna has authored a book titled "Unseen People: Sharing Light and Life with Your Neighbors in the Nations," which focuses on reaching out to Muslim communities. She is actively involved in her local church and seeks to inspire others to look beyond themselves and see the unseen.
Summary:
In this episode of the Blue Cord Podcast, Karen and Deanna discuss the story in the Gospel of Mark about bringing people to Jesus to touch his hem. They explore the importance of sharing one's faith across cultures and the challenges and fears that may arise. Deanna shares her personal journey of reaching out to Muslim communities and the impact it has had on her life. They emphasize the need to open our eyes to the needs of those around us and to be willing to step out of our comfort zones to share the hope of Christ.
Key Takeaways:
- The story in the Gospel of Mark shows the importance of bringing people to Jesus for healing and the faith and passion of those who sought him.
- It is essential to overcome fears and be intentional about sharing one's faith with people of different faiths and cultures.
- Living in a small town is not an excuse to not engage with the nations, as there are unseen people everywhere.
- Praying for people and partnering with missionaries on the ground can be powerful ways to engage with different cultures and share the love of Christ.
- The goal is to open our eyes to see the needs of those around us and to be willing to step out and share the hope of Christ.
Quotes:
- "We're great at going to Bible studies and going to worship services. And now it's time to be the church scattered." - Deanna Sanders
- "God didn't call us necessarily to a safe bubble. He calls us to share faith in our world, in our cities, our communities, and into all the world." - Deanna Sanders
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the topic of engaging with people of different faiths and cultures
00:15 Importance of finding a church with a heart for the nations
00:18 The power of prayer and being ready to serve
00:19 The challenge of stepping out of safe bubbles and sharing faith
00:20 The need to open our eyes and share the hope of Christ
00:21 Growing our faith by engaging with people who are different
00:22 The Blue Cord movement and the importance of community
00:23 Reflection on personal action steps
What are you glorifying? Where do you find joy? In this inspiring episode, Karen engages in a captivating conversation with the author of "Hard is Only Half the Story" from Serbia, Wendy Zaharanski. Wendy unravels her incredible faith journey, emphasizing the profound importance of personal awe and conviction in God's glory to effectively point others to Him.
How can we authentically shine this light in our own lives? Wendy's hard-earned wisdom guides us: it begins with a vibrant relationship with Jesus, allowing His light to radiate through us. It's not about being perfect or having all the answers; it's about sharing our lives and beliefs openly, embracing risks, and staying true to our faith.
Tune in, and let's embark on this transformative journey together. Ready to step into your role as a witness and light of the world? Join us, and let's ignite the flame of faith within ourselves and those around us.
About The Guest(s):
Wendy is a small-town girl who was led by God to move halfway across the world. Following the voice of God down unknown paths in foreign countries has been a wild ride. She has laughed, cried, bled, and been, at times, hopelessly lost. There is nothing super-human or super-spiritual about her, but she is willing to tell her story. All of it. In her new book, Hard is Only Half the Story, she tells all. It is full of true stories from her life: the good, the mess-ups, and the hard. It's all there. She is passionate about encouraging others who are stuck in the hard parts of their story. Hard is real, but so is its potential to enrich our lives. Especially if God is involved. Her mission is to use her own life experiences as encouragement to help others see the wins alongside the hard things. By openly sharing her process of walking through moving to a foreign country: sadness, learning a new language, having a baby, building friendships, and much more she helps others see the promises hidden in the moments that feel too
Summary:
In this episode, Karen interviews Wendy Zaharanski, an author and church planter who shares her journey of faith and how she became passionate about missions. Wendy emphasizes the importance of being authentic witnesses and points out that it is impossible to point others to the Lord if we are not personally awestruck by God's glory. She discusses the impact of her upbringing in a Christian home, reading missionary biographies, and her experiences overseas. Wendy also highlights the need to grow in faith and belief in order to be bold and courageous in sharing our faith. She encourages listeners to focus on abiding in Jesus and allowing His light to shine through them, rather than trying to be perfect or having all the answers. Wendy concludes by reminding listeners that they are witnesses and the light of the world, and that their primary purpose is to know and believe in God.
Key Takeaways:
- Being an authentic witness requires a deep personal belief and conviction in God.
- It is important to be open to feedback and ensure that our actions and words align with our faith.
- Abiding in Jesus and having a vibrant relationship with Him is essential for being a bold and courageous witness.
- Sharing our faith is a risk, but it is important to be open and willing to share our lives with others.
- We are called to be witnesses and the light of the world, and our primary purpose is to know and believe in God.
Quotes:
- "Being a witness means that we would know and believe, and that really touched me because God doesn't call us just to use us as a tool." - Wendy Zaharanski
- "Our sufficiency is in Christ alone. When we are abiding in Him, that light effortlessly comes out." - Karen
- "We are part of a bigger picture. It's not our job to go from A to Z with the gospel every time we start talking with somebody." - Wendy Zaharanski
Chapters:
00:01:00 Wendy's upbringing in a Christian home
00:03:00 The impact of reading missionary biographies
00:05:00 Wendy's move to Kyrgyzstan
00:08:00 Realizing the need for a deeper faith and belief
00:10:00 Understanding the role of being a witness
00:12:00 The purpose of being a witness is to know and believe
00:12:15 The impact of knowing and believing in God
00:12:00 Karen and Wendy discuss the misconception of being a "super Christian".
00:13:00 Karen asks Wendy about practical ways to be bold in sharing faith.
00:14:00 Wendy cautions against being different just for the sake of it.
00:15:00 The importance of abiding in Jesus.
00:16:00 Wendy shares an example of sharing her faith with a neighbor.
00:17:00 The risk and reward of opening up to others.
00:18:00 The importance of being present with others.
00:19:00 The sufficiency of Christ in sharing faith.
00:20:00 Paul's example of asking for prayer for boldness.
00:21:00 Focusing on being close to Jesus rather than trying to be a witness.
NOTE: This episode amplifies lessons from The Blue Cord Group Study Session 3.
Ever grappled with doubts that hinder you from being a true witness of your faith?
Join Karen and Mirielle in this thought-provoking episode as they delve into the doubts and assumptions that often restrain Christians from being authentic witnesses. From assumptions about people from different faiths to the fear of judgment, they share personal stories and profound insights.
So, how can we break free from these limitations? Mireille passionately underscores the importance of pressing forward, fearlessly sharing the love of Jesus even when faced with potential persecution or rejection. It's about overcoming these barriers and embracing the authentic call to be a light in this world.
Tune in to unravel the stories and wisdom shared, and let's challenge ourselves to shed our doubts, dismiss assumptions, and boldly be the authentic witnesses our faith calls us to be. Ready to make that commitment? Join us, and let's shine our light in a world that needs it more than ever.
About The Guest(s):
Mireille is a Lebanese Christian who grew up in a Catholic school but didn't truly experience the love of Jesus until she encountered God in 2015. Since then, she has dedicated her life to serving the Lord and sharing the gospel with others.
Summary:
In this episode, Karen and Mirielle discuss doubts and assumptions that can hold Christians back from being authentic witnesses. They share personal stories and insights on topics such as assumptions about people from other faiths, the fear of judgment, and the importance of cultivating a healthy fear of the Lord. Mirielle emphasizes the need to press forward in sharing the love of Jesus, even in the face of potential persecution or rejection.
Key Takeaways:
- Fear of judgment can hinder Christians from sharing their faith.
- Cultivating a healthy fear of the Lord gives moral courage to share the gospel.
- Doubts and assumptions can be overcome through prayer and seeking God's guidance.
- Having a strong community of like-minded believers can encourage and uplift in times of doubt or fear.
Quotes:
- "If I have the life in me, I can't keep silent." - Mireille
- "This book changed my life. I pray that you will read it." - Mireille
- "The more I can discover who He is, the more the fear of the Lord grows." - Mireille
Chapters:
00:01:00 - Mirielle shares her background and how she met God
00:03:00 - Karen's assumption that people from other faiths already know about Jesus
00:04:00 - Mireille's fear of sharing her faith due to diversity in Lebanon
00:05:00 - Opportunities and threats for sharing the gospel in Lebanon and North America
00:08:00 - The majority of people in Lebanon have heard of Jesus but lack understanding
00:10:00 - Why Mirielle presses forward to share the light of Christ
00:12:00 - Mireille's recent experiences of sharing the gospel with strangers
00:15:00 - Reflection on the joy of sharing the gospel
About The Guest(s):
Kaitlyn Mullens is one of the founders of For The Nations, a refugee outreach ministry in North Texas. She started the ministry after working as a kindergarten teacher in a diverse school district and realizing the need to help refugee families in her community. Kaitlyn has a heart for sharing the hope of Christ with people from different cultures and backgrounds.
Summary:
Ever thought about stepping out of your comfort zone to impact lives across cultures?
In this inspiring episode, join us as Kaitlyn Mullins, the visionary behind For The Nations, unfolds her remarkable journey of initiating a refugee outreach ministry. Her experiences showcase God's incredible work in the lives of refugees spanning over 20 nations.
So, how can we make a difference? Kaitlyn's powerful stories emphasize starting small—by connecting with someone from a different culture and offering practical help while sharing the hope found in Christ. It's about those seemingly small steps that lead to profound transformation.
Tune in to hear how the gospel has ignited transformative change in the lives of refugees and the invaluable wisdom Kaitlyn has gathered from her impactful work. Furthermore, Kaitlyn sheds light on the critical aspect of discipleship and how For The Nations provides opportunities for volunteers to not only serve but also grow in their faith.
Ready to take that first step? Join us in this episode, and let's discover how together we can step out of our comfort zones, engage with diverse cultures, and share the love of Christ, one compassionate action at a time.
Key Takeaways:
- Stepping out of our comfort zones to engage with people from different cultures and faiths is a valuable and rewarding experience.
- Starting small by meeting someone who is different and offering practical help can open doors for sharing the hope of Christ.
- The gospel has the power to transform lives, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
- Discipleship is important in helping others grow in their faith and understanding of who God is.
- For The Nations provides opportunities for volunteers to serve and learn from refugees, deepening their own faith and understanding of cross-cultural ministry.
Quotes:
- "What we actually need is faith in him. And so there's just such hope there." - Kaitlyn Mullens
- "You might just be a small part in that journey for someone. And that's okay. That's still valuable." - Kaitlyn Mullens
- "For as much as I love that God has given us opportunity to share with others cross-culturally, the good news about Jesus, I also think that for myself, knowing these different groups of people and different populations of immigrants, they have so much wisdom in what they have to say about their experiences." - Kaitlyn Mullens
Chapters:
00:00:00 Introduction to the Blue Cord Podcast and the guest, Kaitlyn Mullins
00:01:00 Kaitlyn's background and initial thoughts on missions
00:02:00 Kaitlyn's experience teaching in a diverse school and interacting with refugee families
00:03:00 Kaitlyn's journey of helping a Somali family and expanding her outreach
00:05:00 Learning about the refugee resettlement program and the gap in support
00:08:00 Transition from teaching to full-time ministry
00:09:00 Sharing the hope of Christ with refugees
00:11:00 Barna research on millennial Christians' views on sharing the gospel
00:12:00 Overcoming fears and misconceptions about sharing the gospel across cultures
00:12:00 Silly fears of rejection when sharing the gospel across cultures.
00:13:00 It's okay if you can't see immediate change in people.
00:14:00 Gospel changing lives of Afghan women escaping Taliban.
00:15:00 Start small by meeting someone different from you.
00:16:00 Advice for those in the shallow end of sharing Jesus.
00:17:00 Sharing Jesus across cultures brings wisdom and profound moments.
00:18:00 Stories of South Sudanese woman and African man's wisdom.
00:19:00 Profound moments of faith and trust in God's protection.
00:20:00 Refugees have impacted For The Nations staff and volunteers.
00:22:00 For The Nations provides opportunities for people to serve.
00:23:00 Encouragement to purposefully engage with different groups in your community
00:24:00 Reflecting on how family and upbringing shape faith
00:24:00 Prompting to consider changes in sharing faith
00:25:00 Invitation to join a Blue Cord small group study
NOTE: This episode amplifies Week 1 of THE BLUE CORD GROUP STUDY. Learn more about coordinating a Blue Cord Group Study with your friends at www.TheBlueCord.org.
Ever wondered about the pivotal moment that tested the disciples' understanding of Jesus' identity?
In this compelling episode, Karen and Andre Mubarek embark on a journey to Caesarea Philippi as told in Matthew 16:13. This Roman city, with its pagan temple dedicated to Pan, set the stage for a profound question from Jesus that challenged the disciples' perception of him.
So, why did Jesus choose this significant location? Andre sheds light on the historical and cultural context, unraveling the deeper purpose behind this crucial moment. It wasn't just a test—it was preparation. A preparation for a mission to challenge and transform the Roman pagan world.
As we delve into the disciples' responses, especially Peter's bold declaration, we unearth a revelation of Jesus' true identity. Andre underlines the contemporary relevance—the call to step beyond our comfort zones and boldly be witnesses for Christ in a world that needs His light.
Through a personal narrative of encountering God's power in darkness, Andre encourages us to engage with Scripture and nurture obedience to the Holy Spirit. Ready to take on this challenge? Tune in, and let's discover how we can step out boldly and illuminate the world with the truth of Christ, just as the disciples did in Caesarea Philippi.
About The Guest(s):
Andre Mubarek is the co-founder of Twin Tours in Israel and has been leading groups through the Holy Land for about 20 years. He is a licensed tour guide, an ordained minister, and the author of several books. Andre grew up in the Christian Maronite family and has a deep understanding of the culture, customs, and context of the Holy Land.
Key Takeaways:
- Jesus brought his disciples to Caesarea Philippi to test their understanding of his teachings and prepare them for their mission to conquer the Roman pagan world.
- Peter's declaration that Jesus is the Lord revealed his revelation and understanding of Jesus' true identity.
- Believers today are called to go out of their comfort zones and be bold witnesses for Christ in the world.
- Spending time reading Scripture and cultivating obedience to the Holy Spirit is essential for fulfilling our calling and experiencing the power of God.
Quotes:
- "Go out of your churches. Go out to the world, and go out to places that you're not comfortable in. This is where the power of the Holy Spirit will work." - Andre Mubarek
- "The more time you spend reading Torah, reading Scripture, the more humble you become. And the more humble you become, the more obedient your heart will be." - Andre Mubarek
- "The kingdom of heaven will break because people are moving from darkness to light, and God is using you." - Andre Mubarek
Chapters:
00:01:00 Importance of understanding the Middle Eastern context of Scripture
00:02:00 Background information on Caesarea Philippi and its significance
00:03:00 Purpose of Jesus taking his disciples to a pagan Roman temple
00:04:00 Explanation of the gates of hell and Jewish tradition
00:06:00 Peter's revelation of Jesus as the Lord
00:07:00 Jesus' command to Peter and the disciples to conquer the pagan world
00:08:00 Different interpretations of the "rock" in Jesus' statement
00:09:00 The church as a movement and the authority given to believers
00:13:00 Encouragement to go out of our comfort zones and bring light to darkness
00:15:00 Making God small and the disciples not grasping the message
00:16:00 Importance of mountains and God's presence
00:17:00 Going out of comfort zone to reach others
00:18:00 Testimony of God's protection in dark places
00:19:00 Encouragement to go on mission trips and bring people to Christ
00:20:00 Manifestation of the power of the Kingdom of Heaven
00:21:00 Darkness and spiritual warfare in the Holy Land
00:22:00 Testimony of releasing someone from darkness
00:23:00 Importance of depth with the Word of God
00:26:00 Importance of visiting the Holy Land for spiritual revelation
Are you ready to be a catalyst for change in your community and beyond?
Join Karen and the Blue Cord Project on a transformative journey in the first season of the Blue Cord Podcast. As we dive into this series, we ask a vital question: "How can we, as Christian women, authentically share our faith in our everyday lives?"
In these episodes, we unveil the insights gained from extensive research, which unveiled a common feeling among women: a lack of confidence in sharing their faith across cultures. But here's the exciting part – the Blue Cord Project has already inspired countless women to break free from their comfort zones and boldly proclaim Jesus.
Now, here's your opportunity: In the upcoming second phase of our project at the Blue Cord Women's Conference, we're taking things to the next level. We invite you to be part of this movement, leading small group studies and becoming an authentic witness for Christ.
So, are you ready to make a difference? Tune in to the first season of the Blue Cord Podcast, and let's discover how together we can empower Christian women to share their faith and inspire change in our world.
Key Takeaways:
- The Blue Cord Project aims to empower everyday Christian women to share Jesus with people from other faiths and cultures.
- Many Christian women feel ill-equipped to share their faith across cultures and fear offending others.
- The first phase of the Blue Cord Project resulted in positive changes in thinking and actions around sharing faith across cultures.
- The Blue Cord Group Study provides a step-by-step guide for leading a small group study on sharing Jesus.
- The Blue Cord Project is expanding with new videos and a coordinator guide to support leaders in the second phase.
Chapters:
00:01:00 Karen's personal experience of leaving her corporate career
00:02:00 The research findings on Christian women's readiness to share the gospel
00:03:00 The absence of Christian role models and leaders in sharing Jesus
00:04:00 Comments from women about the challenges of sharing their faith
00:05:00 The launch of the Blue Cord Project and its impact
00:06:00 Stories of Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist individuals accepting Christ
00:07:00 Announcement of the second phase of the Blue Cord Project
00:08:00 Invitation to join the Blue Cord Women's Conference and lead a study
00:15:00 Conclusion and gratitude for the Blue Cord community
We like the idea of sharing Jesus across cultures, yet without compassion, it can be terrifying. Lily knew this first-hand. She grew up Muslim in Iran. When she became a Christian, she knew fellow Iranians needed Jesus too. Yet she trembled at the thought of sharing the gospel. Today, she finds joy in sharing Jesus in Iran. What made Lily bold? Could it make you bold too? (NOTE: This episode corresponds with The Blue Cord Study Week #3.)
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- Iran Alive – The ministry Lily is a part of.
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Could God really care about the tiny details of your day? Zara didn't think so. She grew up in a Muslim family in the heart of the Middle East. Then she ended up in a women's Bible study in America with women who talked about what God was doing in their lives. She wondered if God might care about the details in her life too. Find out what she learned from those women, and what it means for you in your own walk with the Lord. This is part 2 of Zara’s story.
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Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
- Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Have you ever wrestled with doubt or uncertainty about God being in control of your life? Or maybe you have wondered if God really sees you? Today’s guest did. She grew up in the heart of the Middle East to a missionary family that had traveled for four generations to spread Islam. Could God see her there? Listen to Zara's story and find out, because if God could see and know her there in the heart of the Middle East, then He can see you right where you are too.
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Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
- Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
God speaks to us in many ways. Yet Negin never heard Him speak with her. As a young Muslim girl, growing up in refugee camps and makeshift housing, she suffered unimaginable trauma and abuse. She prayed fervently and was desperate for a word. Yet none came, leaving her feeling even more alone and conflicted. Then she had a dramatic encounter with the Living God of the Bible that changed everything. Listen to how He spoke with her and consider how He may be speaking to you too.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Western Christians are free to share Jesus. Yet Ruba can’t freely do this. She lives in a Muslim-majority nation surrounded by political unrest, facing restrictions that Westerners can only imagine. Despite insurmountable obstacles, Ruba has found the courage to point women to Christ. If God gives Ruba the strength to be His witness among women throughout the Arab world, consider the courage and strength He can give you too. Don’t miss this powerful episode.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about Ruba's ministry at The Arab Center for Consulting and Training Services.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Life without Jesus is hard. It was surely hard for Rashida. She was born into a Muslim family in a gritty small town where drive-by shootings were common and broken families were the norm. Everything was hopeless. Then one courageous woman braved the neighborhood to share Jesus with Rashida’s mother. It changed their lives forever. When you touch someone’s life with the gospel, could there be generational ripples? Listen to this powerful episode to find out.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about the Crescent Project’s Embassy Program that Rashida referenced.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Courage grows a more resilient Christian faith. So how can you grow more courage – especially when it comes to sharing your faith? One way is to hear inspiring stories from Believers of other-faith backgrounds who’ve had to overcome great odds to follow Jesus. Today’s guest, Ataya is one of those people. Her coming-to-Jesus story will remind you that God is real. He is wooing people to Himself, and you can be a part of that. Don’t miss this episode!
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resource.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
What does it look like practically to love your neighbors when you’re stretched thin between work, school, and taking care of our family? In this episode, Vela, a busy pastor’s wife, shares how to make time for loving others when calendars are already full to overflowing. Wherever you are in your faith journey today, the stories Vela shares will inspire you to love well and give you practical ideas for how to do so. (Note: This episode corresponds with The Blue Cord Study Week #5.)
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
-------->>>
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resource.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Can prayer truly transform the way we share our faith with others? Join me as I sit down with my friend Mireille to uncover the incredible power of prayer and its connection to spreading the Gospel. Mireille opens up about her life-changing encounter with Jesus, recounting how she found healing from depression and bitterness through surrendering herself to God.
Together, we dive into Mireille's fascinating work with Muslim women refugees in the Middle East, illustrating how prayer plays a vital role in guiding her ministry. From discussing the challenges faced by women in supporting and praying for one another, to understanding God's heart for the nations, this insightful conversation will both inspire and empower you to deepen your prayer life and fearlessly share your faith with those from different backgrounds. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Mireille's experiences and embrace the immense impact of prayer in your own life.
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Chapters:
0:00:01 - Prayer's Impact on Sharing Faith
0:12:13 - Discipling Muslim Women Through Prayer
0:20:16 - God's Heart for the Nations
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
Are you ready to be inspired to make a difference in the world and share your faith boldly? Join Karen and special guest Laura Woodworth on the Blue Cord Podcast as they explore the power of personal encounters with God and the transformative journey of making Him known. Discover how Laura's new devotional, Through the Valley, offers compassion and guidance to those seeking hope in a post-pandemic world. Hear their personal stories of faith, unwavering witness, and the profound impact of listening to God. Take a leap of faith today, pour out your heart to God, and become a catalyst for change in your sphere of influence. Tune in and discover the joy of sharing Christ and the power of widening your world.
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Timestamps
00:00:00 Knowing God and Making Him Known
00:03:00 Sharing Faith and Experiencing God
00:08:00 The Power of Listening to God
00:11:00 Widening Faith Through Engagement with the World
00:13:00 Practical Ways to Share God's Love with Others
00:15:00 Intentional Evangelism and Engaging with People from Different Faith Backgrounds
00:19:00 Empathy and Being a Light-Bearer
00:22:00 Reflection on Jesus Raising Lazarus from the Dead
00:24:00 Awe-Filled Eyes and Relying on God
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
Are you ready to unlock the power of community in knowing and making God known? Join Karen and Kathleen on the Blue Cord Podcast as they dive into the significance of witnesses worldwide. Explore the challenges faced by the persecuted church, the unwavering joy found in Jesus amidst chaos, and the importance of standing firm in faith within the entertainment industry. Discover profound insights from the book of Revelation, Nehemiah's rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the forgotten fruit of self-control. Get ready to be inspired and empowered to make a difference. Tune in and become a catalyst for change, living out your faith and impacting the world around you.
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Interview with Kathleen Cooke: Leveraging the Power of Community to Know God More Deeply and Make Him Known
00:03:00 Global Trends and the Persecuted Church
00:05:00 The Challenges of Working in Hollywood and the Need for Biblical Worldview
00:10:00 Revelation, Nehemiah, and Leadership in the Church
00:13:00 Applying the Lessons of Nehemiah to Everyday Life
00:20:00 Taking Hold of Our Inheritance (Welch Revival of 1904-1905)
00:22:00 The Power of Jesus to Transform Culture
00:25:00 Staying Connected to God in a Distracted Culture
00:26:00 Empowering Women in Media and Leadership
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
Have you ever wondered how to respond to people who aren't interested in you sharing your faith? In this captivating episode of the Blue Cord Podcast, Karen and Renod Bejjani share insights on the biblical concept of "a person of peace" that can revolutionize the way you share your faith. Through personal stories and profound reflections, they reveal the first essential step: loving well in words, actions, and deeds. Experience the impact of focusing on those truly interested in the message, and learn how the Holy Spirit guides us in understanding God's truth. Get ready to embark on a journey of faith and connection. Join us now!
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Timestamps:
00:00:00 The Person of Peace Concept
00:02:00 Finding a Person of Peace and Sharing Jesus
00:06:00 Sharing the Gospel with Others
00:12:00 Drawing People to Jesus
00:14:00 The Role of the Trinity in Salvation
00:16:00 Offering "Bread" to People of Peace
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
What does it mean to glorify God? How can we do it in our everyday lives, even when we're waiting in line at the bank or sitting in a doctor's office? In today's episode, Karen shares practical ways we can bring glory to God, drawing on biblical examples and personal experiences. From understanding the meaning of doxa to living a life that reflects God's values, Karen encourages us to seek after God's glory, not our own. And she shares a powerful story of how God opened a door for her to proclaim His glory to someone from a different nation. So if you want to learn how to glorify God among the nations around you, tune in now!
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Bringing Glory to God: What Does it Mean?
00:03:00 Exploring Practical Ways to Glorify God
00:05:00 Glorifying God Among the Nations: Practical Ways to Proclaim His Praises
00:08:00 Stories of Ordinary Blue Cord Women Declaring God's Glory in Everyday Life
00:10:00 The Power of Sharing the Gospel: Two Inspiring Stories of Faith
00:15:00 Stephanie's Story: Tithing Time to Glorify God Among the Nations
00:17:00 The Joy of Sharing the Gospel
00:19:00 Glorifying God: Jesus's Deepest Desire for His Disciples
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
Have you ever prayed with someone of another faith? In this episode of the Blue Cord podcast, Karen shares a powerful story of how praying with two veiled Muslim women led to a holy moment where she was able to point them to Jesus. This experience taught Karen the importance of praying with people of other faiths to discern if they might be a person of peace.
But how do you know when someone is a person of peace? Karen goes over the five essentials for sharing your faith with people of other faiths and cultures, including sharing the gospel early and often and sharing God's word.
Karen shares personal stories of how these essentials have played out in her own life, including how she was able to connect with Noir, a Muslim woman from Somalia, through sharing the gospel. The episode ends with the inspiring story of Lynn, an introverted woman who invited her Muslim neighbor to her Bible study group, which ultimately led to her and her family accepting Christ.
Join Karen on this journey of sharing your faith with others and learning the power of prayer and sharing God's word.
Links:
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Praying Together in Jesus' Name
00:03:00 A Story of Answered Prayer
00:04:00 Sharing the Gospel Early and Often: A Real-Life Story
00:10:00 Engaging with Persons of Peace: A Review of the Five Essentials
00:14:00 Exploring the Five Essentials of Sharing the Gospel with a Friend
00:16:00 Engaging with a Potential Person of Peace: Five Essential Practices
00:18:00 The Five Essentials of Sharing Your Faith - A Summary of the Last Episode and Reflection on Moving Forward
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
Imagine yourself riding with a friend in a taxi, when all of a sudden she begins talking to the driver about Jesus. Would you be uncomfortable? Well that's exactly what happened to Karen and that's what today's podcast is all about. Karen and her husband Renod are currently traveling throughout the Middle East, filming special videos for the Blue Cord Small Group Study. In addition, they are cultivating ministry partner relationships in the Middle East and ask for prayer while they travel. Karen has pre-recorded two solo episodes, a two-parter, that will inspire and embolden listeners with practical ways to live as an authentic witness across cultures in their everyday life. The keynote is about the first time Karen heard someone share the gospel outside of church. It happened in a taxi in Beirut, when her friend Caroline asked the Muslim taxi driver if he knew Jesus.
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Exploring Authentic Witness Across Cultures
00:02:00 The Power of Sharing the Gospel
00:04:00 Living as an Authentic Christian Witness Among Women of Other Faiths and Cultures
00:10:00 The Five Biblical Essentials for Outreach to Muslims
00:12:00 Loving Everyone. Look for a Person of Peace
00:17:00 The Power of the Holy Spirit in Drawing People to Jesus
00:19:00 Engaging with a Person of Peace: Three Essentials to Look For
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
Do you love people outside of your culture enough to share your faith with them? If not, your not alone. In today's episode Karen and Lucy tackle this difficult topic and give practical ways to love people of different faiths and cultures. Asking God for insight into how to love each person well is essential. It is only through God that we can love people in the same way that Jesus does. Loving well in this way can be difficult, especially in our busy lives but is totally worth it. Todays conversation is all about the power of love and the importance of trusting God to provide in difficult situations.
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Timestamps
00:00:00 Practical Love: A Conversation with Lucy Allen on Loving People of Other Faiths and Cultures
00:03:00 Learning to Love Well and Praying for Miracles
00:05:00 Loving Well in Real Life
00:06:00 Practical Ways to Fit Time to Love Others into Your Calendar
00:11:00 Community, Prayer, and Sharing the Gospel
00:13:00 Loving Well in Words, Actions, and Deeds
00:17:00 Encountering Jesus Through His Love
00:18:00 Show Me How to Love Like Jesus
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
Do you wish there was a simple blueprint or strategy to know how and when to engage people of other faiths and cultures and talk about Jesus?. If so, your not alone. This is a common struggle believers face. On todays episode, Karen and Hannah discuss how to identify a person of peace, someone that God is wooing to Himself. Hannah experienced a deep sense of discontentment with the news she was seeing in the world and decided to take action by doing her college practicum in a refugee camp on a Greek island. There, she experienced a paradox of both heaven and hell, seeing people living in inhumane conditions with no hope of getting out. Despite the difficult circumstances, she found hope in the beauty of Jesus being with the outcasts and the sense that the veil between heaven and Earth was so thin. This encounter changed the trajectory of her life, leading her to love and embrace the people of the Muslim faith and become a part of the work God was doing in the camp. People of peace are all around us and we just need to look with intention. God can use us to reach people who are on the outskirts of society.
00:00:00 Identifying Clues of a Person of Peace
00:04:00 How God Changed Hannahs Heart for Muslims
00:07:00 Conversation on Developing a Compassion for Muslims and Engaging in Cross-Cultural Ministry
00:09:00 Reflection on Working in a Refugee Camp: A Transformative Experience
00:11:00 Experiences in Greece Ministering to Refugees
00:12:00 Sharing the Gospel in a Refugee Camp
00:15:00 God's Healing Power in a Refugee Camp
00:17:00 Identifying Persons of Peace in Evangelism
00:20:00 Finding a Person of Peace in Pursuit of Spiritual Conversation
00:24:00 Exploring Ways to Incorporate Faith into Everyday Conversations
00:26:00 Identifying People of Peace in Everyday Life
00:28:00 Discernment and Looking for a Person of Peace
Feeling stuck and overwhelmed on your faith-sharing journey? Join Karen and Angie on this podcast episode as they explore ways to take your conversations about Jesus to the next level. With Angie's expertise in human development and coaching, learn about the self-sufficient way of thinking and how to break out of thought patterns that are holding you back. Transform your Christian witness & dive into a deeper understanding of yourself today!
Timestamps
00:00:00 The Impact of Thoughts on Christian Witnessing
00:03:00 Sharing Faith and the Great Commission
00:04:00 Sharing Faith and Witnessing to Coworkers
00:08:00 Exploring the Benefits of Sharing Faith with God's Help
00:09:00 God-Dependent Living
00:11:00 Putting Faith into Action and Sharing Our Faith with Others
00:16:00 Overcoming Self-Limiting Thoughts and Becoming God Dependent
00:20:00 Dependence on God vs. Self-Sufficiency
Tune in for an enlightening conversation about faith-sharing obstacles and opportunities. Hear Karen and Amy debunk the idea that sharing Jesus means having to push an agenda or memorize a script, and explore the reasons why people often choose to hold back from sharing their faith. Get inspired by Amy's story about being part of the original Blue Cord leadership team that launched a movement a year ago, and gain a new perspective on how to approach sharing your faith across cultures with grace and understanding.
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Timestamps
00:00:00 Debunking Negative Ideas About Evangelism
00:03:00 Ground Rules for Sharing Faith
00:05:00 Sharing the Gospel and Reaching Out to Others
00:07:00 Relying on God's Plan and Not Our Own Understanding
00:10:00 Growing Faith Through Sharing the Gospel
00:19:00 Managing Performance Expectations in Sharing Jesus
00:21:00 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Sharing Our Faith
00:23:00 Operating as an Authentic Christian Witness in North America
00:25:00 Experiencing Joy Through Dependence on God
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
Do you struggle with fear when you think of sharing your faith? If so, your not alone and todays guest might hold the key to help you unlock your courage. In this episode, Karen and Norma discuss the importance of cultivating a heart of compassion when it comes to sharing our faith, particularly when it comes to different cultures. Norma shares her experience of leaving Nigeria and going to Lebanon and how there she realized how much God loves her. She explains how this impacted her and how she was then able to find the compassion she needed to reach out to others. Understanding God's love is the missing key to be able to love and reach out to those who don't know Him.
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Timestamps
00:00:00 Cultivating a Heart of Compassion
00:03:00 Cat and Dog Theology
00:05:00 The Power of Compassion and Trust in God
00:08:00 Reflections on Philippians 1:29
00:10:00 God's Heart for Migrants and Immigrants
00:14:00 Sharing the Gospel with Respect and Love
00:19:00 Evangelism and Building Relationships with Jesus
00:23:00 Reflection on Compassion and Empathy
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
A woman with strong convictions is a woman who will have moral courage. In today's episode, Karen and Joanne Doyle discuss the challenges that Christian women face in a culture that is increasingly hostile towards Christianity. They explore the doubts and assumptions that hold us back from being authentic Christian witnesses and the importance of being aware of our thoughts and feelings in order to shape our actions. Joanne and her husband Tom Doyle started a ministry called Uncharted which aims to inspire believers to join in God's great harvest among Jews and Muslims. Joanne has been on various national TV and radio programs and leads expeditions for women overseas. Karen and Joanne discuss the importance of being authentic Christian witnesses in order to help people come to know Jesus and make Him known.
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Timestamps
00:00:00 "Exploring Doubts and Assumptions that Hold Us Back from Being Authentic Christian Witnesses with Joanne Doyle"
00:03:00 JoAnn Doyle Discusses Bible Translation with Bedouin Women in Israel
00:05:00 Boldness in Sharing Faith
00:08:00 Confronting Assumptions and Moving Past Doubt
00:10:00 Overcoming Assumptions to Share Faith Boldly
00:14:00 Sharing the Gospel and Overcoming Hesitations
00:17:00 Women's Spiritual Influence in Islamic Culture
00:19:00 Being a Spiritual Gatekeeper
00:23:00 The Impact of Spiritual Gatekeeping and the Holy Domino Effect
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
Imaginge yourself as a young adult on the fast track to corporate success only to hear the call that you are to go to another part of the world to minister and serve the least reached people. Well that's exactly what happened to today's guest. Karen is joined by Kate and they are discussing how Kate transitioned from working in the corporate world to full-time ministry. After college, she pursued the American dream and was making a lot of money. Despite the appearance of success, she felt something was missing and began to experience God-ordained events that led her to seminary and her future husband. Through a series of painful events, Kate was led to the desert and realized that God knows her soul better than she does. She trusted God not knowing that she would love it and be fully satisfied in Him. They now live in the Sahara with their three young children, sharing the good news of Jesus.
Helpful Links:
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Timestamps
00:00:00 Counting the Cost of Following Jesus in a Dangerous Nation
00:03:00 Pursuing the American Dream and Finding Hope in Jesus
00:04:00 From Aviation and Finance to the Edge of the Sahara Desert
00:09:00 Christian Hedonism and Obedience to God's Will
00:17:00 Finding Joy and Fulfillment in Suffering and Pain
00:19:00 Exploring the Challenges of Raising Children in a Nation Without Religious Freedom
00:21:00 The Impact of Public School on Faith and Mission Fields
00:26:00 Picking Up Your Cross and Following Jesus
In this episode, Karen sits with Asma, a former Muslim, to reflect on her remarkable coming-to-Jesus story. If you’ve felt like sharing Jesus across cultures is for others, Asma’s message is a wake-up call. Growing up in an Islamic-ruled nation, she feared missing any religious obligation that would lead her to an eternity in hell. Fearing her Christian friends would go to hell, she took classes to try to convert them to Islam. She wishes one of them would have been courageous enough to tell her about Jesus. Once she got ahold of a Bible, everything changed. Asma will inspire you to stand up for what you believe in and give you encouragement to stand strong.
Learn more about The Blue Cord at www.TheBlueCord.org
Purchase The Blue Cord book at: https://shop.churchleaders.com/products/the-blue-cord?_pos=1&_sid=c7e502826&_ss=r
Support The Blue Cord: https:www.iHOPEministries.org/give
TIMESTAMPS
00:00:00 "Exploring Faith: An Interview with Asma on Her Journey to Christianity"
00:03:00 Fear of God and Coming to North America
00:05:00 Discovering True Christianity
00:10:00 Stealing a Bible and Experiencing God's Love
00:12:00 Understanding God's Heart for Immigrants
00:13:00 Bringing Joy to God Through Following His Call
00:18:00 Valuing Our Freedom to Share Our Faith
00:20:00 Sharing the Good News of Jesus with Muslim Communities
00:22:00 Conclusion of Episode 4: Knowing God - A Conversation with Asma Uddin
HIGHLIGHTS
And for those my friends who are in a country where you're free to share your faith. Asma, you bring us a good word today about valuing what we have and this is not the end.
And it was really touching to see their eyes when I was telling them, God is the father of the orphans. Yes, the Holy Spirit is working and He want us to join Him.
Asma: And Jesus talked, in the parables about that shepherd that lost that one sheep. And He says he left those 99 sheep to go find that one. And Jesus, He said, follow me and I'll make you fisher of men.
Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
Karen and Jodie discuss the intersection of faith and purpose. Jodie is a pastor by training, and author of Bible studies who hosts a podcast called 'So Much More: Creating Space for God'. She has since stepped away from formal church ministry positions and is now helping people create space for God through her podcast, writing, and other discipleship ministries. Karen shares that when her kids were young, her faith was shallow and she didn't think about being an intentional Christian witness. She was inspired by a woman in the Middle East with a bold and mighty faith, which she hungers to have too.
Jodie and Karen also discuss how to cultivate a deeper relationship with God and how to share a faith worth sharing. In order to accomplish this, they both agree that slowing down is essential. Jodie shares her own experience of feeling like she had to show up to church every Sunday, but not knowing where to start. She then found an opportunity of accountability through a spiritual friendship and a Bible study. Finally, she realized that faith does not have to be overly complicated. She encourages others to find support in order to grow in their faith.
Later in this conversation, Jodie and Karen discuss Jesus' teaching that believers should love the Lord their God with all of their heart, soul, mind, and strength and love their neighbor as themselves. Jodie explains that this is the primary calling for believers, and that other callings may come and go, but this one remains a constant. In order to discern God's will, Jodie suggests getting to know Him better by reading scripture, and listening for His voice. Karen adds that in doing so, believers will bear much fruit and find joy in life. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of loving the Lord and loving our neighbors as key components of following God.
Jodie and Karen also identify the importance of following the spirit's prompting to love and act compassionately toward others. They likened this to a big V and small V, with the big V being our vocation to love God and our neighbors, and the small V being our career and raising our families. Karen then raised the issue of lack of time, which many women face in juggling their responsibilities. She mentioned that some women had difficulty finding the time to build relationships with nonbelievers and share their faith. Jodie and Karen concluded that it is important to trust our inner promptings and to act on them despite how busy we may be.
TIMESTAMPS
00:00:00 Heading: Exploring Faith and Purpose with Jodie Niznick
00:04:00 Cultivating a Deeper Relationship with God
00:05:00 Loving God and Loving Our Neighbors
00:10:00 Loving Our Neighbors and Finding Time to Do So
00:11:00 Practicing the Big V Vocation of Loving God and Our Neighbors
00:15:00 Living an Unhurried Life with Jesus as an Example
00:17:00 Building Relationship with God and our Neighbor in Busy Seasons
00:22:00 Abiding in Christ and Bearing Fruit
00:24:00 Conversation Summary: Jodie's Advice on Following God's Calling
00:26:00 Closing: Reflection on Our Big V Vocation and Little V Vocation
HIGHLIGHTS
Whoever abides in Me and I in him, bears much fruit, and apart from Him, we can bear nothing. When we know we should be sharing our faith, but don't have a rich, vibrant relationship with the Lord, we're separate from Him and we can't bear fruit.
Loving God and our neighbor are the two greatest commandments. Are those in alignment? When we put our own life up against the word and we figure out what's not working, It helps us identify where we need to readjust? And then bringing that to the Lord and saying, “help me in this.”
Ask the Lord, “are there people you want me to love today? Is there a relationship I can start building?” One of the things that we've talked about is loving our neighbor as ourselves and I know to share Jesus with a neighbor really depends on relationship.
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Helpful Resources:
- Connect with Jodie Niznik:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resource.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
The episode is about how the experience of being lost in the woods is similar to the spiritual journey with God. It starts with the idea that when we don't pay attention to our GPS or trail markers, we can easily become disoriented in the woods. In the same way, when we don't abide in God and place our trust in worldly things, we can become spiritually disoriented and lost. The prophet Isaiah expresses this in Isaiah 22:11, we he poses the question "why should we bother with God when we have our own resources?" The answer to remind us of who God is and our purpose in life, today's conversation is amplifying the themes in chapters one and two of the Blue Cord Book.
Hope Mills is the founder of Foreign Soils, a ministry to mobilize military wives to share God's love and truth with people who have never heard it before. Hope's own faith and trust in the Lord was shaped by her experience growing up as a missionary in Eastern Europe after the fall of communism. Thousands of people attended open air crusade meetings and were able to hear the gospel and get saved. Hope is encouraging people to join the online group that is kicking off on March 9th to further the gospel and spread God's love.
Her parents were missionaries who held open-air crusade meetings. She was five when this was happening, and it left a lasting impression on her. As a young girl, she experienced first-hand the power of prayer when her family ran out of money. Miraculously, her mother found a hundred-dollar bill in her purse twice. This cemented her trust in God and her desire to be a missionary. She trained and was ready to go, but something unexpected changed her plans.
She was preparing to go overseas with a specific agency when she suddenly got very sick and had to quit everything and move back home with her parents. There were feelings of a crisis of faith, but she was strengthened by a Bible study with a woman from a communist party who eventually gave her life to the Lord. During this time, Hope felt God's overwhelming love and eventually went to work with international students for six years. On a trip to the Middle East, she had a dream about walking through a large country looking for something and entering a mosque/museum where there was a woman sitting dirty and covered in sores. I can't wait for you to hear that story.
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- Foreign Soils: https://www.foreignsoils.com/
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resource.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
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Hope is not a strategy. If you’re a Believer who has been building relationships on everything but Jesus because you didn’t want to offend, it’s time for a new strategy. In this episode, Kayla – a busy mom of two - unpacks 3 faith-sharing ground rules she’s learned that will free you up to be a natural, authentic Christian witness in your everyday life. Being mindful of these rules will take all the performance pressure off you. (NOTE: This episode corresponds with The Blue Cord Study Week #4)
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resource.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
This special episode features an incredible interview with Coach Robin Pou from our recent Blue Cord Conference. You have got to hear this. When you step out in faith to share your faith, you will face resistance. Whether you’re hanging out on your sofa or in the harvest field, resistance will always be there. The question is what do you do when it happens? Coach Robin (featured in Chapter 11 of The Blue Cord book) reminds you that you have a choice in how to handle the situation. Share this powerful episode with friends.
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Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Western Christians are free to share Jesus. Yet Ruba can’t freely do this. She lives in a Muslim-majority nation surrounded by political unrest, facing restrictions that Westerners can only imagine. Despite insurmountable obstacles, Ruba has found the courage to point women to Christ. If God gives Ruba the strength to be His witness among women throughout the Arab world, consider the courage and strength He can give you too. Don’t miss this powerful episode.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about Ruba's ministry at The Arab Center for Consulting and Training Services.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Joy-packed adventure. That’s the life Paige wanted. Yet distractions kept her from living with meaning and purpose. She grew up in the Church, yet struggled to understand the heart of God. She wanted to love her neighbors and share her faith, yet wrestled with insecurities. Then she discovered two things that put everything in place. Paige’s story will inspire and empower you with practical tips to lead a joy-filled life as an authentic Christian witness.
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Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more donor-supported resources that will embolden you to share the gospel across cultures. Learn about upcoming events, resources, or book an iHOPE workshop for your church or organization.
If this ministry has blessed you, consider giving to iHOPE Ministries here ---> www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast, rate it on Apple Podcasts, and sign-up for our ministry email by texting "iHOPE" to "22828" now to get more empowering content, volunteer opportunities, events, and more.
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Have you ever worked hard to make things look perfect on the outside while feeling unworthy inside? Today’s guest did. As she wrestled with difficult family issues, she felt ashamed and defeated. To outsiders, her Muslim family looked perfect. Yet she knew otherwise. It left her feeling empty and alone. And hope seemed far away. But God intervened and He turned her life around. And if he can do that for her, he can do that you for you too.
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Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
- Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
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As our world grows increasingly hostile to Christians, how do you find the moral courage to share Jesus, even across cultures? Karen wrestled with this question until she met Miriam in the Middle East. You won’t believe what happened there. If you’ve ever wrestled with doubt or unbelief around sharing your faith, this episode will inspire you. Listen and be encouraged.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Here's a secret about sharing your faith – it doesn’t happen through the sheer force of your own ability – at least not well. Ruth Ripken and her husband Nik learned this first-hand while sharing Jesus all over the globe – in areas of famine, and war – places where it’s illegal to share your faith. She’s walked alongside Believers who’ve suffered incredible persecution, even martyrdom for sharing their faith. And she’s got some very powerful lessons to teach you about growing a resilient faith and fearlessly sharing it. Do not miss this episode! Last one for season 3. Season 4 starts in February.
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Could you confidently share the Bible with a non-believer? Cathy couldn’t. That’s because she’d never read the Bible. She wasn’t a Believer, so she was the least likely person to share the Bible with anyone. Then, an acquaintance invited her to a Bible study. It changed everything. Find out how she’s learned to naturally invite women from other faiths to study God’s living Word with her. If she can do this, maybe you can too. Don’t miss this episode. Cathy shares lots of real-life stories and practical applications that will have you sharing the bible too.
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
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Initiating prayer with a non-Believer, especially one from another faith or culture, seems risky. Betsy wondered, “What if they think I’m a crazy religious fanatic or just plain weird?” Then one day she realized people all around her as far as she could see had no one praying for them in Jesus’ name. It burdened her to step outside of her comfort zone to initiate prayer. What happened next forever changed her thoughts and actions. What did she do? Find out on this encouraging episode. She’ll inspire and arm you with practical ways to initiate prayer in Jesus’ name.
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
Betsy referred to the Northwest Community Center
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Are you comfortable steering conversation into spiritual things with non-Believers? Andrea was not. She believed doing that would be intrusive and offensive. So, she didn’t discuss spiritual things. Then God intervened. Now introverted Andrea is boldly striking up wholehearted, natural conversations that lead to Jesus around her everyday life - even with non-Believing strangers. How did she do it? Find out on this uplifting, empowering episode. If she can walk across the street and reach the nations for Christ, maybe you can too.
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Ever felt unqualified to share your faith? You're not alone. Our human inclination is to hold ourselves to impossible standards and plan for every "what if" scenario before we open our mouths for Jesus. Lucy felt overwhelmed too - until she learned a new way to think. It changed how she acted about sharing her faith, especially with other-faith friends. In this episode, Lucy shares what she learned through recent, real-life stories full of practical application. This episode will leave you energized and equipped to shine your light for Christ.
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resource.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Courage grows a more resilient Christian faith. So how can you grow more courage – especially when it comes to sharing your faith? One way is to hear inspiring stories from Believers of other-faith backgrounds who’ve had to overcome great odds to follow Jesus. Today’s guest, Ataya is one of those people. Her coming-to-Jesus story will remind you that God is real. He is wooing people to Himself, and you can be a part of that. Don’t miss this episode!
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resource.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Courage is contagious. So, how can you “catch” more courage to share your faith – even in the face of resistance? In this episode, Karen, an entrepreneur, and retired teacher will coach you to leverage the power of social influence so that you can more boldly live as an authentic Christian witness around your daily life. Find out how growing your moral courage will give you more joy and purpose in your walk with the Lord. (Note: This episode corresponds with The Blue Cord Study Week #7.)
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resource.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
When it comes to sharing Jesus across cultures, everyone wrestles with two questions: Can I do it, and is it worth it? The first question is about ability, and the second is motivation. This episode answers both. Through inspiring, real-life stories, you’ll learn 5 things you can do now around your daily life that will give you the courage, confidence, and skills to point other-faith friends to Jesus in a natural, authentic way. (NOTE: This episode enhances The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study week #6.)
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #5Essentials #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #ShareJesus #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- “Muslims, 5 Biblical Essentials Every Christian Must Know and Do” by Renod Bejjani. Find it wherever books are sold online.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resource.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
What does it look like practically to love your neighbors when you’re stretched thin between work, school, and taking care of our family? In this episode, Vela, a busy pastor’s wife, shares how to make time for loving others when calendars are already full to overflowing. Wherever you are in your faith journey today, the stories Vela shares will inspire you to love well and give you practical ideas for how to do so. (Note: This episode corresponds with The Blue Cord Study Week #5.)
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resource.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Hope is not a strategy. If you’re a Believer who has been building relationships on everything but Jesus because you didn’t want to offend, it’s time for a new strategy. In this episode, Kayla – a busy mom of two - unpacks 3 faith-sharing ground rules she’s learned that will free you up to be a natural, authentic Christian witness in your everyday life. Being mindful of these rules will take all the performance pressure off you. (NOTE: This episode corresponds with The Blue Cord Study Week #4)
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus #MomsWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resource.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
We like the idea of sharing Jesus across cultures, yet without compassion, it can be terrifying. Lily knew this first-hand. She grew up Muslim in Iran. When she became a Christian, she knew fellow Iranians needed Jesus too. Yet she trembled at the thought of sharing the gospel. Today, she finds joy in sharing Jesus in Iran. What made Lily bold? Could it make you bold too? (NOTE: This episode corresponds with The Blue Cord Study Week #3.)
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- Iran Alive – The ministry Lily is a part of.
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
It’s not a matter of if you will face doubt or worldviews that are the opposite of yours, but when. Are you ready? If you’re a Christian, hinting at or hiding your faith is not an option. So, what can you do? Today’s guest, Leatrice, arms you with a mindset and habits to put on now that will prepare you for the inevitable. Find out how to trade any doubts you might feel when you engage with someone of another faith, with the joy that comes from sharing Jesus.
NOTE: This episode corresponds with The Blue Cord Small Group Women's Discipleship StudyWeek #2
WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower #WomenWhoLoveJesus
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Rampant skepticism toward Christianity causes doubt. How can you share your faith when pop culture attacks what you believe? It can be discouraging, yet there is hope. Today’s guest comes from Saudi Arabia where it’s illegal to share the gospel or become a Jesus follower. She’s grown a resilient faith that has made her a bold and mighty witness undaunted by persecution. In this episode, she coaches you on how to be an authentic Christian witness who is unfazed by societal pressure. Listen and be encouraged.
NOTE: This episode corresponds with The Blue Cord Small Group Women's Discipleship Study Week #1
ResilientFaith #WomensBibleStudy #ChristianWomen #BlueCord #iHOPE #Evangelism #GospelofJesus #EvangelismTraining #CrossCulturalOutreach #ChristianWitness #JesusFollower
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Helpful Resources:
- “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
- Sahar’s ministry: UnveilingBeauty.org
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.TheBlueCord.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Life is messy, and it’s easy to forget that God can take your simple words, small actions, and faithful conversations about Jesus to change someone’s life for eternity. Today’s guest, an Aussie Bible teacher from a Muslim background, will remind you that it’s worth it to press through the discomfort because you never know what’s on the other side of your “Yes.” Your faithful, small faith-sharing actions and simple conversations are worth it. Listen and be encouraged.
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Helpful Resources:
- Book: “The Blue Cord" by Karen Bejjani Find it wherever books are sold online.
- The Blue Cord Small Group Discipleship Study.
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Sign-up at www.iHOPEministries.org/. Get a short weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Mahreen will never forget the moment she felt the powerful presence of the living God. In the twinkle of an eye, her life was completely transformed. As a former Muslim, she had suffered years of abuse and neglect. Her fervent prayers to Allah, the god of Islam, were never answered. It left her feeling broken and alone. Yet God saw her. And He was working all things out for her good. Mahreen’s remarkable testimony will remind you that God sees you right where you are, and leave you hungering for more of His presence.
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Helpful Resources:
- Book: “Muslims, 5 Biblical Essentials Every Christian Must Know and Do.” By Renod Bejjani. Find it wherever books are sold online.
- Bible.IS App – An App with the Bible in many languages
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
- Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
If your friends aren’t talking about sharing their faith across cultures, and you never saw anyone do it, how would you know what to do? On the surface, it sounds daunting. Yet it doesn’t need to be that way. Today’s guest, a pastor and church planter among Afghan refugees, shares how a good mentor modeled God’s heart for the nations, and that changed everything. Now, he’s mentoring you. Listen and be encouraged in this last episode of the season.
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Get your SNEAK PEEK Preview of Karen Bejjani's new book, The Blue Cord, coming out early '22.
Go here to get your free preview of the first 3 chapters: https://ihopeministries.org/bluecord/
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Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email Karen@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
- Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
The first time I heard someone share the gospel outside of church was in a taxi in Beirut. I was in the backseat and my friend Caroline, a Syrian refugee, asked our Muslim male taxi driver if he knew Jesus. I sat in that backseat and listened as Caroline told him the Good News. This week, Caroline is our guest speaker. She was a catalyst who changed my thoughts and actions for sharing my faith. I pray her story does the same for you.
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Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more donor-supported resources that will embolden you to share the gospel across cultures. Learn about upcoming events, new resources, or book an iHOPE workshop for your church or organization.
If this ministry has blessed you, consider giving to iHOPE Ministries here ---> www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast, rate it on Apple Podcasts, and sign-up for our ministry email by texting "iHOPE" to "22828" now to get more empowering content, volunteer opportunities, events, and more.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Connie was suspicious of Muslims and never considered engaging with them. Then she met a Muslim who deeply desired to go to heaven. The woman’s desperate prayers for Salvation broke Connie’s heart. It was a moment that forever changed her thoughts and actions. Find out how she pushed through fear and apathy to share the hope of Jesus with an Imam’s wife. This episode will leave you hungering to tell others the Good News and give you baby steps to begin.
Resources:
Learn more www.iHOPEministries.org
Book: Muslims, 5 Biblical Essentials Every Christian Must Know and Do
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Christiana grew up in the Middle East thinking that Christianity was expired and that Islamic Law would solve the world’s problems. Then a near-death experience left her searching for truth and questioning God’s existence. One day, while scrolling through atheist videos that mocked God, she stumbled across a video of a man giving his life to Christ. It touched her soul and set her on a journey that transformed her life. Christina’s epic coming-to-Jesus story will embolden you to stand up for your faith and shine your light right where you live.
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Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more donor-supported resources that will embolden you to share the gospel across cultures. Learn about upcoming events, new resources, or book an iHOPE workshop for your church or organization.
If this ministry has blessed you, consider giving to iHOPE Ministries here ---> www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast, rate it on Apple Podcasts, and sign-up for our ministry email by texting "iHOPE" to "22828" now to get more empowering content, volunteer opportunities, events, and more.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
You probably don't have to worry about your family killing you tonight for being a Christian, yet today's guests did. Once she accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior, she faced immediate life-threatening danger. A “Yes” to Jesus in her home country is different than a “Yes” here. Today she's living in America's heartland as a passionate ambassador for Christ. Don't miss this remarkable story.
But before you meet her, I want to give you the backstory behind the name of this series called The Blue Cord. When I was a kid, most Americans identified as Christian. I didn't need to share my faith unless I was going to be a missionary. Now people of many faiths and cultures live here. We can cross our street and tell others about Jesus. And yet we're not.
Something similar happened to the Israelites. God reveals in Numbers, 15:37-41 that after another round of not doing what the Lord told them to do, He gave His people a reminder - a tassel with a cord of blue - on the hem of their garments. So that every time they saw it, they would remember him and his commands rather than follow after their own hearts.
The blue cord was a symbol of God's divine commands that they serve a Holy living God who left instructions for how to remember and trust him. Inspired by the biblical blue cord, I pray this Blue Cord series by iHOPE Ministries will be a catalyst for you to go be His witness and declare His glory among the nations, living around you.
For more bite-sized things to know and do to share your faith with intention, follow us on Instagram, then go to www.iHOPEMinistries.org, and sign up for our weekly eNewsletter. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and subscribe wherever you listen. Your review helps the show empower more everyday Christians with the courage, confidence, and know-how to share Jesus in our generation.
Amie will never forget the moment she realized Jesus loves her. As a former Muslim in an Islamic nation, Amie grew up abused and unloved. She walked in bitterness, anger, and unforgiveness. When a friend told her Jesus loves her, it blew her mind. On the spot, she believed and accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior. Then God did incredible things. Radically transformed from the inside out, God used Amie to share the love of Christ with her abusive earthly father. Turns out, he'd been feeling unworthy and unloved too.
Today Amie is living a bold, joyful life in Christ in North America. Listening to her story will have you thinking about the first time you realized Jesus loves you, and remembering that He is with you always.
For more quick stories like this, follow iHOPE Ministries on Instagram. Then sign-up for our weekly eNewsletter by texting the word "iHOPE" to 22828 now. For more free, donor-supported resources that will embolden you to share your faith, go to https://www.iHOPEministries.org.
This episode features an Afghan Muslim's journey to Jesus. You're sure to be inspired by her story. Note the "5 Essentials" as you listen to her compelling testimony.
Busy? It's one of the biggest roadblocks to sharing our faith. While Jesus told us to go be His witnesses, how do you do that practically when you're juggling work, family and more? This podcast will arm you with small things to do to live as a more intentional Christian witness with people of other faiths and cultures.
For more resources like this visit www.iHOPEministries.org
How confident are you at starting a conversation and steering it toward Jesus? Would you say you’re 70-80% confident? Even if you're 90% confident, that means you’re 10% doubtful. Even a little doubt can undermine your confidence. Don't let doubt count you out
It’s impossible to be 100% confident about leading someone to Christ because only God the Father can enable someone to Jesus. However, you can be 100% confident in your ability to start a conversation, listen well, and ask really thoughtful questions. When you do those things well, you can release the outcome to the LORD.
If you are less than 100% confident in your ability to start and naturally steer a conversation toward Jesus this story-packed episode is for you.
How confident are you at starting a conversation and steering it toward Jesus? Would you say you’re 70-80% confident? Even if you're 90% confident, that means you’re 10% doubtful. Even a little doubt can undermine your confidence. Don't let doubt count you out
It’s impossible to be 100% confident about leading someone to Christ because only God the Father can enable someone to Jesus. However, you can be 100% confident in your ability to start a conversation, listen well, and ask really thoughtful questions. When you do those things well, you can release the outcome to the LORD.
If you are less than 100% confident in your ability to start and naturally steer a conversation toward Jesus this story-packed episode is for you.
When Jen moved, she rushed out to meet her new neighbors. Then she discovered they were not like her. Surrounded by people from many faiths and cultures, Jen had no idea how to engage. Then a neighborhood App opened the door for her to be an authentic Christian witness and share the gospel with many. This episode will embolden you to love your neighbors across cultures, and give you bite-sized steps to begin.
About iHOPE Ministries: We come alongside the Church to help change the way everyday Christians think about sharing their faith across cultures. You can help expand the story and make a Kingdom impact by donating, liking, subscribing, sharing, and following iHOPE on any of the outlets below.
Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more donor-supported resources that will embolden you to share the gospel across cultures. Learn about upcoming events, new resources, or book an iHOPE workshop for your church or organization.
If this ministry has blessed you, consider giving to iHOPE Ministries here ---> www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast, rate it on Apple Podcasts, and sign-up for our ministry email by texting "iHOPE" to "22828" now to get more empowering content, volunteer opportunities, events, and more.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
This episode features a former Muslim International student from a closed country in North Africa. While working hard to convert her Christian friends to Islam, she discovered the truth about Jesus. You're sure to be inspired by her powerful testimony. If you're encouraged by her story, please share with a friend. For more resources like this, visit www.iHOPEministries.org.
A former missionary turned award-winning screenwriter gives you an insider’s perspective on how secular media is working to deconstruct your faith. Don't let culture fuel doubt and undermine your Christian witness. Through an Old Testament lesson, Laura emboldens you to be an authentic Christian witness in a hostile culture. Inspiring and uplifting – recorded at The Blue Cord Impact conference.
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Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Norma lived in a city where most Christians fled from radical extremists. Believers who remained were afraid and hunkered down. It was a hostile culture for Jesus-followers. Why did she stay? Find out in this powerful interview with “Norma” from our recent Blue Cord Conference. This episode will challenge you, strengthen your faith, and give you the moral courage to share your faith where you live.
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Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Could God use you to impact generations for Christ, even if you don’t feel qualified? Don’t miss this excerpt from our recent Blue Cord Women's Conference. You are central to God’s story right now. If God can use Salma, an uneducated, secular Christian from the Middle East to bring so many to Christ, how might He use you? Listen now and be encouraged.
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Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Show Less
This special episode features an incredible interview with Coach Robin Pou from our recent Blue Cord Conference. You have got to hear this. When you step out in faith to share your faith, you will face resistance. Whether you’re hanging out on your sofa or in the harvest field, resistance will always be there. The question is what do you do when it happens? Coach Robin (featured in Chapter 11 of The Blue Cord book) reminds you that you have a choice in how to handle the situation. Share this powerful episode with friends.
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Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
People all around us have become disillusioned by their Christian walk. So how can you witness to people of other faiths that their lives will be transformed when they follow Jesus? Jenn wrestled with these things. Then she met courageous Believers from hostile nations who caused her to confront her thinking. In the process, she found the boldness she had been longing for. Full of rich insight and practical application, Jenn’s story will inspire and empower you today.
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Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
If sharing Jesus doesn’t come naturally, this episode will encourage you. Summer felt uncomfortable talking about her faith too. Then she noticed her Muslim friends naturally discussing with her what they believed. If they could so easily share their faith with her, why couldn’t she do the same? Find out what Summer learned that may help you be more confident and courageous at sharing your faith too.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
As our world grows increasingly hostile to Christians, how do you find the moral courage to share Jesus, even across cultures? Karen wrestled with this question until she met Miriam in the Middle East. You won’t believe what happened there. If you’ve ever wrestled with doubt or unbelief around sharing your faith, this episode will inspire you. Listen and be encouraged.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
When you share Jesus, you could face rejection. Don’t let that discourage you. Listen as Marayama inspires and emboldens you to press on. She’s well acquainted with rejection. Growing up a young shepherdess in Somalia, she never knew Jesus. When she met the Good Shepherd, He transformed her life. Then rejection came. You’ll be touched by her deep spiritual insights and practical takeaways. Don’t miss this episode.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Stuck in a spiritual rut? Don’t miss this episode. Keri shares how to step outside of the normal to live a life of meaning and purpose. If the Lord has seemed far away recently, and you’ve not been living up to your spiritual potential, Keri’s fresh voice will invigorate your soul. Find out how to stop conforming to the world and start knowing God and making Him known. It’s not as hard as you think.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Life without Jesus is hard. It was surely hard for Rashida. She was born into a Muslim family in a gritty small town where drive-by shootings were common and broken families were the norm. Everything was hopeless. Then one courageous woman braved the neighborhood to share Jesus with Rashida’s mother. It changed their lives forever. When you touch someone’s life with the gospel, could there be generational ripples? Listen to this powerful episode to find out.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about the Crescent Project’s Embassy Program that Rashida referenced.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Conforming to the status quo is frustrating when you know God has called you to something greater. How do you grow courage in times like this? Seek out wise, trusted Christian friends who have walked the journey ahead of you. Todays’ guest, Dr. Miriam Adenay, is just that friend. She’s an author of multiple books and lectures around the world about engaging women across cultures. In this episode, she pours into you. Enjoy!
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
We can read the Bible or other Christians. One bullet-proofs us against culture, the other leaves us vulnerable to deception. As a young girl growing up in a Muslim-majority nation, Safaya never had an opportunity to read the Bible or Christians. Then she moved to a new country and “read” Christians from afar. She made assumptions about what they believed. Then, a friend gave her a Bible. Hear Safaya share how reading it transformed her and consider how it can transform you too! Part 2 of 2.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
Listen to our other podcast, iHOPE Empowers
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Culture impacts how we live, work, and worship, often without thinking about it. This was certainly true for Safaya. As a young girl, growing up in a Muslim-majority nation, every facet of her life was oriented around Islam. Then war forced an unplanned family move around the world and a culture she didn’t understand. Confused, alone, and afraid, Safaya felt separated from God and distant from her family. She wondered, “Where is God?” You’ll love hearing how she found Him. Part 1 of 2.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
Listen to our other podcast, iHOPE Empowers
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Western Christians are free to share Jesus. Yet Ruba can’t freely do this. She lives in a Muslim-majority nation surrounded by political unrest, facing restrictions that Westerners can only imagine. Despite insurmountable obstacles, Ruba has found the courage to point women to Christ. If God gives Ruba the strength to be His witness among women throughout the Arab world, consider the courage and strength He can give you too. Don’t miss this powerful episode.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about Ruba's ministry at The Arab Center for Consulting and Training Services.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
God speaks to us in many ways. Yet Negin never heard Him speak with her. As a young Muslim girl, growing up in refugee camps and makeshift housing, she suffered unimaginable trauma and abuse. She prayed fervently and was desperate for a word. Yet none came, leaving her feeling even more alone and conflicted. Then she had a dramatic encounter with the Living God of the Bible that changed everything. Listen to how He spoke with her and consider how He may be speaking to you too.
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Save the Date: Blue Cord Women’s Conference April 23. Go HERE for more details and to register
Get The Blue Cord book, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more: TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries at iHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
Have you noticed women of other faiths in the grocery store, park, or school? Debbie did and knew she should engage. Yet striking up conversations about Jesus across cultures was daunting. Then Debbie embraced discomfort and discovered it was easier and more fun to engage than she imagined. Now she is joyfully sharing Jesus with many. If Debbie can do this, you can too. She shares practical ways to begin.
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Follow The Blue Cord, by iHOPE Ministries podcast
Get The Blue Cord, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more about The Blue cord at TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries atiHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
We are all prone to forget who God is, who we are in Him, and what He called us to do. Our natural inclination is to pull back as if everything rested on ourselves - on our own power and our own words - rather than believing in almighty God, the author, and perfector of our faith. It was the same with the Israelites. Then God gave them a unique visual reminder to embolden them. What can this Old Testament symbol teach you today? Listen and find out how it can embolden you to share your faith today.
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Follow The Blue Cord, by iHOPE Ministries podcast
Get The Blue Cord, by Karen Bejjani here.
Learn more about The Blue cord at TheBlueCord.org.
Learn more about iHOPE Ministries atiHOPEministries.org.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US
If your friends aren’t talking about sharing their faith across cultures, and you never saw anyone do it, how would you know what to do? On the surface, it sounds daunting. Yet it doesn’t need to be that way. Today’s guest, a pastor and church planter among Afghan refugees, shares how a good mentor modeled God’s heart for the nations, and that changed everything. Now, he’s mentoring you. Listen and be encouraged in this last episode of the season.
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Get your SNEAK PEEK Preview of Karen Bejjani's new book, The Blue Cord, coming out early '22.
Go here to get your free preview of the first 3 chapters: https://ihopeministries.org/bluecord/
SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK HERE. HELP SHAPE FUTURE PODCASTS!
https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/c9hZnky/podcast
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email Karen@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
- Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Have you held back from sharing your faith because you didn’t want to offend? Have you ever thought it’s wrong to “push” your religion on someone? If so, you’re not alone. Many Christians are wrestling with these things right now. Today’s guest challenges you to think critically about these issues and what it means to have a faith worth sharing. Is it possible that you could tell someone about Jesus without being offensive? Listen and find out. This episode will both challenge and inspire you.
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Get your SNEAK PEEK Preview of Karen's new book, The Blue Cord, coming out early '22.
Go here to get your free preview of the first 3 chapters:
https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/t2aTBYf/BLUECORD
HELP SHAPE FUTURE PODCASTS! SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK HERE:
https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/c9hZnky/podcast
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
- Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Have you ever worked hard to make things look perfect on the outside while feeling unworthy inside? Today’s guest did. As she wrestled with difficult family issues, she felt ashamed and defeated. To outsiders, her Muslim family looked perfect. Yet she knew otherwise. It left her feeling empty and alone. And hope seemed far away. But God intervened and He turned her life around. And if he can do that for her, he can do that you for you too.
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Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
- Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Could God really care about the tiny details of your day? Zara didn't think so. She grew up in a Muslim family in the heart of the Middle East. Then she ended up in a women's Bible study in America with women who talked about what God was doing in their lives. She wondered if God might care about the details in her life too. Find out what she learned from those women, and what it means for you in your own walk with the Lord. This is part 2 of Zara’s story.
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Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
- Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Have you ever wrestled with doubt or uncertainty about God being in control of your life? Or maybe you have wondered if God really sees you? Today’s guest did. She grew up in the heart of the Middle East to a missionary family that had traveled for four generations to spread Islam. Could God see her there? Listen to Zara's story and find out, because if God could see and know her there in the heart of the Middle East, then He can see you right where you are too.
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Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
- Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Christiana grew up in the Middle East thinking that Christianity was expired and that Islamic Law would solve the world’s problems. Then a near-death experience left her searching for truth and questioning God’s existence. One day, while scrolling through atheist videos that mocked God, she stumbled across a video of a man giving his life to Christ. It touched her soul and set her on a journey that transformed her life. Christina’s epic coming-to-Jesus story will embolden you to stand up for your faith and shine your light right where you live.
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Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more donor-supported resources that will embolden you to share the gospel across cultures. Learn about upcoming events, new resources, or book an iHOPE workshop for your church or organization.
If this ministry has blessed you, consider giving to iHOPE Ministries here ---> www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast, rate it on Apple Podcasts, and sign-up for our ministry email by texting "iHOPE" to "22828" now to get more empowering content, volunteer opportunities, events, and more.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
No matter how chaotic or busy the world around you gets, you can learn to cultivate a place of quiet intimacy with the Lord. In this powerful interview, Mahreen shares how she learned to still her heart in the middle of a crowd. Once she did, she began to hear God’s voice and grow a faith that could not be shaken. This episode will have you longing to step out of the comfort zone and into the joy-filled, purposeful life the Lord has for you.
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Helpful Resources:
- Book: “Muslims, 5 Biblical Essentials Every Christian Must Know and Do.” By Renod Bejjani. Find it wherever books are sold online.
- Bible.IS App – An App with the Bible in many languages
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
- Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Mahreen will never forget the moment she felt the powerful presence of the living God. In the twinkle of an eye, her life was completely transformed. As a former Muslim, she had suffered years of abuse and neglect. Her fervent prayers to Allah, the god of Islam, were never answered. It left her feeling broken and alone. Yet God saw her. And He was working all things out for her good. Mahreen’s remarkable testimony will remind you that God sees you right where you are, and leave you hungering for more of His presence.
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Helpful Resources:
- Book: “Muslims, 5 Biblical Essentials Every Christian Must Know and Do.” By Renod Bejjani. Find it wherever books are sold online.
- Bible.IS App – An App with the Bible in many languages
Take Your Learning Deeper
- Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events, and stories that inspire and empower you.
- Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
- For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
- Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
- Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Refugees from many nations lived near Christine. She sensed the Lord wanted her to get involved. Yet she didn’t have time. Once retired, she volunteered and was quickly paired with a Muslim Afghani family. But there was a problem. None spoke English. Plus, the wife was pregnant and had never seen a doctor. What happened next deepened Christine’s faith. Her inspiring story will leave you seeking God and looking for surprising moments like it that can grow your faith too.
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Helpful Resources Referenced in this Episode:
o Book: “Muslims, 5 Biblical Essentials Every Christian Must Know and Do.” By Renod Bejjani. Find it wherever books are sold online.
o Bible.IS App – An App with the Bible in many languages
Take Your Learning Deeper
o Join the iHOPE Community. Text “iHOPE” to 22828 to get iHOPE’s short, weekly email with more resources, upcoming events and stories that inspire and empower you.
o Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more free resources.
o For speaking engagements, workshops, or conferences that will help you/your church start spiritual conversations or share your faith across cultures, email info@iHOPEministries.org.
Pay it forward. Give to help more Believers learn to share their biblical faith across cultures.
o Give online at www.iHOPEministries.org/give
o Give through your phone. Just text “iHOPE” to 41444
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
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The first time I heard someone share the gospel outside of church was in a taxi in Beirut. I was in the backseat and my friend Caroline, a Syrian refugee, asked our Muslim male taxi driver if he knew Jesus. I sat in that backseat and listened as Caroline told him the Good News. This week, Caroline is our guest speaker. She was a catalyst who changed my thoughts and actions for sharing my faith. I pray her story does the same for you.
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Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more donor-supported resources that will embolden you to share the gospel across cultures. Learn about upcoming events, new resources, or book an iHOPE workshop for your church or organization.
If this ministry has blessed you, consider giving to iHOPE Ministries here ---> www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast, rate it on Apple Podcasts, and sign-up for our ministry email by texting "iHOPE" to "22828" now to get more empowering content, volunteer opportunities, events, and more.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Joy-packed adventure. That’s the life Paige wanted. Yet distractions kept her from living with meaning and purpose. She grew up in the Church, yet struggled to understand the heart of God. She wanted to love her neighbors and share her faith, yet wrestled with insecurities. Then she discovered two things that put everything in place. Paige’s story will inspire and empower you with practical tips to lead a joy-filled life as an authentic Christian witness.
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Visit www.iHOPEministries.org for more donor-supported resources that will embolden you to share the gospel across cultures. Learn about upcoming events, resources, or book an iHOPE workshop for your church or organization.
If this ministry has blessed you, consider giving to iHOPE Ministries here ---> www.iHOPEministries.org/give
Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast, rate it on Apple Podcasts, and sign-up for our ministry email by texting "iHOPE" to "22828" now to get more empowering content, volunteer opportunities, events, and more.
FOLLOW AND ENGAGE WITH US:
Connie was suspicious of Muslims and never considered engaging with them. Then she met a Muslim who deeply desired to go to heaven. The woman’s desperate prayers for Salvation broke Connie’s heart. It was a moment that forever changed her thoughts and actions. Find out how she pushed through fear and apathy to share the hope of Jesus with an Imam’s wife. This episode will leave you hungering to tell others the Good News and give you baby steps to begin.
Resources:
Learn more www.iHOPEministries.org
Book: Muslims, 5 Biblical Essentials Every Christian Must Know and Do
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Amie will never forget the moment she realized Jesus loves her. As a former Muslim in an Islamic nation, Amie grew up abused and unloved. She walked in bitterness, anger, and unforgiveness. When a friend told her Jesus loves her, it blew her mind. On the spot, she believed and accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior. Then God did incredible things. Radically transformed from the inside out, God used Amie to share the love of Christ with her abusive earthly father. Turns out, he'd been feeling unworthy and unloved too.
Today Amie is living a bold, joyful life in Christ in North America. Listening to her story will have you thinking about the first time you realized Jesus loves you, and remembering that He is with you always.
For more quick stories like this, follow iHOPE Ministries on Instagram. Then sign-up for our weekly eNewsletter by texting the word "iHOPE" to 22828 now. For more free, donor-supported resources that will embolden you to share your faith, go to https://www.iHOPEministries.org.
Get the free e-Course on religious freedom that Shirin shared at Empowerwomen.media.
Where did you live when you were in junior high? Shirin Taber grew up with one foot in Iran and one in America. Her unique upbringing led her to advocate for women's rights and religious freedom at the UN.
Find out how religious freedom opens doors to share your faith. Listen as Shirin dishes up inspiring stories of advocating for religious freedom worldwide. And closer to home, find out how she practically models sharing her biblical faith for her children.
if your biblical faith is important to you, friends of other faiths expect you to bring it up. Get more courage and confidence to share. Sign up for iHOPE's eNewsletter. Text "iHOPE" to 22828 to sign up now. Or visit us online at www.iHOPEministries.org.
You probably don't have to worry about your family killing you tonight for being a Christian, yet today's guests did. Once she accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior, she faced immediate life-threatening danger. A “Yes” to Jesus in her home country is different than a “Yes” here. Today she's living in America's heartland as a passionate ambassador for Christ. Don't miss this remarkable story.
But before you meet her, I want to give you the backstory behind the name of this series called The Blue Cord. When I was a kid, most Americans identified as Christian. I didn't need to share my faith unless I was going to be a missionary. Now people of many faiths and cultures live here. We can cross our street and tell others about Jesus. And yet we're not.
Something similar happened to the Israelites. God reveals in Numbers, 15:37-41 that after another round of not doing what the Lord told them to do, He gave His people a reminder - a tassel with a cord of blue - on the hem of their garments. So that every time they saw it, they would remember him and his commands rather than follow after their own hearts.
The blue cord was a symbol of God's divine commands that they serve a Holy living God who left instructions for how to remember and trust him. Inspired by the biblical blue cord, I pray this Blue Cord series by iHOPE Ministries will be a catalyst for you to go be His witness and declare His glory among the nations, living around you.
For more bite-sized things to know and do to share your faith with intention, follow us on Instagram, then go to www.iHOPEMinistries.org, and sign up for our weekly eNewsletter. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts and subscribe wherever you listen. Your review helps the show empower more everyday Christians with the courage, confidence, and know-how to share Jesus in our generation.
Have you ever lacked words for sharing your faith? Kim, an elementary teacher in America’s heartland always felt shy. Then the Spirit gave her words to say and she led three Buddhist women to Christ. Listen and be encouraged.
To sign up for iHOPE's eNewsletter and get the downloadable prayer, visit www.iHOPEministries.org.