Christian Devotions SPEAK UP!: Recent Episodes
Christians Speak UP
SPEAK UP! is an outreach of Christian Devotions, where Christian leaders are guests and share their testimony to Christ and how they use their gifts to impact God's kingdom. Guest call in number: 347 884 9367
Del Duduit a life-long resident of the Southern Ohio area and an award-winning writer. As a sports writer, he won two Associated Press awards for columns. As a broadcaster and news director, he received an award from the Ohio News Network. In television, Del earned a sales award from The WB Network.
For the past several years, he’s been a pharmaceutical sales professional. Del’s dabbled in the freelance arena and has many articles published in Sports Spectrum — a quarterly magazine dedicated to highlighting Christian athletes. He’s interviewed Andy Pettitte of the New York Yankees and recently spent some time with Andy Dalton of the Cincinnati Bengals. Del is a contributing writer for OneChristianVoice.com, Sohiovoice.com, and also a guest blogger for Almost an Author, and have been published in The Sports Column as well as ToddStarnes.com and Clubhouse Magazine — a publication of Focus on the Family.
In addition, Del writes for PM Magazine, a quarterly publication that highlights the positive aspects of Southern Ohio, where he lives with wife Angie. They have raised two godly men who are both preachers, and Angie sings and plays piano at Rubyville Community Church.
Del’s new book Dugout Devotions releases in February, 2018. https://www.amazon.com/Dugout-Devotions-Inspirational-Stars-Faith/dp/156309133X
Cheryl Crofoot Knapp is passionate about using her life experiences to encourage others. She is a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, speaker, author, blogger, and Mrs. Minnesota-America 1996.
Her book, Undefeated Innocence: How God Helped My Parents and Me Navigate the Alzheimer’s Journey, combines personal and humorous anecdotes with Biblical truths to share His hope and encouragement to caregivers, and includes factual information and research. Cheryl was a caregiver for her parents who both died of Alzheimer’s. She cried out to God, “Where are you in Alzheimer’s?” Undefeated Innocence is a study of the Beatitudes with the fruit of the Spirit, and includes lessons and tools she learned in caregiving.
Undefeated Innocence is a challenge to find God’s calling and to know that His grace is always sufficient. Cheryl believes that those who have been through much are called to give much. She encourages readers to find passionate patience, look for life’s collateral beauty, and recognize that it’s okay to store toothpaste in an underwear drawer.
She and her husband are members of First Baptist Church of Mountain Home (Arkansas). She participates in Walks to End Alzheimer’s and has served in Bible study, worship, evangelism, and prison ministries. She founded Regifted Grace Ministry and shares her contagious faith at conferences, retreats, banquets, and churches, as well as on television and radio.
Her husband Chuck is inducted into the Minnesota Broadcasters Hall of Fame and is highlighted as one of only a hundred radio jocks in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland.
A murder . . . A mystery . . . A monster . . . Is there a vampire killer running loose in Transylvania, North Carolina?
Last summer, Nick Caden became an Internet celebrity for almost a whole day when he discovered Billy the Kid's killer in the "living" ghost town of Deadwood. (Not the real Billy the Kid -- he's been dead for years.) When the owner of the Cool Ghoul Gazette learns of Nick's super sleuthing skills, he hires Nick to investigate the death of a vampire. In Transylvania, North Carolina, Nick finds a corpse with fangs, bite marks and a stake driven through its heart.
But once he begins to peel back the clues surrounding the murder, Nick finds his new job is not only dangerous but could suck the life out of him.
Review links: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FBM962X/
https://www.audible.com/pd/B08FBJ82DQ
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Voddie Baucham wears many hats. He is a husband, father, former pastor, author, professor, conference speaker, and church planter. He currently serves as Dean of Theology at African Christian University in Lusaka, Zambia.
Voddie makes the Bible clear and demonstrates the relevance of God’s word to everyday life. However, he does so without compromising the centrality of Christ and the gospel. Those who hear him preach find themselves both challenged and encouraged.
Voddie’s area of emphasis is Cultural Apologetics. Whether teaching on classical apologetic issues like the validity and historicity of the Bible, or the resurrection of Christ; or teaching on biblical manhood/womanhood, marriage and family, he helps ordinary people understand the significance of thinking and living biblically in every area of life.
It is impossible to understand Voddie’s approach to the Bible without first understanding the path he has walked. Raised in a non-Christian, single-parent home, Voddie did not hear the gospel until he was in college. His journey to faith was a very unusual and intellectual one. Consequently, he understands what it means to be a skeptic, and knows what it’s like to try to figure out the Christian life without relying on the traditions of men. As a result, he speaks to ‘outsiders’ in ways few Bible teachers can.
Voddie and his wife, Bridget have been married since 1989. They have nine children: Jasmine, Trey (Voddie, III), Elijah, Asher, Judah, Micah, Safya, Amos, and Simeon. The Bauchams are committed home educators.
To find out more about Voddie, his books and resources, visit his web site at: https://www.voddiebaucham.org/
A murder . . . A mystery . . . A monster . . . Is there a werewolf running loose in Sleepy Hollow?
★2020 Selah Award Finalist - Middle Grade Fiction★
When his mom's childhood friend invites Nick to stay on her estate in Sleepy Hollow, New York, Nick reluctantly agrees. On the train ride up Nick re-examines the news accounts in the "Daily Crawler" for any clues as to the mysterious death of Candee Brenneman.
Law enforcement officials claim a wolf or some other large animal killed the jogger under a bridge in Rockefeller State Park. Large misshapen paw prints were found around the body. There were also bite marks on her hands, and arms. Her death, occurring during a full moon, have led some to suggest that a werewolf may be running loose in Sleepy Hollow.
Nick knows there is no such creature as a werewolf, but as he digs into the case, he uncovers hints that part of the werewolf legend may be true. Now, as the last full moon of the month rises over Sleepy Hollow, Nick is about to learn that some monsters are real. And the worst kind of monster is the one you never see coming.
Available online at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GCWWQR5/ and https://www.audible.com/pd/B08GCX9573
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Kevin Sorbo has enjoyed success on television for over twenty consecutive years, a feat rarely accomplished by an actor. Sorbo quickly rose to stardom in the title role of the hit series, Hercules, the Legendary Journeys. The immense popularity of the five initial 2-hour telefilms in 1993 resulted in the launch of a weekly series by 1994. The series not only became a breakout hit by becoming the number one first-run program in syndication, it also passed Baywatch as the most watched TV show in the world.
Now the "God's Not Dead" and "Hercules" actor Kevin Sorbo is urging churches of all sizes to back faith-based and God-glorifying films, especially in a culture that has an “ever-increasing anger” toward Christians.
“I get stopped, and 80% of the time people say, ‘Please make more movies like ['God’s Not Dead'],’” Sorbo revealed in an interview on Abby Johnson’s hit podcast, "Politely Rude."
“It’s amazing — pastors will stop me and say, ‘You can reach so many people. I'm a pastor of a small church.’ And I go, ‘I don’t care how small your church is. We need your support.’”
At the conclusion of a seminar on, “Trances and Visions: Exploring the Out-of-Body Experience,” the wealthy daughter of a prominent physician approaches Ricky with an offer. "If my father could fix things so your mother would receive the best cancer treatment for free, would you go back in time to clear my ancestor’s good name?"
Ricky explains that he can’t simply will himself to have an episode and take a time-travel trip. "Absence seizures don't work that way. Even if I could go back, I can’t control when and where I end up.” But Ricky also knows there have been instances where someone claimed they slipped into a trance and saw past and future events. "They saw things," Ricky says to the rich girl, "but didn't change what happened in the past."
Moments later Ricky finds himself in pirate land with Stede Bonnet, a rich sugar plantation owner who thought becoming a pirate might be a fun way to live out the rest of his life. Set sail from Barbados with Bonnet’s crew as they slant west towards the North American coast, and run afoul of the British Royal Navy, the good citizens of Charleston, and the pirate Blackbeard.
Get the audiobook online: amazon.com/dp/B08VD48YKM/ http://www.audible.com/pd?asin=B08VDYWD6D
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2020 Selah Award Winner for YA Literature
While searching for rumored treasure in a cave on Coffin Cay, a small island off the southwestern tip of Haiti (Hispaniola), Ricky suffers an absence seizure. During his last trance-like episode, Ricky uncovered a treasure from the Nuestra Señora de Riqueza, a vessel in an armada of ships sailing the Spanish Main. Now back on Coffin Cay with his parents, Ricky hunts for the treasure he found in the cave over three hundred years earlier during his trip back to pirate land.
The End of Calico Jack is a fictional retelling of the pirate escapades of Calico Jack, Anne Bonny, and Mary Read. The story is based on historical research of the life of "Calico Jack" John Rackham. Some liberties have been taken in the telling of the story, but many of the events reflect what historians believed happened to Jack, Mary, and Anne. Also, in real life those who suffer absence seizures may appear to be in a trance but cannot recall what happens during their episode.
Get the audiobook online: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08NVQ36FQ/ http://www.audible.com/pd?asin=B08NVR1L9N
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Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott McCausey tackles Krabbe Disease with NFL Hall of Famer Jim Kelly and his wife Jill.
Two weeks after Jim Kelly retired from his Hall of Fame career with the Buffalo Bills, his son was born. He and his wife, Jill, were ecstatic. The protégé son had arrived full of life and promise. The Kelly family was growing and life seemed perfect.
With their two-year-old daughter, Erin, shadowing their every move, Hunter adjusted to life…Kelly style. And while he initially appeared to be just a very fussy infant, Hunter was actually fighting for his life. The news of his fatal, genetic disease was shocking. It’s every parent’s deepest terror. Jim and Jill were told that Hunter would not live to see his second birthday. With no treatment, no cure, and ultimately no answers, desperation set in.
What do you do when your family’s world is turned upside down? What do you do when you don’t know what to do? How do you face the trauma and press on when all hope is gone? The Kelly family turned to God. Following His lead, Jim and Jill have become authors and the founders of Hunter’s Hope. Find out more about their lives as they share this powerful testimony. You can also help discover more about Krabbe Disease by visiting http://www.huntershope.org.
Join host Marianne Jordan for an archived edition of Christian-Devotions-SPEAK-UP with #1 New York Times bestselling author Nicholas Sparks.
Nicholas Sparks has published twenty one novels and two non-fiction books, all of which have been New York Times bestsellers, with over 115 million copies sold worldwide in more than 50 languages. Eleven of his novels have been adapted to film, including The Choice, The Longest Ride, The Best of Me, Safe Haven (on all of which he served as a producer), The Lucky One, Message in a Bottle, A Walk to Remember, Nights in Rodanthe, Dear John, The Last Song, and The Notebook, with a cumulative domestic box office totaling more than $574M.
Sparks lives in North Carolina, where he contributes to a variety of local and national charities. In 2011, he launched The Nicholas Sparks Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to improving cultural and international understanding through global education experiences for students of all ages.
On this episode of Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! our host Marianne Jordon interviews Emily Fitchpatrick of Hope House about the serious problem of sex trafficking - modern day slavery for young girls and women. Emily is the founder and executive director of On Eagles Wings Hope House. OEW is a refuge for girls who are rescued from sex trafficking. OEW offers assistance to those still trapped, and restores those that have survived by offering hope, empowerment, and a brighter future. OEW focuses on prevention, outreach, aftercare, and empowerment. Listen and learn how you can invest in a life.
Michael Wolff is founder and director or Reconnections Ministries. Jesus’ Great Commission to us was to make disciples, yet for all of modern Christendom’s preaching, teaching, and activities the polls reveal we are failing the vast majority of men. Just as it was 2,000 years ago when Jesus came to earth, the temple worship religious model now fails God’s people. It is our mission to help the many men now languishing in pews across this land to awaken to the reality of a literal kingdom of heaven on earth and engage the great adventure of the Christian faith!
At Reconnections Ministries we seek the reawakening of Christian men because it was men God ordained to lead in their homes, their fellowships, and their communities. It is our passion and calling to help men find Jesus’ great adventure by following Him out of their temples and in to kingdom living in the marketplaces of life once again, and then beyond that to the establishment of true “Acts” church communities!
You can also find Mike at work with Marketplace Saints, a ministry dedicated to creating communities across the country that bring individuals, businesses, and ministries together in one place for work, for fellowship and for community.
This is a rebroadcast of an interview with Rob Cook, author and founder of 252 Underground. Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott McCausey and Rob talk about the troubled youth in our country.
Rob Cook has been working with teens for over thirteen years – meeting them on the street, lending a hand, buying a lunch, sharing his life and his faith. "I just want to do for others what someone did for me when I was a teen," says Rob. In 2006, Rob rented a building at 3 West Main Street in Lansdale, PA to create a place where teens could come, be accepted, hang out, hear good music, play games, meet some role models, and hear a story that changed the lives of millions. There have been many challenges, but the changed lives have been worth it!
Rob has been writing since he was about fifteen years old. He is well known for short stories that are thought provoking – teaching without preaching. He tackles real life topics that no one else wants to address. Rob's first published work, Regener8, is scheduled to be released in September of 2012 through Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Keep an eye out for Regener8. Check out Rob’s ministry at http://www.252underground.com/252/.
This is a rebroadcast of a previously recorded episode of Christian Devotions SPEAK UP!
Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” The First Responders in your community do just that. They sacrifice comfort and safety to protect the lives of others, always waiting, and always wondering when they will find themselves answering the next call. Pat’s book, Answering the Call is a collection of inspirational stories based on his experiences as a street paramedic in Durham, North Carolina. Each unique story is written as a devotional with an insightful application section that offers the reader a glimpse into God's Word. Use it for your daily devotions, as a guide for your small group study, or simply to share Pat’s experiences and better understand the lives of paramedics and other first responders.
Pat is a writer, a photographer, a paramedic, a volunteer chaplain, and an instructor of Emergency Medical Science. His stories are true, based on real experiences from the streets of Durham, North Carolina where he served as a street paramedic for seventeen years.
This is a rebroadcast episode of Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! Join us this week as Zena Dell Lowe shares her faith and how it impacts her work in film.
Zena is a screenwriter, producer, and filmmaker based in Bozeman, Montana, and one of the owners of the Mission Ranch and Mission Ranch Lodge. As an actress, Zena worked successfully in Hollywood for over thirteen years in theatre, independent films, and national commercials.
In 2000, Zena transitioned to the writing and filmmaking side of the business when she attended the acclaimed Act One: Writing for Hollywood Program, which led to her first paid writing gig for the short film The Haunted Heart, for which she won a Silver and a Telly Award. Soon after, Zena was honored to become the Associate Director of Act One and began teaching at writers’ conferences around the country. In 2005, Zena moved back to Montana to help take over the family ranch after her mother’s untimely passing. Today, Zena helps run the family businesses, writes, produces, and directs full time. She also teaches classes on screenwriting and playwriting as an adjunct professor at Covenant College in Georgia, performs with the acclaimed Vigilante Theatre Company around Montana, and is the director of theatre arts at Journey Church in Bozeman.
Ron Benrey passed away on MAY 11, 2014. This broadcast is from a previously recorded episode of Christian Devotions Speak Up!
Ron Benrey was perfectly content in middle age with being sort-of Jewish. He saw Christianity as a collection of nonsensical teachings that most believers don't understand and can't explain. But on one ordinary August afternoon, God "flipped his switch"- without an invitation and without any warning. Almost instantaneously, everything Ron had heard about Christianity made perfect sense. Seconds later he knew that he'd become a Christian. Ron's efforts to learn how to write mystery fiction played a central role in his unexpected conversion to Christianity. Ron imagined writing himself into a novel and abruptly understood that the Incarnation was possible and how God could be a Trinity. The Day God Flipped My Switch tells the fascinating story of Ron's remarkable change of mind and heart-and the novel teaching approach that God used to convey the truth of Christianity to him. Whether you're a fellow late bloomer or you became a Christian much younger in life, Ron shows you how to use the same ways of thinking to build your faith and grow your understanding of Christianity.
Ron Benrey, author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Writing Christian Fiction, began his writing career as Electronics Editor of Popular Science Monthly. He is an experienced non-fiction writer who has written more than a thousand bylined magazine articles, eight published books, and scores of major speeches for the CEOs of Fortune-100 companies. Ron holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a master's degree in management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and a juris doctor from the Duquesne University School of Law. He’s a member of the Bar of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Suzie Benforado was a missionary for over 25 years who spent most of her missionary time in Romania. This is a rebroadcast of an episode shortly before her passing.
"Before starting in this new ministry, I could have never imagined myself involved with a church planting effort. But now, I bit down the road, it seems to me that everything that I've ever done in my Christian life and as a missionary was preparing me for this time and this place. This is such an amazing feeling... knowing I am here for such a time as this."
Her journey has been marked by many amazing demonstrations of God's power-- healings, deliverances, and salvations.Join in and listen to how God is changing the world one soul at a time.
Esther has a strong passion for mental health. She manages events and workshops sharing her story to inspire and influence the upcoming generation. In a secular world where identity is based on societal standards, Esther reassures that everyone has a unique gift that shouldn’t be compromised despite the current circumstances. Using her life experiences, she shares stories of how her Faith strengthened the third year of university. She has had several interviews with different pod-casters including Premier Gospel Radio, The Authors Podcast, Keeping It Real Radio, and Power Xtra Radio. She has been invited to the Barclays Wealth Management to talk about the vision of Authentic Worth, as well as speaking at her previous University (of Kent) at the Kent Africa Summit in March 2019. She has two years of property management experience and is knowledgeable in fashion. Esther is looking to support new and aspiring authors in writing their first book, providing them a platform to share their story and turn it into purpose.
Joleen Steel is the curriculum specialist for Camping Stick Kids. She has a B.A. in elementary education. She taught public school for ten years before deciding to open her own music studio and homeschool her boys. Joleen is a pastor’s wife and grew up as a pastor’s kid. Her love for the good news of Jesus Christ flows out of her and into the Camping Stick Kids curriculum. Her easy style and creative approach to teaching will encourage your student to learn the Gospel story and be able to share the good news with their friends and family. Joleen would love to have you visit the camping stick kids website and blog at campingstickkids.org.
Del Duduit a life-long resident of the Southern Ohio area and an award-winning writer. As a sports writer, he won two Associated Press awards for columns. As a broadcaster and news director, he received an award from the Ohio News Network. In television, Del earned a sales award from The WB Network.
For the past several years, he’s been a pharmaceutical sales professional. Del’s dabbled in the freelance arena and has many articles published in Sports Spectrum — a quarterly magazine dedicated to highlighting Christian athletes. He’s interviewed Andy Pettitte of the New York Yankees and recently spent some time with Andy Dalton of the Cincinnati Bengals. Del is a contributing writer for OneChristianVoice.com, Sohiovoice.com, and also a guest blogger for Almost an Author, and have been published in The Sports Column as well as ToddStarnes.com and Clubhouse Magazine — a publication of Focus on the Family.
In addition, Del writes for PM Magazine, a quarterly publication that highlights the positive aspects of Southern Ohio, where he lives with wife Angie. They have raised two godly men who are both preachers, and Angie sings and plays piano at Rubyville Community Church.
Del’s new book Dugout Devotions releases in February, 2018. https://www.amazon.com/Dugout-Devotions-Inspirational-Stars-Faith/dp/156309133X
Del Duduit a life-long resident of the Southern Ohio area and an award-winning writer. As a sports writer, he won two Associated Press awards for columns. As a broadcaster and news director, he received an award from the Ohio News Network. In television, Del earned a sales award from The WB Network.
For the past several years, he’s been a pharmaceutical sales professional. Del’s dabbled in the freelance arena and has many articles published in Sports Spectrum — a quarterly magazine dedicated to highlighting Christian athletes. He’s interviewed Andy Pettitte of the New York Yankees and recently spent some time with Andy Dalton of the Cincinnati Bengals. Del is a contributing writer for OneChristianVoice.com, Sohiovoice.com, and also a guest blogger for Almost an Author, and have been published in The Sports Column as well as ToddStarnes.com and Clubhouse Magazine — a publication of Focus on the Family.
In addition, Del writes for PM Magazine, a quarterly publication that highlights the positive aspects of Southern Ohio, where he lives with wife Angie. They have raised two godly men who are both preachers, and Angie sings and plays piano at Rubyville Community Church.
Del’s new book Dugout Devotions releases in February, 2018. https://www.amazon.com/Dugout-Devotions-Inspirational-Stars-Faith/dp/156309133X
Zack Shelton and 64 to Grayson have scuffs on their boots from all up and down the east coast and nothing is looking to slow them down. Voted one of the “Top 20 Most Prospective Groups” by Music Connection Magazine, Zack Shelton and 64 to Grayson’s unique blend of backwoods instruments, lyrical wit, and hardwood-pew values makes for an experience that will leave you with a smirk on your face and a tap in your toes.
The band’s six-foot-three lead-singer, Zack Shelton, seen with acts such as Josh Turner, The Gaithers, and The Charlie Daniels Band is unmistakably no stranger to the stage. Being the son of Gospel musician Thomas Shelton, Zack gets his passion for music honest. Teaming up with Zack to form 64 to Grayson is cohort Craig Cunningham.
In January of 2018, Zack and 64tG released their newest album “Between the Pews” which marked their fourth full-length studio album. The record's first two singles, “Mercy We Don’t Deserve” and “Jesus in That”, have captured the attention of listeners both new and old alike.
Geared toward an array of all ages and backgrounds, Zack Shelton and 64 to Grayson has lit a fire of a following that is burning brighter with each show. “Whatever God is getting ready for us,” notes Zack, “we’ll be charging at it face first and full-throttle.”
In September of 2018, Brody Allen was battling for his life and a small town banded together to give him one last Christmas celebration. The Lord welcomed him home late October. Now Brody's brother Andrew fights for his life following an accident. Zack has recorded a song in honor of #TeamBrody and hopes to raise money to help the Allen family in this time of need.
Long before his YouTube videos went viral, spawning an appearance on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and a performance with the surviving members of Queen on “American Idol,” Marc Martel spent 13 years recording and touring the globe with Canadian rockers Downhere. Not only did the rock band visit all 50 American States, but also toured throughout Europe and even Northern Africa, collecting worldwide acclaim and four Juno Awards in their native land.
Marc Martel has spent his career praising the Lord with his musical talent. From the famed group Downhere, to a solo musician and the Queen Extravaganza Tour lead singer, Marc's testimony shines clear. Enjoy this episode of music and insite into his life.
Eddie is Founder and CEO of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and co-founder of Christian Devotions Ministries. He is also an award-winning novelist of middle-grade fiction for boys. In 2016 LPC was named Publisher of the Year at the Greater Philadelphia Writers Conference. LPC Books launched its general book publishing division in 2007.
Cindy Sproles is an author and speaker. She is the cofounder of Christian Devotions Ministries. She is a novelist and best-selling author. She is a speaker to women’s conferences addressing not only the heart of women, but also their biblical responsibilities to their families. She is a contributing author to CBN.com and is the Executive Editor for www.christiandevotions.us and the Managing Editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas’ imprints: SonRise Devotionals and Straight Street Books. Her book, New Sheets – Thirty Days to Refine You Into the Woman You Can Be is being used to help raise funds for Hope House, an abortion crisis center and her novel, Mercy’s Rain, is giving a voice to children who suffer sexual child abuse. Her latest award winning book is Liars Winter. She is the mother of four adult sons and lives in the mountains of East Tennessee with her husband. Cindy can be contacted at www.cindysproles.com or by emailing cindyksproles@gmail.com.
DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She combines unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels.
Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. Firewall, the first book in her Houston: FBI series, was listed by Library Journal as one of the best Christian Fiction books of 2014.
DiAnn is co-director of The Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference and The Mountainside Marketing Conference with social media specialist Edie Melson where she continues her passion of helping other writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country.
DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.
DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on: Facebook, Twitter, or any of the social media platforms listed at diannmills.com
Grace Egert is an elementary school student in Friendswood, Texas. She loves to write short stories for her family and friends. Grace's hobbies are basketball, gymnastics, reading, making videos, and hanging out with her friends. Want to take her out to eat? Her fav food is Chinese, and she loves root beer. Grace is active in her church. She enjoys short-termed mission trips.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott McCausey tackles Krabbe Disease with NFL Hall of Famer Jim Kelly and his wife Jill.
Two weeks after Jim Kelly retired from his Hall of Fame career with the Buffalo Bills, his son was born. He and his wife, Jill, were ecstatic. The protégé son had arrived full of life and promise. The Kelly family was growing and life seemed perfect.
With their two-year-old daughter, Erin, shadowing their every move, Hunter adjusted to life…Kelly style. And while he initially appeared to be just a very fussy infant, Hunter was actually fighting for his life. The news of his fatal, genetic disease was shocking. It’s every parent’s deepest terror. Jim and Jill were told that Hunter would not live to see his second birthday. With no treatment, no cure, and ultimately no answers, desperation set in.
What do you do when your family’s world is turned upside down? What do you do when you don’t know what to do? How do you face the trauma and press on when all hope is gone? The Kelly family turned to God. Following His lead, Jim and Jill have become authors and the founders of Hunter’s Hope. Find out more about their lives as they share this powerful testimony. You can also help discover more about Krabbe Disease by visiting http://www.huntershope.org.
Karl’s first book, An Eye for Glory: The Civil War Chronicles of a Citizen Soldier (Zondervan, 2011), received a number of accolades including PW’s “Top Inspirational Fiction Pick,” a Christy Award Finalist designation, and 4.7 out of five stars on Amazon. Karl grew up in the picturesque town of Woodbury, Connecticut. From youth Karl has been a serious student of the Civil War. His first book took ten years from conception to completion. Thousands of hours were spent researching every detail through copious reading, Internet research and personal visits to each battlefield. He was committed to making the novel as historically accurate and believable as possible. Karl lives in Naugatuck, Connecticut with his wife of thirty-three years, Jackie.
Discover more of Karl's writing ministry at www.kbacon.com.
After years of working with broken people through different recovery venues such as divorce and various 12-step groups, Robin Gilbert Luftig founded Renew Ministries in 2009 with the purpose of sharing God’s plan for healing with spiritually- and emotionally-broken men and women. She has written From Pain to Peace: A Journey to Peace After Divorce and often speaks on what she discovered from her research.
Robin communicates openly and practically with great energy, passion, humor, warmth, and grace. Because of her compassion for brokenhearted people, Robin counts serving all of God’s people as one of her greatest privileges in life. Robin is currently working on, God’s Best During Your Worst. This personal memoir tells of redemption and triumph over brokenness when she faced paralyzing fear and discovered there is no place so far from God that He cannot reach through and redeem a willing heart. Robin and Lew are the parents of five wonderful children.
Discover more of Renew Ministries and Robin’s testimony at www.robinluftig.com.
Catherine Jacobs has lived in the SC Lowcountry for 25 years. During that time she raised her family of four children and became heavily invested in her community church. St. Paul’s, Summerville, eventually became both a place of worship and employment, as she served on the parish staff for 14 years as the full-time Director of Children and Family Ministry.
As part of this team, Catherine transformed the children’s ministry into a center for training parents and grandparents who encourage their children to become life long followers of Jesus. This passion for increasing the impact of a parent and grandparent’s impact on their child’s heart led to the creation of Pass the Legacy.
Today, Catherine continues her service to the Kingdom and fellow grandparents and grown parents through the ministry of Pass the Legacy: www.passthelegacy.wordpress.com.
Del Duduit a life-long resident of the Southern Ohio area and an award-winning writer. As a sports writer, he won two Associated Press awards for columns. As a broadcaster and news director, he received an award from the Ohio News Network. In television, Del earned a sales award from The WB Network.
For the past several years, he’s been a pharmaceutical sales professional. Del’s dabbled in the freelance arena and has many articles published in Sports Spectrum — a quarterly magazine dedicated to highlighting Christian athletes. He’s interviewed Andy Pettitte of the New York Yankees and recently spent some time with Andy Dalton of the Cincinnati Bengals. Del is a contributing writer for OneChristianVoice.com, Sohiovoice.com, and also a guest blogger for Almost an Author, and have been published in The Sports Column as well as ToddStarnes.com and Clubhouse Magazine — a publication of Focus on the Family.
In addition, Del writes for PM Magazine, a quarterly publication that highlights the positive aspects of Southern Ohio, where he lives with wife Angie. They have raised two godly men who are both preachers, and Angie sings and plays piano at Rubyville Community Church.
Del’s new book Buckeye Believer, 40 Days of Devotions for the Ohio State Faithful releases in April, 2018.
The heartbeat of Life Action has always been their local church team ministry, because of the interaction and involvement with God’s people in a personal and protracted way. Not only are biblical truths preached, they are lived out in front of the body of Christ. It’s about putting new life into action! Life Action is burdened to challenge God’s people to quit “playing church.” They not only have a vision for revival, but a passion to see God use this ministry to bring revival to His church.
Life Action Ministries has three Revival Teams that travel the country sharing this message of hope. Each team is comprised of two Revivalists and their families, as well as a worship team and youth team.
Schuyler Baxter lives in southern IL and has traveled with Life Action for one year as an electric guitarist. He’s been familiar with the ministry for a long time. Over the last 7 years, four members of my family have traveled on road teams.
Cameron McCausey calls Michigan home and has been touring with Red Team for three years. His time with the ministry has grown his faith, where he leads worship with a guitar in his hands.
Josh Beam resides in Drummonds, TN and has played instruments all his life. He is the current drummer of Red Team and takes the reigns as worship leader next year.
Doug Smith is a grateful follower of Christ and an avid Bible student who is willing to follow the truth wherever it leads. He brings an insider’s perspective on the power of technology, informed by over two decades of web programming experience and a lifetime of Bible study. Doug writes and speaks on the desire-shaping influence of screens, Christian theology, and apologetics.
He is blessed by his wife Lyneta, who is also an author and speaker and writes at ww.lynetasmith.com. Smith and his wife are empty nesters, and share four grown daughters and two grandsons. They were homeschoolers for many years. The Smiths currently live near Nashville, Tennessee after living most of their lives around the Pacific Northwest.
Discover more about Doug at www.thatdougsmith.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott talks playoff baseball and Jesus with former Los Angeles Angels player Terry Evans.
Terry Evans was born and raised in Dublin, GA, where he continued to live until he graduated from Trinity Christian School in 2000. He went on to attend Middle Georgia College for two years before being drafted and signing with the St. Louis Cardinals. After five minor league seasons, Terry made his first big league appearance in 2007 with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. He played in parts of three Major League seasons with the Angels and eleven full seasons in the minor leagues with St. Louis, Anaheim, San Francisco, Philadelphia, and Kansas City. Terry retired after the 2012 season with the Kansas City Royals organization and came on staff with UPI full time October 1st of 2012.
Terry is the chaplain for the Atlanta Braves and currently resides on the north side of Atlanta, in Woodstock, where he leads Bible studies for current and former players around the Atlanta area. Terry also assists international trips to the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico with the possibility of leading these trips in the near future.
Terry is married to his wife, Tanner, and they have three sons: Asher, Jude, and Isaac.
Karen Nolan Bell, an award-winning writer of fiction and memoir, writes as Karen Lynn Nolan. Her debut novel, Above the Fog, releases in November 2018. Karen’s stories appear in the anthologies, Stupid Moments, Merry Christmas Moments, and soon-to-be-released Coola-nary Moments. Her other loves include music, theater, art, reading mysteries, and being pampered by her only son. She resides in Atlanta. Contact Karen at karennolanbell@gmail.com, on Twitter @KarenNolanBell, or www.diamondsinmycoalbucket.blogspot.com.
Andy Clapp is an author and a pastor who lives in North Carolina. His passion for Jesus has pushed him to strive to reach a lost world as a pastor and as an author. Whether it is speaking to a group of ten, delivering a message to over a hundred, or in those quiet moments while in his office writing, his goal is to lead others to Christ.
Andy lives in his hometown with his wife, Crystal, and their two daughters, Cheyenne and Autumn. He is represented by Cyle Young, Hartline Literary Agency. To learn more, continue through the website: www.andyclapp.org.. Make sure you check out his blog and sign up for his newsletter.
Cheryl Crofoot Knapp is passionate about using her life experiences to encourage others. She is a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, speaker, author, blogger, and Mrs. Minnesota-America 1996.
Her book, Undefeated Innocence: How God Helped My Parents and Me Navigate the Alzheimer’s Journey, combines personal and humorous anecdotes with Biblical truths to share His hope and encouragement to caregivers, and includes factual information and research. Cheryl was a caregiver for her parents who both died of Alzheimer’s. She cried out to God, “Where are you in Alzheimer’s?” Undefeated Innocence is a study of the Beatitudes with the fruit of the Spirit, and includes lessons and tools she learned in caregiving.
Undefeated Innocence is a challenge to find God’s calling and to know that His grace is always sufficient. Cheryl believes that those who have been through much are called to give much. She encourages readers to find passionate patience, look for life’s collateral beauty, and recognize that it’s okay to store toothpaste in an underwear drawer.
She and her husband are members of First Baptist Church of Mountain Home (Arkansas). She participates in Walks to End Alzheimer’s and has served in Bible study, worship, evangelism, and prison ministries. She founded Regifted Grace Ministry and shares her contagious faith at conferences, retreats, banquets, and churches, as well as on television and radio.
Her husband Chuck is inducted into the Minnesota Broadcasters Hall of Fame and is highlighted as one of only a hundred radio jocks in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland.
A Speak UP Merry Christmas from the Christian Devotions Ministry Founders Eddie Jones and Cindy Sproles.
Eddie is Founder and CEO of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and co-founder of Christian Devotions Ministries. He is also an award-winning novelist of middle-grade fiction for boys. In 2016 LPC was named Publisher of the Year at the Greater Philadelphia Writers Conference.
Cindy Sproles is an author and speaker. She is the cofounder of Christian Devotions Ministries and the cowriter of the popular He Said, She Said Devotions written with her cofounder, Eddie Jones. She is a novelist and best-selling author. She is a speaker to women’s conferences addressing not only the heart of women, but also their biblical responsibilities to their families. As a teacher and speaker for Christian Writers Conferences, Cindy teaches writing skills and how to write placing God in the forefront. She is a contributing author to CBN.com and is the Executive Editor for www.christiandevotions.us and the Managing Editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas’ imprints: SonRise Devotionals and Straight Street Books. Her book, New Sheets – Thirty Days to Refine You Into the Woman You Can Be is being used to help raise funds for Hope House, an abortion crisis center and her novel, Mercy’s Rain, is giving a voice to children who suffer sexual child abuse. Cindy is also the coauthor of He Said, She Said – A Devotional Guide to Cultivating a Life of Passion. She is the mother of four adult sons and lives in the mountains of East Tennessee with her husband. Cindy can be contacted at www.cindysproles.com or by emailing cindyksproles@gmail.com.
Susan is a versatile writer, creating both fiction and non-fiction for adults and children. Her debut novel, The Fabric of Hope: An Irish Family Legacy, released on March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day!
Before Susan jumped into the fiction world, her first two books were nonfiction, co-authored with her husband, Dale. Countdown for Couples: Preparing for the Adventure of Marriage made the Tyndale best-seller list for several weeks, went international with an Indonesian version and a Spanish version, and has helped thousands of couples. Their second book, The ReMarriage Adventure: Preparing for a Life of Love and Happiness, has helped thousands of couples getting ready to blend their families.
Susan is the Founding Editor of Thriving Family magazine and the former Editor/Editorial Director of 12 Focus on the Family publications including the Focus on the Family magazine and the Focus on Your Child newsletters. Susan is also the author of her first two indie-published picture books, Lexie’s Adventure in Kenya: Love is Patient and Princess Madison’s Rainbow Adventure.
After many years writing non-fiction, Susan’s writing has taken a fresh new turn, impassioned by extensive research into her own family’s history. She is thoroughly enjoying her second life as a novelist. She loves the world of fiction and letting her imagination run wild to create inspiring stories.
Susan is vice president of Christian Authors Network (CAN) and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), the Association of Women Speakers & Authors (AWSA), the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), and Evangelical Press Association (EPA).
Discover more about Susan and her books at www.susangmathis.com.
Bethany and her husband Joe both grew up in frugal families. Bethany grew up on garage sale clothes and never remembers her parents driving new cars. Ever. Being homeschooled, she was raised outside of mainstream culture. Because of personal connections and work ethic, neither she or Joe had a problem finding jobs; Bethany worked as a secretary and Joe worked in construction.
Once married, Bethanay quit her job and become a full-time housewife. Joe recently took over the family business, so there was plenty of opportunity for Bethany to help in that area as well. She also pursued writing, hobby farming, gardening, selling things on Ebay and other projects. Bethany finds homemaking incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.
Why be frugal if you don't have to? When you lower your standard of living, it creates a cushion of extra money. Depending on your income, this can be a huge cushion. Everywhere you look, people are eating, wearing, and driving their money away. They are throwing away their influence and ability to make the world better. It’s often not intentional; it's just the way folks have been raised. Being frugal helps save for the future or help a friend in need.
Discover more about Bethany and her books at www.therenaissancehousewife.com.
Selah Award winner, and Carol Awards finalist, Linda Wood Rondeau writes to demonstrate that our worst past, surrendered to God, becomes our best future. Her books are inspired by her many years as a social worker, why her voice hits home with complex characters who walk off the page, and why readers relate to her non-fiction as well.
Humor, another guarantee in a Rondeau book, is also prevalent in her non-fiction. She is a frequent guest on blogs, online magazines, traditionally published periodicals and writes a recurring column for her hometown newspaper, Malone Telegram.
The author is a breast cancer survivor and a recovering food addict. A Toastmaster graduate, she enjoys speaking to groups on her experiences as well as the writing life. The author loves to hear from readers. You may contact her through her website, www.lindarondeau.com, on Facebook, Goodreads, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Google Plus, Linked In, or via any of her publishers.
Katie Heid has spent the better part of her career talking. Whether it’s been as a women’s retreat speaker, member of her church’s speaking team, radio and television reporter, teacher, or a mom who has to repeat things one too many times, it’s clear she’s got the gift of gab. She also loves Jesus and people. Her lifelong journey with Jesus has shown her that since his greatest passion is loving people, that should be her passion too. Katie lives a chaotic life in Michigan with her husband and two sons. It’s a life she wouldn’t trade for the world. (Although, she would rent it out in exchange for a good nap.) Find her on her web site at www.uncomfortablegrace.com.
Michelle has been a sought after speaker for over 20 years. Her transparency and engaging style when speaking about real-life situations as a woman, wife and mom move her audience to both laughter and tears. Whether speaking about sex in marriage, what it looks like to respect your man, how to fight the blues, or the remarkable story of how her third son, Tanner, had half of his brain removed at the age of eight. Michelle will take your group on a transforming journey where each woman attending will come away refreshed, equipped and delighted she came to your event.
Cindy Sproles is an author and speaker. She is the cofounder of Christian Devotions Ministries and the cowriter of the popular He Said, She Said Devotions written with her cofounder, Eddie Jones. She is a novelist and best-selling author. Cindy’s devotions and articles are published in Christian newspapers across the eastern seaboard, including having been used to represent legislature for protection of the elderly. She is a speaker to women’s conferences addressing not only the heart of women, but also their biblical responsibilities to their families. As a teacher and speaker for Christian Writers Conferences, Cindy teaches writing skills and how to write placing God in the forefront.
She is a contributing author to CBN.com and is the Executive Editor for www.christiandevotions.us and the Managing Editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas’ imprints: SonRise Devotionals and Straight Street Books. She is a certified life coach and mentor, an eldercare specialist and a special needs advocate. Her book, New Sheets – Thirty Days to Refine You Into the Woman You Can Be is being used to help raise funds for Hope House, an abortion crisis center and her novel, Mercy’s Rain, is giving a voice to children who suffer sexual child abuse. Cindy is also the coauthor of He Said, She Said – A Devotional Guide to Cultivating a Life of Passion.
She is the mother of four adult sons and lives in the mountains of East Tennessee with her husband. Cindy can be contacted at www.cindysproles.com or by emailing cindyksproles@gmail.com.
Carol McClain's always been a story teller. As a child, she composed plays and forced her friends to act. She'd help rally the neighborhood kids and together they'd re-enact their favorite TV shows. Sadly, when the boys played, she never got to be the heroine--just the damsel in distress. Since then she's discovered the benefits of needing rescue, and so it's a role she prefers.
McClain lived most her her life in rural, upstate New York where taught high school English for more than thirty years. After years of teaching students how to write, she turned her attention to her own novels.
She has three books. DWF: Divorced White Female and Waters of Separation both were Grace Award Finalists. Her latest release, The Poison We Drink was released in December 2016.
She spends her time now writing, playing with her Springer spaniel and exploring the world with her husband.
You can connect with her at www.carolmcclain.com or on facebook or twitter.
"Five years, two children later and a lot of life in between, I am putting my heart to paper and letting it peek into the open air once again. These years have been good and sweet and tragic and broken all at the same time. I lost one of my dearest friends and one of my greatest champions very suddenly and far too soon, my momma. The painful end to my label career gave my spirit much needed space to breathe and time to re-collect my heart and passions. The hiatus of one career marked the beginning of a new one in motherhood. So here it is, a reluctant attempt to find my voice in the calm rolling wake of life's hurricane...." - Lanaé?
Lanaé's haunting, ethereal voice has been heard in multiple mediums: TV shows, film, and at Christmas time, her evergreen arrangement of "Carol of the Bells" is played on radio stations all over the country. Her moving, translucent lyrics layered over sounds that are interesting, yet accessible have landed her on stages all over the world from Denmark to the United States and many cities in between, playing festival stages in front of thousands all the way down to intimate songwriter nights.
Her husband Josh has stood by her this whole time. He has been involved in the music industry himself for 15 years, holding various roles at record labels and artist management companies. However, it wasn't until Lanaé's most recent, self-titled, EP that the two of them had a chance to work together. Lanaé's new song, "I Still Do" gives a glimpse into their relationship and why working together on this new EP is their best season together yet. Living in Tennessee with their two children, the two of them will be celebrating their 10-year wedding anniversary next year. Discover Lanae’s music: www.lanaemusic.com
Molly White is a former Texas State Representative in House District 55. Prior to running for office she was a pro-life, grassroots activist, public speaker and published author. From 2001 to present day Molly serves as the Texas Leader of Operation Outcry, a project of the Justice Foundation. She was the founder and director of Redeemed for Life Ministries and Women for Life International, a co-host on Faces of Abortion television show and the host of the Redeemed for Life radio talk show.
Molly White has appeared on numerous national and international television shows, news stations, documentaries, press conferences. Her expertise on pro-life issues has resulted in invitations to speak at Christian, political, civic, and medical events all over the United States and seven different countries.
She has led the largest pro-life delegations to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women conferences, and has attended the UN Conference on Population and the World Conference on Youth both in New York and Geneva, Switzerland. During these events Molly met with heads of nations, political leaders, Christian leaders, and hundreds of women leaders to talk about the importance of defending life, motherhood, marriage, and families. White’s most rewarding work is leading dozens of people to Christ and ministering to countless hurting men and women all around the world, including on the floor of the House of Representatives.
Molly graduated from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor with a degree in psychology. She has been married to Ronald White for 27 years. Together they have 3 children and 4 beautiful, sweet, adorable, fun, smart, fantastic grandchildren.
While a large, floppy straw hat is her favorite, Ane Mulligan has worn many different ones: hairdresser, legislative affairs director (that's a fancy name for a lobbyist), drama director, playwright, humor columnist, and novelist. Her lifetime experience provides a plethora of fodder for her Southern-fried fiction (try saying that three times fast).
Ane firmly believes coffee and chocolate are two of the four major food groups. Her passion when she isn't writing her Southern-fried Fiction, is Community Theatre. She's Creative Director of Players Guild@Sugar Hill, an avocational non-profit theatre group, where she and her husband act, direct, build sets, and are chief gofors.
Contributor to the award-winning literary site, Novel Rocket, Ane resides in Sugar Hill, GA, with her artist husband, her chef son, and a wooly mammoth.
If you'd like to see a map of Chapel Springs showing you where all the characters live, visit http://www.anemulligan.com
Jake McCandless is an author and former pastor who serves as the executive director and lead speaker for Prophecy Simplified. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Bible from Central Baptist College (2004) and an Advanced Masters of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (2009). Much of his theological training has been in the field of eschatology. He has received numerous academic awards and recognitions in ministry, such as the Zondervan National Greek Award and the prestigious Yousef Costa Excellence in Preaching Award from Central Baptist College. He has spent the past eleven years as lead pastor of Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Mount Vernon, AR, and just recently made the difficult decision to step away from the pastorate to lead Prophecy Simplified. He spent seven years as a youth evangelist with Sold Out Ministries and has been involved on staff in churches since 1998.
Jake is an award winning author. His book is titled Spiritual Prepper. He also writes for several publications such as the Baptist Press, Almost an Author, and Inspire a Fire. You can discover his ministry here: http://prophecysimplified.com.
Jake is married to Amanda. She’s an elementary school teacher, but currently stays home with their two daughters, Andrea (2011) and Addison (2013). Jake enjoys time with family, ministry, hunting, fishing, coffee, writing, and college football.
Jo Ann Maxwell has had a successful career as a teacher and a senior level nonprofit executive. Since retiring, she has been assisting her aging parents. She is active as a volunteer at the Billy Graham Training Center in Asheville, NC. Jo Ann loves to read, play Mahjong, play brain games on her tablet and swim (which is her real love). She loves the Lord and is active in her church. Jo Ann tries each day to live out 2 Corinthians 3:3–”clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.”
When Jo Ann Maxwell was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at the age of 60, signs along the way in her life became clear. Her faith, independence, and fearlessness in life were threatened. You are invited to share her struggles and find the hope she has. Fearless is how Jo Ann worked through various trials and tribulations to find the fearless spirit she thought she lost. She gives God all the glory for never giving up on her. Find her book at http://www.westbowpress.com/bookstore/bookdetail.aspx?bookid=SKU-001082593.
Tim Martin has been involved with baseball his entire life. His quest to make his dream come true started in 1984 with a free agent signing to the Pittsburgh Pirates. He played in the Gulf Coast League and the NewYork Penn League in his first two season of professional baseball before Tommy John surgery ended his playing days.
After ten years separated from the game, he returned as a coach and a scout. His days coaching high school baseball for Minford High were fruitful, as he led the team to a 331-142 record. This earned him the Ohio District Coaches Hall of Fame award.
Tim also continues to scout for Major League Baseball. Over the last twenty years, he’s been employed by the St. Louis Cardinals, Montreal Expos, Florida Marlins and now with the Boston Redsox.
Chad and Leslie are motivational teachers and speakers whose greatest passion is to see the Great Commission completed in their lifetime. As entrepreneurial, mission-focused leaders, teachers, and award-winning writers with extensive international experience, Leslie and Chad love theology made practical – where good thinking leads to active engagement in a broken world.
In 2000 they co-founded 10/40 Connections which seeks to meet tangible needs through the Name of Christ. Since its founding, 10/40 has helped rescue and restore thousands of women from trafficking, fed and educated hundreds of at-risk children, planted numerous house churches among unreached people groups, installed dozens of water wells offering clean water to thousands, promoted teaching that advocates for the unborn and women, and more. They write curriculum that encourages the Church in the least-reached areas of the world, and they equip believers who want to engage in practical cross-cultural living.
Chad and Leslie have lived in India, China, and the Middle East. Both graduated from Fuller Seminary with doctorates of Missiology in 2009. They now serve as Lausanne Catalysts for “Men and Women Partnering in the Gospel,” with the Lausanne Movement.
Married for eighteen years, Chad and Leslie direct 10/40 Connections (www.1040connections.org) from Chattanooga, TN and travel internationally and domestically for 10/40 Connections. They have four children – Joeli, Joy (in heaven), Eden Samuel, and Phoebe (recently adopted from China).
They are represented by Diana Flegal of Hartline Agency. Their manuscript Engaged in Love and War: Awakening Commitment and Courage is now available: https://www.amazon.com/Engaged-Love-War-Awakening-Commitment/dp/1541129512
Karla McKinney is married to Jeff and the mom of four daughters ages 22, 20, 16, and wait for it…an eight year old! She is a native of Atlanta, and graduated from Spelman College. She encourages women by sharing stories of homeschooling, surviving a rare life threatening illness, parenting girls at various places in their spiritual walk, and advocating for victims of CSA. Karla always shares God’s faithfulness as He leads her on the journey home.
Lori Stanley Roeleveld is a disturber of hobbits who enjoys making comfortable Christians late for dinner. She’s authored an inciteful blog since 2009; a pursuit that eventually resulted in two provocative non-fiction books, Running from a Crazy Man (and other adventures traveling with Jesus) and Jesus and the Beanstalk (Overcoming Your Giants and Living a Fruitful Life) as well as an unsettling novella, Red Pen Redemption.
Lori’s blog has a modest but faithful daily readership and yet, in 2015 it was named one of the Top 100 Christian Blogs and a single post was viewed over 2 million times, another went viral on Facebook. Lori has published newspaper and magazine articles, poetry, and plays. Her novels, short stories, and Bible studies have won several awards. Besides degrees in Psychology and Biblical Studies, Lori earned her Masters in motherhood, homeschooling her two children through graduation. Now, she draws energy from helping writers find their voice and see God’s vision for their work. In her day job, Lori writes the stories of real families in crisis so others see their strengths and values, not just their problems. You’ll find Lori at her website www.loriroeleveld.com. If not, know she’s somewhere slaying dragons.
As a Southern humorist, Jane entertains using funny, original Southern stories, folksy wisdom and singing to help folks live more productive, stress-free lives. Jane believes in the extraordinary healing power of humor and story telling. As a female author, Jane’s most recent accomplishment is being an Amazon “Best-Seller” and award-winner for her newest book, Bury Me with My Pearls.
Jane is a Certified Professional Speaking (CSP), professional singer, Female comedians, recording artist and published author. Jane’s award-winning singing and humor is featured on Sirius XM Radio and Pandora. She criss-crosses the country sharing her “down-home principles delivered with uptown humor”. Jane has also spoken in New Zealand and Germany and is fluent in four languages: English, Southern, Northern and Gullah (gul-la).
Jane is active in her church and community and serves on as a Commissioner at Piedmont Technical College of South Carolina, Chair of the National Speakers Association Scholarship Committee and serves on the Foundation Board of the National Speakers Association.
Jane’s proudest accomplishments are being a wife and mother. Jane and her family live on the family peach farm in Edgefield County, South Carolina.
Urban music dance artist Rahn Anthoni crafts hot hip-hop with an R&B flow that hints at roots in gospel flavors. In fact, says Anthoni, “I come from a gospel music background.” His history with inspirational music has helped him develop a positive relationship with the world of song. Music brings him to a high plateau and sheds the day-to-day strife from his life. Anthoni got his first T.V.break when he host Starpower on The BET Network!
Rahn Anthoni signed with Tate Music Group releasing his single, "Hold On" which gave a lot of his listeners the encouragement to Hold On to life. His listeners get a healthy dose of this musical breeze via Anthoni’s master craftsmanship. Anthoni has also been in movies and made a cameo appearence in Good Deed as Rashad. Having his own talk show, "The Rahn Anthoni Show" has reaches over 1 millions views on Eotm Tv.
After loosing his special needs son to abuse allegedly by his son's teacher, Anthoni has become an advocate for special need kids. The Aaron Hatcher Awards, is given every year in honor of his late son Aaron Hatcher at the Eotm Awards in Los Angeles. Anthoni suffered a heart attack and had open heart sugery after he lost his special need son.
“Music makes me feel free from all my problems that I have each day,” he says, and he is glad to pass the feeling along to fans. “It gives me a getaway and expresses love to all my listeners – including myself.”
Amanda Hughes holds a Master of Arts in Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. She serves as Outreach Director for Constituting America, and enjoys encouraging others through her writing on faith and freedom at http://www.amandahugheswriter.com. Hughes is the author of Who Wants to Be Free? Make Sure You Do! https://www.amazon.com/Who-Wants-Free-Amanda-Hughes/dp/151275532X/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_pdt_img_top?ie=UTF8
Dainel Gil is a professional ninja athlete and a two time national finalist on American Ninja Warrior. He was born and raised in Houston, Texas and is the second oldest in a family of five kids who were all home-schooled. Daniel grew up loving the outdoors, climbing trees and participating in team sports. In high school he began to focus his attention on passions such as singing, dancing, and the performing arts and started leading worship at Dwelling Place Church.
After high school, he attended All Nations School of Ministry and obtained a degree in Applied Ministerial Studies. In 2013, he began working at Iron Sports Gym with Sam Sann, where he now directs the homeschool program and trains for American Ninja Warrior. His rookie campeign was Season 7 of American Ninja Warrior, where he made it to the National Finals in Las Vegas and selected to compete in the All-Stars Special, and was chosen to be a team captain on Season 1 of Team Ninja Warrior.
This recognition and success has presented him with new opportunities to begin traveling and motivational speaking. In 2016, he competed on Season 8 of American Ninja Warrior and was one of only two competitors to beat Stage 2 in the National Finals. Today you’ll find Daniel traveling, speaking, and training for Season 9 of American Ninja Warrior.
Patty Luellen Nicholas has worked at the Billy Graham Training Center at the Cove for 12 years, but, she truly learned about grace when she lost both her husband, and her father, two days apart. It was during this time that the words in 2 Corinthians 12:9-12 spoke volumes: 9 And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
She has experienced God’s grace in so many ways through her grief journey and beyond. Even though grief is a part of her testimony, it does not define her. She loves to share with others through her speaking, and writing ministry, how in Christ we no longer have to be defined by the pain and ugly names we call ourselves. In Christ we have a new identity, as children of the One True King.
Patty is a mother to two beautiful daughters, and “Nana” to a wonderful grandson. She lives in the mountains of scenic North Carolina.
Linnette R. Mullin is an author of life-changing romance and a freelance writer. CrossRiver Media released her award-winning novel, Finding Beth, in 2013. Other writing credits include Charles Stanley’s In Touch magazine, 101 Facets of Faith, and Reach Out Columbia.
She is a member of HACWN and ACFW, is working toward her Master’s degree in Christian Counseling. Her writing path has undergone very difficult family trials and her testimony encourages writers how God helps through all circumstances. Discover more about Linnette and her journey at www.linnettermullin.com.
Terri Kelly is the author of Mary Slessor: Missionary Mother. As a writer she has contributed to several books, including Divine Moments, Additional Christmas Moments, and Stupid Moments, Faith and Family and Spirit and Heart. Terri has published articles in Kids’ Ark Magazine, Clubhouse, WHOA Magazine, and numerous online publications.
Her blog, terribkelly.com, addresses issues teachers deal with daily. She teaches at writing conferences and assists with the Asheville Christian Writers Conference in Asheville, North Carolina.
Elizabeth Whitley currently resides in Greenville, South Carolina where she works as a university admissions counselor by day and enjoys writing by night. She attends Thrive Church and serves as a life group administrator and leader. Elizabeth feels that being generous with her personal discoveries and insights makes any disappointments and uncertainties well worth the trouble! She is currently writing a book about embracing and celebrating her season of singleness, and she hopes to inspire other singles to do the same. Discover more at her web site www.elizabethwhitley.com.
Find your voice, live your story…is the foundation of Edie Melson’s message, no matter if she’s addressing parents, military families, readers of fiction or writers. As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. She’s penned numerous books, including While My Solderier Serves and Fighting Fear, Winning the War at Home.
As a leading professional within the publishing industry, she travels to numerous conferences as a popular keynote, writing instructor and mentor. Her top-ranked blog for writers, The Write Conversation, reaches thousands each month, and she’s the Director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.
In addition, as a respected expert in social media, Edie has the proven expertise to teach others how to plug in without sacrificing valuable writing time. Her bestselling eBook on this subject, has recently been updated, expanded and re-released as Connections: Social Media & NetworkingTechniques for Writers.
She and her husband, Kirk, have been married 35 years and raised three sons. They live in the Upstate of South Caroline. Connect with her through her web site www.ediemelson.com.
Erin Whitmer is a writer, speaker and entrepreneur with an accessory obsession. She has an MFA from George Mason University in Fiction and her book, Fighting Back with Fat, was published in 2013. Her current project, Faithful, is about her resurrection of faith after tragedy tossed her into a foxhole. Discover more about Erin, her ministry and blog at www.erinwhitmer.com.
All his life Larry J. Leech II has loved to tell stories. First, to his family and now for lovers of the written word. A ghostwriter and novelist, Larry writes most days while sitting at his favorite table at what he calls his “branch office.”
Larry’s writing journey began in the sports department of the Uniontown (Pa.) Herald-Standard at age 18. After twenty-three years of writing and editing at daily newspapers and a magazine, Larry, with more than two thousand articles published, switched his focus to editing and writing books in 2004.
Since that time he has ghostwritten fifteen books and edited more than 200 manuscripts. He also teaches at numerous conferences nationwide and has become a much sought-after writing coach.
Kathy is the editor/compiler of the Fiction Lover's Devotional series (www.FictionDevo.com) and author of Proofreading Secrets of Best-Selling Authors (http://secretsofbestsellingauthors.com). She has also written numerous articles, short stories, devotionals, play scripts, and Sunday school curriculum. She has ghostwritten ten nonfiction books and a five-book novel series.
She is also a full-time freelance editor, working with aspiring, new, and experienced authors as well as publishers.
Kathy speaks at writers' conferences across the country and is the founder and coordinator of The Christian PEN: Proofreaders and Editors Network (www.TheChristianPEN.com) and the Christian Editor Connection (www.ChristianEditor.com). For more about Kathy, visit www.KathyIde.com.
Mark Caviness grew up an urban cowboy. Being a southern young man in Texas, he grew up playing football, enjoying a couple beers with his buddies and two-stepping at Gilly’s. He married the woman of his dreams Angie in 1984 and shortly thereafter, their family grew with daughters Ashely and Brook.
As life takes shape around young families where the man of the home doesn’t know who God is, trials often become insermountable. For Mark and Angie, divorce loomed, but the love of their baby girl saved the marriage. In March of 2000, the strength of these bonds were stretched to their limits, when Ashley died in a horrible train accident. As often happens in tragedy, Mark sought the only one who could fulfill an empty void in his life, Jesus Christ.
Today Mark and Angie remain steadfast in the Lord. Mark also enjoys sharing his testimony and helps others face trials through gaming frienships on Clash of Clans in the clan he’s part of knows as the Clan for Jesus. For Mark and many others, gaming doesn’t have to be a waste of time, but a chance to connect with others and encourage others in the Lord.
Mark Caviness grew up an urban cowboy. Being a southern young man in Texas, he grew up playing football, enjoying a couple beers with his buddies and two-stepping at Gilly’s. He married the woman of his dreams Angie in 1984 and shortly thereafter, their family grew with daughters Ashely and Brook.
As life takes shape around young families where the man of the home doesn’t know who God is, trials often become insermountable. For Mark and Angie, divorce loomed, but the love of their baby girl saved the marriage. In March of 2000, the strength of these bonds were stretched to their limits, when Ashley died in a horrible train accident. As often happens in tragedy, Mark sought the only one who could fulfill an empty void in his life, Jesus Christ.
Today Mark and Angie remain steadfast in the Lord. Mark also enjoys sharing his testimony and helps others face trials through gaming frienships on Clash of Clans in the clan he’s part of knows as the Clan for Jesus. For Mark and many others, gaming doesn’t have to be a waste of time, but a chance to connect with others and encourage others in the Lord.
Michelle Medlock Adams is an award-winning journalist and best-selling author, earning top honors from the Associated Press, the Society of Professional Journalists and the Hoosier State Press Association. Author of over 70 books, Michelle’s latest release, Love & Care For The One and Only You (Worthy) was recently featured on the “Praise The Lord” program on the Trinity Broadcasting Network. Since graduating with a journalism degree from Indiana University, Michelle has written more than 1,000 articles for newspapers, magazines and websites; acted as a stringer for the Associated Press; written for a worldwide ministry; helped pen a New York Times Bestseller; served as a blogger for Guideposts for two years; and successfully run her own freelance writing business for 16 years.
In January 2016, Michelle’s book When Chocolate Isn’t Enough: An Inspirational Survival Guide for Moms (Worthy Inspired) earned “The Gold” for best devotional in the 2016 Illumination Awards. In October 2014, her book Encouraging Words for Mothers (Barbour) won the Award of Excellence for Nonfiction Books from CLASS Christian Writers Conference Book Contest. oks for celebrities, politicians, and some of today’s most effective and popular ministers. Michelle is also a much sought after teacher at writers conferences and universities around the nation. In fact, she has served as an adjunct professor at Taylor University twice and the University of Wisconsin, teaching “Writing for Children.” Find her work at http://www.michellemedlockadams.com
Sherry Sharp and her family are strong supporters of Alzheimer’s disease research. Mrs. Sharp’s late husband, Richard L. Sharp, founded the car dealership chain CarMax and V-Ten Capital Partners, served as CEO of Circuit City electronics and was chairman of the board of Crocs shoes. He passed away from posterior cortical atrophy, a rare form of Alzheimer’s disease, at age 65. In her husband’s honor, Mrs. Sharp has joined the board of Cure Alzheimer’s Fund to further our mission of preventing, slowing or reversing Alzheimer’s disease.
Sherry has devoted herself to improving the lives of others through education, children’s services, and medical research. In addition, she had devoted time to Christian Ministry and writing, including publishing Chicken Soup for the Soul, Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias Edition. Her story, Life Interrupted, was inspired by her experience as caregiver to her husband after he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Mrs. Sharp lives in Richmond, Virginia.
Having traveled along a journey of healing and redemption, Sherry’s greatest joy is the LORD. She leads women’s Bible studies, speaks at Christian retreats, and co-chairs a community James 1:27 Team (support group for those of us who care for elderly parents). Her wildlife photography from the South Carolina Lowcountry is featured at women’s prayer and healing services. She and her husband are blessed with three sons, two daughter-in-laws, and an adorable granddaughter.
Sherry’s first novel, The Christmas Bracelet, was published by WestBow Press. She also published an Easter drama, They Knew No Easter, by Lillenas.
Grandparents play a unique and profoundly influential role in the lives of grandchildren—second only to parents—yet they are one of the most underserved groups in the church. Today’s grandparents don’t consider themselves to be “seniors” in the traditional sense. They are generally healthier and more vital than any other generation of grandparents in history. 21st Century grandparents are just as likely to be rocking to their favorite tunes as they are to be rocking in their favorite chairs.
LEA ANN GARFIAS believes there is enough coffee in the world to make even dreadful Thursdays tolerable. As a ministry leader and homeschool writer, she helps ordinary moms realize their extraordinary influence. When she's not homeschooling her four children, directing her church choir, or performing the violin, she's passed out asleep. You'll find evidence of her existence at lagarfias.com.
In Rocking Ordinary, Lea Ann Garfias comes along-side you like a true friend and shows you how an ordinary life can be lived with extraordinary influence. A gifted teacher and storyteller, she meets you exactly where you are - in the everyday, messy, stressful, kids screaming, laundry piling, everyday life, and encourages you, loves you, and roots for you as you begin rocking your ordinary.
Jennifer O. White has a bachelor's degree in social work, with a minor in marketing, the spiritual gifts of mercy and shepherding, and a passion to help others know their worth despite their failings. She taught Sunday School classes, small groups, women's Bible studies in person and on-line, and currently teaches at JenniferOWhite.com about pursuing a relationship with God through prayer.
Jennifer is also the author Prayers for New Brides and you can discover more about her book here: http://www.jenniferowhite.com/books/new-book/
Mary Kaarto is a former journalist, an author, and a guest speaker. She is passionate about helping the elderly and the unemployed.
A timely message of hope and encouragement, her book HELP for the LAID OFF and HOPE for the LAID OFF- Devotionals helps the reader to accept the unacceptable. This book shows how to find sanity in a jobless reality and how to make it your job to find a job. It will also show the reader how to avoid falling into the classic pity party after a layoff.
Mary Kaarto covers subjects like money matters, fruitful blessings that can come from being laid off or even being fired, and encouragement for your future. She also teaches family members how to help their loved one who is laid off or fired, and concludes with a reality-based challenge, that if followed will be a blessing to the person who accepted the challenge and the loved one who is laid off or fired.
An encouraging word. A quiet compliment. A pat on the back. Tyrus Morgan believes these small gestures are important ripples in an ocean of eternal impact. We were created for more than just going through the motions, and for this Nashville-via-Kansas singer/songwriter and worship leader, it’s important to be reminded of that on a regular basis.
“There are earthly, tangible things through the Body of Christ that show us something greater than ourselves, something to believe in,” says Tyrus, a sought-after songwriter who co-penned “The Same God,” the poignant power-ballad which scored GRAMMY®-nominated NewSong their most recent Christian radio hit. “Life is more than just a ‘go to work, pay the mortgage, go home, go to bed’ type of thing, and it’s our job to build each other up in good times and in bad.”
As his family has grown, so also has Tyrus’ ministry around the country. Although he maintains a healthy calendar of concert dates each year, he’s able to prioritize time with his family and be actively involved with his home congregation. A worship leader at Wellspring Church in suburban Nashville, Tyrus is also part of an artist partnership program at Little Rock, Arkansas’ Fellowship Bible Church. The quarterly opportunity there is a mutually beneficial relationship: he gets to lead worship and share his heart, while in return they fill his cup with support, prayer and encouragement. Discover more about Tyrus at www.tyrusmorgan.com.
Kathy Collard Miller is a popular conference speaker and bestselling author. Her mixture of vulnerability, humor, and practical Bible teaching makes her highly effective in ministering to women. She is the author of forty-nine books and has appeared on the 700 Club and numerous radio and television programs. She has spoken in seven countries besides the United States. She lives in Southern California and has been married for 44 years to her high school sweetheart, Larry. They have two grown children and one grandchild.
Martin Wiles is an author, minister, English teacher, and freelance editor currently residing in Greenwood, South Carolina. He and his wife, Michelle, are founders and editors of Love Lines from God (www.lovelinesfromgod.com). Wiles has authored Grits & Grace & God, Morning By Morning, Morning Serenity, and Grace Greater Than Sin, Authentic Christianity, and is a contributing author in Penned from the Heart and Rise. He is a regular contributor to Christian Devotions—where he also serves as a Web/Editorial assistant—PCC Daily Devotions, and is a regular columnist for the Dorchester County Eagle Record. Wiles is also the editor of the “Tips for Healthy Living” page for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas.
Brooke Wayne has a desire to point parents to raise their children with a biblical worldview. Brook is a well-received author and conference speaker, as well as a full-time homeschooling mother. Together with her husband Israel Wayne they are raising their nine children and are founders of Family Renewal.
Israel Wayne is an author and conference speaker who has a passion for defending the Christian faith and promoting a Biblical worldview. The author of Homeschooling from a Biblical Worldview, Full-Time Parenting: A Guide to Family-Based Discipleship, Questions God Asks and Questions Jesus Asks.
Israel, and his wife Brook, are homeschooling their nine children in SW Michigan. Since 1995, Israel has traveled the nation speaking on family, homeschooling, revival, discipleship, and cultural issues.
He is a frequent guest on national radio and television programs. Israel has been featured in national and international publications including TIME Magazine, The Arizona Republic, WORLD Magazine and the Wall Street Journal. Israel has been featured as the keynote speaker at numerous conferences, some with over 5,000 in attendance.
Israel serves as the Director of Family Renewal, LLC and is the Site Editor for ChristianWorldview.net (a Christian apologetics site).
DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She combines unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels.
Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. Library Journal presented her with a Best Books 2014: Genre Fiction award in the Christian Fiction category for Firewall.
DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers; a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association; International Thriller Writers, and the Faith, Hope, and Love chapter of Romance Writers of America. She is co-director of The Author Roadmap with social media specialist Edie Melson where she continues her passion of helping other writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country.
DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.
DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms listed at www.diannmills.com.
Find your voice, live your story…is the foundation of Edie Melson’s message, no matter if she’s addressing parents, military families, readers of fiction or writers. As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. She’s penned numerous books, including While My Child is Away a book of prayers for when we’re apart.
As a leading professional within the publishing industry, she travels to numerous conferences as a popular keynote, writing instructor and mentor. Her top-ranked blog for writers, The Write Conversation, reaches thousands each month, and she’s the Director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.
In addition, as a respected expert in social media, Edie has the proven expertise to teach others how to plug in without sacrificing valuable writing time. Her bestselling eBook on this subject, has recently been updated, expanded and re-released as Connections: Social Media & NetworkingTechniques for Writers.
She’s the Director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, the Social Media Director for Southern Writers Magazine, and the Social Media Mentor for My Book Therapy. She’s a member of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, regular columnist for Guideposts.org, Just18Summers.com, and PuttingOnTheNew.com. She and her husband, Kirk, have been married 35 years and raised three sons. They live in the Upstate of South Caroline. Connect with her on Twitter and Facebook.
Mark wrote his first ten pages at the age of twelve, complete with diagrams of Indians, a stampede, and a prairie fire. More recently, he’s been writing historical fiction in an early medieval setting. He is the author of The Bonfires of Beltane, an epic novel of Christian historical fiction set in ancient, Celtic Ireland at the time of St. Patrick. He’s currently working on a sequel to that book and a fantasy novel.
He is also the co-editor of Tales From Calvary. From the congregation of his former church, he gathered there testimonies, poetry, short fiction, and non-fiction. You will find there four of Mark’s short stories.
He enjoys reading the classics, fantasy, and historical fiction. He is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and the Minnesota Christian Writer’s Guild. He is represented by the Leslie H. Stobbe Literary Agency.
When he’s not working for his church, Mark will probably be at his desk writing. Or walking his dog, Chloe, a miniature Australian shepherd who requires three miles a day to keep from driving her master crazy.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott chats with conference director, writer and Worship Leader LaTan Murphy.
La-Tan Murphy is founder of: Colors of His Love Women’s Conference since 2011. The heart of this ministry is to challenge women to reach every culture with the love of Christ. As an event speaker and vocalist, La-Tan finds encouraging others most important. Drawing from a wealth of life experiences as a wife, mother, and grandmother, she uses real-life experiences as her greatest sources for speaking and writing inspiration. La-Tan is an award-winning article writer. She is a regularly featured columnist for the nationally recognized WHOA Women’s Magazine. La-Tan’s books have been featured in Southern Writers Magazine in the 2014 January Edition, and the October 2014 edition as MUST READS. Her articles have been published on Girlfriends in God Devotional/Crosswalk.com, as well as Just 18 Summers and the American Daily Herald, Inspire a Fire. Her articles have been featured alongside Joyce Meyer, Lisa Osteen, Kim Alexis, Gretchen Carlson- Fox News and Megan Alexander – Inside Edition. Her book entitled: God’s Provision in Tough Times was a finalist for the 2014 Selah Award.
Over the last 11 years, Deanna Steinle has worked to bridge the gap between Event Planning, Marketing and Public Relations. Having worked in Marketing, Advertising, Public Relations, Conference Resorts, booking Talent for events and studying American Sign Language, Deanna took her passions and created Steinle Communications, LLC. Her focus is to assist in making your visions come to life by providing excellent resources, seamless execution and a place where no question is too small.
Deanna was brought up living the “Chameleon Lifestyle”, where she made it her goal to be easily adaptable, regardless of the situation or industry. By exposing herself to several different industries and hobbies, she knew mentoring and providing services for others was her dream that has now come to fruition as Steinle Communications, LLC. Deanna has a specialized concentration on businesses, organizations and individuals that are seeking someone in Marketing and Public Relations who understands Deaf Culture and is proficient in American Sign Language.
Deanna’s personable, reliable and passionate personality (P. R. P.) is the experience our customers receive that sets Steinle Communications above your expectations. Discover more about her at http://steinlecommunications.com.
Over the last 11 years, Deanna Steinle has worked to bridge the gap between Event Planning, Marketing and Public Relations. Having worked in Marketing, Advertising, Public Relations, Conference Resorts, booking Talent for events and studying American Sign Language, Deanna took her passions and created Steinle Communications, LLC. Her focus is to assist in making your visions come to life by providing excellent resources, seamless execution and a place where no question is too small.
Deanna was brought up living the “Chameleon Lifestyle”, where she made it her goal to be easily adaptable, regardless of the situation or industry. By exposing herself to several different industries and hobbies, she knew mentoring and providing services for others was her dream that has now come to fruition as Steinle Communications, LLC. Deanna has a specialized concentration on businesses, organizations and individuals that are seeking someone in Marketing and Public Relations who understands Deaf Culture and is proficient in American Sign Language.
Deanna’s personable, reliable and passionate personality (P. R. P.) is the experience our customers receive that sets Steinle Communications above your expectations. Discover more about her at http://steinlecommunications.com.
Angelika “Angie” Martin came to a personal relationship with Jesus at age seventeen and began writing out of necessity while studying drama and theater at a Christian college. A scarcity of published faith-based material inspired her to write short stories, skits, and scripts, which led to directing. The writing continued as she found herself surrounded by children while working as a community youth director at a military base in Germany and serving in other positions—Sunday school teacher, vacation Bible school teacher, YMCA summer camp director, and private Christian school teacher.
Drawn to the arts, Angie found writing allowed her to express herself creatively—whether a poem, song, skit, article, short story, devotion, lesson plan, or curriculum. Her most important life experience as mother and grandmother led to the challenge of finding a Christian alternative to the secular holiday sensation surrounding a magical Christmas elf. Her desire to see Operation Birthday Celebration in print also allowed her to try her hand at illustrating.
Serving as the women’s ministry coordinator at Colonial Heights Christian Church—leading Bible studies and organizing women’s events—keeps Angie in touch with the pulse of Christian women and mothers. As the center director for Hope House, a crisis pregnancy ministry in Kingsport, Tennessee, she is able to merge her vocation and passion: mentoring women and spurring them on to discover a higher calling by experiencing the power of God’s Word. Created in the image of the God, Angie believes we are all endowed with a sense of creativity. The work of God’s people should always outshine that of the secular world. Nothing excites her more than finding creative ways to share God's message!
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey talks about the church body with Pastor Rodney Coe.
Pastor Rodney Coe is the Founder/Managing Editor of Liftupyourday.com. He served for thirteen years in the U.S. Navy. Rodney has a Bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing/English from Southern New Hampshire University and also has a Bachelor and Master of Theology as well as two Doctorate degrees. Rodney has a Fellow Award with the Stephen Olford Institute of Biblical Preaching. He has written over 200 articles.
Pastor Rodney and his wife Brenda have four sons. His prayer is that he can encourage the Body of Christ. Discover more about him at www.liftupyourday.com.
If you know someone who would be a great guest on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! contact Scott@christiandevotions.us.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey shares the rise and fall of Big Idea Productions with Phil Vischer.
Author and filmmaker Phil Vischer has had a significant impact on American culture. His groundbreaking children’s series, VeggieTales, has sold more than 65 million copies, been featured in major magazines and newspapers and even spoofed by Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons. Phil created Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber as a 25 year-old Chicago-based computer animator, searching for ways to integrate his faith and his filmmaking. With the help of his wife, Lisa, his college buddy Mike Nawrocki, two art school grads and his church’s music director, Kurt Heinecke, Phil landed VeggieTales videos in a third of all American households with young children.
Since the bankruptcy of Big Idea Productions, Phil has produced What’s in the Bible? – a 13-part DVD series walking families all the way through from Genesis to Revelation, explaining the origins, meaning, and some of the “trickier bits” of the world’s most influential book. Phil is also a frequent radio guest on Family Life Radio, Focus on the Family, Moody Radio and others.
Phil’s story has also given him a speaking ministry, as he has crisscrossed the country speaking at conferences and colleges from coast to coast. From Pepperdine to Baylor to Liberty (and back again for return visits to many), Phil’s humor and heart have proven extremely popular with the same college kids that laughed at Bob and Larry when they were small.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey brings in Mark Antonacci to discuss the evidence of Jesus Christ.
Mark Antonacci is an attorney and author who has studied all aspects of the Shroud for the past thirty-four years. He wrote The Resurrection of the Shroud (New York: M. Evans and Co., 2000), the most comprehensive book ever written on the Shroud until his landmark book, Test the Shroud, was published in 2015.
Mark gave the keynote address at the international conference held in Italy in conjunction with the Shroud’s exhibition in 2010 in which he proposed that a new series of sophisticated, minimally-invasive tests be performed on the Shroud at the atomic and molecular levels of this famous burial cloth. He has written the leading scientific hypothesis that not only explains the Shroud’s body images, but also its radiocarbon dating, its excellent condition, its pristine human blood marks, their still-red coloration, the possible outer side imaging, coin features and flower images, skeletal features, and all of its other unique features.
Discover more about Mark and Test the Shroud at www.testtheshroudonline.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey brings in Dr. Charles Stanley.
Dr. Charles F. Stanley, Senior Pastor of the First Baptist Church of Atlanta and founder of In Touch Ministries, demonstrates a keen awareness of people's needs by providing practical biblical truths for everyday life. Modeling his ministry after the apostle Paul's message to the Ephesians, Dr. Stanley believes that: "Life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus–the work of telling others the Good News about God's mighty kindness and love" (Acts 20:24 TLB).
The goal of Dr. Charles Stanley is best represented by In Touch's mission statement: To lead people worldwide into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and to strengthen the local church. Dr. Stanley's heart's desire is to get the gospel to "as many people as possible, as quickly as possible, as clearly as possible, as irresistibly as possible, through the power of the Holy Spirit, to the glory of God." His book, Handle with Prayer, will be the focus of our interview. This is the second release of the book, which has already sold over a quarter million copies!
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey discusses the busy life of moms and dads in the homeschool world but also the importance of this.
Mike Dellosso is the author of eight novels of suspense, an adjunct professor of creative writing and popular conference teacher, a husband, and a father. When he’s not lost in a story or working or spending time with his family he enjoys reading and dabbling in pencil sketching. Mike has a master’s degree in theology and serves with his wife in their local church. He is also a colon cancer survivor and healthcare worker. Born in Baltimore, Mike now resides in southern Pennsylvania with his wife and four daughters.
His newest book in the Jed Patrick saga is called Kill Devil and can be found here: https://www.amazon.com/Kill-Devil-Jed-Patrick-Book-ebook/dp/B0198UC0DM?ie=UTF8&Version=1&entries=0
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey discusses the busy life of moms and the founding of Apologia Educational Ministries with Rachael Carman.
Rachael Carman had it going on—or so she thought. After surviving sixty-three months of pregnancy, countless sleepless nights, and 35,000+ diapers, this one-time control freak encountered God’s grace. And she encourages you to do the same.
In her books How Many Times Do I Have to Tell You? and How to Have a HEART for Your Kids, Rachael challenges mothers to surrender their will and draw closer to their heavenly Father. She invites moms to join her in loving God passionately and worshiping Him fully while sweeping up Cheerios, doing laundry, and planning dinner. You will be affirmed in your role as a mother as Rachael speaks of her struggles with perfectionism and impatience, and shares her challenges, failures, and victories amid the ever-changing seasons of life. Her honesty will surprise you, and her humor will put you at ease.
Rachael is not only a respected author but a sought-after speaker. She has spoken across the United States as well as in Europe, Asia, and Africa. She has been married to her husband, Davis, since 1986. Together, their life has been a roller-coaster ride, with God at the controls. They have seven kids with whom they love to laugh. Rachael enjoys playing in the dirt, eating dark chocolate, and walking on the beach. She and Davis are the owners of Apologia Educational Ministries.
Michelle Viscuse is passionate about inspiring women who have been sexually abused or violated to have courage, hope and freedom in Jesus Christ. She loves leading Bibles Studies and serving in women’s ministry. She lives in NC with her husband and three children, and they enjoy taking weekend adventures together! You can follow her blog at http://www.journeypink.com and connect with her on Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest @michelleviscuse.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey interviews kidney donor Lisa Hetzel and her cousin who was the recipient, Denise.
The song title from the musical Oklahoma rings true for Lisa Hetzel, “With Me, It’s All or Nothing.” As a recent kidney donor, she has emerged as a living kidney donor advocate. Lisa is a sought-after freelance writer and recently published her experience in a four-part series, The Journey of Organ Donation, in the Rockdale News.
Recognized by the Georgia Press Association Better Newspaper Contest for her columns in the religion and serious sections, Hetzel is dedicated to educating others about the need for living kidney donation. Her devotionals have appeared in My Mother, My Strength, and Penned from the Heart. Her column, As For Me and My House, in the Rockdale News, chronicled lessons in how to survive as a single mom with a lot of prayer and a little bit of humor.
Currently, she juggles her duties as mother of a teenager, director of the East Metro Atlanta Christian Writers, and Science lab teacher at Barksdale Elementary School in Conyers, Georgia.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey brings on Patricia Lefler to tell her powerful testimony as well as her unique ministry called Junkyard Revival.
Patricia is a graduate from the School of Natural Resources at NC State University. She resides in Kingsport, TN where she owns her own landscape management business called Junkyard Revival. She coordinates a woman's event every October by the same name. The Junkyard Revival Ministry sponsors outreach programs throughout the year for marginalized women in the community. Patricia believes the written word is an important tool to be used in the communication process of running a business or ministry. She has a strong desire to expand upon her skills as a writer. Contact her at leflerpatricia@gmail.com.
If you know someone who would be a great guest on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! contact Scott@christiandevotions.us.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey discusses fulfilling the purpose God gives with David Brannock.
David Brannock is a clear speaker and author who loves using analogies and teaching new perspectives. A Wofford College graduate, David has an MBA from the University of South Carolina and an MDiv from Duke University.
David previously worked as a CPA, instructor, and pastor. His latest book, Choose: Fulfill Your Created Purpose, derives from these areas of his own life, in hopes that others can benefit. He grew up on the South Carolina coast and now lives in the mountains of East Tennessee with his family. Visit him at www.DavidBrannock.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey discusses fulfilling the purpose God gives with David Brannock.
David Brannock is a clear speaker and author who loves using analogies and teaching new perspectives. A Wofford College graduate, David has an MBA from the University of South Carolina and an MDiv from Duke University.
David previously worked as a CPA, instructor, and pastor. His latest book, Choose: Fulfill Your Created Purpose, derives from these areas of his own life, in hopes that others can benefit. He grew up on the South Carolina coast and now lives in the mountains of East Tennessee with his family. Visit him at www.DavidBrannock.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey brings Linda Gilden to the show.
Linda Gilden is an experienced writer, speaker, editor, writing coach, and Certified Personality Trainer. Author of the popular Love Notes series, she is also the author of Mommy Pick-Me-Ups, Mama Was the Queen of Christmas, Personality Perspectives – Clues to Building Better Relationships, Called to Write, and many ghostwritten books. Her latest book is called, Why You Do What You Do - Your Personality is the Key. With over a thousand magazine articles to her credit, she is a prolific writer who loves to share a great story. She speaks nationally many times throughout the year, is a frequent radio and television guest, and welcomes the opportunity to help others become better communicators. She is also the director of the Carolina Christian Writers Conference.
If you know someone who would be a great guest on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! contact Scott@christiandevotions.us.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey brings Linda Gilden to the show.
Linda Gilden is an experienced writer, speaker, editor, writing coach, and Certified Personality Trainer. Author of the popular Love Notes series, she is also the author of Mommy Pick-Me-Ups, Mama Was the Queen of Christmas, Personality Perspectives – Clues to Building Better Relationships, Called to Write, and many ghostwritten books. Her latest book is called, Why You Do What You Do - Your Personality is the Key. With over a thousand magazine articles to her credit, she is a prolific writer who loves to share a great story. She speaks nationally many times throughout the year, is a frequent radio and television guest, and welcomes the opportunity to help others become better communicators. She is also the director of the Carolina Christian Writers Conference.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey discusses overcoming the most difficult obstacles with author of Life Without Limbs, Nick Vujicic.
Imagine being born without arms. No arms to wrap around a friend; no hands to hold the ones you love; no fingers to experience touch; no way to lift or carry things. How much more difficult would life be if you were living without arms and hands? Or what about legs? Imagine if instead of no arms, you had no legs. No ability to dance, walk, run, or even stand. Now put both of those scenarios together… no arms and no legs. What would you do? How would that affect your everyday life?
Meet Nick Vujicic, pronounced “Vooy-cheech.” Born in 1982 in Brisbane, Australia, without any medical explanation or warning, Nicholas Vujicic came into the world with neither arms nor legs. Now at 33 years of age, this limbless young man has accomplished more than most people accomplish in a lifetime. Nick recently made the massive move from Brisbane, Australia to California where he is the president of the international 501c3 non-profit organization, Life Without Limbs. Since his first speaking engagement back when he was 19, Nick has traveled around the world, sharing his story with millions of people, speaking to a range of different groups such as students, teachers, youth, businessmen and women, entrepreneurs, and church congregations of all sizes. He has also told his story and been interviewed on various televised programs worldwide. “If God can use a man without arms and legs to be His hands and feet, then He will certainly use any willing heart!”
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey interviews Fox News Reporter Todd Starnes.
Todd Starnes is heard daily on hundreds of radio stations around the nation. He also writes a column and hosts a digital show for FoxNews.com. Todd also makes regular appearances on Fox News Channel and Fox Business Network. He is the author of four books and is a frequent speaker. Todd's journalism has been honored by the Associated Press, the Radio, Television News Director's Association, and the National Religious Broadcasters.
Discover more about Todd and get all his books at www.toddstarnes.com.
If you know someone who would be a great guest on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! contact Scott@christiandevotions.us.
Eric and Leslie Ludy are bestselling authors and speakers who have published twenty-one books with well over a million copies in print and with translations into over a dozen languages around the world. Their widely known classic When God Writes Your Love Story remains one of the top-selling Christian relationship books of all time.
Over the past twenty years, Eric and Leslie have shared their message around the country, overseas, and on virtually every conceivable Christian media platform. As a strong voice in the Church today, the Ludys’ poignant books and powerful messages present a clarion call to a return to triumphant, Bible-centered, Christ-empowered Christianity. Their highly-regarded books include Wrestling Prayer, The Bravehearted Gospel, and Set Apart Femininity.
Eric serves as the president of Ellerslie Mission Society and the senior pastor of the Church at Ellerslie, as well as the lead instructor at Ellerslie Training—an internationally known discipleship training center that equips men and women of all ages to become world-changers for Christ. Eric’s sermons are heard by thousands of listeners around the world each week, and his short films such as The Gospel and Depraved Indifference have impacted millions.
Leslie is the director of Set Apart Girl and Set Apart Motherhood, which equip women around the world in Christ-centered femininity. Her annual Set Apart Girl conference reaches over 10,000 women each year who attend in person or via simulcast around the world. Leslie’s latest books are Set Apart Motherhood and The Set Apart Woman.
Eric and his wife Leslie have a passion for adoption and orphan advocacy, and have adopted four of their six children. The Ludy family lives in Windsor, Colorado. Visit www.ellerslie.com, www.setapartgirl.com, and www.setapartmotherhood.com to learn more about Eric and Leslie.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey shares Tammy Blackburn’s children book.
Tammy Blackburn is a children’s pastor, writer, speaker, and counselor. She has degrees in Early Childhood Development and Psychology. Her passions are writing, reading, teaching, and spending time with family, especially her grandchildren. Having raised three children of her own and teaching for nearly thirty years, Tammy has been asked questions of all kinds. She feels it is important to take the time to answer some of the most important ones through her writing. She has also experienced great loss and brokenness. She shares her journey to wholeness and victory through her writing and speaking. It is Tammy’s desire to make known to the next generation the mighty love and deeds of her heavenly Father.
Her latest book is called How Do I know? It can be purchased here: http://www.amazon.com/How-Do-Know-Tammy-Blackburn/dp/1938092783
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey shares Tammy Blackburn’s children book.
Tammy Blackburn is a children’s pastor, writer, speaker, and counselor. She has degrees in Early Childhood Development and Psychology. Her passions are writing, reading, teaching, and spending time with family, especially her grandchildren. Having raised three children of her own and teaching for nearly thirty years, Tammy has been asked questions of all kinds. She feels it is important to take the time to answer some of the most important ones through her writing. She has also experienced great loss and brokenness. She shares her journey to wholeness and victory through her writing and speaking. It is Tammy’s desire to make known to the next generation the mighty love and deeds of her heavenly Father.
Her latest book is called How Do I know? It can be purchased here: http://www.amazon.com/How-Do-Know-Tammy-Blackburn/dp/1938092783
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey talks to Natasha Owens about how God helped her during the tragic loss of her father.
Natasha Owens strives to perform songs of restoration that can help each listener through whatever trial they are facing, to let them know they are not alone—that there is a God who loves them and will never leave them. Her prayer is that when people listen to her songs, they feel God’s perfect peace, love, and comfort through the words, knowing with God’s help, they can make it through.
Just four years ago, Natasha’s father died tragically and unexpectedly, sending Natasha into a dark world of grief. An invitation to serve as a music minister in her church was the beginning of her healing and led to the genesis of her first album, I Made it Through. Primarily an album of restoration songs, it soon caught the attention of music industry heavyweights, leading to performance opportunities with Michael W. Smith, Jason Crabb, Sanctus Real, plus multiple award-winning producer, Ed Cash, who decided to jump on board for Natasha’s sophomore record, releasing Spring 2015. Aptly titled We Will Rise, it is a continuation of a journey of healing—from surviving to thriving. “The project took on a very clear direction,” she says. “I knew I had made it through, but it was time for more. It was just a stepping-stone."
Learn more about Natasha and her music during her interview on Speak UP, but also at her website: http://natashaowensmusic.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey talks to Natasha Owens about how God helped her during the tragic loss of her father.
Natasha Owens strives to perform songs of restoration that can help each listener through whatever trial they are facing, to let them know they are not alone—that there is a God who loves them and will never leave them. Her prayer is that when people listen to her songs, they feel God’s perfect peace, love, and comfort through the words, knowing with God’s help, they can make it through.
Just four years ago, Natasha’s father died tragically and unexpectedly, sending Natasha into a dark world of grief. An invitation to serve as a music minister in her church was the beginning of her healing and led to the genesis of her first album, I Made it Through. Primarily an album of restoration songs, it soon caught the attention of music industry heavyweights, leading to performance opportunities with Michael W. Smith, Jason Crabb, Sanctus Real, plus multiple award-winning producer, Ed Cash, who decided to jump on board for Natasha’s sophomore record, releasing Spring 2015. Aptly titled We Will Rise, it is a continuation of a journey of healing—from surviving to thriving. “The project took on a very clear direction,” she says. “I knew I had made it through, but it was time for more. It was just a stepping-stone. Rising above is the true message.”
Learn more about Natasha and her music during her interview on Speak UP, but also at her website: http://natashaowensmusic.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott discusses overcoming trials with former NFL running back Samkon Gado.
Samkon Gado was born in Kufai, Taraba State, Nigeria. He moved to the United States with his family when he was nine years old. Samkon overcame many obstacles in his life—family turmoil, school bullying, and injuries—before football became the outlet in which he excelled.
The “Nigerian Nightmare” set high school records for rushing yards, prompting scholarship offers to attend Liberty College. He found his place on the team, amassing touchdowns which caught the eye of NFL scouts. Gado signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2005. Hampered by injuries and a full roster of players at his position, he was cut and quickly picked up by the Green Bay Packers. Samkon made the most of this opportunity and posted impressive statistics in his rookie campaign. But once again, the injury bug struck and he spent the next five years bouncing from team to team before retiring after the 2010 season.
Samkon went back to school at the Medical University of South Carolina where he works toward becoming an ENT (ear/nose/throat) specialist.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott chats about choosing life in Christ as well as post-abortion healing with Sydna Masse of Ramah International.
Ramah International, Inc. was founded by Sydna A. Masse, a post-abortive woman who experienced God’s healing touch eleven years after her abortion through a crisis pregnancy center’s ministry program. Upon hearing a recent statistic from the research arm of Planned Parenthood, the largest abortion provider in the world that “… 43% of women will experience abortion at least once by the age of 45 years,” she began efforts to minister directly to these hearts.
Previous to her work through Ramah, Sydna served Dr. James C. Dobson as the Manager of Focus on the Family’s Crisis Pregnancy Ministry. Through her seven years directing that ministry, she saw first-hand the limited resources available to mothers, fathers, grandparents, and siblings touched by an abortion decision. Her first effort to reach these hearts is available through her book — Her Choice to Heal: Finding Spiritual and Emotional Peace After Abortion, which is currently available from the resources area of this website and in most Christian bookstores.
If you have suffered from a past abortion decision, or know someone dealing with this pain, help is available. Contact Ramah International for more information at 479-445-6070.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott chats about choosing life in Christ as well as post-abortion healing with Sydna Masse of Ramah International.
Ramah International, Inc. was founded by Sydna A. Masse, a post-abortive woman who experienced God’s healing touch eleven years after her abortion through a crisis pregnancy center’s ministry program. Upon hearing a recent statistic from the research arm of Planned Parenthood, the largest abortion provider in the world that “… 43% of women will experience abortion at least once by the age of 45 years,” she began efforts to minister directly to these hearts.
Previous to her work through Ramah, Sydna served Dr. James C. Dobson as the Manager of Focus on the Family’s Crisis Pregnancy Ministry. Through her seven years directing that ministry, she saw first-hand the limited resources available to mothers, fathers, grandparents, and siblings touched by an abortion decision. Her first effort to reach these hearts is available through her book — Her Choice to Heal: Finding Spiritual and Emotional Peace After Abortion, which is currently available from the resources area of this website and in most Christian bookstores.
If you have suffered from a past abortion decision, or know someone dealing with this pain, help is available. Contact Ramah International for more information at 479-445-6070.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as laughter and an encouraging testimony take center stage as Scott interviews Torry Martin.
Although Martin has a long list of accomplishments as an actor, author, storyteller, and a stand-up comedian, he prefers to use his gifts for laughter, writing, and entertaining to bring serious messages to audiences through the softening blows of humor. After telling a typical “Torry Story” revolving around his own blundering and misfortune, Martin pulls in the spiritual lesson in a sometimes subtle way. “If I can keep them laughing while they’re learning, it doesn’t hurt their brains as much.”
Martin was a stand-up comic and actor in Los Angeles before he became a Christian. After finding the Lord, Martin moved to Alaska and lived in a remote cabin with a friend who was studying for ministry. He gave up acting and comedy for two years and studied the Bible while becoming grounded in his faith. After being encouraged by some friends at his church, Torry began writing comedy sketches which he entered into the national competition sponsored by the Gospel Music Association called Christian Artists, now called Seminar in the Rockies. He won the grand prize two years in a row and now returns annually as an instructor. Martin has written for Adventures in Odyssey, a children’s radio series produced by Focus on the Family. For this self-proclaimed “hippie-for-the-Holy-One,” the melding of talent and faith has also resulted in the release of several books, including Under the Circumstances, and What a Character. Both are collections of comedy sketches about Christian life.
Bob Hostetler is an award-winning writer, editor, pastor, and speaker from southwestern Ohio. His thirty books, which include The Bone Box and American Idols (The Worship of the American Dream), have sold millions of copies. He has co-authored eleven books with Josh McDowell, including the best-selling Right from Wrong (What You Need to Know to Help Youth Make Right Choices), and the award-winning Don't Check Your Brains at the Door. He has won two Gold Medallion Awards, four Ohio Associated Press awards, and an Amy Foundation Award, among others. Bob is a frequent speaker at churches, conferences, and retreats.
Bob was ordained to the ministry in 1980 by The Salvation Army. He and his wife, the lovely Robin, served in The Salvation Army from 1980-1992. In addition to his training for ministry with The Salvation Army, he earned degrees in English Bible from Cincinnati Christian University and English Communications from Bloomfield College.
In 2000, Bob (with his wife) helped to co-found Cobblestone Community Church in Oxford, Ohio. He has served that church in leadership and teaching pastor roles. He has been a disc jockey, pastor, magazine editor, freelance book editor, and (with his wife Robin) a foster parent to ten boys (though not all at once). Bob and Robin have two adult children, Aubrey and Aaron, son-in-law Kevin and daughter-in-law Nina, and grandchildren Miles, Mia, Calleigh, and Ryder. They live in Hamilton, Ohio.
Bob Hostetler is an award-winning writer, editor, pastor, and speaker from southwestern Ohio. His thirty books, which include The Bone Box and American Idols (The Worship of the American Dream), have sold millions of copies. He has co-authored eleven books with Josh McDowell, including the best-selling Right from Wrong (What You Need to Know to Help Youth Make Right Choices), and the award-winning Don't Check Your Brains at the Door. He has won two Gold Medallion Awards, four Ohio Associated Press awards, and an Amy Foundation Award, among others. Bob is a frequent speaker at churches, conferences, and retreats.
Bob was ordained to the ministry in 1980 by The Salvation Army. He and his wife, the lovely Robin, served in The Salvation Army from 1980-1992. In addition to his training for ministry with The Salvation Army, he earned degrees in English Bible from Cincinnati Christian University and English Communications from Bloomfield College.
In 2000, Bob (with his wife) helped to co-found Cobblestone Community Church in Oxford, Ohio. He has served that church in leadership and teaching pastor roles. He has been a disc jockey, pastor, magazine editor, freelance book editor, and (with his wife Robin) a foster parent to ten boys (though not all at once). Bob and Robin have two adult children, Aubrey and Aaron, son-in-law Kevin and daughter-in-law Nina, and grandchildren Miles, Mia, Calleigh, and Ryder. They live in Hamilton, Ohio.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott discusses how to better understand dementia with author Carol Howell.
Carol Howell is a Certified Dementia Specialist and Endorsed Life Coach with an emphasis on Music Therapy. After her husband's brain injury in 1992 and her mother's diagnosis of Alzheimer's in 2006, Carol felt the need to learn about the brain. As her knowledge increased, she became more intrigued and determined to become an equipped and prepared caregiver. Her company, Senior Life Journeys, was born from this desire to learn and help others.
Carol is the author of If My Body Is A Temple, Why Am I Eating Doughnuts? It tells of the amazing miracle that helped her lose 100 pounds. The book is written with the humor and sincerity Carol is known to display in her own life.
Carol also authored Let’s Talk Dementia - A Caregiver's Guide. This easy-to-read book is full of helpful tips for caregiving, information about dementia, and 23 SMILES that will brighten your day.
Carol resides in South Carolina with her husband, Michael, and they are the proud parents of a daughter who is a physician assistant in Florida. Discover more about her life at www.seniorlifejourneys.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott discusses how to better understand dementia with author Carol Howell.
Carol Howell is a Certified Dementia Specialist and Endorsed Life Coach with an emphasis on Music Therapy. After her husband's brain injury in 1992 and her mother's diagnosis of Alzheimer's in 2006, Carol felt the need to learn about the brain. As her knowledge increased, she became more intrigued and determined to become an equipped and prepared caregiver. Her company, Senior Life Journeys, was born from this desire to learn and help others.
Carol is the author of If My Body Is A Temple, Why Am I Eating Doughnuts? It tells of the amazing miracle that helped her lose 100 pounds. The book is written with the humor and sincerity Carol is known to display in her own life.
Carol also authored Let’s Talk Dementia - A Caregiver's Guide. This easy-to-read book is full of helpful tips for caregiving, information about dementia, and 23 SMILES that will brighten your day.
Carol resides in South Carolina with her husband, Michael, and they are the proud parents of a daughter who is a physician assistant in Florida. Discover more about her life at www.seniorlifejourneys.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott chats about music, moms, and families with Cheri Keaggy.
Beginning as a worship leader at a small church in Southern California, veteran CCM artist Cheri Keaggy has ministered through music and testimony for over twenty years. Her debut album, Child of the Father, released to rave reviews in 1994, earning her a Dove Award nomination for New Artist of the Year. Nine albums, nine number one songs, three Dove Award nominations, and a Dove Award win later, Keaggy continues to be a mainstay on adult contemporary and inspirational radio, while congregations the world over sing her songs, including “There is Joy in the Lord” and “In Remembrance of Me,” during church services. Songs she wrote for her children have emerged as favorites at women’s events through the years (MOPS, Hearts at Home, Proverbs 31 Ministries, Family Life Ministries).
Often with her Bible and journal close at hand, Keaggy takes a teachable approach to life as she shares her experiences through various avenues: speaking, singing, songwriting, blogging, and one-on-one encounters on the road. With a heart of compassion toward others, she has partnered with organizations such as Food for the Hungry, Lifesong for Orphans, and the Nashville Rescue Mission.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott chats about music, moms, and families with Cheri Keaggy.
Beginning as a worship leader at a small church in Southern California, veteran CCM artist Cheri Keaggy has ministered through music and testimony for over twenty years. Her debut album, Child of the Father, released to rave reviews in 1994, earning her a Dove Award nomination for New Artist of the Year. Nine albums, nine number one songs, three Dove Award nominations, and a Dove Award win later, Keaggy continues to be a mainstay on adult contemporary and inspirational radio, while congregations the world over sing her songs, including “There is Joy in the Lord” and “In Remembrance of Me,” during church services. Songs she wrote for her children have emerged as favorites at women’s events through the years (MOPS, Hearts at Home, Proverbs 31 Ministries, Family Life Ministries).
Often with her Bible and journal close at hand, Keaggy takes a teachable approach to life as she shares her experiences through various avenues: speaking, singing, songwriting, blogging, and one-on-one encounters on the road. With a heart of compassion toward others, she has partnered with organizations such as Food for the Hungry, Lifesong for Orphans, and the Nashville Rescue Mission.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott talks about home education and how the Henn family imported this way of life.
Jennifer Henn surpassed her own childhood learning struggles and has homeschooled for fifteen years. She has a unique perspective on how others can educate their kids while learning themselves amidst the chaos of life and shortness of energy.
At one point, Jennifer’s health required her to stop homeschooling. During a three-year period, her children were schooled by other moms, along with attending public and some private schools. Although her three children made the honor roll, they wanted to return to homeschooling.
Many parents search for a perfect school that doesn’t exist and many don’t consider the benefits of their own abode. Jennifer desires to shed light to this option. She teaches how to find a balance between rigid schooling and lazy schooling to create a successful environment.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott talks about home education and how the Henn family imported this way of life.
Jennifer Henn surpassed her own childhood learning struggles and has homeschooled for fifteen years. She has a unique perspective on how others can educate their kids while learning themselves amidst the chaos of life and shortness of energy.
At one point, Jennifer’s health required her to stop homeschooling. During a three-year period, her children were schooled by other moms, along with attending public and some private schools. Although her three children made the honor roll, they wanted to return to homeschooling.
Many parents search for a perfect school that doesn’t exist and many don’t consider the benefits of their own abode. Jennifer desires to shed light to this option. She teaches how to find a balance between rigid schooling and lazy schooling to create a successful environment.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott interviews Pastor Steve Reynolds.
Steve Reynolds, America’s “Anti-Fat Pastor,” has served as the senior pastor of Capital Baptist Church in suburban Washington, DC, since 1982. He is the author of Bod4God and the creator of the Losing to Live weight loss competition. His story of dramatic weight loss and the way he did it has been featured on local, national, and international media, including The View and Saturday Night Live. Steve is a graduate of Liberty University and Theological Seminary.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott interviews Pastor Steve Reynolds.
Steve Reynolds, America’s “Anti-Fat Pastor,” has served as the senior pastor of Capital Baptist Church in suburban Washington, DC, since 1982. He is the author of Bod4God and the creator of the Losing to Live weight loss competition. His story of dramatic weight loss and the way he did it has been featured on local, national, and international media, including The View and Saturday Night Live. Steve is a graduate of Liberty University and Theological Seminary.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when the best clips of the year are ready for you to enjoy.
On this episode of Speak UP, clips will feature Theology Mix authors, Beth Saadati, Nan Jones, Bob Hostetler, Israel Wayne, Creation Museums Doug Henderson and Ken Ham, Eric Hovind, Jenny Reese Clark, Jim Sonefeld of Hootie and the Blowfish, Best Selling Author Mike Dellosso, Actor Nathan Clarkson, Washington Redskins QB Kirk Cousins, Green Bay Packer Noah Herron, Los Angeles Angel Terry Evans, Alice Wisler, Venita McCart and many more! You’ll laugh, be encouraged, and—I pray—share the link and become a regular listener for 2016.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott shares some of the best clips from the last six years of Speak UP male vocalists along with their great music.
This episode shares interviews from 2011 with renowned artists like John Schlitt from Petra, Michael Card, and Bebe Winans. It also imparts storytelling artists such as Andrew Peterson and Jason Gray, and highlights new artists you hear on the radio dial daily like Jonny Diaz, Jordan Feliz, Jason Lovins, Matt Pappa, and many more! Enjoy music, great interview clips, and a Merry Christmas from Christian Devotions founders Eddie Jones and Cindy Sproles.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott is joined by a powerful inspirational speaker and a woman with a heart for family ministries, Megan Marshman.
Megan Fate Marshman is the Director of Student Resources and Production for David C. Cook. She delights in sharing the gospel and empowering others to do the same. With a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Azusa Pacific University, Megan reaches national audiences with her knack for weaving extraordinary adventure into everyday story lines. Megan speaks nationally at churches, conferences, and university chapels. She currently serves as Director of Women’s Ministries at Hume Lake Christian Camps where she rediscovered her childhood love for telling stories—specifically sharing the best story of all: the gospel. Megan and her husband, Randy, live in Long Beach, California. She recently co-authored the book 7 Family Ministry Essentials: A Strategy for Culture Change in Children’s and Student Ministries.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott is joined by a powerful inspirational speaker and a woman with a heart for family ministries, Megan Marshman.
Megan Fate Marshman is the Director of Student Resources and Production for David C. Cook. She delights in sharing the gospel and empowering others to do the same. With a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Azusa Pacific University, Megan reaches national audiences with her knack for weaving extraordinary adventure into everyday story lines. Megan speaks nationally at churches, conferences, and university chapels. She currently serves as Director of Women’s Ministries at Hume Lake Christian Camps where she rediscovered her childhood love for telling stories—specifically sharing the best story of all: the gospel. Megan and her husband, Randy, live in Long Beach, California. She recently co-authored the book 7 Family Ministry Essentials: A Strategy for Culture Change in Children’s and Student Ministries.
Jaime Jamgochian hails from Boston, MA, and accepted Christ while attending college at Berklee College of Music, before moving to Seattle, WA, to serve as a worship leader at one of the area churches. It was during this time that Jamgochian moved to Nashville and became the anchor artist for Centricity Music. She released four projects and had several hit singles, including the 12-week No. 1 song “Hear My Worship.” She was with the label for 10 years before striking out on her own as an independent artist. Jamgochian has led worship at churches around the world and has shared the stage with such Christian mainstays as Point Of Grace, Mark Schultz, Francesca Battistelli, and Jason Gray. Jamgochian has become known for performances and support for women’s events, including her own ministry for young girls “Modest Is Hottest.” Jamgochian resides in the Nashville area.
Tyrus Morgan is a Kansas native who had a passion for playing baseball while in high school, but once he inherited his grandfather’s guitar there was no turning back from music. He started playing in local bands while in college and it was after graduation that Morgan made his way to Nashville. He started out the same way several artists and songwriters do in Music City, by holding down two jobs: his day gig of advertising that paid the bills and his passion at night of songwriting. Heeding his faith calling, Morgan began his full-time music ministry 18 months after moving to Nashville, which eventually led to signing with Curb Records and releasing his first radio hit, “Song to the Savior.” Morgan has also written hit singles for other artists that include “Good Fight” by Unspoken and Newsong’s “The Same God.” Morgan is married with two daughters and a son.
Jaime Jamgochian and Tyrus Morgan team up to release a 6-song EP, Christmastime.
Jaime Jamgochian hails from Boston, MA, and accepted Christ while attending college at Berklee College of Music, before moving to Seattle, WA, to serve as a worship leader at one of the area churches. It was during this time that Jamgochian moved to Nashville and became the anchor artist for Centricity Music. She released four projects and had several hit singles, including the 12-week No. 1 song “Hear My Worship.” She was with the label for 10 years before striking out on her own as an independent artist. Jamgochian has led worship at churches around the world and has shared the stage with such Christian mainstays as Point Of Grace, Mark Schultz, Francesca Battistelli, and Jason Gray. Jamgochian has become known for performances and support for women’s events, including her own ministry for young girls “Modest Is Hottest.” Jamgochian resides in the Nashville area.
Tyrus Morgan is a Kansas native who had a passion for playing baseball while in high school, but once he inherited his grandfather’s guitar there was no turning back from music. He started playing in local bands while in college and it was after graduation that Morgan made his way to Nashville. He started out the same way several artists and songwriters do in Music City, by holding down two jobs: his day gig of advertising that paid the bills and his passion at night of songwriting. Heeding his faith calling, Morgan began his full-time music ministry 18 months after moving to Nashville, which eventually led to signing with Curb Records and releasing his first radio hit, “Song to the Savior.” Morgan has also written hit singles for other artists that include “Good Fight” by Unspoken and Newsong’s “The Same God.” Morgan is married with two daughters and a son.
Jaime Jamgochian and Tyrus Morgan team up to release a 6-song EP, Christmastime.
Duck Dynasty star Tim Guraedy is best known to the show’s millions of hard-core fans as “Mountain Man,” the slow-talking air-conditioning repairman/radio host who is a neighbor to the Robertsons, the Louisiana family that made a fortune from its best-selling duck calls, around which the show is based. Mountain Man is the only semi-regular cast member who is not a Robertson family member or employee of Duck Commander. Now in its eighth season, Duck Dynasty has become A&E’s most-watched series in the network’s history.
While he was born in Louisiana, Guraedy moved around a bit in his youth, spending time in Minnesota, Tennessee, and Indiana. But the lure of the Bayou State was too strong, and Guraedy returned to Louisiana, which has been his home for the past twenty-five years. He lives in Monroe, LA, the small town made famous by Duck Dynasty and Duck Commander. Guraedy’s weekly radio show on local station Z107.5, Big Z Country, has become popular all over the globe, with people tuning in via the Internet to hear Mountain Man’s delightful mix of common sense, sports, music—and usually a Bible verse or two. To know Mountain Man is to know a man whose Christian faith is a big part of who he is. “Life’s not easy, but I have God in my life and it’s so much better. So much better,” he has said. “I love being able to actually go to schools and give speeches about bullying, drugs, and abstinence. It makes my soul feel good.” Guraedy is also an avid outdoorsman who enjoys both fresh and salt water fishing, as well as hunting everything from wild boar to, well, ducks, of course.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott shares the trek to a number one Christian song with new artist Jordan Feliz.
What artist launched his career as a hard-touring, heavy-metal singer, then switched gears to become a church worship leader before finally signing a Nashville record deal and making his mark as a songwriter and soulful R&B-groove-pop artist? Well, if the question comes up someday, you’ll already know the answer: Jordan Feliz.
Fronting the West Coast buzz band A Current Affair gave Jordan’s powerful vocals some major exposure right out of high school. The band performed on the Warped Tour and other high profile gigs before dissolving. But heavy metal was never Jordan’s passion; it was just a fun experience with his friends to grow musically.
After his move from California to Nashville, Jordan was invited to participate in an unsigned artists retreat hosted by Centricity Music. It was the combination of Jordan’s nuanced vocal abilities, the freshness of his retro-influenced melodies and songwriting, and his warm, enthusiastic personality that spurred label execs to take a closer look and ultimately sign him.
Jordan’s debut project, Beloved, brings the rich influence of 70’s sensibilities into a modern pop context. Intentionally constructing uncluttered tracks free of production tricks and excessive instrumentation, Jordan focused on arrangements that were designed to give the vocals center stage. The songs on the Beloved 10 song album are soul-influenced pop numbers, and the instruments present are articulate in their voicings and melodies, saying only as much as they need to. The song, “The River,” quickly skyrocketed the Christian Billboard charts to #1 and is still in the top ten today.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott brings in modern-day Bible commentator David Guzik.
David Guzik is a pastor, Bible teacher, and author of a widely-used Bible commentary. Millions of people use David’s online Bible commentary on sites such as Enduring Word, Blue Letter Bible, Study Light, and Bible Hub.
Many of David’s commentaries are also available in print and can be purchased from Enduring Word, from Amazon, and from many Christian bookstores. Some are available in Kindle format and may be purchase from Amazon. Enduring Word, the daily radio program of Calvary Chapel Santa Barbara, can be heard on many stations across the country, and on the Internet.
David also teaches at Generation Bible College, the ministry of Calvary Chapel Santa Barbara. He has been in Christian service for more than thirty years, including two church plants and more than seven years as a missionary in Germany as director and teacher for an international school (Calvary Chapel Bible College Germany). David has no formal Bible college or seminary training, but does have a Bachelors of Arts degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
David has been married to Inga-Lill for more than thirty years, and they have three adult children.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott brings in modern-day Bible commentator David Guzik.
David Guzik is a pastor, Bible teacher, and author of a widely-used Bible commentary. Millions of people use David’s online Bible commentary on sites such as Enduring Word, Blue Letter Bible, Study Light, and Bible Hub.
Many of David’s commentaries are also available in print and can be purchased from Enduring Word, from Amazon, and from many Christian bookstores. Some are available in Kindle format and may be purchase from Amazon. Enduring Word, the daily radio program of Calvary Chapel Santa Barbara, can be heard on many stations across the country, and on the Internet.
David also teaches at Generation Bible College, the ministry of Calvary Chapel Santa Barbara. He has been in Christian service for more than thirty years, including two church plants and more than seven years as a missionary in Germany as director and teacher for an international school (Calvary Chapel Bible College Germany). David has no formal Bible college or seminary training, but does have a Bachelors of Arts degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
David has been married to Inga-Lill for more than thirty years, and they have three adult children.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott shares the Salvation Army work and writing passions of Michele McKnight Baker.
Michele McKnight Baker’s commercially published nonfiction book (Sandpaper Sisters: Addicts Turned Community Builders, Miracles Do Happen!) drew endorsements by Alma (Mrs. Colin) Powell, Tony Campolo (best-selling author on social justice issues), and Mary Pipher (author of Raising Ophelia). Recently, Michele has won awards in the Salvation Army’s national writers’ contest in both nonfiction and fiction, an excerpt from Soldier’s Heart garnering the fiction prize. Writing has always figured in Michele’s career, beginning as a journalist. No, earlier than that: as a fidgety grade schooler, shortest and second oldest in her class. She’s enjoyed building a successful marketing and business performance consulting firm, while earning a Ph.D. (Union Institute and University; undergraduate: Smith College) and teaching masters and undergraduate business courses. She considers it a privilege to currently serve as Director of Advancement for The Salvation Army, York, PA. Whether for business or general audiences, nonfiction or fiction, her writing is about giving voice to compelling stories, and to characters that haunt her until she has no choice but to listen, and scribe.
She is married to Frank, who has probably taken her to more Orioles and Giants baseball games than any other bi-coastal fan of teams that wear orange and black. They are the parents of Andrew and Dan. Dan and his wife Annie are the parents of two extraordinary daughters, Olivia Michele and Mary.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott shares the Salvation Army work and writing passions of Michele McKnight Baker.
Michele McKnight Baker’s commercially published nonfiction book (Sandpaper Sisters: Addicts Turned Community Builders, Miracles Do Happen!) drew endorsements by Alma (Mrs. Colin) Powell, Tony Campolo (best-selling author on social justice issues), and Mary Pipher (author of Raising Ophelia). Recently, Michele has won awards in the Salvation Army’s national writers’ contest in both nonfiction and fiction, an excerpt from Soldier’s Heart garnering the fiction prize. Writing has always figured in Michele’s career, beginning as a journalist. No, earlier than that: as a fidgety grade schooler, shortest and second oldest in her class. She’s enjoyed building a successful marketing and business performance consulting firm, while earning a Ph.D. (Union Institute and University; undergraduate: Smith College) and teaching masters and undergraduate business courses. She considers it a privilege to currently serve as Director of Advancement for The Salvation Army, York, PA. Whether for business or general audiences, nonfiction or fiction, her writing is about giving voice to compelling stories, and to characters that haunt her until she has no choice but to listen, and scribe.
She is married to Frank, who has probably taken her to more Orioles and Giants baseball games than any other bi-coastal fan of teams that wear orange and black. They are the parents of Andrew and Dan. Dan and his wife Annie are the parents of two extraordinary daughters, Olivia Michele and Mary.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott chats with Youtube Phenom Matt Whitman .
Matt was raised in Fort Collins, Colorado before moving to Chicago where he graduated from Trinity College and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He met his wife Camilla on his first day of college in his first class. They’ve got three kids together and now live in the mountains of beautiful western Wyoming where Matt works as the Senior Pastor of the Lander Evangelical Free Church. Matt’s a teach-straight-through-books-of-the-Bible kind of guy and uses his appreciation of history, humor, culture, and narrative to help people understand God’s Word.
In addition to church and family, Matt spends a lot of time filmmaking. He writes, acts, directs and also hosts a YouTube program called The Ten Minute Bible Hour in which he teaches books of the Bible in a tight, informative, and funny format. This program is also highlighted on the popular Christian network Theology Mix (www.theologymix.com).
Matt is the editor and co-author of the book Putting God in His Place: Exalting God in the iCulture published by Nextstep Resources. In addition to writing and film, he enjoys rock music, competitive team sports, and travel. Connect with him on Twitter @TenMinBibleHour.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott chats with Youtube Phenom Matt Whitman .
Matt was raised in Fort Collins, Colorado before moving to Chicago where he graduated from Trinity College and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He met his wife Camilla on his first day of college in his first class. They’ve got three kids together and now live in the mountains of beautiful western Wyoming where Matt works as the Senior Pastor of the Lander Evangelical Free Church. Matt’s a teach-straight-through-books-of-the-Bible kind of guy and uses his appreciation of history, humor, culture, and narrative to help people understand God’s Word.
In addition to church and family, Matt spends a lot of time filmmaking. He writes, acts, directs and also hosts a YouTube program called The Ten Minute Bible Hour in which he teaches books of the Bible in a tight, informative, and funny format. This program is also highlighted on the popular Christian network Theology Mix (www.theologymix.com).
Matt is the editor and co-author of the book Putting God in His Place: Exalting God in the iCulture published by Nextstep Resources. In addition to writing and film, he enjoys rock music, competitive team sports, and travel. Connect with him on Twitter @TenMinBibleHour.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott McCausey talks music with Christian performing legend, Twila Paris.
Devotion to God runs deep in the Paris family. Twila’s great-grandparents were itinerant preachers in Arkansas and Oklahoma who held outdoor revival meetings and established churches, and she recounted this experience in Seventy Years Ago, a song on her Beyond a Dream album. Musical talent permeates the Paris family, as her grandmother wrote songs distributed at revivals. Her father, Oren Paris, is a minister as well as an accomplished musician and songwriter.
Twila sang at church before she was old enough to attend school. She began developing her instrumental talent at the age of six when she started taking piano lessons. By the time she was performing in her high school choir, Twila was determined to become a choir teacher. She began to consider songwriting after attending a Christian discipleship school, where she decided that music would be the perfect way to express her feelings about God.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Twila toured extensively as she opened for the Imperials. After receiving her first #1 hit, she began headlining her own concert tours with such notable opening artists as Wayne Watson, Clay Crosse, Phil Kaeggy, Avalon, Aaron Jeoffrey, and Fernando Ortega. She was featured in the Young Messiah tour and co-hosted with Steven Curtis Chapman. In the 2000s, she continues to tour but not as extensively. In 2011-2012, Twila participated in the Christian Classics tour with Steve Green, Wayne Watson, and Michael Card.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott McCausey talks music with Christian performing legend, Twila Paris.
Devotion to God runs deep in the Paris family. Twila’s great-grandparents were itinerant preachers in Arkansas and Oklahoma who held outdoor revival meetings and established churches, and she recounted this experience in Seventy Years Ago, a song on her Beyond a Dream album. Musical talent permeates the Paris family, as her grandmother wrote songs distributed at revivals. Her father, Oren Paris, is a minister as well as an accomplished musician and songwriter.
Twila sang at church before she was old enough to attend school. She began developing her instrumental talent at the age of six when she started taking piano lessons. By the time she was performing in her high school choir, Twila was determined to become a choir teacher. She began to consider songwriting after attending a Christian discipleship school, where she decided that music would be the perfect way to express her feelings about God.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Twila toured extensively as she opened for the Imperials. After receiving her first #1 hit, she began headlining her own concert tours with such notable opening artists as Wayne Watson, Clay Crosse, Phil Kaeggy, Avalon, Aaron Jeoffrey, and Fernando Ortega. She was featured in the Young Messiah tour and co-hosted with Steven Curtis Chapman. In the 2000s, she continues to tour but not as extensively. In 2011-2012, Twila participated in the Christian Classics tour with Steve Green, Wayne Watson, and Michael Card.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott talks with country music journalist, Deborah Evans Price.
Deborah Evans Price has covered country, gospel, and rock music for Billboard magazine since 1994. She also contributes regularly to AOL's The Boot, Country Weekly, Gospel Music Channel.com, CMA Close Up, FIRST, and other publications.
A noted country and Christian music historian, she's authored The CMA Awards Vault and A History of the Country Music Association Awards published by Whitman Publishing, as well as a historical retrospective on Word Records—Word: Six Decades of Hits. She has interviewed countless artists, including Willie Nelson, Amy Grant, Third Day, Don Henley, Bon Jovi, Chris Rice, Charlie Daniels, Kirk Franklin, 3 Doors Down, Sarah Brightman, Alan Jackson, Kenny Chesney, Smokey Robinson, Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Steven Curtis Chapman, Sandra Bullock, and Robert Duvall.
Deborah has recently authored Country Faith Christmas which will feature Christmas memories from thirty-seven of today's top country music stars, including Florida Georgia Line, Reba McEntire, Alan Jackson, Vince Gill, Darius Rucker, and Brenda Lee as well as a foreword written by Kimberly Schlapman (Little Big Town) and four Advent meditations from Charlie Daniels. The stars share their holiday stories, family traditions, memorable gifts, personal recipes, and favorite Christmas carols.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott talks with country music journalist, Deborah Evans Price.
Deborah Evans Price has covered country, gospel, and rock music for Billboard magazine since 1994. She also contributes regularly to AOL's The Boot, Country Weekly, Gospel Music Channel.com, CMA Close Up, FIRST, and other publications.
A noted country and Christian music historian, she's authored The CMA Awards Vault and A History of the Country Music Association Awards published by Whitman Publishing, as well as a historical retrospective on Word Records—Word: Six Decades of Hits. She has interviewed countless artists, including Willie Nelson, Amy Grant, Third Day, Don Henley, Bon Jovi, Chris Rice, Charlie Daniels, Kirk Franklin, 3 Doors Down, Sarah Brightman, Alan Jackson, Kenny Chesney, Smokey Robinson, Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Steven Curtis Chapman, Sandra Bullock, and Robert Duvall.
Deborah has recently authored Country Faith Christmas which will feature Christmas memories from thirty-seven of today's top country music stars, including Florida Georgia Line, Reba McEntire, Alan Jackson, Vince Gill, Darius Rucker, and Brenda Lee as well as a foreword written by Kimberly Schlapman (Little Big Town) and four Advent meditations from Charlie Daniels. The stars share their holiday stories, family traditions, memorable gifts, personal recipes, and favorite Christmas carols.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott discusses kicking the drug addiction with author Jenny Reese Clark.
Jenny Reese Clark is a living testimony of what true faith in Jesus Christ can bring. As a multiple felon of various drug charges, including Unlawful Manufacturing of Methamphetamines, Jenny is no stranger to breaking the rules and suffering the consequences.
In April of 2010, Jenny’s life hit an all-time low as she turned her back on the home burning behind her. As a result of a chemical interaction, the clandestine laboratory that she brought secretly into her sister’s home, exploded. As she took off, shoeless, she ran as far as she could to escape the consequences. With her sister’s pet dead inside and her relationships destroyed through her own betrayals, Jenny woke up as a Jane Doe on a ventilator in an ICU twenty-four hours later—knowing there was no way to come back from such destruction.
It wasn’t until Jenny went to prison on a fifteen year sentence and lost every relationship, possession, and privilege she ever had that she began to honestly understand her true need and dependency upon the Lord. She returned to her roots and picked up her biblical studies, this time clinging to every word … knowing it meant her life or death.
In her book, Field of Influence, you will see this passion unfold. It’s an extremely insightful look into the forbidden realm of drug addiction.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott discusses kicking the drug addiction with author Jenny Reese Clark.
Jenny Reese Clark is a living testimony of what true faith in Jesus Christ can bring. As a multiple felon of various drug charges, including Unlawful Manufacturing of Methamphetamines, Jenny is no stranger to breaking the rules and suffering the consequences.
In April of 2010, Jenny’s life hit an all-time low as she turned her back on the home burning behind her. As a result of a chemical interaction, the clandestine laboratory that she brought secretly into her sister’s home, exploded. As she took off, shoeless, she ran as far as she could to escape the consequences. With her sister’s pet dead inside and her relationships destroyed through her own betrayals, Jenny woke up as a Jane Doe on a ventilator in an ICU twenty-four hours later—knowing there was no way to come back from such destruction.
It wasn’t until Jenny went to prison on a fifteen year sentence and lost every relationship, possession, and privilege she ever had that she began to honestly understand her true need and dependency upon the Lord. She returned to her roots and picked up her biblical studies, this time clinging to every word … knowing it meant her life or death.
In her book, Field of Influence, you will see this passion unfold. It’s an extremely insightful look into the forbidden realm of drug addiction.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott talks playoff baseball and Jesus with former Los Angeles Angels player Terry Evans.
Terry Evans was born and raised in Dublin, GA, where he continued to live until he graduated from Trinity Christian School in 2000. He went on to attend Middle Georgia College for two years before being drafted and signing with the St. Louis Cardinals. After five minor league seasons, Terry made his first big league appearance in 2007 with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. He played in parts of three Major League seasons with the Angels and eleven full seasons in the minor leagues with St. Louis, Anaheim, San Francisco, Philadelphia, and Kansas City. Terry retired after the 2012 season with the Kansas City Royals organization and came on staff with UPI full time October 1st of 2012.
Terry is the chaplain for the Atlanta Braves and currently resides on the north side of Atlanta, in Woodstock, where he leads Bible studies for current and former players around the Atlanta area. Terry also assists international trips to the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico with the possibility of leading these trips in the near future.
Terry is married to his wife, Tanner, and they have three sons: Asher, Jude, and Isaac.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott talks playoff baseball and Jesus with former Los Angeles Angels player Terry Evans.
Terry Evans was born and raised in Dublin, GA, where he continued to live until he graduated from Trinity Christian School in 2000. He went on to attend Middle Georgia College for two years before being drafted and signing with the St. Louis Cardinals. After five minor league seasons, Terry made his first big league appearance in 2007 with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. He played in parts of three Major League seasons with the Angels and eleven full seasons in the minor leagues with St. Louis, Anaheim, San Francisco, Philadelphia, and Kansas City. Terry retired after the 2012 season with the Kansas City Royals organization and came on staff with UPI full time October 1st of 2012.
Terry is the chaplain for the Atlanta Braves and currently resides on the north side of Atlanta, in Woodstock, where he leads Bible studies for current and former players around the Atlanta area. Terry also assists international trips to the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico with the possibility of leading these trips in the near future.
Terry is married to his wife, Tanner, and they have three sons: Asher, Jude, and Isaac.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Blogger/Editor Lyneta Smith shares her passion to write for God.
Lyneta Smith lives and works her dream job in Spring Hill, TN. She has published hundreds of articles and stories, including Clubhouse Junior, Chicken Soup for the Soul, and Living Light News. As a self-professed word nerd, she delights in helping others shape their manuscripts and has edited many works of fiction and non-fiction. Last summer she graduated summa cum laude from Oregon State University and plans to pursue a post-graduate editing certificate. When she’s not writing or editing, you can find her cooking for her family, puttering in the garden, or playing with her Boston terrier. Contact Lyneta at lyneta.l.smith@gmail.com, and find her blog at www.lynetasmith.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Blogger/Editor Lyneta Smith shares her passion to write for God.
Lyneta Smith lives and works her dream job in Spring Hill, TN as a writer and public speaker. She has published hundreds of articles and stories, including Clubhouse Junior, Chicken Soup for the Soul, and Living Light News. Last summer she graduated summa cum laude from Oregon State University. Currently, she's working on her memoir, Curtain Call. Contact Lyneta at lyneta.l.smith@gmail.com, and find her blog at www.lynetasmith.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Kirk Cousins outlines how he went from a small-time high school recruit to a Big Ten All-Star and now a Washington Redskin.
Three-time team captain, Kirk Cousins is currently considered one of the most successful quarterbacks in Michigan State University history, holding MSU records for passing yards, touchdowns, completions, and more. In addition to his success on the gridiron, Kirk was named Academic All-Big Ten four years in a row, and he was selected as the 2011 Lowe's Senior CLASS Award winner in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision.
In 2012, Kirk was drafted by the Washington Redskins, where he has continued to inspire on and off the field. The son of Don and MaryAnn Cousins, Kirk grew up in Holland, Michigan, with his siblings, Kyle and Karalyne. Game Changer is his first book and outlines a God-led life.
Game Changer: Faith, Football & Finding Your Way is his first book and outlines a God-led life. Cousins gives readers an inside look at his life?as experienced under the bright lights of college and professional football?and how he puts his faith and values into action, both on and off the field.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Linda Wright of Hearing God Ministries joins to share her testimony of moving from heartache to the love of Jesus Christ.
Linda Wright is a speaker and an author who has a heart to fulfill Isaiah 61:1-3. She loves to share her story of triumph over some of life's toughest trials and her journey with the Lord of how He brought her out of the pit with the determination that she will never go back. Linda is passionate and has a mandate from the Lord to teach and equip the Body of Christ on hearing God’s voice, especially during trials. Currently, Linda's burden is for those who serve the Body, which has led to the birthing of the National Pastors and Leaders Healing Conferences now being held annually in Arizona.
Prior to Hearing God Ministries, Linda worked as a missionary in Hollywood. She created and co-wrote The Last Miracle (Sky Angel, TBN) and co-produced the NBC hit movie A Champion’s Fight (now airing on Lifetime as Shattered Hearts). Recently, Linda formed Hearing God Productions to launch the faith-based family film division of her ministry.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Linda Wright of Hearing God Ministries joins to share her testimony of moving from heartache to the love of Jesus Christ.
Linda Wright is a speaker and an author who has a heart to fulfill Isaiah 61:1-3. She loves to share her story of triumph over some of life's toughest trials and her journey with the Lord of how He brought her out of the pit with the determination that she will never go back. Linda is passionate and has a mandate from the Lord to teach and equip the Body of Christ on hearing God’s voice, especially during trials. Currently, Linda's burden is for those who serve the Body, which has led to the birthing of the National Pastors and Leaders Healing Conferences now being held annually in Arizona.
Prior to Hearing God Ministries, Linda worked as a missionary in Hollywood. She created and co-wrote The Last Miracle (Sky Angel, TBN) and co-produced the NBC hit movie A Champion’s Fight (now airing on Lifetime as Shattered Hearts). Recently, Linda formed Hearing God Productions to launch the faith-based family film division of her ministry. You can discover more of Linda and her ministries at www.hearinggodministries.org.
Jim Sonefeld, or Soni, as he's known by many, is the drummer for Hootie & the Blowfish and a Christian solo artist. He started his music career playing drums in the basement of his childhood home in Illinois. He was musically influenced by a variety of classic rock and R&B bands such as Creedence Clearwater Revival, Blood, Sweat, & Tears, Elton John, and Led Zeppelin. At age twenty-one, while attending the University of South Carolina, Sonefeld joined his first band. Armed with what he describes as "a flashy mullet and a challenged fashion sense," he played in various cover bands around Columbia during the mid to late 80s. In1989, he joined up with some like-minded fellows called Hootie and the Blowfish, who were also attending the university.
The band toured regionally while honing their craft. After signing a record deal with Atlantic Records, the band released their full-length debut album Cracked Rear View in the summer of 1994. They have sold more than 25 million records since then and have toured worldwide. Sonefeld has been one of the main songwriters in the band, writing several of their early hits, including Hold my hand and Time. The band still plays a handful of shows yearly, which support the Hootie and the Blowfish Foundation, based in South Carolina.
In 2011, compelled by his growing Christian faith and more recent musical influences such as Chris Tomlin, Casting Crowns, and Jeremy Camp, he embarked upon his first contemporary Christian music project.
The result is his first CCM release entitled Found, recorded in August of 2011 in Nashville with producer Stan Lynch. On the five-song debut, Sonefeld brings a CD exploding musically and lyrically with a celebration of his faith, renewal, and delivery. His newest project is called Love. It is a celebration of faith with an urgent reminder of making the relationship with God a daily surrender.
Jim Sonefeld, or Soni, as he's known by many, is the drummer for Hootie & the Blowfish and a Christian solo artist. He started his music career playing drums in the basement of his childhood home in Illinois. At age twenty-one, while attending the University of South Carolina, Sonefeld joined his first band. Armed with what he describes as "a flashy mullet and a challenged fashion sense," he played in various cover bands around Columbia during the mid to late 80s. In1989, he joined up with some like-minded fellows called Hootie and the Blowfish, who were also attending the university.
The band toured regionally while honing their craft. After signing a record deal with Atlantic Records, the band released their full-length debut album Cracked Rear View in the summer of 1994. They have sold more than 25 million records since then and have toured worldwide. Sonefeld has been one of the main songwriters in the band, writing several of their early hits, including Hold my hand and Time. The band still plays a handful of shows yearly, which support the Hootie and the Blowfish Foundation, based in South Carolina.
In 2011, compelled by his growing Christian faith and more recent musical influences such as Chris Tomlin, Casting Crowns, and Jeremy Camp, he embarked upon his first contemporary Christian music project.The result is his first CCM release entitled Found, recorded in August of 2011 in Nashville with producer Stan Lynch. On the five-song debut, Sonefeld brings a CD exploding musically and lyrically with a celebration of his faith, renewal, and delivery. His newest project is called Love. It is a celebration of faith with an urgent reminder of making the relationship with God a daily surrender.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey discusses the difficult role of the pastor’s wife with Nan Jones.
Nan Jones is an author/speaker who uses the words of her heart to assist fellow Christians in discovering the presence of God in their darkest hour. Her devotional blog, Morning Glory, has become a place of community for Christians to find encouragement in God’s Word and comfort in His presence. She has been published in several anthologies, as well as the online inspirational sites Christian Devotions and Inspire a Fire.
She is thrilled to announce her debut book, The Perils of a Pastor’s Wife, released June 30, 2015 by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. When Nan is not writing, she enjoys leading prayer retreats, Bible studies, or sharing God’s love as keynote speaker for special events. She is becoming known by her brand, Even so, I walk in the Presence of the Lord, as she teaches her audience to go beyond the veil to find God’s presence.
Born in Athens, Georgia as the middle of three sons to Larry and Rhonwyn Kendrick. He grew up in Smyrna, GA and graduated from Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor's degree in Communications. Worked as a Christian DJ for two radio stations before attending New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and being ordained into the ministry. Served as a minister to college students in Marietta, GA for four years. Married his wife, Christina, and moved to Albany, GA where he served as Associate Pastor of Media at Sherwood Baptist Church. While at Sherwood, he founded Sherwood Pictures and began writing, producing, acting, and directing feature films. Also co-wrote three novels and the Love Dare, which made it to #1 on the New York Times bestseller list. Alex and his wife now have six children.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey discusses the difficult role of the pastor’s wife with Nan Jones.
Nan Jones is an author/speaker who uses the words of her heart to assist fellow Christians in discovering the presence of God in their darkest hour. Her devotional blog, Morning Glory, has become a place of community for Christians to find encouragement in God’s Word and comfort in His presence. She has been published in several anthologies, as well as the online inspirational sites Christian Devotions and Inspire a Fire.
She is thrilled to announce her debut book, The Perils of a Pastor’s Wife, released June 30, 2015 by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. When Nan is not writing, she enjoys leading prayer retreats, Bible studies, or sharing God’s love as keynote speaker for special events. She is becoming known by her brand, Even so, I walk in the Presence of the Lord, as she teaches her audience to go beyond the veil to find God’s presence.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey brings in television host of the Christian View, Dawn Mooring.
Dawn Mooring is a woman passionate about God and His Word. Her desire is to see women fall in love with their Savior and understand that the Bible is the “Guidebook for Life.”
Dawn has made it her mission in life to move women in a closer relationship with God and others by her living and teaching the concept of the Exchanged Life. She has an extraordinary way of presenting the Truth of God’s Word in a convincing, challenging, and meaningful manner. Her presentations motivate women to deepen their own personal walk with God.
Dawn’s years of personal Bible study and her experiences as a seasoned Bible teacher and women’s ministry director and counselor all come into play as she leads retreats, presents keynote messages at banquets and brunches, and shares God’s Word at women’s conferences. Her heart overflows with her genuine love for women. Her warmth, humor, and charm put women at ease and make them want to listen and apply every word as Dawn shares her heart. See more at: http://dawnmooring.com/#sthash.v71lYH62.dpuf
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey brings in television host of the Christian View, Dawn Mooring.
Dawn Mooring is a woman passionate about God and His Word. Her desire is to see women fall in love with their Savior and understand that the Bible is the “Guidebook for Life.”
Dawn has made it her mission in life to move women in a closer relationship with God and others by her living and teaching the concept of the Exchanged Life. She has an extraordinary way of presenting the Truth of God’s Word in a convincing, challenging, and meaningful manner. Her presentations motivate women to deepen their own personal walk with God.
Dawn’s years of personal Bible study and her experiences as a seasoned Bible teacher and women’s ministry director and counselor all come into play as she leads retreats, presents keynote messages at banquets and brunches, and shares God’s Word at women’s conferences. Her heart overflows with her genuine love for women. Her warmth, humor, and charm put women at ease and make them want to listen and apply every word as Dawn shares her heart. See more at: http://dawnmooring.com/#sthash.v71lYH62.dpuf
Danen Kane has never been afraid to break convention in his music, but he has a remarkable ability to maintain accessibility and consistency of voice while creating eclectic and sometimes surprising tunes. Part of that ability comes from his unconventional path to music ministry. Kane’s first love was not piano or guitar; it was basketball. In fact, he didn’t do anything musical until he was twenty years old, when he felt a strong call from God to lay down the hours invested in his sport and focus on pursuing his faith.
“During my sophomore year of college,” Kane recalls, “I had a roommate who had an acoustic guitar and I was really curious. I grew up in a small town that didn't have any avenues of learning that kind of thing, so I just asked him if I could use it to try to learn some worship songs that I'd heard at Campus Crusade for Christ.” Despite no formal guitar or vocal training, one short year later he had completed his first independent project.
Being honest with himself is something that has served Kane well both in his faith and his music. That honesty is part of the strong theme woven throughout the songs of his new CD, Flesh and Soul. Kane explains, “There is a battle between flesh and spirit, a tension of living in our brokenness and our bodies and yet very much desiring God in every single moment. It’s a daily battle for the brand-new Christian or the Christian of 40 or 50 years. This record is about embracing the journey of sanctification and encouraging myself and encouraging others that if you're not in the best spot, or if you're struggling or feel like you've taken a step back, to keep fighting and keep wrestling with that.”
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey interviews the Director of Rock Lake Christian Assembly, Henry Hawver.
Henry has served the Lord in many different venues, but not until he rededicated his life to Christ after questioning the validity of scripture. Through friend and minister Hi Gates, he turned his face back to God and lived a transformed life. He first became a minister at Wheaton Church of Christ in Remus, Michigan before preaching in Dewitt, Michigan.
Henry and his wife of almost forty years, Lois, have been involved in the care of children all their married lives. They have adopted four children, been involved in foster care for thirteen years and support Central Michigan Pregnancy Services in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.
Through their passion for young people, involvement in a Christian Camp was a fore-drawn conclusion. Henry has served for over thirty years at Rock Lake. This adventure started as a 4th-5th grade camp counselor. Eventually, he was asked to take over the camp as the Dean. After ten years in this capacity, the camp director job became available. Henry felt led to serve in this capacity full-time and has been doing so ever since. As well as Director of the camp, he has served on the Program Committee, Capital Fund Committee and as Trustee.
Henry’s favorite thing about camp is being present when young people learn spiritual truths, commit themselves to Jesus as Lord and Savior of their lives, and are immersed in the lake.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott shares the road of cancer survival with author and Boot Camp graduate Venita McCart.
Venita McCart began her ministry of encouraging cancer patients in 2004 and founded Faith Force Cancer Support Group Ministry in 2005. According to statistics at the time of her cancer diagnosis in 2000, her prognosis for survival was grim.
Because of her passion for Christ and a call to serve those dealing with cancer, she has been in contact with countless cancer patients and loved ones through her care group, personal contacts, writing, and speaking. Her goal is to encourage cancer patients and their loved ones from the perspective of faith.
Venita serves as the Support Group Ministry Director in her church. She is an award-winning volunteer with the American Cancer Society and a member of the American Brain Tumor Association. Venita is a member of Word Weavers, has been published with Christian Devotions.us, and writes the material for her Faith Force Support Group Ministry meetings. Her favorite earthly joy is to spend time with her husband Gary, their two adult children (and spouses), and her six grandchildren.
Her first book, “It’s Cancer” – Finding Help and Hope on the Road to Recovery, was
written to encourage cancer patients, survivors, and loved ones. It was released by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and is available on Amazon. Venita and Gary live in central Illinois. She can be reached at venitamccart@gmail.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott shares the road of cancer survival with author and Boot Camp graduate Venita McCart.
Venita McCart began her ministry of encouraging cancer patients in 2004 and founded Faith Force Cancer Support Group Ministry in 2005. According to statistics at the time of her cancer diagnosis in 2000, her prognosis for survival was grim.
Because of her passion for Christ and a call to serve those dealing with cancer, she has been in contact with countless cancer patients and loved ones through her care group, personal contacts, writing, and speaking. Her goal is to encourage cancer patients and their loved ones from the perspective of faith.
Venita serves as the Support Group Ministry Director in her church. She is an award-winning volunteer with the American Cancer Society and a member of the American Brain Tumor Association. Venita is a member of Word Weavers, has been published with Christian Devotions.us, and writes the material for her Faith Force Support Group Ministry meetings. Her favorite earthly joy is to spend time with her husband Gary, their two adult children (and spouses), and her six grandchildren.
Her first book, “It’s Cancer” – Finding Help and Hope on the Road to Recovery, was
written to encourage cancer patients, survivors, and loved ones. It was released by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and is available on Amazon. Venita and Gary live in central Illinois. She can be reached at venitamccart@gmail.com.
Beth Saadati has sown her time and heart into the lives of hundreds of teens—and reaped an abundance of laughter and life in return. A certified high school English teacher, she is currently teaching composition classes, homeschooling her son (age nine) and daughter (age twelve), and crafting a novel.
For more than two decades Beth has taught in public school, private school, and home school settings. Jenna, Beth's effervescent firstborn daughter, was her favorite teenage student before Beth lost her, without warning, to suicide resulting from bullying. On January 2, 2013, the world as Beth had known it forever changed.
Now, through speaking and writing, Beth encourages others to fight through heartbreak and hurt as she transparently journeys through the painful aftermath of her beloved daughter's death. Four of Beth’s stories have been published in Chicken Soup for the Soul books in 2015. She was also awarded first place in the SC chapter of American Christian Fiction Writers' first five pages contest.
Beth is working on a young adult novel, Breathe, based on Jenna's true story. At the 2015 Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference (BRMCWC), this book received the BelieversTrust Beyond the Steeple Award for the work deemed to hold the greatest potential to impact a mainstream audience.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott interview Beth Saadati.
Beth Saadati has sown her time and heart into the lives of hundreds of teens—and reaped an abundance of laughter and life in return. A certified high school English teacher, she is currently teaching composition classes, homeschooling her son (age nine) and daughter (age twelve), and crafting a novel.
For more than two decades Beth has taught in public school, private school, and home school settings. Jenna, Beth's effervescent firstborn daughter, was her favorite teenage student before Beth lost her, without warning, to suicide resulting from bullying. On January 2, 2013, the world as Beth had known it forever changed.
Now, through speaking and writing, Beth encourages others to fight through heartbreak and hurt as she transparently journeys through the painful aftermath of her beloved daughter's death. Four of Beth’s stories have been published in Chicken Soup for the Soul books in 2015. She was also awarded first place in the SC chapter of American Christian Fiction Writers' first five pages contest.
Beth is working on a young adult novel, Breathe, based on Jenna's true story. At the 2015 Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference (BRMCWC), this book received the BelieversTrust Beyond the Steeple Award for the work deemed to hold the greatest potential to impact a mainstream audience.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when artist Doug Henderson of the Creation Museum joins to share his gifts for creating.
Doug Henderson was a teacher of special effects makeup and animatronics at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh from 1990-2006. He met his wife, Cathy, through NBC while working in film, television commercials, theater, and print advertising. They married and formed Henderson Design and Productions where they sculpted dozens of historic and celebrity "wax" replicas for museums and themed attractions all over the world. His favorite is still Colonel Sanders for KFC.
Doug and his wife began working as contractors for Answers in Genesis, starting with the Creation Adventure Team videos staring Buddy Davis, which they wrote and produced. They came on board the museum's art team full-time in 2006. After the museum opened in 2007, Doug and Cathy stayed on to continue designing exhibits and maintain current ones.
As one of the lead artists for the Ark Encounter, which is under construction at the Creation Museum, Doug’s current job is to oversee the production and assembly of forty pairs of animals. Discover more about the new exhibit at www.arkencounter.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when artist Doug Henderson of the Creation Museum joins to share his gifts for creating.
Doug Henderson was a teacher of special effects makeup and animatronics at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh from 1990-2006. He met his wife, Cathy, through NBC while working in film, television commercials, theater, and print advertising. They married and formed Henderson Design and Productions where they sculpted dozens of historic and celebrity "wax" replicas for museums and themed attractions all over the world. His favorite is still Colonel Sanders for KFC.
Doug and his wife began working as contractors for Answers in Genesis, starting with the Creation Adventure Team videos staring Buddy Davis, which they wrote and produced. They came on board the museum's art team full-time in 2006. After the museum opened in 2007, Doug and Cathy stayed on to continue designing exhibits and maintain current ones.
As one of the lead artists for the Ark Encounter, which is under construction at the Creation Museum, Doug’s current job is to oversee the production and assembly of forty pairs of animals. Discover more about the new exhibit at www.arkencounter.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! for the All-Star game special with guest Tony Graffanino.
Tony Graffanino was born in New York on Long Island and grew up in East Islip. He graduated from high school in 1990 and was drafted by the Atlanta Braves. Tony made it to the big leagues with the Braves in 1996. He played in parts of 13 Major League seasons, 11 full seasons with Atlanta, Tampa Bay, Chicago White Sox, Kansas City, Boston, Milwaukee, and Cleveland. Tony has been involved with UPI outreaches and Bible studies since his Atlanta days.
Tony came on staff with UPI full time on July 1st of 2011 and moved his family to Arizona. He currently resides on the northwest side of Phoenix, in Peoria, and leads Bible studies for current and former players in the Peoria, Glendale, and Scottsdale areas. Tony also does UPI international trips in Italy, Germany, Mexico, and soon to the Dominican Republic. He assists Brian Hommel in ministering to the tremendous amount of players, current and former, who call Phoenix home, or to those who have Spring Training, Extended Spring, Summer League, Instructional League, and/or Fall League in Phoenix.
Tony is married to Nicole (1995) and they have two sons, A.J. and Nick.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott chats about feeding the hungry and clothing the needy with Pastor Russ McCoy.
Pastor Russ is affectionately known by the locals in St. Johns, MI, as a man of God and provider to the needy. Yet, his life was not always that of a humanitarian. As a troubled youth, he found himself serving in Okinawa during the Vietnam War. His first marriage lasted only five years as he fathered two children.
In 1993, his life was forever changed as he accepted the Lord, went to seminary, and became an Assembly of God Minister. He’s been married to Adele for forty-one years, serving the Lord and being an entrepreneur.
In 2010, Russ started The Basic Needs Center. He and Adele have served over 1500 client families with food and clothing. God has provided everything needed through community support, local businesses, and a 100 percent volunteer staff.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott chats about feeding the hungry and clothing the needy with Pastor Russ McCoy.
Pastor Russ is affectionately known by the locals in St. Johns, MI, as a man of God and provider to the needy. Yet, his life was not always that of a humanitarian. As a troubled youth, he found himself serving in Okinawa during the Vietnam War. His first marriage lasted only five years as he fathered two children.
In 1993, his life was forever changed as he accepted the Lord, went to seminary, and became an Assembly of God Minister. He’s been married to Adele for forty-one years, serving the Lord and being an entrepreneur.
In 2010, Russ started The Basic Needs Center. He and Adele have served over 1500 client families with food and clothing. God has provided everything needed through community support, local businesses, and a 100 percent volunteer staff.
A Vanderbilt University professor, Debra Coleman Jeter has published fiction and nonfiction in popular magazines, including Working Woman, New Woman, Self, Home Life, Savvy, Christian Woman, and American Baby. Her story, Recovery, won first prize in a Christian women’s short story competition, and her nonfiction book Pshaw, It’s Me Grandson: Tales of a Young Actor was a finalist in the 2007 USA Book News Awards. She is a co-writer of the screenplay for Jess + Moss, a feature film which premiered in 2011 at the Sundance Film Festival, screened at nearly forty film festivals around the world, and captured several international awards. She lives in Clarksville, Tennessee, with her husband, where she’s releasing her newest book, The Ticket.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! where Scott will be joined by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith.
Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith is a board certified internal medicine physician. She shares with audiences nationwide on the topics of eliminating limiting emotions, finding grace in difficult places, and experiencing personal renewal by drawing near to God. Dr. Dalton-Smith is a national and international media resource on the mind, body, spirit connection and has been featured in Women's Day, Redbook, and First for Women magazine. She is the founder of I Choose My Best Life. Her other books include award-winning Set Free to Live Free: Breaking Through the 7 Lies Women Tell Themselves and most recently from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, Come Empty.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! where Scott will be joined by savvy writers Saundra Dalton-Smith and Debra Coleman Jeter.
Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith is a board certified internal medicine physician. She shares with audiences nationwide on the topics of eliminating limiting emotions, finding grace in difficult places, and experiencing personal renewal by drawing near to God. Dr. Dalton-Smith is a national and international media resource on the mind, body, spirit connection and has been featured in Women's Day, Redbook, and First for Women magazine. She is the founder of I Choose My Best Life. Her other books include award-winning Set Free to Live Free: Breaking Through the 7 Lies Women Tell Themselves and most recently from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, Come Empty.
A Vanderbilt University professor, Debra Coleman Jeter has published fiction and nonfiction in popular magazines, including Working Woman, New Woman, Self, Home Life, Savvy, Christian Woman, and American Baby. Her story, Recovery, won first prize in a Christian women’s short story competition, and her nonfiction book Pshaw, It’s Me Grandson: Tales of a Young Actor was a finalist in the 2007 USA Book News Awards. She is a co-writer of the screenplay for Jess + Moss, a feature film which premiered in 2011 at the Sundance Film Festival, screened at nearly forty film festivals around the world, and captured several international awards. She lives in Clarksville, Tennessee, with her husband, where she’s releasing her newest book, The Ticket.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! where Scott interviewed the group Undone at a LIVE concert on Memorial Day.
Ricky and April Burke were married in January of 1998. With music in their blood, they began to lead worship at Faith Tabernacle Worship Center in Medon, TN, and from that moment, God sparked a fire unlike anything they’d ever known.
Their son Kevin, who is an autistic savant, began playing the piano in 2009 for the worship team at the age of fourteen. Terry Montgomery, drummer, joined them in 2011.
In October 2012, God called Pastor Ricky and April to open a sister campus called Faith Church in Lexington, TN. Bobby Hughes, bass player, began to play at their monthly Sunday Night Ignite services in 2014 and in early 2015, they were introduced to John Couch, lead guitar, by way of a mutual friend, Andy K. Avery. The band was complete.
Worship is where the deepest part of you seeks out the deepest part of Him, where you come into the throne room of grace face down, broken, and undone. That is the place where He can start to unravel you and make you new again—hence the name of the group Undone.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! where Scott interviewed the group Undone at a LIVE concert on Memorial Day.
Ricky and April Burke were married in January of 1998. With music in their blood, they began to lead worship at Faith Tabernacle Worship Center in Medon, TN, and from that moment, God sparked a fire unlike anything they’d ever known.
Their son Kevin, who is an autistic savant, began playing the piano in 2009 for the worship team at the age of fourteen. Terry Montgomery, drummer, joined them in 2011.
In October 2012, God called Pastor Ricky and April to open a sister campus called Faith Church in Lexington, TN. Bobby Hughes, bass player, began to play at their monthly Sunday Night Ignite services in 2014 and in early 2015, they were introduced to John Couch, lead guitar, by way of a mutual friend, Andy K. Avery. The band was complete.
Worship is where the deepest part of you seeks out the deepest part of Him, where you come into the throne room of grace face down, broken, and undone. That is the place where He can start to unravel you and make you new again—hence the name of the group Undone.
A veteran attendee of Writers Advance conferences, Mary is an experienced photographer, seeking to capture memories that bring smiles. A 2013 graduate of Christian Communicators Conference, Mary speaks about her own experiences with abuse, leading her to begin her Be A Voice 4 Kids ministry. She recently shared at the Chosen Chicks for Christ Conference and local church events, with the latest being the guest speaker “What's I Your Purse?” banquet at Faith Temple Baptist Church. With much prayer she followed through with the calling of becoming trained as a facilitator of Stewards of Children through Darkness to Light to help prevent child sexual abuse. She loves to share the Love of the Lord and brings hope to those who hunger for only what can be found through Jesus Christ. Find Mary on her face book page at Be A Voice 4 Kids or at www.writeblessings.com or www.beavoice4kids.vpweb.com.
Kimberly Pickens is a preschool teacher at her home church daycare. She has written two stories that are featured in Christmas Moments and Spoken Moments. Her story, Molly's Promised Land, won an honorable mention from The ACFW First Five Pages Contest. She is a member of a writing and critique group, Crosses and Pens. She is also a member of NACFW and the ACFW. Kimberly likes spending time at home with her husband and best friend of over twenty-five years. They have a daughter and a son. Besides writing, Kimberly's passion is her faith in God, her family, and helping children achieve academic success. She has recently started her own enrichment program in preschools to help children develop a positive attitude early-on in math and science. Her program is called Math that Counts. It is Kimberly's heart's cry to bring glory and honor to God Almighty by using the talents He has blessed her with, to advance the kingdom of heaven through her writing.
Kimberly Pickens is a preschool teacher at her home church daycare. She has written two stories that are featured in Christmas Moments and Spoken Moments. Her story, Molly's Promised Land, won an honorable mention from The ACFW First Five Pages Contest. She is a member of a writing and critique group, Crosses and Pens. She is also a member of NACFW and the ACFW. Kimberly likes spending time at home with her husband and best friend of over twenty-five years. They have a daughter and a son. Besides writing, Kimberly's passion is her faith in God, her family, and helping children achieve academic success. She has recently started her own enrichment program in preschools to help children develop a positive attitude early-on in math and science. Her program is called Math that Counts. It is Kimberly's heart's cry to bring glory and honor to God Almighty by using the talents He has blessed her with, to advance the kingdom of heaven through her writing.
A veteran attendee of Writers Advance conferences, Mary is an experienced photographer, seeking to capture memories that bring smiles. A 2013 graduate of Christian Communicators Conference, Mary speaks about her own experiences with abuse, leading her to begin her Be A Voice 4 Kids ministry. She recently shared at the Chosen Chicks for Christ Conference and local church events, with the latest being the guest speaker “What's I Your Purse?” banquet at Faith Temple Baptist Church. With much prayer she followed through with the calling of becoming trained as a facilitator of Stewards of Children through Darkness to Light to help prevent child sexual abuse. She loves to share the Love of the Lord and brings hope to those who hunger for only what can be found through Jesus Christ. Find Mary on her face book page at Be A Voice 4 Kids or at www.writeblessings.com or www.beavoice4kids.vpweb
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as writing teacher, speaker, and suspense author Mike Dellosso shares his cancer-surviving story and new book.
Mike Dellosso is the author of eight novels of suspense, an adjunct professor of creative writing and popular conference teacher, a husband, and a father. When he’s not lost in a story, working, or spending time with his family, he enjoys reading and dabbling in pencil sketching. Mike has a master’s degree in theology and serves with his wife in their local church. He is also a colon cancer survivor and healthcare worker. Born in Baltimore, Mike now resides in southern Pennsylvania with his wife and four daughters.
His newest book Centralia has just released. Get your copy at http://www.amazon.com/Centralia-Mike-Dellosso/dp/1414390416.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as writing teacher, speaker, and suspense author Mike Dellosso shares his cancer-surviving story and new book.
Mike Dellosso is the author of eight novels of suspense, an adjunct professor of creative writing and popular conference teacher, a husband, and a father. When he’s not lost in a story, working, or spending time with his family, he enjoys reading and dabbling in pencil sketching. Mike has a master’s degree in theology and serves with his wife in their local church. He is also a colon cancer survivor and healthcare worker. Born in Baltimore, Mike now resides in southern Pennsylvania with his wife and four daughters.
His newest book Centralia has just released. Get your copy at http://www.amazon.com/Centralia-Mike-Dellosso/dp/1414390416.
Trot Nixon played twelve years in the Major Leagues for three different teams but is best known for his play with the Boston Red Sox, where he was a fixture in right field for ten seasons. He was among the most popular players in Boston due to his hustle and intensity.
Trot attended New Hanover High School in Wilmington, North Carolina, where he was a two-sport star. As a senior, he was named North Carolina Baseball Player of the Year and Baseball America’s High School Player of the Year while leading his team to a State 4A title. In football, Trot broke several school passing records and was offered a scholarship to play quarterback at North Carolina State. He gave up football after being selected by the Red Sox in the first round (seventh overall) of the 1993 MLB Draft.
Trot’s first full season with the Red Sox came in 1999 after being called-up sporadically the previous two seasons. He had a career-best year in 2003 when he batted .306 with twenty-four doubles and twenty-eight home runs. In the deciding game of the 2004 World Series, Trot hit a two-out, two-run double off the right field wall at Busch Stadium in St. Louis in the top of the third inning to give Boston a 3–0 lead. Those runs proved to be the difference as the Red Sox swept the Cardinals for the team’s first World Series title in eighty-six years. For the series, Trot batted .357 with three RBI’s.
Trot’s wife Kathryn was a guest on Speak UP last year and shared her heart through her book, The Spirit in Baseball. She and Trot have two children.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott interviews Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas author, Karen Campbell Prough.
Karen Campbell Prough grew up with a love for old books, the out of doors and steadfast characters. She spent some of her childhood entertaining younger brothers with short stories created by a wild imagination. She and her husband Edward have often camped in the Georgia Mountains, and there she placed the characters of her first book, The Girl Called Ella Dessa.
Join as she shares the importance of writing what you know and the importance of the images your characters see, touch and feel.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott singer, author and songwriter Buck Storm.
Buck Storm grew up in Yuma, Arizona—a true son of the American Southwest. He's marked time as a commercial diver, fisherman, sailor, and musician. As a singer/songwriter and purveyor of tales, he's bounced around the planet with a guitar and a pocketful of stories and has made friends in venues across the country. Whether lyrics or prose, Buck writes about this mixed-up, out of control, beautiful cacophony we call humanity. Buck and his wife Michelle have a happy love story, a hideout in North Idaho, and two wonderful children. The Miracle Man is his first novel.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott interviews two Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas authors, Buck Storm and Karen Campbell Prough.
Buck Storm grew up in Yuma, Arizona—a true son of the American Southwest. He's marked time as a commercial diver, fisherman, sailor, and musician. As a singer/songwriter and purveyor of tales, he's bounced around the planet with a guitar and a pocketful of stories and has made friends in venues across the country. Whether lyrics or prose, Buck writes about this mixed-up, out of control, beautiful cacophony we call humanity. Buck and his wife Michelle have a happy love story, a hideout in North Idaho, and two wonderful children. The Miracle Man is his first novel.
Karen Campbell Prough grew up with a love for old books and steadfast characters. She spent some of her childhood entertaining younger brothers with short stories created by a wild imagination. She and her husband Edward have often camped in the Georgia Mountains, and there she placed the characters of her first book, The Girl Called Ella Dessa.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott brings in a friend of the ministry, respected teacher and theologian Israel Wayne.
Israel Wayne is an author and conference speaker who has a passion for defending the Christian faith and promoting a biblical worldview. The author of Homeschooling from a Biblical Worldview and Full-Time Parenting: A Guide to Family-Based Discipleship, Israel is the Director of Family Renewal and site editor for ChristianWorldview.net. He is a homeschooled graduate, father of eight and author of Questions God Asks, which was released in the spring of 2014 by New Leaf Press.
Jesus rarely answered questions He was asked, but instead turned the tables by asking a piercing question of His own. Questions Jesus Asks goes through a broad spectrum of these, dealing with issues like morality, suffering, humility, faith, and much more.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! for a preview of Christian concert Jam for the Lamb at Rock Lake Christian Assembly on May 23.
John Schlitt officially joined Petra in 1986, bringing with him his amazing vocal range and abilities that made him a legend with Head East. Except this time, his mind was no longer blown on drugs and alcohol. He was clean, focused, and armed with a powerful message: God made us to be winners—Jesus Christ is alive and, through Him, we are to be victorious in His perfect plan for each of us.
Justified is a Christian quartet that has been together since November 2011. These four gentlemen have either sang or played with other gospel quartets over the past twenty years and have now come together to spread the word through song and music. Singing with the blending of their voices, as well as their hearts, are Tim Caldwell, Mark Jacoby, Carl Ledford, and David Potts.
The Lasting Hope, a Christian rock band out of Southern Indiana, has a high-energy pop-rock sound that gets audiences on their feet and singing along. The band is uniquely formed by five young and very talented men who have a heart completely sold out to worship. Formed in 2010, the band has gone through some directional as well as member adjustments, but the final result has been a hard-core worship experience that audiences of all ages are positively reacting to.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott brings movie Director Chad Burns, of the movie Byeond the Mask to the show.
Chad Burns is the award-winning director and co-producer of Burns Family Studios' first feature film, Pendragon: Sword of His Father. Chad completed his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Control Systems and Human Factors at the University of Illinois in the spring of 2011. Chad recently married Angie in August 2011 and lives in Champaign, IL.
Beyond the Mask is an action-packed, Gospel-centered, historic, adventure film. It is set in the turbulent months leading up to the American Declaration for Independence.
The story explores identity and redemption through the lens of one central question: "What does it take for a man to remake his name and redeem his identity?" The assassin-turned-vicar, Will Reynolds, tries two classic approaches to fixing himself. First, he hides behind a mask of assumed identity. Second, he works to do enough good to outweigh his bad past. When both approaches fail, he discovers that only in Christ's finished work can he find his own redemption.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott brings on home educated film producer Aaron Burns from the movie, Beyond the Mask.
Aaron Burns graduated with his Masters of Business Administration from Oakland University in May of 2011. He served as the co-producer, production designer, score supervisor, and lead actor on Burns Family Studios' Pendragon: Sword of His Father. Aaron was recently married and lives with his wife Andrea in Lake Orion, MI.
Beyond the Mask is an action-packed, Gospel-centered, historic, adventure film. It is set in the turbulent months leading up to the American Declaration for Independence.
The story explores identity and redemption through the lens of one central question: "What does it take for a man to remake his name and redeem his identity?" The assassin-turned-vicar, Will Reynolds, tries two classic approaches to fixing himself. First, he hides behind a mask of assumed identity. Second, he works to do enough good to outweigh his bad past. When both approaches fail, he discovers that only in Christ's finished work can he find his own redemption.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott brings on two cousins whose backyard adventure hit the big screen, Aaron and Chad Burns.
Aaron Burns graduated with his Masters of Business Administration from Oakland University in May of 2011. He served as the co-producer, production designer, score supervisor, and lead actor on Burns Family Studios' Pendragon: Sword of His Father. Aaron was recently married and lives with his wife Andrea in Lake Orion, MI.
Chad Burns is the award-winning director and co-producer of Burns Family Studios' first feature film, Pendragon: Sword of His Father. Chad completed his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Control Systems and Human Factors at the University of Illinois in the spring of 2011. Chad recently married Angie in August 2011 and lives in Champaign, IL.
These cousins have now created the Christian Hit, Beyond the Mask, an action-packed, Gospel-centered, historic, adventure film. It is set in the turbulent months leading up to the American Declaration for Independence.
The story explores identity and redemption through the lens of one central question: "What does it take for a man to remake his name and redeem his identity?" The assassin-turned-vicar, Will Reynolds, tries two classic approaches to fixing himself. First, he hides behind a mask of assumed identity. Second, he works to do enough good to outweigh his bad past. When both approaches fail, he discovers that only in Christ's finished work can he find his own redemption.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott chats with author and podcaster Amanda Hope Haley.
Amanda Hope Haley has a bachelor of arts in religious studies from Rhodes College and a master of theological studies in Hebrew Scripture and Interpretation from Harvard University. She contributed to The Voice Bible translation as a writer and editor, and she has been an editor and curricula ghost writer for popular Christian authors. Amanda maintains a blog, Healthy and Hopeful, where she encourages women to live whole lives in community with God, family, and each other. Her first book, Barren among the Fruitful: Navigating Infertility with Hope, Wisdom, and Patience was released by HarperCollins Christian Publishers on October 7, 2014, as part of the InScribed Collection. Amanda and her husband David recently moved to Denver, Colorado, and look forward to new friends and new adventures out West.
Amanda enjoys hosting people in her home for small group studies and serving her church community however she can. She loves cooking, crafting, and party planning, but she’s happiest when exploring new places with her husband and spoiling her godchildren Elijah, Jack, and Lily.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott chats with author and podcaster Amanda Hope Haley.
Amanda Hope Haley has a bachelor of arts in religious studies from Rhodes College and a master of theological studies in Hebrew Scripture and Interpretation from Harvard University. She contributed to The Voice Bible translation as a writer and editor, and she has been an editor and curricula ghost writer for popular Christian authors. Amanda maintains a blog, Healthy and Hopeful, where she encourages women to live whole lives in community with God, family, and each other. Her first book, Barren among the Fruitful: Navigating Infertility with Hope, Wisdom, and Patience was released by HarperCollins Christian Publishers on October 7, 2014, as part of the InScribed Collection. Amanda and her husband David recently moved to Denver, Colorado, and look forward to new friends and new adventures out West.
Amanda enjoys hosting people in her home for small group studies and serving her church community however she can. She loves cooking, crafting, and party planning, but she’s happiest when exploring new places with her husband and spoiling her godchildren Elijah, Jack, and Lily.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott talks football and Jesus with former NFL running back Noah Herron.
Noah Herron played in twenty-seven games in his three-year career with the Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He was born on April 3, 1982 in Mattawan, MI, where he was a standout football player growing up. He played for Big Ten college Northwestern, where he earned Second Team All-Big-Ten honors when he scored fifteen touchdowns his senior season. Noah was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2005 in Round 7 (#244 overall). Noah’s breakout season came in 2006 when he played all sixteen games and averaged 4.1 yards/carry to go along with twenty-nine receptions.
Noah is also known for thwarting an attempted robbery of his home and sharing the love of Christ with all who will hear it.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott talks football and Jesus with former NFL running back Noah Herron.
Noah Herron played in 27 games, in his 3 year career, with the Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh Steelers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He was born on Apr 3, 1982 in Mattawan, MI, where he was a standout football player growing up. He played for Big Ten college Northwestern, where he earned Second Team All-Big Ten honors when he scored 15 touchdowns his Senior season. Noah was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2005 in Round 7 (#244 Overall). Noah’s breakout season came in 2006, when he played all 16 games and averaged 4.1 yards/carry to go along with 29 receptions.
Noah is also known for thwarting an attempted robbery of his home and sharing the love of Christ with all who will hear it.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott talks movies with producer and actor Nathan Clarkson.
Nathan Clarkson is an actor, writer, producer, and lover of stories. Nathan has appeared on commercials, TV-shows, films, and recently starred opposite Kevin Sorbo in a new faith-based feature film called Confessions of a Prodigal Son (coming soon), written and produced by Nathan and his production company Lighting Dark.
Growing up, Nathan was constantly described as "out of the box," and even though Nathan was diagnosed with OCD, ODD, ADHD, and other learning disabilities, he was able to take what many would see as "disorders" and turn them into "superpowers."
Nathan lives in Los Angeles, California, with his brand new adventure partner/wife Rachael Lee where he hopes to bring light to a dark world while following Jesus to infinity and beyond.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott talks movies with producer and actor Nathan Clarkson.
Nathan Clarkson is an actor, writer, producer, and lover of stories. Nathan has appeared on commercials, TV-shows, films, and recently starred opposite Kevin Sorbo in a new faith-based feature film called Confessions of a Prodigal Son (coming soon), written and produced by Nathan and his production company Lighting Dark.
Growing up, Nathan was constantly described as "out of the box," and even though Nathan was diagnosed with OCD, ODD, ADHD, and other learning disabilities, he was able to take what many would see as "disorders" and turn them into "superpowers."
Nathan lives in Los Angeles, California, with his brand new adventure partner/wife Rachael Lee where he hopes to bring light to a dark world while following Jesus to infinity and beyond.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott invites author of Becoming a Spiritually Healthy Family Michelle Anthony to the show.
Dr. Michelle Anthony is the Vice President and Publisher of Learning Resources at David C Cook. She is the author of Spiritual Parenting, Dreaming of More for the Next Generation, The Big God Story, and her newest book Becoming a Spiritually Healthy Family (January 2015). Michelle has over twenty-five years of church ministry and leadership experience in children’s and family ministries and graduate degrees in Christian Education, Bible, and Theology from Talbot School of Theology and Southern Seminary. In her free time, Michelle enjoys being with her family, reading a good book, and the beach … while drinking a strong cup of coffee.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott invites author of Becoming a Spiritually Healthy Family Michelle Anthony to the show.
Dr. Michelle Anthony is the Vice President and Publisher of Learning Resources at David C Cook. She is the author of Spiritual Parenting, Dreaming of More for the Next Generation, The Big God Story, and her newest book Becoming a Spiritually Healthy Family (January 2015). Michelle has over twenty-five years of church ministry and leadership experience in children’s and family ministries and graduate degrees in Christian Education, Bible, and Theology from Talbot School of Theology and Southern Seminary. In her free time, Michelle enjoys being with her family, reading a good book, and the beach … while drinking a strong cup of coffee.
Dawn is a Christian speaker, musician, singer/songwriter, charting recording artist with Urgent Records, as well as an author. She has recorded thirteen CD’s and written two books. She is a former Miss South Carolina and second runner-up to Miss America. CBS produced a made-for-TV feature film based on her life story, “Nightmare in Columbia County,” which continues to air internationally on cable television.
Dawn has performed and ministered in thousands of churches during the past twenty-five-plus years, as well as being featured on the Billy Graham Crusade, the 700 Club, Reader’s Digest, The FBI Profiles on the Discovery Network, In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley, TLC’s What Not To Wear’s Ms. Pageant Rewind with Stacie Lundon, and more recently, On the Case with Paula Zahn. Grace so Amazing, her first book, is the true story of the tragic kidnapping and murder of her younger sister in 1985. It became the largest manhunt in South Carolina’s history, drawing national attention. She speaks about the sufficiency of God’s grace, even to the point of forgiving the murderer.
Dawn ministers in more than seventy-five events annually. She is the mother of two college-age children, Hannah and Ross. They make their home in Columbia, SC. Her greatest joy is being a mother to her children, but she considers it a great privilege to share her music and ministry out of the story God is weaving into her life.
Dawn is a Christian speaker, musician, singer/songwriter, charting recording artist with Urgent Records, as well as an author. She has recorded thirteen CD’s and written two books. She is a former Miss South Carolina and second runner-up to Miss America. CBS produced a made-for-TV feature film based on her life story, “Nightmare in Columbia County,” which continues to air internationally on cable television.
Dawn has performed and ministered in thousands of churches during the past twenty-five-plus years, as well as being featured on the Billy Graham Crusade, the 700 Club, Reader’s Digest, The FBI Profiles on the Discovery Network, In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley, TLC’s What Not To Wear’s Ms. Pageant Rewind with Stacie Lundon, and more recently, On the Case with Paula Zahn. Grace so Amazing, her first book, is the true story of the tragic kidnapping and murder of her younger sister in 1985. It became the largest manhunt in South Carolina’s history, drawing national attention. She speaks about the sufficiency of God’s grace, even to the point of forgiving the murderer.
Dawn ministers in more than seventy-five events annually. She is the mother of two college-age children, Hannah and Ross. They make their home in Columbia, SC. Her greatest joy is being a mother to her children, but she considers it a great privilege to share her music and ministry out of the story God is weaving into her life.
Jeremy Lundmark has served as the Pastor of Community Baptist Church in Apalachin, NY since 2009. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Life Choices Center in Binghamton, NY and works as a State Chapter Organizing Representative for the American Pastor’s Network in NY.
In June of 2014, Jeremy published his first book, The Fury of God. He was also the founder and president of Diligence Applied Ministries from 2009 to 2012. All his articles are now available on his personal blog, www.jeremylundmark.com. Jeremy is a passionate preacher of the Word of God and he is also passionately pro-life.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott invites military Chaplain and author for www.TheologyMix.com.
Chris Linzey is husband to Tené, father to the three most beautiful children in the world, movie addict, pastor in Central Illinois, and Army Reserve Chaplain (currently with the 159th Military Police Battalion – Criminal Investigation Division). Chris has a deep desire to help people live lives of faith where the Bible is more than mere words on a page, but the way we live every day. His undergrad and Master’s studies were in biblical studies. He went on to get a Master of Divinity (MDiv) in Pastoral Preaching. Follow him on Twitter @chrislinzey.
Chris Linzey is husband to Tené, father to the three most beautiful children in the world, movie addict, pastor in Central Illinois, and Army Reserve Chaplain (currently with the 159th Military Police Battalion – Criminal Investigation Division). Chris has a deep desire to help people live lives of faith where the Bible is more than mere words on a page, but the way we live every day. His undergrad and Master’s studies were in biblical studies. He went on to get a Master of Divinity (MDiv) in Pastoral Preaching. Follow him on Twitter @chrislinzey.
Jeremy Lundmark has served as the Pastor of Community Baptist Church in Apalachin, NY since 2009. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Life Choices Center in Binghamton, NY and works as a State Chapter Organizing Representative for the American Pastor’s Network in NY.
In June of 2014, Jeremy published his first book, The Fury of God. He was also the founder and president of Diligence Applied Ministries from 2009 to 2012. All his articles are now available on his personal blog, www.jeremylundmark.com. Jeremy is a passionate preacher of the Word of God and he is also passionately pro-life.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott brings on Yochanan Marcellino to chat about the new movie he’s produced called The Identical.
Yochanan Marcellino is the Founder, President, and CEO of City of Peace Media and City of Peace Films, both sister companies with the purpose of providing a framework where music, films, and video with redeeming value can be developed, produced, and distributed worldwide, bringing a message of hope, love, and encouragement to this generation. Over the course of his accomplished career in the music industry for nearly forty years, Yochanan has worked with many successful artists. His transition to film began when he worked with his father, legendary music producer, Jerry Marcellino, during the big years of Motown Records. His new film, The Identical is released to video.
The Identical is the story of twin brothers raised in different families, struggling to find their purpose and destiny. Spanning five decades from the 1930s through the 1970s, this film is about the restoration and reconciliation of a family broken apart by culture, creed, and tradition. To know more about the movie, visit www.theidenticalmovie.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott brings on Yochanan Marcellino to chat about the new movie he’s produced called The Identical.
Yochanan Marcellino is the Founder, President, and CEO of City of Peace Media and City of Peace Films, both sister companies with the purpose of providing a framework where music, films, and video with redeeming value can be developed, produced, and distributed worldwide, bringing a message of hope, love, and encouragement to this generation. Over the course of his accomplished career in the music industry for nearly forty years, Yochanan has worked with many successful artists. His transition to film began when he worked with his father, legendary music producer, Jerry Marcellino, during the big years of Motown Records. His new film, The Identical is released to video.
The Identical is the story of twin brothers raised in different families, struggling to find their purpose and destiny. Spanning five decades from the 1930s through the 1970s, this film is about the restoration and reconciliation of a family broken apart by culture, creed, and tradition. To know more about the movie, visit www.theidenticalmovie.com.
Jayme H. Mansfield is an author, artist, and educator. She provides vivid imagery as she melds her inspiring writing and artistic talents. Her debut novel, Chasing the Butterfly, released October 2014 by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Jayme owns, paints, and shares the joy of creating art with children and adults at Piggy Toes Art Studio in Lakewood, Colorado. After a career in advertising, Jayme received her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education/Creative Arts. For eighteen years, she has shared a passion for literacy and the writing process, currently teaching at Aspen Academy. She is married to James and has three teenage boys. Visit www.jaymemansfield.com.
Donna Rhodes is a trained speaker, published author, certified Life Coach, and personality trainer. She has written for newspapers, magazines, websites, and story compilation books. Donna teaches Bible studies and is on the women’s leadership team at her church. She is married to Denver and they have eight children, fourteen grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Her passion is sharing hope for the hopeless, even if they have to borrow hope from her story until they find their own. Her happy places are grandchildren, gourmet cooking, and playing with her dog Penny.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott interviews two Boot Camp award winners, Donna Rhodes and Jayme Mansfield.
Donna Rhodes is a trained speaker, published author, certified Life Coach, and personality trainer. She has written for newspapers, magazines, websites, and story compilation books. Donna teaches Bible studies and is on the women’s leadership team at her church. She is married to Denver and they have eight children, fourteen grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Her passion is sharing hope for the hopeless, even if they have to borrow hope from her story until they find their own. Her happy places are grandchildren, gourmet cooking, and playing with her dog Penny.
Jayme H. Mansfield is an author, artist, and educator. She provides vivid imagery as she melds her inspiring writing and artistic talents. Her debut novel, Chasing the Butterfly, released October 2014 by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Jayme owns, paints, and shares the joy of creating art with children and adults at Piggy Toes Art Studio in Lakewood, Colorado. After a career in advertising, Jayme received her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education/Creative Arts. For eighteen years, she has shared a passion for literacy and the writing process, currently teaching at Aspen Academy. She is married to James and has three teenage boys. Visit www.jaymemansfield.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott interviews a man of many God-given talents, Alton Gansky.
Alton Gansky is the author of twenty-four novels and nine nonfiction works, as well as principal writer of nine novels and two nonfiction books. He has been a Christy Award finalist (A Ship Possessed), an Angel Award winner (Terminal Justice), and recently received the ACFW award for best suspense/thriller for his work on Fallen Angel. He holds a BA and MA in biblical studies and was granted a Litt.D. He lives in central California with his wife.
In addition to his own writing, Gansky has consulted and provided editing/writing services to several CBA publishers and written copy, video scripts, and other works for the general business market. Through Gansky Communications he has consulted with publishers and agents, as well as provided editing services. He is “the go to guy” for co-writing, having been selected by Penguin, Waterbrook, Broadman Holman, and other publishers to work with their top-tier authors.
Gansky is in frequent demand at writers’ conferences. He has taught and keynoted in California, Arizona, New Mexico, North Carolina, Delaware, Washington, and Canada. Gansky has also been guest lecturer on suspense writing at Taylor University in Indiana. He is the director of the premier writers’ conference, Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference (BRMCWC). Discover more about him at http://www.altongansky.com/.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott interviews a man of many God-given talents, Alton Gansky.
Alton Gansky is the author of twenty-four novels and nine nonfiction works, as well as principal writer of nine novels and two nonfiction books. He has been a Christy Award finalist (A Ship Possessed), an Angel Award winner (Terminal Justice), and recently received the ACFW award for best suspense/thriller for his work on Fallen Angel. He holds a BA and MA in biblical studies and was granted a Litt.D. He lives in central California with his wife.
In addition to his own writing, Gansky has consulted and provided editing/writing services to several CBA publishers and written copy, video scripts, and other works for the general business market. Through Gansky Communications he has consulted with publishers and agents, as well as provided editing services. He is “the go to guy” for co-writing, having been selected by Penguin, Waterbrook, Broadman Holman, and other publishers to work with their top-tier authors.
Gansky is in frequent demand at writers’ conferences. He has taught and keynoted in California, Arizona, New Mexico, North Carolina, Delaware, Washington, and Canada. Gansky has also been guest lecturer on suspense writing at Taylor University in Indiana. He is the director of the premier writers’ conference, Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference (BRMCWC). Discover more about him at http://www.altongansky.com/.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as members of the talented Snyder family share their heart for serving God through music, writing, and web design.
John I. Snyder is an international pastor, author, and conference speaker. His highly-acclaimed prayer guide, Your 100-Day Prayer from Thomas Nelson Publishers, has transformed the lives of readers all over the world. John received his Master of Theology and Master of Divinity degrees from Princeton Theological Seminary. He and his talented wife Sherin are involved in church-planting ministry and the new www.TheologyMix.com. She is an interpreter for international conferences, an events planner, and much more.
Their daughter Stephanie finished high school at fourteen, just before moving with her family to Europe for missions. She earned her Freelance Journalism Honors Diploma and Honors Diploma in Subediting and Design from the London School of Journalism.
Sarah, the Snyder’s other daughter, also finished high school at age fourteen, then attended the King’s College in New York City. When the family moved to Switzerland, Sarah followed her sister’s footsteps and enrolled in the London School of Journalism and earned her Journalism, Newswriting, Subediting, and Design Honors Diplomas. Sarah (guitar, vocals, and piano) and Stephanie (drums, vocals, and percussion) formed the rock band Deer Park Avenue and have produced three records with renowned bassist Matt Bissonette.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as members of the talented Snyder family share their heart for serving God through music, writing, and web design.
John I. Snyder is an international pastor, author, and conference speaker. His highly-acclaimed prayer guide, Your 100-Day Prayer from Thomas Nelson Publishers, has transformed the lives of readers all over the world. John received his Master of Theology and Master of Divinity degrees from Princeton Theological Seminary. He and his talented wife Sherin are involved in church-planting ministry and the new www.TheologyMix.com. She is an interpreter for international conferences, an events planner, and much more.
Their daughter Stephanie finished high school at fourteen, just before moving with her family to Europe for missions. She earned her Freelance Journalism Honors Diploma and Honors Diploma in Subediting and Design from the London School of Journalism.
Sarah, the Snyder’s other daughter, also finished high school at age fourteen, then attended the King’s College in New York City. When the family moved to Switzerland, Sarah followed her sister’s footsteps and enrolled in the London School of Journalism and earned her Journalism, Newswriting, Subediting, and Design Honors Diplomas. Sarah (guitar, vocals, and piano) and Stephanie (drums, vocals, and percussion) formed the rock band Deer Park Avenue and have produced three records with renowned bassist Matt Bissonette.
Bob Hostetler is an award-winning writer, editor, pastor, and speaker from southwestern Ohio. His thirty books, which include The Bone Box and American Idols (The Worship of the American Dream), have sold millions of copies. He has co-authored eleven books with Josh McDowell, including the best-selling Right from Wrong (What You Need to Know to Help Youth Make Right Choices), and the award-winning Don't Check Your Brains at the Door. He has won two Gold Medallion Awards, four Ohio Associated Press awards, and an Amy Foundation Award, among others. Bob is a frequent speaker at churches, conferences, and retreats.
Bob was ordained to the ministry in 1980 by The Salvation Army. He and his wife, the lovely Robin, served in The Salvation Army from 1980-1992. In addition to his training for ministry with The Salvation Army, he earned degrees in English Bible from Cincinnati Christian University and English Communications from Bloomfield College.
In 2000, Bob (with his wife) helped to co-found Cobblestone Community Church in Oxford, Ohio. He has served that church in leadership and teaching pastor roles. He has been a disc jockey, pastor, magazine editor, freelance book editor, and (with his wife Robin) a foster parent to ten boys (though not all at once). Bob and Robin have two adult children, Aubrey and Aaron, son-in-law Kevin and daughter-in-law Nina, and grandchildren Miles, Mia, Calleigh, and Ryder. They live in Hamilton, Ohio.
Bob Hostetler is an award-winning writer, editor, pastor, and speaker from southwestern Ohio. His thirty books, which include The Bone Box and American Idols (The Worship of the American Dream), have sold millions of copies. He has co-authored eleven books with Josh McDowell, including the best-selling Right from Wrong (What You Need to Know to Help Youth Make Right Choices), and the award-winning Don't Check Your Brains at the Door. He has won two Gold Medallion Awards, four Ohio Associated Press awards, and an Amy Foundation Award, among others. Bob is a frequent speaker at churches, conferences, and retreats.
Bob was ordained to the ministry in 1980 by The Salvation Army. He and his wife, the lovely Robin, served in The Salvation Army from 1980-1992. In addition to his training for ministry with The Salvation Army, he earned degrees in English Bible from Cincinnati Christian University and English Communications from Bloomfield College.
In 2000, Bob (with his wife) helped to co-found Cobblestone Community Church in Oxford, Ohio. He has served that church in leadership and teaching pastor roles. He has been a disc jockey, pastor, magazine editor, freelance book editor, and (with his wife Robin) a foster parent to ten boys (though not all at once). Bob and Robin have two adult children, Aubrey and Aaron, son-in-law Kevin and daughter-in-law Nina, and grandchildren Miles, Mia, Calleigh, and Ryder. They live in Hamilton, Ohio.
Ann Tatlock is a novelist and children’s book author. Her books have received numerous awards, including the Christy Award, the Midwest Book Award, and the Silver Angel Award for Excellence in Media. She also serves as Managing Editor of Heritage Beacon, the historical fiction imprint of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. She lives with her family in Western North Carolina. Please visit her website at www.anntatlock.com.
Her latest book is called Once Beyond a Time and bridges time gaps, where some believe she is hinging on paranormal. You can find it on Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/dp/1941103901/.
Kelli Hughett’s love for the game of football and heart-pounding romance combine to strengthen the voice in Red Zone. Kelli earned a degree in women’s studies from Bear Valley Institute of Denver in 1998. A homeschool-mom-turned-suspense writer, Kelli writes suspense with His fingerprints all over it. She is a member of ACFW-Colorado chapter, and is involved in two critique groups. She is a back-to-back Genesis finalist 2011/2012. Kelli thrives on public speaking, teaching, and writing children's Bible curriculum. Discover more about her at www.kellihughett.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! with authors Kelli Hughett and Ann Tatlock.
Kelli Hughett’s love for the game of football and heart-pounding romance combine to strengthen the voice in Red Zone. Kelli earned a degree in women’s studies from Bear Valley Institute of Denver in 1998. A homeschool-mom-turned-suspense writer, Kelli writes suspense with His fingerprints all over it. She is a member of ACFW-Colorado chapter, and is involved in two critique groups. She is a back-to-back Genesis finalist 2011/2012. Kelli thrives on public speaking, teaching, and writing children's Bible curriculum. Discover more about her at www.kellihughett.com.
Ann Tatlock is a novelist and children’s book author. Her books have received numerous awards, including the Christy Award, the Midwest Book Award, and the Silver Angel Award for Excellence in Media. She also serves as Managing Editor of Heritage Beacon, the historical fiction imprint of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. She lives with her family in Western North Carolina. Please visit her website at www.anntatlock.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when former NFL quarterback Tim Hiller shares his trek to the pigskin glory land, and his ultimate trek to salvation in Christ.
From the earliest days, Tim Hiller’s story has always consisted of three things: a boy, a ball, and a dream.
The boy with a ball began chasing his dream by dodging imaginary defenders in his parents’ backyard and cutting out pictures from Sports Illustrated for Kids magazine. The pursuit of his dream continued through the ranks and record books of the Orrville High School and Western Michigan University football programs, where Tim re-wrote the standards in virtually every major passing category. And his dream culminated in the National Football League, where Tim spent time with four teams, primarily the Indianapolis Colts.
But for the boy with a ball, football was his dream, not his definition—his passion, but not his ultimate purpose. Today, Tim Hiller uses the platform of his celebrated football career to serve others, sharing his faith and experiences through speaking, writing, and his work with Next Level Performance—leaving a lasting impact on all who hear his powerful message.
From the earliest days, Tim Hiller’s story has always consisted of three things:
A boy, a ball, and a dream.
The boy with a ball began chasing his dream by dodging imaginary defenders in his parents’ backyard and cutting out pictures from Sports Illustrated for Kids magazine. The pursuit of his dream continued through the ranks and record books of the Orrville High School and Western Michigan University football programs, where Tim re-wrote the standards in virtually every major passing category. And his dream culminated in the National Football League, where Tim spent time with four teams, primarily the Indianapolis Colts.
But for the boy with a ball, football was his dream, not his definition. His passion, but not his ultimate purpose.
Today, Tim Hiller uses the platform of his celebrated football career to serve others—sharing his faith and experiences through speaking, writing, and his work with Next Level Performance—leaving a lasting impact on all who hear his powerful message.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott picks the brain of leading apologetic’s debater and founder of Creation Today Ministries, Eric Hovind.
Eric Hovind grew up immersed in the world of apologetics. Following college graduation in 1999, he began full-time ministry. President and Founder of Pensacola-based organization, Creation Today, Eric’s passion to reach people with the life-changing message of the gospel has driven him to speak in five foreign countries and all fifty states. He lives in Pensacola, Florida, with his wife Tanya and three children and remains excited about the tremendous opportunity to lead an apologetics ministry in the war against evolution and humanism. Much like a 21st-century Apostle Paul on Mars Hill, in June of 2013, Eric stood on the first monument to atheism in America to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ to the atheist community.
In 2011, Eric teamed up with Paul Taylor to begin The Creation Today Show. More than seventy-two episodes are broadcasting on three continents equipping thousands to continue battling the anti-Christ, anti-Bible spirit that consumes today’s culture with the absolute truth of God’s Word, beginning in Genesis. Discover more about Eric and his ministry at www.creationtoday.org.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott picks the brain of leading apologetic’s debater and founder of Creation Today Ministries, Eric Hovind.
Eric Hovind grew up immersed in the world of apologetics. Following college graduation in 1999, he began full-time ministry. President and Founder of Pensacola-based organization, Creation Today, Eric’s passion to reach people with the life-changing message of the gospel has driven him to speak in five foreign countries and all fifty states. He lives in Pensacola, Florida, with his wife Tanya and three children and remains excited about the tremendous opportunity to lead an apologetics ministry in the war against evolution and humanism. Much like a 21st-century Apostle Paul on Mars Hill, in June of 2013, Eric stood on the first monument to atheism in America to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ to the atheist community.
In 2011, Eric teamed up with Paul Taylor to begin The Creation Today Show. More than seventy-two episodes are broadcasting on three continents equipping thousands to continue battling the anti-Christ, anti-Bible spirit that consumes today’s culture with the absolute truth of God’s Word, beginning in Genesis. Discover more about Eric and his ministry at www.creationtoday.org.
Donn Taylor led an Infantry rifle platoon in the Korean War, served with Army aviation in Vietnam, and worked with air reconnaissance in Europe and Asia. Afterwards, he completed a PhD at The University of Texas and taught English literature at two liberal arts colleges. Now retired from college teaching, he writes suspense and mystery fiction as well as literary poetry designed for the ordinary reader. He is a frequent speaker at writers' conferences and study groups. He lives near Houston, TX, where he continues to write fiction, poetry, and essays on ethics and U.S. foreign policy. His latest book is also released through Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolina’s and is called, Lightning on a Quiet Night. Discover more about Donn at www.donntaylor.com.
Alice J. Wisler was born and raised in Japan as a missionary kid. She is the author of Getting Out of Bed in the Morning, and five novels. Rain Song and How Sweet It Is were Christy finalists. Ever since the cancer death of her four-year-old son Daniel in 1997, she has found solace in writing from heartache and teaches “Writing the Heartache” workshops across the country. She lives in Durham, NC with her husband and children where they have a wood carving business, Carved By Heart. Her sixth book is published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolina’s and is titled, Under the Silk Hibiscus. Visit her website at www.alicewisler.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when award winning authors Alice Wisler and Donn Taylor return to chat about their new books and testimonies.
Alice J. Wisler was born and raised in Japan as a missionary kid. She is the author of Getting Out of Bed in the Morning, and five novels. Rain Song and How Sweet It Is were Christy finalists. Ever since the cancer death of her four-year-old son Daniel in 1997, she has found solace in writing from heartache and teaches “Writing the Heartache” workshops across the country. She lives in Durham, NC with her husband and children where they have a wood carving business, Carved By Heart. Her latest book is published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolina’s and is titled, Under the Silk Hibiscus. Visit her website at www.alicewisler.com.
Donn Taylor led an Infantry rifle platoon in the Korean War, served with Army aviation in Vietnam, and worked with air reconnaissance in Europe and Asia. Afterwards, he completed a PhD at The University of Texas and taught English literature at two liberal arts colleges. Now retired from college teaching, he writes suspense and mystery fiction as well as literary poetry designed for the ordinary reader. He is a frequent speaker at writers' conferences and study groups. He lives near Houston, TX, where he continues to write fiction, poetry, and essays on ethics and U.S. foreign policy. His latest book is also released through Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolina’s and is called, Lightning on a Quiet Night. Discover more about Donn at www.donntaylor.com.
Cindy Sproles is an author and speaker. She is the cofounder of Christian Devotions Ministries and the cowriter of the popular He Said, She Said Devotions written with her cofounder, Eddie Jones. Cindy’s devotions and articles are published in Christian newspapers across the eastern seaboard, including Common Ground Christian Newspaper, Tri-County News and Hometown Christian News. She is a speaker for women’s conferences addressing not only the heart of women, but also their biblical responsibilities to their families. As a teacher and speaker for Christian writers conferences, Cindy teaches writing skills and how to write, placing God in the forefront. She is a contributing author to CBN.com and is the Executive Editor for www.christiandevotions.us and the Devotional Acquisitions Editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Cindy works alongside Scott McCausey and Eddie Jones to cohost the syndicated Blog Talk Radio show, Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! She is a certified life coach and mentor, an eldercare specialist, and a special needs advocate.
Her book, New Sheets –Thirty Days to Refine You Into the Woman You Can Be is being used to help raise funds for Hope House, an abortion crisis center. You can also check out her new book, Mercy’s Rain, at http://cindysproles.com/mercys-rain/.
Cindy Sproles is an author and speaker. She is the cofounder of Christian Devotions Ministries and the cowriter of the popular He Said, She Said Devotions written with her cofounder, Eddie Jones. Cindy’s devotions and articles are published in Christian newspapers across the eastern seaboard, including Common Ground Christian Newspaper, Tri-County News and Hometown Christian News. She is a speaker to women’s conferences addressing not only the heart of women but also their biblical responsibilities to their families. As a teacher and speaker for Christian Writers Conferences, Cindy teaches writing skills and how to write placing God in the forefront. She is a contributing author to CBN.com and is the Executive Editor for www.christiandevotions.us and the Devotional Acquisitions Editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Cindy works along side Scott McCausey and Eddie Jones to cohost the syndicated Blog Talk Radio show, Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! She is a certified life coach and mentor, an eldercare specialist and a special needs advocate.
Her latest book, New Sheets – Thirty Days to Refine You Into the Woman You Can Be is being used to help raise funds for Hope House, an abortion crisis center. You can also check out her new book releasing January 27, Mercy’s Rain, at http://cindysproles.com/mercys-rain/
She is the mother of four sons and lives in the mountains of East Tennessee with her husband. Cindy can be contacted at www.cindysproles.com or by emailing cindyksproles@gmail.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott kicks off the New Year with homeschooling mom, simple living advocate, and author Jessie Clemence.
Jessie Clemence is a graduate of Western Michigan University with a degree in Family Studies. She has worked in the foster care system as a social worker and has also published articles in Mary Jane’s Farm and Money Matters magazines. Jessie lives in southwestern Michigan with her husband and two children.
Jessie has written a book called There’s a Green Plastic Monkey in My Purse. This work creatively expresses many parenting issues faced by moms, and offers encouragement to help them on this journey. You’ll enjoy Clemence’s sense of humor and casual tone as she explores God’s perspective on motherhood, and shares her personal experiences as a mother of two. Not only will you find practical insights and biblical wisdom, but you’ll also find a funny quiz, interesting interviews with moms, study questions, and more.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott kicks off the New Year with homeschooling mom, simple living advocate, and author Jessie Clemence.
Jessie Clemence is a graduate of Western Michigan University with a degree in Family Studies. She has worked in the foster care system as a social worker and has also published articles in Mary Jane’s Farm and Money Matters magazines. Jessie lives in southwestern Michigan with her husband and two children.
Jessie has written a book called There’s a Green Plastic Monkey in My Purse. This work creatively expresses many parenting issues faced by moms, and offers encouragement to help them on this journey. You’ll enjoy Clemence’s sense of humor and casual tone as she explores God’s perspective on motherhood, and shares her personal experiences as a mother of two. Not only will you find practical insights and biblical wisdom, but you’ll also find a funny quiz, interesting interviews with moms, study questions, and more.
If you know someone who would be a great guest on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! contact Scott@christiandevotions.us.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when the best clips of the year are ready for you to enjoy.
Great guests have rewarded our listeners with incites into their ministries, lives and hearts. Some of the clips you will hear come from Comedian Brad Stine, former Lead Singer of Petra John Schlitt, Ex-NFL player Corwin Anthony, Producer and Actor of God's Not Dead David AR White, Worship Leader Don Moen, Performing Artist Jonny Diaz, Radio Host and Author Kim Ketola, Missionary Melody Green, President of the NCFIC Scott Brown, Movie Producer Zena Dell Lowe, Author and Singer Andrew Peterson, Actor Burgess Jenkins and many more! You’ll laugh, be encouraged, and—I pray—share the link and become a regular listener for 2015.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when the best clips of the year are ready for you to enjoy. Also joining will be Author Lori Hatcher.
Lori is a busy woman. The editor of Reach Out, Columbia magazine, part-time dental hygienist, women’s ministry speaker, freelance writer and editor, wife, and mother of two young adult daughters, she regularly struggles to make time for God. She wrote her book, Hungry for God…Starving for Time, with women like herself in mind. “—the career woman, the stay-at-home mom, the student who desires a relationship with God but struggles to make room for it in her busy day.”
Following a chat with Lori, Speak UP will feature the best clips of 2014 featuring Brad Stine, John Schlitt, Corwin Anthony, David AR White, Don Moen, Jonny Diaz, Kim Ketola, Melody Green, Scott Brown, Zena Dell Lowe, and many more! You’ll laugh, be encouraged, and—I pray—share the link and become a regular listener for 2015.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! with a best-selling trio who co-authored Where Treetops Glisten.
Cara Putman, the award-winning author of nineteen books, including Shadowed by Grace, graduated high school at sixteen, graduated college at twenty, and completed her law degree at twenty-seven. She is a lecturer on business and employment law to graduate students at Purdue University and also practices law. Cara is currently pursuing her Master’s in Business Administration at Krannert. She lives with her husband and four children in Indiana.
Sarah Sundin is the author of six historical novels, including In Perfect Time (Revell, August 2014). Her novel On Distant Shores was a double finalist for the 2014 Golden Scroll Awards. Sarah lives in northern California with her husband and three children, works on-call as a hospital pharmacist, and teaches Sunday school and women’s Bible studies.
Tricia Goyer, Cara Putman, and Sarah Sundin invite readers to turn back the clock to days gone by as they listen to Bing Crosby sing of sleigh bells in the snow and get to know the Turner family. Three siblings forge their own paths in a love story filled with the wonder of Christmas. Hailing from the heart of America in Lafayette, Indiana, these characters will never be the same as the reality of America’s involvement in World War II hits incredibly close to home.
Tricia Goyer is the best-selling author of more than forty-five books, including fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers, and nonfiction titles offering encouragement and hope. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award Nominee. A popular blogger, Tricia contributes to a number of homeschooling and Christian parenting sites. She and her husband, John, live in Little Rock, AR. They are the parents of six.
Cara Putman, the award-winning author of nineteen books, including Shadowed by Grace, graduated high school at sixteen, graduated college at twenty, and completed her law degree at twenty-seven. She is a lecturer on business and employment law to graduate students at Purdue University and also practices law. Cara is currently pursuing her Master’s in Business Administration at Krannert. She lives with her husband and four children in Indiana.
Sarah Sundin is the author of six historical novels, including In Perfect Time (Revell, August 2014). Her novel On Distant Shores was a double finalist for the 2014 Golden Scroll Awards. Sarah lives in northern California with her husband and three children, works on-call as a hospital pharmacist, and teaches Sunday school and women’s Bible studies.
Brad Stine is on a mission—a mission to free us all from the chains of political correctness and prevent our eventual ‘wussification.’ From his Nashville stronghold, Stine is mounting his crusade against these hypocrisies, all of which are explored in his highly anticipated 4 album/DVD, aptly titled ‘WUSSIFICATION!’
“You know what offends me?....Offended people,” says Stine. A staunch supporter of first amendment rights and foe of political correctness, Stine asserts that rights should be universally applied. “In a country with guaranteed rights to freedom of religion, its citizens are constantly trying to make faith in public spheres illegal. I am offended by that contradiction and want to talk about it as a comic.” The strength of his conviction about our freedoms can be found in many places on WUSSIFICATION—from “Merry Christmas Too!” (the right to celebrate religion), to “At Least We’re Not France!” (the responsibility to take action as a country), to “Spank” (the ability to discipline our children the way we see fit).
Duck Dynasty star Tim Guraedy is best known to the show’s millions of hard-core fans as “Mountain Man,” the slow-talking air-conditioning repairman/radio host who is a neighbor to the Robertsons, the Louisiana family that made a fortune from its best-selling duck calls, around which the show is based. Mountain Man is the only semi-regular cast member who is not a Robertson family member or employee of Duck Commander.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! with a Christmas Rock and Roller, John Schlitt!
John Schlitt began singing when he was just five years old, performing the leads in recitals and plays in his school. By the time he was thirteen, he was in the unforgettably titled band Vinegar Hills Hometown Band Something Different – being paid twenty-five bucks as lead singer. It soon became clear that a career in music was in John’s future.
Fast forward six years … and John Schlitt officially joined Petra in 1986, bringing with him his amazing vocal range and abilities that made him a legend with Head East. While John is arguably one of the most powerful vocalists around, his mightiest cry is the cry of his heart. Whether onstage or up close and personal, John’s voice is one of a truly changed soul. And his music is and always will be a reflection of God’s love and redeeming power.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! with a Christmas Singer Jean Watson.
A classically trained singer and violinist, Jean Watson delved into the Christian recording world as a singer/songwriter in 2003. Since that time, her voice and testimony of God's grace and healing have touched thousands of lives around the world. The power of Jean's message comes out of her unique ability to minister and perform with a balance of musical excellence and childlike transparency. God uses Jean to break barriers of the heart through her willingness to share the story of her own weakness and healing. Hearing Jean sing and speak brings an infusion of faith in the love and power of God. Her passion for God is absolutely contagious!
A consummate singer, songwriter, arranger, and violinist, Jean insists on excellence in everything she does. She has recorded six albums to date including her latest CD, Christmas ... Not the Way It Seems, featuring Grammy nominated producer Billy Smiley and guitar virtuoso Phil Keaggy.
A classically trained singer and violinist, Jean Watson delved into the Christian recording world as a singer/songwriter in 2003. Since that time, her voice and testimony of God's grace and healing have touched thousands of lives around the world. The power of Jean's message comes out of her unique ability to minister and perform with a balance of musical excellence and childlike transparency. God uses Jean to break barriers of the heart through her willingness to share the story of her own weakness and healing. Hearing Jean sing and speak brings an infusion of faith in the love and power of God. Her passion for God is absolutely contagious!
A consummate singer, songwriter, arranger, and violinist, Jean insists on excellence in everything she does. She has recorded six albums to date including her latest CD, Christmas ... Not the Way It Seems, featuring Grammy nominated producer Billy Smiley and guitar virtuoso Phil Keaggy.
John Schlitt began singing when he was just five years old, performing the leads in recitals and plays in his school. By the time he was thirteen, he was in the unforgettably titled band Vinegar Hills Hometown Band Something Different – being paid twenty-five bucks as lead singer. It soon became clear that a career in music was in John’s future.
John Schlitt officially joined Petra in 1986, bringing with him his amazing vocal range and abilities that made him a legend with Head East. While John is arguably one of the most powerful vocalists around, his mightiest cry is the cry of his heart. Whether onstage or up close and personal, John’s voice is one of a truly changed soul. And his music is and always will be a reflection of God’s love and redeeming power.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! with Amy Sullivan.
For the past two years, Amy L. Sullivan looked harder, loved stronger, and discovered more by fixing her gaze on something other than the person staring back at her in the mirror. Amy writes for oodles of print and online publications and loves speaking with groups of any size. Connect with her online at www.AmyLSullivan.com. A portion of the proceeds from her new book When More is Not Enough, will benefit Transformation Village, a new housing development for women, children, and families in crisis in Western North Carolina. http://www.amazon.com/When-More-Not-Enough-Giving/dp/1941103243.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! with an author doubleheader featuring Carol Stratton and Amy Sullivan.
Carol Stratton has written for several publications, including InTouch magazine and Kyria. She is a contributing writer for Forsyth Woman magazine and has been published in two anthologies, Writing so Heaven Will be Different and Extraordinary Answers to Prayers. She speaks to women's groups such as MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), and at national writers’ conferences. She attended Capenwray Bible School in New Zealand. Carol and her husband live in North Carolina and have four children and two grandchildren. Her website, www.ChangingZipCodes.com, helps women who are relocating.
Carol’s newest book is a contemporary Christian romance called Lake Surrender. You can find it through Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Lake-Surrender-Carol-Grace-Stratton/dp/1941103227.
Carol Stratton has written for several publications, including InTouch magazine and Kyria. She is a contributing writer for Forsyth Woman magazine and has been published in two anthologies, Writing so Heaven Will be Different and Extraordinary Answers to Prayers. She speaks to women's groups such as MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), and at national writers’ conferences. She attended Capenwray Bible School in New Zealand. Carol and her husband live in North Carolina and have four children and two grandchildren. Her website, www.ChangingZipCodes.com, helps women who are relocating. Carol’s newest book is a contemporary Christian romance called Lake Surrender.
For the past two years, Amy L. Sullivan looked harder, loved stronger, and discovered more by fixing her gaze on something other than the person staring back at her in the mirror. Amy writes for oodles of print and online publications and loves speaking with groups of any size. Connect with her online at www.AmyLSullivan.com. A portion of the proceeds from her new book When More is Not Enough, will benefit Transformation Village, a new housing development for women, children, and families in crisis in Western North Carolina.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Rob Peabody joins to share his ministry called the Awaken Movement, as well as his new book, Citizen.
Rob Peabody serves as the cofounder and director of Awaken, a non-profit charity that exists to resource the church for action. In 2011, Rob, along with his wife Medea and their two boys, left his position as lead campus pastor of a megachurch in Texas to pioneer and lead fresh expressions of church seeking to engage unreached twenties and thirties in northeast London.
This work is commissioned by the International Mission Board of the SBC and in partnership with the Church of England. Rob currently serves as a missional consultant for multiple church networks in the UK, is a member of the Speaking Team at Spring Harvest, and is charged with casting vision and leading a new upcoming national UK eighteen to thirties conference—The Pursuit—taking place May 2015.
Beyond speaking at conferences in the US and UK, Rob has also written a small group film series entitled Kingdom Rise, released March 2013. Discover his book and ministry here: http://www.awakenmovement.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Rob Peabody joins to share his ministry called the Awaken Movement, as well as his new book, Citizen.
Rob Peabody serves as the cofounder and director of Awaken, a non-profit charity that exists to resource the church for action. In 2011, Rob, along with his wife Medea and their two boys, left his position as lead campus pastor of a megachurch in Texas to pioneer and lead fresh expressions of church seeking to engage unreached twenties and thirties in northeast London.
This work is commissioned by the International Mission Board of the SBC and in partnership with the Church of England. Rob currently serves as a missional consultant for multiple church networks in the UK, is a member of the Speaking Team at Spring Harvest, and is charged with casting vision and leading a new upcoming national UK eighteen to thirties conference—The Pursuit—taking place May 2015.
Beyond speaking at conferences in the US and UK, Rob has also written a small group film series entitled Kingdom Rise, released March 2013. Discover his book and ministry here: http://www.awakenmovement.com.
Mike Day served over twenty-one years on the SEAL Teams, leading his men into battle. On his final mission in Iraq, Mike's team stacked behind him as he led them into a twelve-by-twelve-foot room of a building suspected of housing a group of deadly Al Qaeda insurgents. Mike was shot twenty-seven times and suffered shrapnel wounds from a grenade that detonated within a few feet of where he was standing. Mike reflected on the incident some seven years later: “It was a miracle that I survived; it's still hard to believe!” He spent a year recovering from his wounds. “The military did an outstanding job of treating my physical wounds; however, the neurological and emotional wounds were more difficult to diagnose and treat.”
Although Mike retired from the Navy in 2010, he continues to lead fellow warriors as a full-time case manager and care advocate. Mike inspires those who may be reluctant to seek assistance with PTSD and/or TBI, through his willingness to speak openly about how to effectively recognize and manage symptoms. He also works to provide his fellow wounded warriors with access to customized brain injury treatment programs that offer a non-pharmacological approach to treating TBI and other neurological issues. “While I am grateful for the VA, there are several organizations that are revolutionizing the treatment of brain injuries; one of them is the Carrick Brain Center.” Current estimates suggest that as many as 300,000 former and current service members have some degree of brain injury.
To help Mike raise funds for the care and treatment of wounded warriors and dependent children who have suffered severe brain injuries, check out this link: https://www.crowdrise.com/mikedaystrichallenge/fundraiser/mikeday.
Mike Day served over twenty-one years on the SEAL Teams, leading his men into battle. On his final mission in Iraq, Mike's team stacked behind him as he led them into a twelve-by-twelve-foot room of a building suspected of housing a group of deadly Al Qaeda insurgents. Mike was shot twenty-seven times and suffered shrapnel wounds from a grenade that detonated within a few feet of where he was standing. Mike reflected on the incident some seven years later: “It was a miracle that I survived; it's still hard to believe!”
Although Mike retired from the Navy in 2010, he continues to lead fellow warriors as a full-time case manager and care advocate. Mike inspires those who may be reluctant to seek assistance with PTSD and/or TBI, through his willingness to speak openly about how to effectively recognize and manage symptoms. He also works to provide his fellow wounded warriors with access to customized brain injury treatment programs that offer a non-pharmacological approach to treating TBI and other neurological issues. “While I am grateful for the VA, there are several organizations that are revolutionizing the treatment of brain injuries; one of them is the Carrick Brain Center.” Current estimates suggest that as many as 300,000 former and current service members have some degree of brain injury. Discover more about the Carrick Brain Center here: http://carrickbraincenters.com.
To help Mike raise funds for the care and treatment of wounded warriors and dependent children who have suffered severe brain injuries, check out this link: https://www.crowdrise.com/mikedaystrichallenge/fundraiser/mikeday.
Edie Melson is a leading professional in the writing industry. She’s a sought-after writing instructor, and her heart to help others define and reach their dreams has connected her with writers all over the country. She’s the co-director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, as well as a popular faculty member at numerous others.
Edie is a prolific writer, publishing thousands of articles over the years, and has a popular writing blog, The Write Conversation. She is the Senior Editor for Novel Rocket and the Social Media Mentor for My Book Therapy, as well as the Social Media Director for Southern Writers Magazine.
In keeping up with the leading edge of all things digital, Edie has become known as one of the go-to experts on Twitter, Facebook, and all forms of social media for writers wanting to learn how to plug in. Her bestselling eBook on this subject has recently been updated, expanded, and re-released as Connections: Social Media and Networking Techniques for Writers.
Fighting Fear, Winning the War at Home When Your Soldier Leaves for Battle, is Edie’s heart project. This devotional book for those with family members in the military debuted on Veterans Day, 2011. She's also the Military Family Blogger at While They Serve on www.Guideposts.org.
Edie is a member of numerous civic and professional organizations, including Blue Star Mothers, the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, The Christian Pen, and American Christian Fiction Writers. Connect with her through Twitter or Facebook.
Edie Melson is a leading professional in the writing industry. She’s a sought-after writing instructor, and her heart to help others define and reach their dreams has connected her with writers all over the country. She’s the co-director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, as well as a popular faculty member at numerous others.
Edie is a prolific writer, publishing thousands of articles over the years, and has a popular writing blog, The Write Conversation. She is the Senior Editor for Novel Rocket and the Social Media Mentor for My Book Therapy, as well as the Social Media Director for Southern Writers Magazine.
In keeping up with the leading edge of all things digital, Edie has become known as one of the go-to experts on Twitter, Facebook, and all forms of social media for writers wanting to learn how to plug in. Her bestselling eBook on this subject has recently been updated, expanded, and re-released as Connections: Social Media and Networking Techniques for Writers.
Fighting Fear, Winning the War at Home When Your Soldier Leaves for Battle, is Edie’s heart project. This devotional book for those with family members in the military debuted on Veterans Day, 2011. She's also the Military Family Blogger at While They Serve on www.Guideposts.org.
Edie is a member of numerous civic and professional organizations, including Blue Star Mothers, the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, The Christian Pen, and American Christian Fiction Writers. Connect with her through Twitter or Facebook.
If you know someone who would be a great guest on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! contact Scott@christiandevotions.us.
Ask Don Moen what he does, and the answer might surprise you. He won’t say he’s a songwriter, even though he’s written more than 100 songs. He won’t say he’s a worship leader, even though he’s led worship on every continent but Antarctica and recorded numerous albums. He won’t say he’s a businessman or producer, even though he has produced and directed hundreds of successful projects. If you ask Don Moen why God put him on this planet, he’ll tell you, “To be an architect who designs products and events that help people experience God’s presence in a new and fresh way.” And in more than three decades of ministry, he’s had lots of opportunity to fulfill that purpose. His discography reflects his passion to create resources for the church that lead people into an honest and intimate relationship with the Lord.
Don has also received a Dove Award for his work on the musical God With Us and has received multiple Dove Award nominations for his songs, CDs, and choral resources. In addition to his writing and recording, Don makes time to tour domestically and abroad, and has performed with artists such as Chris Tomlin, Twila Paris, Sara Groves, and Paul Baloche, to name a few.
Don is as popular overseas as he is at home in the U.S. His travels for concerts and seminars have taken him to Ghana, South Africa, Singapore, the Philippines, South Korea, Brazil, Canada, Australia, Great Britain, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, Guatemala, Honduras, and elsewhere. Today, Don is President of Don Moen Productions in Nashville, Tennessee, where he resides with his wife Laura and five children.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey welcomes renown Christian recording artist, Don Moen.
Ask Don Moen what he does, and the answer might surprise you. He won’t say he’s a songwriter, even though he’s written more than 100 songs. He won’t say he’s a worship leader, even though he’s led worship on every continent but Antarctica and recorded numerous albums. He won’t say he’s a businessman or producer, even though he has produced and directed hundreds of successful projects. If you ask Don Moen why God put him on this planet, he’ll tell you, “To be an architect who designs products and events that help people experience God’s presence in a new and fresh way.” And in more than three decades of ministry, he’s had lots of opportunity to fulfill that purpose. His discography reflects his passion to create resources for the church that lead people into an honest and intimate relationship with the Lord.
Don has also received a Dove Award for his work on the musical God With Us and has received multiple Dove Award nominations for his songs, CDs, and choral resources. In addition to his writing and recording, Don makes time to tour domestically and abroad, and has performed with artists such as Chris Tomlin, Twila Paris, Sara Groves, and Paul Baloche, to name a few.
Today, Don is President of Don Moen Productions in Nashville, Tennessee, where he resides with his wife Laura and five children.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey brings on the wife of the late Keith Green to discuss the continuing ministry she and her husband started, Last Days Ministry.
Melody is probably most loved for the songs she’s written. “There Is a Redeemer” is found in church hymn books around the world, and reports of it being sung in villages in Africa and Asia are plentiful. She has also composed many other standards including, “Make My Life a Prayer To You”, “You Are The One,” “Rushing Wind,” and “The Lord Is My Shepherd.”
Melody’s life is an adventure that just keeps unfolding. Besides writing songs, she is also known internationally as an author and a minister. She is fearless when it comes to tackling difficult issues and bold in her travels. She has been to over thirty nations to speak at retreats, conferences, and church services, as well as ministering to men and women in prisons, refugee camps, remote villages, leper colonies, underground churches, and those living in war zones.
Her best-selling book, No Compromise: The Life Story of Keith Green, has become a must-read classic, translated into numerous languages. To learn more about Melody, her book and ministry, visit www.lastdaysministries.org.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey brings on the wife of the late Keith Green to discuss the continuing ministry she and her husband started, Last Days Ministry.
Melody is probably most loved for the songs she’s written. “There Is a Redeemer” is found in church hymn books around the world, and reports of it being sung in villages in Africa and Asia are plentiful. She has also composed many other standards including, “Make My Life a Prayer To You”, “You Are The One,” “Rushing Wind,” and “The Lord Is My Shepherd.”
Melody’s life is an adventure that just keeps unfolding. Besides writing songs, she is also known internationally as an author and a minister. She is fearless when it comes to tackling difficult issues and bold in her travels. She has been to over thirty nations to speak at retreats, conferences, and church services, as well as ministering to men and women in prisons, refugee camps, remote villages, leper colonies, underground churches, and those living in war zones.
Her best-selling book, No Compromise: The Life Story of Keith Green, has become a must-read classic, translated into numerous languages. To learn more about Melody, her book and ministry, visit www.lastdaysministries.org.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey brings on the Assistant Editor of Devokids.com, Sandra Hart.
Sandra Hart loves to visit places where significant historic events have taken place. These places and the people who lived through the events, often inspire her and spark her imagination. She most often writes inspirational historical romances and especially loves the American Civil War period. In fact, her debut novella, A Stranger on My Land, is set on Lookout Mountain where the Battle Above the Clouds took place. She serves as Assistant Editor for DevoKids.com where she contributes historical articles. She is also Assistant Editor at the Barn Door Book Loft website.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey brings on an author urging men to learn how to be men through the convictions of our founding fathers.
J.R. Duren is an award-winning journalist from San Diego, California. He graduated from Bethel Seminary in 2007 with a Master of Divinity. He and his wife Heather live in Barcelona, Spain, where they plan to open a faith-based community arts center. Living Like Lions: 20 Influential Christian Men Past and Present is J.R.'s first published book. You can discover more about him and his ministry at http://www.jrduren.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey brings on two LPC authors.
J.R. Duren is an award-winning journalist from San Diego, California. He graduated from Bethel Seminary in 2007 with a Master of Divinity. He and his wife Heather live in Barcelona, Spain, where they plan to open a faith-based community arts center. Living Like Lions: 20 Influential Christian Men Past and Present is J.R.'s first published book. You can discover more about him and his ministry at http://www.jrduren.com.
Sandra Hart loves to visit places where significant historic events have taken place. These places and the people who lived through the events, often inspire her and spark her imagination. She most often writes inspirational historical romances and especially loves the American Civil War period. In fact, her debut novella, A Stranger on My Land, is set on Lookout Mountain where the Battle Above the Clouds took place. She serves as Assistant Editor for DevoKids.com where she contributes historical articles. She is also Assistant Editor at the Barn Door Book Loft website.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey shares a fulfilled dream of his guest and Boot Camp graduate, Allison K. Flexer.
Allison Flexer is passionate about encouraging single women in their journey of faith and communicating the love of God to others. As a single woman, she fought her share of lies and learned to replace them with God’s truth. Allison’s first book, Truth, Lies, and the Single Woman: Dispelling 10 Common Myths (Beacon Hill Press), is designed to combat common lies that destroy the joy and confidence of single women. As each myth is dispelled with truth from God’s word, readers are challenged to deepen their faith while accepting their value as beloved children of God.
Allison was a contributing writer for Devotional Ventures (Regal Books, 2006), and a contributing writer for Fulfilled: The NIV Devotional Bible for the Single Woman (Zondervan, 2014). She has also published articles in the Wesleyan Publishing House periodical, VISTA: Journal for Holy Living, and on Crosswalk.com.
At the age of thirty-eight, Allison was thrilled to experience answered prayers and long-held dreams coming true as she married the love of her life in November 2013. She and Michael grew up in the same hometown and lived a few houses apart on the same street. Michael and Allison now make their home in Nashville, Tennessee.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey shares a fulfilled dream of his guest and Boot Camp graduate, Allison K. Flexer.
Allison Flexer is passionate about encouraging single women in their journey of faith and communicating the love of God to others. As a single woman, she fought her share of lies and learned to replace them with God’s truth. Allison’s first book, Truth, Lies, and the Single Woman: Dispelling 10 Common Myths (Beacon Hill Press), is designed to combat common lies that destroy the joy and confidence of single women. As each myth is dispelled with truth from God’s word, readers are challenged to deepen their faith while accepting their value as beloved children of God.
Allison was a contributing writer for Devotional Ventures (Regal Books, 2006), and a contributing writer for Fulfilled: The NIV Devotional Bible for the Single Woman (Zondervan, 2014). She has also published articles in the Wesleyan Publishing House periodical, VISTA: Journal for Holy Living, and on Crosswalk.com.
At the age of thirty-eight, Allison was thrilled to experience answered prayers and long-held dreams coming true as she married the love of her life in November 2013. She and Michael grew up in the same hometown and lived a few houses apart on the same street. Michael and Allison now make their home in Nashville, Tennessee.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when host Scott McCausey chats with actor Burgess Jenkins about faith based movies that can make a difference in people’s lives.
Born in Winston-Salem NC, Burgess studied Psychology through graduate school which he says “opened up a world of possibilities in his characters”. It was during this time he signed with a local talent agency and a passion for acting was born. Though he found some early success, a turning point for Burgess was enrolling in the famed Playhouse West in Los Angeles where he studied for 4 years under Bob Carnegie and Oscar nominee Jeff Goldblum. Armed with a love for “Method” acting, he quickly began landing small roles and supporting parts, but in the summer of 2000 Burgess landed the coveted role of Ray Budds in the Blockbuster Remember The Titans opposite two time Academy award winner Denzel Washington. In addition, he played Hilary Swank’s husband David Winter in The Reaping; recurred as Bobby Irons throughout season 6 on the hit WB series One Tree Hill and starred opposite Hugo Weaving in The Key Man.
Currently Burgess is recurring on ABC’s smash hit Nashville. His latest movie Hero, is a direct to video film that releases in Walmart soon.
Born in Winston-Salem NC, Burgess studied Psychology through graduate school which he says “opened up a world of possibilities in his characters”. It was during this time he signed with a local talent agency and a passion for acting was born. Though he found some early success, a turning point for Burgess was enrolling in the famed Playhouse West in Los Angeles where he studied for 4 years under Bob Carnegie and Oscar nominee Jeff Goldblum. Armed with a love for “Method” acting, he quickly began landing small roles and supporting parts, but in the summer of 2000 Burgess landed the coveted role of Ray Budds in the Blockbuster Remember The Titans opposite two time Academy award winner Denzel Washington. Currently Burgess is recurring on ABC’s smash hit Nashville. His latest movie Hero, is a direct to video film that releases in Walmart soon.
Kevin Sorbo has enjoyed success on television for over twenty consecutive years, a feat rarely accomplished by an actor. Sorbo quickly rose to stardom in the title role of the hit series, Hercules, the Legendary Journeys. The immense popularity of the five initial 2-hour telefilms in 1993 resulted in the launch of a weekly series by 1994. The series not only became a breakout hit by becoming the number one first-run program in syndication, it also passed Baywatch as the most watched TV show in the world. Kevin has most recently appeared in the blockbuster God’s not Dead and Let the Lion Roar.
Jane Hampton Cook is a media commentator and guest on national TV news and radio outlets, including the Fox News Channel and others. She is the author of eight books. Her Pulitzer-nominated book, American Phoenix, reveals the story of down-on-his luck politician, John Quincy Adams, his wife Louisa, and the international side of the War of 1812. Her latest, America's Star-Spangled Story: Celebrating 200 years of the National Anthem, is also drawing national acclaim. Learn more about Jane at: www.janecook.com.
Kevin B. McAteer, originally from Philadelphia, PA., earned his B. S. from Mercyhurst College. After graduating, Kevin worked at Marriott International throughout the Mid-West, eventually returning to Philadelphia as General Manager for several Marriott Branded Hotels.
Kevin met Pamela Jenks in Philadelphia, and within a few years they were married. Kevin was promoted to VP of Sales and Marketing for Concord Hospitality, and he and Pamela (along with their three young children) relocated to Raleigh, N.C. In April 2006, just a few short months after moving to Raleigh, Pamela was diagnosed with Leukemia, and their lives were changed forever. In the midst of tragedy, Kevin led three young children through a life-altering loss, while learning the resilience to love again.
On Christmas Eve 2012, Kevin committed to a lifetime of love when he and Shayna were married—blending a beautiful family of six kids: Mason, Christopher, Mia, Amanda, Madison, and Kevin Patrick. Today, Kevin continues to lead Concord Hospitality’s sales and marketing efforts, and enjoys the blessings of raising his family in Raleigh, North Carolina. He is also the author of Daddy, Can You Make Me Pancakes?
Kevin B. McAteer, originally from Philadelphia, PA., earned his B. S. from Mercyhurst College. After graduating, Kevin worked at Marriott International throughout the Mid-West, eventually returning to Philadelphia as General Manager for several Marriott Branded Hotels.
Kevin met Pamela Jenks in Philadelphia, and within a few years they were married. Kevin was promoted to VP of Sales and Marketing for Concord Hospitality, and he and Pamela (along with their three young children) relocated to Raleigh, N.C. In April 2006, just a few short months after moving to Raleigh, Pamela was diagnosed with Leukemia, and their lives were changed forever. In the midst of tragedy, Kevin led three young children through a life-altering loss, while learning the resilience to love again.
On Christmas Eve 2012, Kevin committed to a lifetime of love when he and Shayna were married—blending a beautiful family of six kids: Mason, Christopher, Mia, Amanda, Madison, and Kevin Patrick. Today, Kevin continues to lead Concord Hospitality’s sales and marketing efforts, and enjoys the blessings of raising his family in Raleigh, North Carolina. He is also the author of Daddy, Can You Make Me Pancakes?
Jane Hampton Cook is a media commentator and guest on national TV news and radio outlets, including the Fox News Channel and others. She is the author of eight books. Her Pulitzer-nominated book, American Phoenix, reveals the story of down-on-his luck politician, John Quincy Adams, his wife Louisa, and the international side of the War of 1812. Her latest, America's Star-Spangled Story: Celebrating 200 years of the National Anthem, is also drawing national acclaim. Learn more about Jane at: www.janecook.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as laughter and an encouraging testimony take center stage as Scott interviews Torry Martin.
Although Martin has a long list of accomplishments as an actor, author, storyteller, and a stand-up comedian, he prefers to use his gifts for laughter, writing, and entertaining to bring serious messages to audiences through the softening blows of humor. After telling a typical “Torry Story” revolving around his own blundering and misfortune, Martin pulls in the spiritual lesson in a sometimes subtle way. “If I can keep them laughing while they’re learning, it doesn’t hurt their brains as much.”
Martin was a stand-up comic and actor in Los Angeles before he became a Christian. After finding the Lord, Martin moved to Alaska and lived in a remote cabin with a friend who was studying for ministry. He gave up acting and comedy for two years and studied the Bible while becoming grounded in his faith. After being encouraged by some friends at his church, Torry began writing comedy sketches which he entered into the national competition sponsored by the Gospel Music Association called Christian Artists, now called Seminar in the Rockies. He won the grand prize two years in a row and now returns annually as an instructor. Martin has written for Adventures in Odyssey, a children’s radio series produced by Focus on the Family. For this self-proclaimed “hippie-for-the-Holy-One,” the melding of talent and faith has also resulted in the release of several books, including Under the Circumstances, and What a Character. Both are collections of comedy sketches about Christian life.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as laughter and an encouraging testimony take center stage as Scott interviews Torry Martin.
Although Martin has a long list of accomplishments as an actor, author, storyteller, and a stand-up comedian, he prefers to use his gifts for laughter, writing, and entertaining to bring serious messages to audiences through the softening blows of humor. After telling a typical “Torry Story” revolving around his own blundering and misfortune, Martin pulls in the spiritual lesson in a sometimes subtle way. “If I can keep them laughing while they’re learning, it doesn’t hurt their brains as much.”
Martin was a stand-up comic and actor in Los Angeles before he became a Christian. After finding the Lord, Martin moved to Alaska and lived in a remote cabin with a friend who was studying for ministry. He gave up acting and comedy for two years and studied the Bible while becoming grounded in his faith. After being encouraged by some friends at his church, Torry began writing comedy sketches which he entered into the national competition sponsored by the Gospel Music Association called Christian Artists, now called Seminar in the Rockies. He won the grand prize two years in a row and now returns annually as an instructor. Martin has written for Adventures in Odyssey, a children’s radio series produced by Focus on the Family. For this self-proclaimed “hippie-for-the-Holy-One,” the melding of talent and faith has also resulted in the release of several books, including Under the Circumstances, and What a Character. Both are collections of comedy sketches about Christian life.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott shares the life of Zena Dell Lowe.
Zena is a screenwriter, producer, and filmmaker based in Bozeman, Montana, and one of the owners of the Mission Ranch and Mission Ranch Lodge (www.missionranchbeef.com and www.missionranchlodge.com). As an actress, Zena worked successfully in Hollywood for over thirteen years in theatre, independent films, and national commercials.
In 2000, Zena transitioned to the writing and filmmaking side of the business when she attended the acclaimed Act One: Writing for Hollywood Program, which led to her first paid writing gig for the short film The Haunted Heart, for which she won a Silver and a Telly Award. Soon after, Zena was honored to become the Associate Director of Act One and began teaching at writers’ conferences around the country. In 2005, Zena moved back to Montana to help take over the family ranch after her mother’s untimely passing. Today, Zena helps run the family businesses, writes, produces, and directs full time. She also teaches classes on screenwriting and playwriting as an adjunct professor at Covenant College in Georgia, performs with the acclaimed Vigilante Theatre Company around Montana, and is the director of theatre arts at Journey Church in Bozeman.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott shares the life of Zena Dell Lowe.
Zena is a screenwriter, producer, and filmmaker based in Bozeman, Montana, and one of the owners of the Mission Ranch and Mission Ranch Lodge (www.missionranchbeef.com and www.missionranchlodge.com). As an actress, Zena worked successfully in Hollywood for over thirteen years in theatre, independent films, and national commercials.
In 2000, Zena transitioned to the writing and filmmaking side of the business when she attended the acclaimed Act One: Writing for Hollywood Program, which led to her first paid writing gig for the short film The Haunted Heart, for which she won a Silver and a Telly Award. Soon after, Zena was honored to become the Associate Director of Act One and began teaching at writers’ conferences around the country. In 2005, Zena moved back to Montana to help take over the family ranch after her mother’s untimely passing. Today, Zena helps run the family businesses, writes, produces, and directs full time. She also teaches classes on screenwriting and playwriting as an adjunct professor at Covenant College in Georgia, performs with the acclaimed Vigilante Theatre Company around Montana, and is the director of theatre arts at Journey Church in Bozeman.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott brings in world traveler and author Sharon Leaf.
Sharon Leaf is the author of Lady and the Sea, a novel based on her adventures as a volunteer aboard WWII ship MS Restoration in the 1990s, secured for a hazardous mission to rescue Russian Jews from Sochi, Russia to Haifa, Israel. Born in South Carolina and raised in Southern California, since turning forty Sharon has traveled to over eighteen countries, lived in Sweden for a year while attending an international Bible College, and traveled to sixteen cities on the Trans-Siberian Railway. At the age of sixty she received a degree in theology, proving that it is never too late to fulfill another dream. Sharon and her husband now enjoy their southern lifestyle in South Carolina.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott brings in world traveler and author Sharon Leaf.
Sharon Leaf is the author of Lady and the Sea, a novel based on her adventures as a volunteer aboard WWII ship MS Restoration in the 1990s, secured for a hazardous mission to rescue Russian Jews from Sochi, Russia to Haifa, Israel. Born in South Carolina and raised in Southern California, since turning forty Sharon has traveled to over eighteen countries, lived in Sweden for a year while attending an international Bible College, and traveled to sixteen cities on the Trans-Siberian Railway. At the age of sixty she received a degree in theology, proving that it is never too late to fulfill another dream. Sharon and her husband now enjoy their southern lifestyle in South Carolina.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP!as Scott welcomes Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas author, Elaine Cooper.
Elaine Marie Cooper is the author of The Road to Deer Run, The Promise of Deer Run, and The Legacy of Deer Run. Her passions are her family, her faith in Christ, and the history of the American Revolution, a frequent subject of her historical fiction. Her latest book, Fields of the Fatherless, explores more of this passion. She grew up in Massachusetts, the setting for many of her novels.
Originally from St. Louis, Deborah Sprinkle received her Bachelor Degree in chemistry from the University of Missouri-St. Louis in 1971. She worked as a research chemist for many years at both St. Louis University Medical School and Washington University Medical School. In 1991, she and her family moved to Memphis, where she completed her teaching certification at what was then called Memphis State. Deborah taught chemistry for ten years at a private Catholic girls' school in Memphis before retiring.
Kendra Armstrong is an attorney, writer, speaker, patriotic American, and proud mother with a passion for seeking and teaching God's perspective on political and social issues, and using that knowledge to change her world for Christ. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes College, her Master of Science in Psychology from the University of Memphis, and her Juris Doctor from the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis. Exploring the Faith of America’s Presidents was skillfully co-written by both Kendra and Deborah.
Originally from St. Louis, Deborah Sprinkle received her Bachelor Degree in chemistry from the University of Missouri-St. Louis in 1971. She worked as a research chemist for many years at both St. Louis University Medical School and Washington University Medical School. In 1991, she and her family moved to Memphis, where she completed her teaching certification at what was then called Memphis State. Deborah taught chemistry for ten years at a private Catholic girls' school in Memphis before retiring.
Kendra Armstrong is an attorney, writer, speaker, patriotic American, and proud mother with a passion for seeking and teaching God's perspective on political and social issues, and using that knowledge to change her world for Christ. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes College, her Master of Science in Psychology from the University of Memphis, and her Juris Doctor from the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis. Exploring the Faith of America’s Presidents was skillfully co-written by both Kendra and Deborah.
Elaine Marie Cooper is the author of The Road to Deer Run, The Promise of Deer Run, and The Legacy of Deer Run. Her passions are her family, her faith in Christ, and the history of the American Revolution, a frequent subject of her historical fiction. Her latest book, Fields of the Fatherless, explores more of this passion. She grew up in Massachusetts, the setting for many of her novels.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott brings in the famed author of the Wingfeather Saga as well as a gifted musician, Andrew Peterson.
Andrew Peterson is a man of many talents with a successful recording and songwriting career, as well as being an award-winning author and the host of a highly popular online creative community known as the Rabbit Room (www.RabbitRoom.com). Peterson will be releasing a new studio album later this year, while his current record, “Light for the Lost Boy,” received rave reviews from several media outlets hailing the project as “best album of the year,” and garnered two 2013 Dove Award nominations. His previous project, “Counting Stars.” debuted at #1 on iTunes, and #6 on Billboard. His single, “Dancing in the Minefields,” reached the Top 10 on the Christian AC chart, while the video for the song has received well over 1,000,000 views online.
Published by Rabbit Room Press, Peterson’s The Warden and the Wolf King released July 22nd and is available at all retail and online outlets. For more information please visit www.Andrew-Peterson.com.
Andrew Peterson is a man of many talents with a successful recording and songwriting career, as well as being an award-winning author and the host of a highly popular online creative community known as the Rabbit Room (www.RabbitRoom.com). Peterson will be releasing a new studio album later this year, while his current record, “Light for the Lost Boy,” received rave reviews from several media outlets hailing the project as “best album of the year,” and garnered two 2013 Dove Award nominations. His previous project, “Counting Stars.” debuted at #1 on iTunes, and #6 on Billboard. His single, “Dancing in the Minefields,” reached the Top 10 on the Christian AC chart, while the video for the song has received well over 1,000,000 views online.
Published by Rabbit Room Press, Peterson’s The Warden and the Wolf King released July 22nd and is available at all retail and online outlets. For more information please visit www.Andrew-Peterson.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott brings in a Boot Camp graduate with an exciting new book, Sarah Loudin Thomas.
Sarah Loudin Thomas grew up on a 100-acre farm in French Creek, WV, the seventh generation to live there. Her Christian fiction is set in West Virginia and celebrates the people, the land, and the heritage of Appalachia. Her first novel, Miracle in a Dry Season, releases August 2014. Married, with one dog, she now lives in Western North Carolina, which is almost as beautiful as West Virginia.
She is a fund-raiser for a children's ministry who has also published freelance writing for Mountain Homes Southern Style and Now & Then magazines, as well as The Asheville Citizen-Times and The Journey Christian Newspaper. She holds a bachelor's in English from Coastal Carolina University.
Sarah is represented by Wendy Lawton of Books & Such Literary Agency. You can visit her at www.SarahLoudinThomas.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott brings in a Boot Camp graduate with an exciting new book, Sarah Loudin Thomas.
Sarah Loudin Thomas grew up on a 100-acre farm in French Creek, WV, the seventh generation to live there. Her Christian fiction is set in West Virginia and celebrates the people, the land, and the heritage of Appalachia. Her first novel, Miracle in a Dry Season, releases August 2014. Married, with one dog, she now lives in Western North Carolina, which is almost as beautiful as West Virginia.
She is a fund-raiser for a children's ministry who has also published freelance writing for Mountain Homes Southern Style and Now & Then magazines, as well as The Asheville Citizen-Times and The Journey Christian Newspaper. She holds a bachelor's in English from Coastal Carolina University.
Sarah is represented by Wendy Lawton of Books & Such Literary Agency. You can visit her at www.SarahLoudinThomas.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott welcomes a four-guy quartet and a one-armed blessing to the show.
Justified is a Christian quartet that has been together since November 2011. These four gentlemen have either sang or played with other gospel quartets over the past twenty years and have now come together to spread the word through song and music. Singing with the blending of their voices, as well as their hearts, are Tim Caldwell, Mark Jacoby, Carl Ledford and David Potts. Discover them at http://justifiedqt.com.
Todd Waites is not only a survivor . . . but a THRIVER. After losing his right arm to cancer at the age of fourteen, he has made the most of his life and is on a mission to encourage others to do the same. The father of two grown children and a young stepson, Todd currently tours across the country as a professional keyboard player and has played over 1,000 live shows since losing his arm. He's been featured in national magazines, is a key character called "Tenacious Todd" in an internationally released Amazon best-seller motivational book, has written/recorded several songs (including soundtracks and jingles), and has performed speaking engagements at various venues. A real honor for Todd was when he was able to give some keyboard playing tips to Bon Jovi's keyboardist David Bryan when he lost the tip of his finger.
Find Todd at http://www.toddwaites.com.
Rebecca Waters draws on her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother as well as her vast experience as an educator and researcher for her writing. She and her husband, Tom, have been married for over forty years and have three grown daughters. Her daughters are all married and mothers themselves to five precious little ones. Rebecca taught in the public school system for nineteen years, kindergarten through grade two. After receiving her doctorate from the University of Cincinnati, Rebecca taught college students seeking to be teachers at Cincinnati Christian University for the next fourteen years.
Rebecca’s first novel, Breathing on Her Own, was released on March 24, 2014 by Lighthouse of the Carolinas. It is available on Amazon.com in both print and Kindle versions and is also available through Barnes & Noble.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott shares the life of Nivine Richie and her new book.
Nivine Richie is a wife, mother, and university professor. She has had the privilege of leading many ladies’ Bible studies or co-leading small groups with her husband, Pat, over the years. She is involved in women’s ministry in her local church and in the Christian faculty organization on campus. Her first book, Enduring Faith: An 8-week Devotional Study of the Book of Hebrews is published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and is available on Amazon.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott interviews two authors.
Nivine Richie is a wife, mother, and university professor. She has had the privilege of leading many ladies’ Bible studies or co-leading small groups with her husband, Pat, over the years. She is involved in women’s ministry in her local church and in the Christian faculty organization on campus. Her first book, Enduring Faith: An 8-week Devotional Study of the Book of Hebrews is published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and is available on Amazon.
Rebecca Waters draws on her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother as well as her vast experience as an educator and researcher for her writing. She and her husband, Tom, have been married for over forty years and have three grown daughters. Her daughters are all married and mothers themselves to five precious little ones. Rebecca taught in the public school system for nineteen years, kindergarten through grade two. After receiving her doctorate from the University of Cincinnati, Rebecca taught college students seeking to be teachers at Cincinnati Christian University for the next fourteen years.
Rebecca’s first novel, Breathing on Her Own, was released on March 24, 2014 by Lighthouse of the Carolinas. It is available on Amazon.com in both print and Kindle versions and is also available through Barnes & Noble.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott welcomes first time published author Frances Pasch with encrouaging words that it's never too late in life to become published.
Frances Gregory Pasch's devotions and poetry have been published hundreds of times over the past thirty years in different denominational Sunday school papers, magazines, and book compilations. Her book, Double Vision, Seeing God in Everyday Life Through Devotions and Poetry was released December 12, 2013 by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. It is a double eye-opener—two ways of looking at the same spiritual truth. Frances enjoys encouraging other writers, and she has been leading a women's Christian writers' group for the past twenty-two years. You can read some of her writing on her website: www.francesgregorypasch.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott interviews the director of the Carolina Christian Writers Conference and the ClasSeminar Christian Writers Conference, Linda Gilden.
Linda Gilden loves to share a great story and help you share your great stories. A frequent radio and television guest, Linda’s words of encouragement help you grasp the tools you need to make your writing and publishing dreams come true. A wife, mother of three, mother-in-law of two, and grandmother of four children and two dogs, Linda has many wonderful sources for writing and speaking material. Her greatest joy is spending time with her family. See more at: http://www.lindagilden.com/about/#sthash.zvTEZGek.dpuf.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott interviews two authors.
Linda Gilden loves to share a great story and help you share your great stories. A frequent radio and television guest, Linda’s words of encouragement help you grasp the tools you need to make your writing and publishing dreams come true. A wife, mother of three, mother-in-law of two, and grandmother of four children and two dogs, Linda has many wonderful sources for writing and speaking material. Her greatest joy is spending time with her family. See more at: http://www.lindagilden.com/about/#sthash.zvTEZGek.dpuf.
Frances Gregory Pasch's devotions and poetry have been published hundreds of times over the past thirty years in different denominational Sunday school papers, magazines, and book compilations. Her book, Double Vision, Seeing God in Everyday Life Through Devotions and Poetry was released December 12, 2013 by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. It is a double eye-opener—two ways of looking at the same spiritual truth. Frances enjoys encouraging other writers, and she has been leading a women's Christian writers' group for the past twenty-two years. You can read some of her writing on her website: www.francesgregorypasch.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP!when Scott interviews the band Resident Truth.
Resident Truth was formed in 2011 to present the hope that is found in Jesus Christ through their music. Their approach is to incorporate fresh, yet classic-original Christian music with a 1970s southern rock sound. The band members currently consist of: John Quigley, singer-songwriter-guitarist; Mike Robertson, bass guitarist: Jim Keating, keyboard/vocals; Nolan McCausey, keyboard/vocals; Ben Grulke, drums; and Sue Patrick, vocals. Their hope is to reach those outside mainstream Christian music with the goal of spreading the message of Christ's Love while still recognizing the frailty of the human condition.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott shares the testimonies of a minister, his daughters and their amazing talents..
Steve Dobyns started playing the guitar fifteen years ago. His daughters Anna and Rachel were young but quickly latched on to the love of music they gleaned from their dad. Not only have the girls learned to love music, they both excelled in the Michigan Home School Music Association. Today Rachel is primarily a flautist and pianist, while Sister Anna focuses on percussion. Together, they make a great trio that leads worship in churches, camps, and concerts. Steve is the minister at the McBride Church of Christ where he and his wife Amy bless the small town and the camp (Rock Lake Christian Assembly) they call home.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott shares a taped show from the Rock the Lake LIVE concert with two bands.
Steve Dobyns started playing the guitar fifteen years ago. His daughters were young and quickly latched on to the love of music they gleaned from their dad. Not only have the girls learned to love music, they both excelled in the Michigan Home School Music Association. Today Rachel is primarily a flautist and pianist, while Sister Anna focuses on percussion. Together, they make a great trio that leads worship in churches, camps, and concerts. Steve is the minister at the McBride Church of Christ where he and his wife Amy bless the small town and the camp (Rock Lake Christian Assembly) they call home.
Resident Truth was formed in 2011 to present the hope that is found in Jesus Christ through their music. Their approach is to incorporate fresh, yet classic-original Christian music with a 1970s southern rock sound. The band members currently consist of: John Quigley, singer-songwriter-guitarist; Mike Robertson, bass guitarist: Jim Keating, keyboard/vocals; Nolan McCausey, keyboard/vocals; Ben Grulke, drums; and Sue Patrick, vocals. Their hope is to reach those outside mainstream Christian music with the goal of spreading the message of Christ's Love while still recognizing the frailty of the human condition.
Susan Lawrence grew up on a small farm in the heart of Iowa. As a small child she learned to love country life, writing stories, and her Savior, Jesus Christ. A graduate of Kansas State Teacher’s College, she taught special needs children for thirty-three years before retiring to devote more time to writing, speaking, and storytelling.
Susan has published two family devotion books, contributed to three anthologies, and written many articles for various Christian publications. Atonement for Emily Adams (Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas) is her first novel. Susan lives with her husband, Gary, the love of her life and her best friend of forty-four years. She is the mother of three and grandmother of seven beautiful and brilliant grandchildren. Contact Susan at: srlauthor@mchsi.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott welcomes author Pam Thorson.
Pam Thorson is a licensed practical nurse, author, speaker, and full-time caregiver. She pioneered in the homeschooling movement from 1982-2006 and authored her first book, Song in the Night, in 2008. Her newest book, Out from the Shadows: 31 Devotions for the Weary Caregiver (Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas), pulls back the veil on the unique joys and challenges of caregiving. Pam resides with her family in the Northwest. Visit her at http://www.pamthorson.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott welcomes Pam Thorson and Susan Lawrence.
Pam Thorson is a licensed practical nurse, author, speaker, and full-time caregiver. She pioneered in the homeschooling movement from 1982-2006 and authored her first book, Song in the Night, in 2008. Her newest book, Out from the Shadows: 31 Devotions for the Weary Caregiver (Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas), pulls back the veil on the unique joys and challenges of caregiving. Pam resides with her family in the Northwest. Visit her at http://www.pamthorson.com.
Susan Lawrence grew up on a small farm in the heart of Iowa. As a small child she learned to love country life, writing stories, and her Savior, Jesus Christ. A graduate of Kansas State Teacher’s College, she taught special needs children for thirty-three years before retiring to devote more time to writing, speaking, and storytelling.
Susan has published two family devotion books, contributed to three anthologies, and written many articles for various Christian publications. Atonement for Emily Adams (Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas) is her first novel. Susan lives with her husband, Gary, the love of her life and her best friend of forty-four years. She is the mother of three and grandmother of seven beautiful and brilliant grandchildren. Contact Susan at: srlauthor@mchsi.com.
Eva Kroon Pike was chosen. She was a dream before she was ever held. At the tender age of ten weeks, Eva was adopted into a loving family that had been waiting and praying for eight years. "These circumstances nurtured Eva into the singer/songwriter she is today with an extraordinary spirit, a compassion for people, a passion to share the gospel, a heart for God, and an awesome voice," as Dr. Jay Dennis, Pastor, Church at the Mall, Lakeland, Florida states. Her vocals are powerful, yet engaging, versatile and unwavering, melodic and soul wrenching. Diversity describes Eva's music style from contemporary to choral, traditional to country, and southern gospel. Eva's life growing up in Central Florida has been influenced by the multiplicity of people which has led to an ability to relate her passions and convictions with soul.
"Grace That Chose Me", the title song of Eva's 2010 album, describes the essence of who she is and an ultimate thank-you to her parents for choosing her to be a part of their family over twenty-eight years ago. She co-wrote this album together with Don Koch, songwriter and producer from Nashville who continues to play a significant part in her music. Eva's album was released to radio in January 2011. In November of 2012 Eva released her very own Christmas single to radio titled “Christmas Revolution.” She had the wonderful opportunity to be a part of two RV radio concert tours with Mark Harris of 4Him in October and December of 2012. Eva's newest album titled Love Is All About You was released to radio February 2013. "As much as my first album, Grace That Chose Me, impacted my life and those who heard the message through song, this new album has had so much more of an impact on my life in just the short time I've had the songs and allowed others to hear them." Eva is very excited about 2014 and what God has planned for her ministry.
Eva Kroon Pike was chosen. She was a dream before she was ever held. At the tender age of ten weeks, Eva was adopted into a loving family that had been waiting and praying for eight years. "These circumstances nurtured Eva into the singer/songwriter she is today with an extraordinary spirit, a compassion for people, a passion to share the gospel, a heart for God, and an awesome voice," as Dr. Jay Dennis, Pastor, Church at the Mall, Lakeland, Florida states. Her vocals are powerful, yet engaging, versatile and unwavering, melodic and soul wrenching. Diversity describes Eva's music style from contemporary to choral, traditional to country, and southern gospel. Eva's life growing up in Central Florida has been influenced by the multiplicity of people which has led to an ability to relate her passions and convictions with soul.
"Grace That Chose Me", the title song of Eva's 2010 album, describes the essence of who she is and an ultimate thank-you to her parents for choosing her to be a part of their family over twenty-eight years ago. She co-wrote this album together with Don Koch, songwriter and producer from Nashville who continues to play a significant part in her music. Eva's album was released to radio in January 2011. In November of 2012 Eva released her very own Christmas single to radio titled “Christmas Revolution.” Eva's newest album titled Love Is All About You was released to radio February 2013. "As much as my first album, Grace That Chose Me, impacted my life and those who heard the message through song, this new album has had so much more of an impact on my life in just the short time I've had the songs and allowed others to hear them." Eva is very excited about 2014 and what God has planned for her ministry.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott explores a place feared and abhorred by many believers—strip clubs. He dives into a unique ministry and a book that shares the love of Christ with folks who partake in a sinful venture.
Pastor Todd Stevens and his wife, Erin, both grew up in the Nashville area. They originally met during their years at Tennessee Technological University. They moved back to Nashville in March of 2000 after living in Greenville, South Carolina for six years. They now have three boys. As you can imagine, there is never a dull moment at their home.
How to Pick Up a Stripper and Other Acts Of Kindness spotlights the ministry at Todd Stevens’ church in Nashville, TN, Friendship Community Church, where he serves as the lead pastor. The congregation is known for bringing creative ways to show God’s love to the community, which can be as simple as buying lunch for the person in line behind you or even starting Nashville Strip Church. During a twenty-one-day fast, Erin prayed for God’s guidance and He told her, “feed the strippers.” She heeded the godly call and began serving food to strippers and other employees at a Nashville strip club. She didn’t take a Bible and she didn’t preach; she just showered the love of Jesus on everyone. Before long, questions were being asked about Erin’s faith that led to one of the strippers turning her life over to Christ, going to college, and pursuing a degree in law enforcement. This woman now helps Erin with the Nashville Strip Church ministry. Visit this unique ministry at www.stripchurch.com.
Pastor Todd Stevens and his wife, Erin, both grew up in the Nashville area. They originally met during their years at Tennessee Technological University. They moved back to Nashville in March of 2000 after living in Greenville, South Carolina for six years. They now have three boys. As you can imagine, there is never a dull moment at their home.
Todd worked for thirteen years as an information technology project manager. He served in bi-vocational positions in several churches in the Nashville area as associate pastor and interim pastor prior to the launch of Friendship Community Church. He has received post-graduate degrees from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Tennessee Technological University.
How to Pick Up a Stripper and Other Acts Of Kindness spotlights the ministry at Todd Stevens’ church in Nashville, TN, Friendship Community Church, where he serves as the lead pastor. The congregation is known for bringing creative ways to show God’s love to the community, which can be as simple as buying lunch for the person in line behind you or even starting Nashville Strip Church. During a twenty-one-day fast, Erin prayed for God’s guidance and He told her, “feed the strippers.” She heeded the godly call and began serving food to strippers and other employees at a Nashville strip club. She didn’t take a Bible and she didn’t preach; she just showered the love of Jesus on everyone. Before long, questions were being asked about Erin’s faith that led to one of the strippers turning her life over to Christ, going to college, and pursuing a degree in law enforcement. This woman now helps Erin with the Nashville Strip Church ministry. Visit this unique ministry at www.stripchurch.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott shares an interview from a LIVE concert with The Lasting Hope.
The Lasting Hope, a Christian rock band out of Southern Indiana, has a high-energy pop-rock sound that gets audiences on their feet and singing along. The band is uniquely formed by five young and very talented men who have a heart completely sold out to worship. Formed in 2010, the band has gone through some directional as well as member adjustments, but the final result has been a hard-core worship experience that audiences of all ages are positively reacting to.
The Lasting Hope truly has a heart for ministry and has lead worship and excited young crowds at many local churches, camps, and youth rallies. “We are more than just a band, we are a ministry. Our goal isn’t to change the world, but to be THE change in the world.” Visit their ministry at http://www.thelastinghopemusic.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott shares an interview from a LIVE concert with Infinite Kings.
Infinite Kings is a worship band from Lexington, TN where music is their outlet to share faith in Jesus Christ. Although teenagers, they’ve been blessed beyond measure and are excited to see what God has in store. In October 2013, they recorded their first album, Break My Will, which featured five original songs and one cover song. Lead singer Josh Middleton says, “Our hope is the music God has blessed us to write and play will impact others in mighty ways.” Discover more about them at www.facebook.com/InfiniteKings1228.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott shares an interview from a LIVE concert with two young bands, Infinite Kings and The Lasting Hope.
Infinite Kings is a worship band from Lexington, TN where music is their outlet to share faith in Jesus Christ. Although teenagers, they’ve been blessed beyond measure and are excited to see what God has in store. In October 2013, they recorded their first album, Break My Will, which featured five original songs and one cover song. Lead singer Josh Middleton says, “Our hope is the music God has blessed us to write and play will impact others in mighty ways.” Discover more about them at www.facebook.com/InfiniteKings1228.
The Lasting Hope, a Christian rock band out of Southern Indiana, has a high-energy pop-rock sound that gets audiences on their feet and singing along. The band is uniquely formed by five young and very talented men who have a heart completely sold out to worship. Formed in 2010, the band has gone through some directional as well as member adjustments, but the final result has been a hard-core worship experience that audiences of all ages are positively reacting to.
The Lasting Hope truly has a heart for ministry and has lead worship and excited young crowds at many local churches, camps, and youth rallies. “We are more than just a band, we are a ministry. Our goal isn’t to change the world, but to be THE change in the world.” Visit their ministry at http://www.thelastinghopemusic.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott McCausey chats with Corwin Anthony.
Corwin Anthony is the National Director for Pro Ministry for Athletes in Action (AIA) and has been serving as the Team Chaplain for the Miami Dolphins since 2000. He also oversees the chaplaincy program of over twenty-five professional sports organizations including seventeen NFL teams, NBA, and MLB. In his NFL career, Corwin played with the Rams, Jets, and Packers. After his retirement, he served in the Promise Keepers' Field Ministry Division for four years with the topic, "How to Share Your Faith with Anybody."
Corwin is married to a former guest of our program, Kim Anthony. You can read more about his ministry at http://www.athletesinaction.org/blogs/corwin-anthony.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP!when former UCLA standout football player and NFL retiree and Chaplain Corwin Anthony blesses the show.
Corwin was a preseason, All Pac-10 tight end for UCLA in the late 1980's and graduated with an economics degree in 1991. He had a brief stint in the NFL with the LA Rams, NY Jets and Green Bay Packers. In 1996 Corwin joined the staff of Promise Keepers in Denver, CO. While there he served in the Field Ministry Division for 4 years, helping churches build and strengthen their men’s ministries. In 2000 Corwin and his wife, Kim, joined the staff of Athletes in Action to serve as chaplain for the Miami Dolphins. Six years ago, Corwin was invited to serve full time as the National Director of Pro Ministries for Athletes in Action. He now oversees the AIA chaplaincy positions within the NFL and serves on the AIA executive leadership team. He and his wife Kim currently reside in Centerville, OH with their two sons, Khari and Caleb.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when special guest Jonny Diaz drops by to talk about his new CD, Let It Fly.
Jonny Diaz began his music career as worship leader for a youth group in Lakeland, FL. He released three independent projects before signing with INO Records in 2008. His label debut, “More Beautiful You” (2009), produced Diaz’s first hit single, the album’s title track, which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s AC Indicator chart and No. 2 on its Hot Christian Songs chart. The record’s momentum, combined with a self-titled follow-up album in 2011, paved the way for Diaz to perform alongside such notable Christian acts as Building 429, Matthew West, Steven Curtis Chapman, Mercy Me and Bebo Norman. Diaz signed with Centricity Music in October 2013 and released his first project with the label, Let It Fly, April 8, 2014.
Let It Fly marks Diaz’s first collaboration with famed producers Jeff Pardo (Mandisa and Salvador) and Brent Milligan (Steven Curtis Chapman and David Crowder Band), showcasing an increased artistic confidence, as evidenced by new sounds and insights from the talented artist.
Such growth is readily apparent to early critical consumers of Let It Fly, with CCM Magazine giving it a four-star review, calling the record “a work of art,” Hallels.com touting it as “a gripping affair,” and Soul-Audio.com exclaiming, “Diaz embarks on a path that sees him living out his gifts.”
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when special guest Jonny Diaz drops by to talk about his new CD, Let It Fly.
Jonny Diaz began his music career as worship leader for a youth group in Lakeland, FL. He released three independent projects before signing with INO Records in 2008. His label debut, “More Beautiful You” (2009), produced Diaz’s first hit single, the album’s title track, which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s AC Indicator chart and No. 2 on its Hot Christian Songs chart. The record’s momentum, combined with a self-titled follow-up album in 2011, paved the way for Diaz to perform alongside such notable Christian acts as Building 429, Matthew West, Steven Curtis Chapman, Mercy Me and Bebo Norman. Diaz signed with Centricity Music in October 2013 and released his first project with the label, Let It Fly, April 8, 2014.
Let It Fly marks Diaz’s first collaboration with famed producers Jeff Pardo (Mandisa and Salvador) and Brent Milligan (Steven Curtis Chapman and David Crowder Band), showcasing an increased artistic confidence, as evidenced by new sounds and insights from the talented artist.
Such growth is readily apparent to early critical consumers of Let It Fly, with CCM Magazine giving it a four-star review, calling the record “a work of art,” Hallels.com touting it as “a gripping affair,” and Soul-Audio.com exclaiming, “Diaz embarks on a path that sees him living out his gifts.”
Susan Lyttek, an award winning writer, has always loved to write, but didn’t arrive at the profession in the typical manner. Graduating with a B.A. in International Economics and an M.A. in Management and Supervision, she plunged into government consulting. In this environment, she discovered a knack for writing tests, interviews and other measurements. Soon, that became the focus of her career—reigniting her love for the written word. She began to spend her nights freelancing with “fun” writing including short stories, poems, articles and cards. In 1995, she quit the 9-5 work world to stay home, write and raise her young son. Not long after, homeschooling intrigued her. Since preschool she homeschooled both sons and continued to freelance. She has also developed and taught writing classes to her local homeschool groups. Since their inception, she has been a writing coach for WriteAtHome.com. Married to her childhood sweetheart, Gary, Mrs. Lyttek loves to share her commitment to homeschoolers and her fascination with the written word. Her newest book is evidence to this, Guzzy Goofball and the Homeschool Play from Outer Space.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! with author Nancy Parker Brummett.
Nancy Parker Brummett first led a Bible study in an assisted living facility in 1999 and she and the Lord developed The Hope of Glory in the years that followed. She also journeyed with her mother and mother-in-law through their adventures in aging, and her academic interest in aging led her to receive a Professional Advancement Certificate in Gerontology. The author of four other books, she now focuses her writing and speaking ministries on her passion for older adults and those who care for them. Nancy and her husband, Jim, live in Colorado Springs, CO. They have four adult children, 12 grandchildren and two cats in their blended family. Her new book is called, The Hope of Glory: A Devotional Guide for Older Adults.
Nancy Parker Brummett first led a Bible study in an assisted living facility in 1999 and she and the Lord developed The Hope of Glory in the years that followed. She also journeyed with her mother and mother-in-law through their adventures in aging, and her academic interest in aging led her to receive a Professional Advancement Certificate in Gerontology. The author of four other books, she now focuses her writing and spepoemaking ministries on her passion for older adults and those who care for them. Nancy and her husband, Jim, live in Colorado Springs, CO. They have four adult children, 12 grandchildren and two cats in their blended family. Her new book is called, The Hope of Glory: A Devotional Guide for Older Adults.
S.A.J. Lyttek, an award winning writer, has always loved to write, but didn’t arrive at the profession in the typical manner. Graduating with a B.A. in International Economics and an M.A. in Management and Supervision, she plunged into government consulting. In this environment, she discovered a knack for writing tests, interviews and other measurements. Soon, that became the focus of her career—reigniting her love for the written word. She began to spend her nights freelancing with “fun” writing including short stories, poems, articles and cards. In 1995, she quit the 9-5 work world to stay home, write and raise her young son. She has also developed and taught writing classes to her local homeschool groups. Since their inception, she has been a writing coach for WriteAtHome.com. Married to her childhood sweetheart, Gary, Mrs. Lyttek loves to share her commitment to homeschoolers and her fascination with the written word. Her newest book is evidence to this, Guzzy Goofball and the Homeschool Play from Outer Space.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP!as host Scott McCausey highlights an upcoming concert at Rock Lake Christian Assembly with pianist Nolan McCausey.
Nolan is a Great Lakes Christian College student who is set to begin his junior year this fall. He’s shared his God given talents to electrify the keys for the last ten years in both churches as well as the band he’s been performing with from the inception of the group Resident Truth.
Resident Truth is a Christ centered band playing a mix of classic southern rock and blues. Their music can be heard in coffee houses, churches and big outdoor venues such as Rock the Lake in Vestaburg Michigan.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP!as host Scott McCausey is joined by Recording Artist Julie Elias.
Elias' career spanned various facets of the arts, from leading worship to musical theater, to fully embracing her call to become a recording artist. Though she's wholeheartedly committed to help listeners tap into their God-ordained purpose, she didn't arrive at her current calling overnight. In fact, her performance path looked completely different just two years ago when the Nevada native found herself in Hollywood pursuing work in film and television. A Christmas trip to her hometown in 2010 caused Elias to reexamine her career options. "It took a seemingly routine Christmas concert that year for me to realize what I've been called to do.
As Elias gears up to make her mark on the modern day music scene with her engaging songwriting style and fresh pop/rock sound—influenced by Amy Grant, Natalie Merchant, Carrie Underwood, and Sheryl Crow, she's committed to spreading faith-affirming messages that are just as uplifting to believers as they are inspiring to seekers.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as host Scott McCausey is joined by Splat Experience Artist Marc Eckel in segment one, followed by Recording Artist Julie Elias in segment two.
Marc Eckel was an illustrator for General Motors in the Detroit area in 2000 when he was asked to creative an image on an eight-foot canvas as a backdrop for special music at the Troy Baptist Church in Troy, Michigan. He was given three minutes to complete the task. With very limited time, he chose to bypass using paint brushes, using his bare hands to throw paint on the canvas. In 2002, after moving to northern Indiana, he was asked to think of something to add to the church Easter program at the First Baptist Church of Pierceton. A similar painting was created, which led to the start of Splat Experience, a Christian Performance Art Ministry, now a ministry division of Blue Spaghetti, LLC, a creative arts company. Marc's wife, Julie, is the ministry's business manager.
Marc Eckel was an illustrator for General Motors in the Detroit area in 2000 when he was asked to creative an image on an eight-foot canvas as a backdrop for special music at the Troy Baptist Church in Troy, Michigan. He was given three minutes to complete the task. With very limited time, he chose to bypass using paint brushes, using his bare hands to throw paint on the canvas. In 2002, after moving to northern Indiana, he was asked to think of something to add to the church Easter program at the First Baptist Church of Pierceton. A similar painting was created, which led to the start of Splat Experience, a Christian Performance Art Ministry, now a ministry division of Blue Spaghetti, LLC, a creative arts company. Marc's wife, Julie, is the ministry's business manager.
Elias' career spanned various facets of the arts, from leading worship to musical theater, to fully embracing her call to become a recording artist. Though she's wholeheartedly committed to help listeners tap into their God-ordained purpose, she didn't arrive at her current calling overnight. In fact, her performance path looked completely different just two years ago when the Nevada native found herself in Hollywood pursuing work in film and television. A Christmas trip to her hometown in 2010 caused Elias to reexamine her career options. "It took a seemingly routine Christmas concert that year for me to realize what I've been called to do.
As Elias gears up to make her mark on the modern day music scene with her engaging songwriting style and fresh pop/rock sound—influenced by Amy Grant, Natalie Merchant, Carrie Underwood, and Sheryl Crow, she's committed to spreading faith-affirming messages that are just as uplifting to believers as they are inspiring to seekers.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Platinum Book Award Winner Emerson Eggerichs drops by. His book Love and Respect shares insights from Scripture to strengthen the marriage relationship.
Dr. Emerson Eggerichs is an internationally known public speaker on the topic of male-female relationships. Based on over three decades of counseling, as well as scientific and biblical research, Dr. Eggerichs and his wife Sarah developed the Love and Respect Conference which they present to live audiences around the country.
This dynamic and life-changing conference is impacting the world, resulting in the healing and restoration of countless relationships. Dr. Eggerichs has authored several books, including the national bestseller Love & Respect, which has sold over 1.6 million copies.
Emerson is the Founder and President of Love and Respect Ministries and Sarah serves as Vice President. Married since 1973, they live in Grand Rapids, MI and have three adult children.
If you know someone who would be a great guest on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! contact Scott@christiandevotions.us.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Platinum Book Award Winner Emerson Eggerichs drops by. His book Love and Respect shares insights from Scripture to strengthen the marriage relationship.
Dr. Emerson Eggerichs is an internationally known public speaker on the topic of male-female relationships. Based on over three decades of counseling, as well as scientific and biblical research, Dr. Eggerichs and his wife Sarah developed the Love and Respect Conference which they present to live audiences around the country.
This dynamic and life-changing conference is impacting the world, resulting in the healing and restoration of countless relationships. Dr. Eggerichs has authored several books, including the national bestseller Love & Respect, which has sold over 1.6 million copies.
Emerson is the Founder and President of Love and Respect Ministries and Sarah serves as Vice President. Married since 1973, they live in Grand Rapids, MI and have three adult children.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Debra Koontz Roberson joins host Scott McCausey to share about her testimonies and latest books.
D. L. (Debra) Koontz was born in Pennsylvania, but she and her husband now split their time between mountainous West Virginia and their cattle ranch in coastal plains Georgia. Debra has a son and a step-daughter. She is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and ASJA (American Society of Journalists and Authors), and is a former journalist, business consultant, spokesperson, and college instructor. She has been writing since she penned an award-winning poem in fifth grade. Her latest book, Crossing Into the Mystic is published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Find Debra at www.dlkoontz.com.
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas author and editing guru Andrea Merrell joins Scott to share about her testimony and latest book, Murder of a Manuscript.
Andrea Merrell is an author and freelance editor living in the beautiful upstate of South Carolina. She is Associate Editor for Christian Devotions Ministries and Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Andrea has led workshops at the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference (KCWC), Writers Advance Boot Camp, and The CLASS Christian Writers Conference in New Mexico. Her work has been published online and in numerous anthologies. Andrea’s first book, Murder of a Manuscript: Writing and Editing Tips to Keep Your Book Out of the Editorial Graveyard is available on Amazon. Her next book, Praying for the Prodigal, will be released by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas in 2015. To learn more about her, visit www.andreamerrell.com or www.TheWriteEditing.blogspot.com (a new blog for writers in conjunction with writer and editor Alycia Morales, which launches Monday, April 28th.)
Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as two Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas authors join Scott to share about their testimonies and latest books.
Andrea Merrell is an author and freelance editor living in the beautiful upstate of South Carolina. She is Associate Editor for Christian Devotions Ministries and Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Andrea has led workshops at the Kentucky Christian Writers Conference (KCWC), Writers Advance Boot Camp, and The CLASS Christian Writers Conference in New Mexico. Her work has been published online and in numerous anthologies. Andrea’s first book, Murder of a Manuscript: Writing and Editing Tips to Keep Your Book Out of the Editorial Graveyard is available on Amazon. Her next book, Praying for the Prodigal, will be released by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas in 2015. To learn more about her, visit www.andreamerrell.com or www.TheWriteEditing.blogspot.com (a new blog for writers in conjunction with writer and editor Alycia Morales, which launches Monday, April 28th.)
D. L. (Debra) Koontz was born in Pennsylvania, but she and her husband now split their time between mountainous West Virginia and their cattle ranch in coastal plains Georgia. Debra has a son and a step-daughter. She is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and ASJA (American Society of Journalists and Authors), and is a former journalist, business consultant, spokesperson, and college instructor. She has been writing since she penned an award-winning poem in fifth grade. Her latest book, Crossing Into the Mystic is published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Find Debra at www.dlkoontz.com.