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Fellow podcaster, teacher and speaker, Amy Watson from Florida, joins me today on Welcome Heart: Living a Legacy Life to tell her story of trauma, healing and hope in Jesus. Although she lived with trauma from early childhood, it wasn't until age 35 when she "felt safe" that she began her healing journey. She began her podcast, Wednesdays with Watson, to share not only her story but to help in the healing of others. All contributions to her Patreon are donated to help those receive therapy who cannot afford to get it.
Some gems from our conversation:
When trauma victims finally begin to feel "safe" that's when they can start the long process of healing.Our mission on this earth is critical and the time is short.God promises we will have trials in this world and that He has overcome the world.When folks ask me who I am I like to say, "I'm a precious daughter of the Most High God."The church's role is not to provide band-aid's and Christian cliches'; rather it's to pay attention and open our homes, tables and lives to those around us.How can anyone attempt to navigate life on earth without the hope we have in Jesus?We need to pay attention to the people in our churches and neighborhoods—to help them feel seen, known and valued. Because people knocked on my door, invited me in, and loved me like Jesus—that is the reason I am standing here today.From Amy:
I am a Florida girl who loves a simple life: Jesus, family, friends, football, and the beach (usually in that order). I am a native of Jacksonville, Florida, but have spent most of my adult life on Florida’s west coast.
While being introduced for a speaking opportunity a few years ago, the pastor asked me, “Who are you?”. The words that followed shocked even me: “I am the precious daughter of the most high God”. There were many years when I would not have answered that question as I did that day. I have spent most of my life defining myself by all that I have survived, all that I have accomplished, or all the degrees on my wall. The truth is, my answer to that pastor’s question that day is the definition that is most important, and one that I hope truly defines my life when I am gone. The rest: survival, accomplishments, and college degrees are certainly a part of my story and why I write, mentor, and speak. My description of “who I am” that day is why I stand proclaiming Him and Him alone.
I grew up in a children’s home, graduated from Clearwater Christian College with a degree in Biology (1994); was married for 12 years to a man who tried to kill me and somewhere along the way managed to earn my Masters Degree in Business Administration. I have enjoyed success as an entrepreneur as well as an educator. As a survivor of a lot of things that tried to kill me, it is my desire to use my story to spread a story of Hope for any who may find themselves in similar situations as mine.
I love both the written and spoken word and enjoy opportunities to share my experiences in both personal and professional genres. My greatest desire is to invest my life in something that will outlive it. It is my hope that all of my efforts here and in other places will accomplish just that.
To learn more from Amy follow all these places:
wednesdayswithwatson.com
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/132618684688613
Instagram.com/authoramywatson
X: twitter.com/amywatsonauthor
If you're interested in hearing a more detailed story of her trauma, Amy recommends this recording:
https://wednesdayswithwatson.com/charting-the-course-of-healing-a-personal-odyssey-through-trauma-faith-and-redemption/
And to see how to contribute to her Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/amywatsonauthor
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Sally Clarkson didn't grow up feeling accepted or acceptable and wondered if she ever would be until one day she prayed, "If there's a God in the universe, will you please send me someone to explain who you are." And he did. A young woman knocked on her door and asked, "Can I give you a religious survey?" From that brief conversation, Sally learned that she was greatly loved and designed for great purpose and she didn't look back.
Today, after writing over 40 books on knowing God and living for Christ, Sally talks of how as women we have agency—we have options to flourish and make decisions by faith that will cause us to thrive and make a difference in the lives around us. Her latest book speaks of beauty and choices and the love of God, Well Lived, Shaping a Legacy of Gratitude and Grace. Put it on your Christmas list and pray about giving it to someone you love this Christmas.
Some Sally gems:
I thrive better when I live in a rhythm of obedience—doing what's right because I love God serves me well even if I don't feel it at the time. I make sure to include things in my life that refuel my soul on a regular basis including friends that call me to my best self. What I needed was unconditional love and that's what God provided. To thrive means to live by faith.I wish I knew earlier what it meant to live in a fallen and chaotic world.Each day I pray to find a way to leave an imprint of God's love on someone I spend time with.Earlier in my live, I would argue with God until I learned that by following Him, He was taking away things that wouldn't help me.Women are discouraged and feel a lack of direction but they have agency and more capacity than they realize.I told God that I was going to plant a flag to cultivate gratefulness and start each day by thanking Him for four things before getting out of bed.We thrive by taking the stuff of our lives and putting it in God's hands and saying, "I'm Yours. What does the Holy Spirit want to dream through me?"Sally Clarkson is a bestselling author, renowned speaker, and beloved mentor who has dedicated her life to inspiring countless women to live for Christ. She has been married to her husband Clay for more than forty years and they have raised four adult children. Today, Sally lives between the mountains of Colorado and the rolling fields of England.
You can learn more of Sally Clarkson's ministry below:
Website: https://sallyclarkson.com/Podcast, At Home with Sally Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sally.clarksonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/therealsallyclarkson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrpMU6iAuldEQFbPISjSC_A
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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Jan Morton believes that everyone needs to be and feel seen so that they know the Gospel love of Jesus and that it might be best accomplished at her table with homemade biscuits. A pastor's wife of 47 years, Jan surprised herself and everyone else in her church when she realized that she had never given her life over to Christ even after marrying a pastor and singing in the choir. She had to move her faith from her head to her heart and she loves sharing her story with everyone she meets.
Jan co-authored the book Tasting Grace: A Mentoring in the Kitchen Bible Study with Leah Adams and now the Tasting Grace kitchen ministry is going on nine different states across the country. Leave a comment to be entered into the book giveaway.
Some gems from our time together:
If it matters to us, it matters to Jesus.
I was mentored without knowing that was going on—we just did life together.
After I trusted Christ, I knew I could be myself and just love on everyone I met.
God is writing your story and I want to hear it.
I've learned to now pray about everything and delight in the fact that I am not in control of everything.
What happens at Gran-Jan camp stays at Gran-Jan camp.
My best cooking tip is to make sure you place all your ingredients out on the counter before you start.
I want my family to know that all of my treasure is in heaven and that I love Jesus with all my heart.
Mentoring means to come alongside, ask questions and sit with another.
Jan, a mother of two boys and grandmother of five, retired six years ago after thirty years serving in Houston County Schools. She describes herself as a content homebody, and a biscuit-maker who especially enjoys gardening, cooking, and quilting. Co-author of the book Tasting Grace, Jan also served in women’s ministry for 21 years.
She serves in a kitchen mentoring ministry of the same name: Tasting Grace – I think this is why I found Jan on Instgram – we have similar passions and both love making and serving biscuits.
A favorite fun fact of hers is being on Wheel of Fortune Season 33! Yes she won!
https://granjansjoy.com/
And on Instagram. @jan_m_morton
Just for you:
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Kathi Lipp's latest book is sure to be a treasure for you and hopefully for your neighbor who may need your chicken and wild rice soup that you just made!
Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest released October 8th. Beyond the convenience and peace of mind of managing meals, Kathi wrote this book to help you experience true Sabbath rest, a full day to relax, recharge, and reconnect with God and your friends and family. We were designed to rest—it’s time to reclaim your Sabbath day. This book will show you how.
Kathi is no stranger to Living a Legacy Life as this is her third time to be a guest on my show. Kathi and her husband Roger live in the mountains of CA and they have learned the joy and rhythm of "pre-deciding" meals, not only for their own sense of rest and refreshment, but also for those they know and love.
Kathi Lipp is the Publishers Weekly best-selling author of over 20 books, including Sabbath Soup. She and her husband Roger ran away to the mountains of Northern California where they grow their own food and turn it into delicious meals for those they host.
And she will be hosting a giveaway all week long so be sure to enter and leave a comment below or on social media or just email me: [email protected].
Some gems from our conversation:
The reason we keep sabbath is because it's God's gift to us.We were not designed for the hustle we create for ourselves. We are unaware of God's extravagant love for us; keeping sabbath helps keep us aware of this love.If I keep items on hand in the pantry or freezer, I can be the first person at someone's door with a meal or pan of brownies when they just can't make one more decision.We grew up with a mind set of "in order for everyone else to rest, women had to do all the work." A true sabbath helps us honor God, connect with people, and remember God's provisions.Providing food for others helps them "feel seen" no matter what's going on in their lives. We don't need to ask, "How can I help?" Rather announce, "I'm bringing a meal at 3 this afternoon—will that work and are you gluten free, by the way?Taste-Test Sabbath Soup for Free! Sign up to receive Kathi’s free ebook featuring four week’s worth of easy meal plans and delicious recipes. -
Thirteen years ago, Sarah felt stirrings in her heart and spirit—she knew she was meant for something in God's great purpose plan. She just didn't know what. So she invited some friends over. Four came. They talked about their own dreams and stirrings and how they might fit into God's great story of love and design. From small beginnings—you've heard the adage—great things emerge when offered to God with humility and perhaps, some trepidation. REFRESH.ORG was born and now reaches 1,000's of women. I love how God does math. Loaves and fishes offered to the Muliplier and Distributor.
Join Sarah Birkbeck today on my podcast and find out how God led her to help women "join the battle" to do God's will with joy and intention. And if there's still room for REFRESH 2025, she's offering a 50.00 off coupon to our listeners. Go sign up today! www.refreshwomen.org
Some gems from our conversation:
We tend to diminish what God's put inside of us for his kingdom work, thinking that who we are and what we offer can't make a difference for him or for others. The act of pressing into the Lord even while exhausted and ready to quit provides all the strength needed to do his will with joy and confidence.I didn't have much to offer: this house, these friends, these stirrings; but God took what I had and Refresh was born.To lead women to the Father is the most important step in unlocking the dream potential that he's placed inside of each of us. REFRESH means to enliven, stimulate, fortify and revive—God wants to revive the dreams lying dormant within each and every woman. The truth is that at one time or another every woman feels forgotten, inadequate or stuck in the thought of "I really don't know at all what I'm doing!" To activate Christian women to advance the kingdom of God is my battle cry; to assemble the troops, position them for battle and carry out what God had in mind all along.Sarah Birkbeck, wife and mother of four, is the founder and visionary of Refresh, a ministry dedicated to activating women to advance the Kingdom of God. She is a speaker, passionate about leading women to discover their kingdom purposes. Sarah lives in North Dallas with her husband James, son Asher, and daughters Stella, Skyla and Adeline.
Find out more in these places:
Instagram: @refresh_women
@Sarahhelenabirkbeck
Website: www.refreshwomen.org
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Christmas is my favorite season but I can miss Jesus in the rush and crush of it all. Laura Crosby, a writer, pastor-teacher and welcomer—loved the Christmas story so much she wanted to help us hold still enough to appreciate all the Lord did for us.
Laura wrote an Advent study during Covid for her church in D.C. and has since made available for all of us to share, and I'm so glad she did. You may remember my first interview with Laura. Here's the link in case you want to get acquainted with her welcoming heart. She included a simple and delicious chicken recipe which I'm making tonight just because I have all the ingredients and a neighbor stopping by for dinner.
All week long Laura is graciously offering one free copy of her Advent Study as a giveaway.
"Choosing Welcome at Advent" includes 4 short videos, Scripture for reflection and recipes! All for $10.00 (Except for the winner of the giveaway! comment below to be entered - or email me [email protected].)
Here's a recipe sample:
Link to purchase HERE to get your own copy. Holidays are around the corner and you may need to consciously sit still, breathe and watch!
Follow Laura on instagram: @lauracrosby.
Learn more about Laura on her website here.
Laura just got home from a missions trip to Scotland and last year she raised funds and awareness for those in need by hiking the Grand Canyon rim to rim. I appreciate Laura's heart for the needy as well as her desire to make travel and do challenging things with a purpose.
Some gems from our conversation:
We might think that "this season of our lives" is too difficult to set time aside for God, but to keep Him first is hard in any season because Satan wants to distract you. Experiencing Advent helps us become more aware of God's presence and so more readily respond to His voice and partner with Him. Any work we do for God and with God stems from our identity as His beloved. People don't want to feel like they are your project; rather they want to feel loved and seen. As we reflect on God's purpose for our lives it's good to pray often, "Lord, what is mine to do?"When more present with Christ, we can more readily recognize the holy interruptions throughout our day.I love Laura and I know you will too.
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Single in my 20’s, in a new career, a new town and a new church, I felt okay mostly. Life was full and purposeful, but lonely on occasion. I wondered why families didn’t ask me over for Sunday dinner.
All I could think of was that my church friends must have thought I had such an exciting single life, I wouldn’t want to come home to their normal, ordinary home and stand at the sink and peel potatoes or hold their babies while they got dinner on and then sit down at their table to get better acquainted.
But that was exactly what I wanted to do. To be part of a family, if just for an hour or two.
The Bible says God sets the lonely in families. I was lonely. I needed to be set somewhere.
I got tired of waiting. So I called up some people. Invited them over. Invited myself over. I had a precedent and his name is Jesus.
Sometimes you just have to make it happen and not wait for someone else to pick up the phone or send a text. I invited people over because I needed friends. I don’t think people thought I might be bad company or that I would run off with the soup ladle if they had me over for dinner. I just think they didn’t think of me at all.
Maybe that’s what loneliness is: To believe you aren’t even thought about.
Trishie's Apple Crisp
5 large apples1 t. cinnamon1/4 t. nutmeg1 t. lemon juice1/2 c water
Topping:1 c sugar3/4 c flour
1 cube butter, firm
Peel and slice applesMix in spices, lemon juice and waterLay in 7 x 11" dishMix flour and sugar togetherCrumble in chilled butter slices until it resembles small peas (as an alternative, spread flour/sugar mixture on top of apples. Melt butter and pour evenly over the top.)
Bake 45-55 min at 350 degrees. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream (sort of optional)
See printable version HERE
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In case you're wondering, it's okay for Christians to talk about their money. Why? Because all we have belongs to God, anyway.
Today I'm delighted to host Erik Olson, a fellow podcaster and a wealth and money consultant from Holland, Michigan. As a Kingdom-impact investment adviser and retirement planner, Erik talks about not only money, but a theological view of our earthly resources that may surprise and delight you and maybe put a fire under your seat to do something worthwhile—PLAN something worthwhile—so that God is glorified and His kingdom well-served.
Some gems from our conversation:
As in introvert, I prefer a spreadsheet over a conversation, but I like to think I can come alongside someone and gently and expertly help them serve themselves, others and God better with training and counsel.The Bible isn't anti-wealth; in fact, God is pro-wealth creation. It's just one more way we are made in God's image as creators.We make mistakes with money when we compartmentalize it as something separate from all our God-given gifts.If all that we have belongs to God, we need to make ourselves good stewards of our wealth because we answer to Him.God loves wealth creation insofar that we make more income in order to be generous servants as well as enjoy the life he's provided. The biggest mistake we make with our money is not to plan with what to do with our money.We either pay too much attention to our money which shows we are insecure in our relationship with God; or, we ignore our money and end up with fewer opportunities to give to Kingdom work.Jesus was very clear: We cannot worship God and money at the same time.It's a question of worship: do we fantasize over our money and what it can provide for us or do we carry an undivided esteem of God over any of our assets? -
Thinking of writing your story? Susy Flory thinks you should begin, like today.
Currently in seminary working on her doctoral degree, Susy Flory directs the West Coast Christian Writers Conference, and knows a good story when she hears it. Raised by an Irish mother who could tell a good yarn, Susy is a 17 book New York Times best-selling author whose favorite books are memoirs. Today we discuss how she came to co-write her lovely book, Sanctuary about a young man named Patrick who lost his way and the rescue donkeys that led him home.
She's offering a free copy this week - leave a comment to be entered.
Susy leads Everything Memoir, both a free facebook group with loads of quality free offerings, as well as a year long coaching group on how to write your memoir which will be starting up again this coming January. Learn more about both on her website: susyflory.com and find all her links HERE.
Some gems:
I find people endlessly fascinating and I love helping them tell their stories in any form but especially in written form.From getting to know Patrick and how God met him in all his struggles, I came to appreciate in a deeper, broader way that those who follow Christ are all a part of one church. From Patrick's story we see again how God doesn't give up on us no matter how many times we fail. Words have an eternal quality to them, which is reason enough to begin writing your story.Everyone who loves God has a God-story that needs to be told, even if only for one person to hear it. Patrick felt accepted and unconditional love from one particular donkey named Aran and that helped him feel less alone and eventually led towards his healing. Writing our stories gives us joy in that it helps us feel like there's a reason for why things have happened in our lives. -
Megan Fate Marshman tells us what to do when we don't have all the things figured out: go to Jesus and tell him that we don't. And then we go to him again and tell him again. We need reminding. We are prone to think we are in control and what a gift from God that we are not.
I just finished reading an advance copy of Megan's latest book, RELAXED: WALKING WITH THE ONE WHO IS NOT WORRIED ABOUT A THING and I'd love to say that I'm totally relaxed AND not worried about a thing. But I'm more relaxed and I'm less worried. So good. Buy one for yourself (if you don't win the giveaway) and one for that friend who may be worried—oh, that's every friend, or most anyway.
Megan, a single mom of two young boys—her dear husband Randy went to be with the Lord at age 36—writes from what she is learning about grief and worry and autonomy and coming to Jesus over and over again. A knowledgeable and charismatic teacher of the Word, Megan pastors at Willow Creek Community Church, Chicago, runs the women's ministry at Hume Lake Christian Camp and is the women's pastor at Arbor Road Church, Long Beach, CA.
Megan’s website
Megan on IG
Megan on Facebook
Megan on X
Buy Link
Some gems from our conversation:
We don't need to do more; rather, we need to be intentional about showing love right where we are.
God's gift to us is that we don't need to trust in ourselves.
Risk-taking is Christlikeness because you are setting yourself up to need him and the prompts almost always lead to love.
Anxiety signals me where I'm trying to get my security.
We experience a sanctification gap and we go about it all the wrong way to close that gap without God.
Grief has taught me to pay more attention to what really matters and less attention on those things that don't.
We are called to be God's hands and feet to anyone he brings our way.
We are not working on making a perfect family; rather on doing things right.
Anxiety alerts us that something is going on in the dashboard of our soul.
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We all have a story to tell and when we tell it, we can encourage someone else who may need to know and trust God a little bit more.
Julie Sunne expected certain things from God and when they didn't happen, she realized she didn't really know this God she was raised to believe in. Married 36 years, a mother of 4, Julie experienced 5 miscarriages and 4 live births in a stretch of 8 years. Their third child and only girl, Rachel, was diagnosed as intellecturally disabled and will need to be cared for her entire life. Rachel, age 26 but developmentally only age 3, continues to teach Julie about trusting and knowing God in his entierty.
Julie's book points our minds and hearts to God and you'll want to get one for yourself and anyone you know who is struggling with hope. She's giving away a copy this week so be sure to comment here or on social media for your name to be entered.
SOMETIMES I FORGET: 60 REMINDERS OF HOPE FOR YOUR HARD DAYS, a concise and helpful devotional to direct our minds and hearts to the nature of God. As Julie says, we don't just wish for something, we hope in God who is immutable and never-changing.
In the pages of this book, you will discover:
--more about who God is
--how God relates to us as His children
--why we can believe God’s promises
--truths to remember
--a simple, yet meaningful way to pray through the valleys
Life will throw you curveballs, but in the character of God lies hope. Because of who God is, you can trustHim in your most desperate moments.
Some gems from our conversation:
When God didn't answer my prayers, I just felt that his blessings pertained to other people, not me. I had to learn that my expectations of God were not always his plan for me and thereby, not his best for me as well. The main cure for "forgetting Who God is" is to read the Word of God which reminds us who we can trust. We will never completely understand the ways of God so we have to get to a point where we surrender ourselves completely to God.We can't just take one attribute of God without all the rest as one nature, perfect and unchanging, loving and almighty. My legacy is to trust my hard places to the Lord and surrender my understanding to His.Follow Julie at juliesunne.com.
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I’m not sure why we bother arguing with God. God being God comes with an unfair advantage but I imagine I’m not the only one who tries. There’s that Jonah fellow from Nineveh. He argued but he ended up—well you probably know where he ended up. Even Jesus who had a special connection, you might say, debated with his Father about the wisdom of what he was about to go through right before the cross. He went anyway. Alone, for the most part.
I should have known better than to argue. There’s no point. But processing out loud is my favorite and God already knew what was in my head. And, while arguing takes two and I did most of the talking, I did get an answer
At 30 I wasn’t worried about gray hair. I had a great life. I just didn’t want to grow old alone. I had a plan to love and serve God—but not by myself. Phone calls can mess up the best of plans.
YOUR TURN
Do you have a plan for your life? What does it include?When your plans take a “wrong turn” in your view, how do you deal with your disappointment?Have you ever argued with God? If not, you can try it out today. (I'll wait...)How did that turn out for you?
If we remember He’s our perfect Father—and loves us even more than our own dads—and that he knows what’s ahead, we can relax. Instead of stewing we can wonder how He’s going to surprise us with something we would never think up on our own.
That’s one of the fun parts about following God—the surprise factor. It gets me every time.
TAKE GOD AT HIS WORD
“There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off” (Proverbs 23:18).
TELL GOD WHAT’S GOING ON (write your prayer or pray the one below):
Lord, God,
Thank you that you love me and that you are love so that you can’t betray. Help me place the truth of your character over my feelings. I surrender my plans to you. May I look to you in trust and expectation. I love surprises. Thank you and amen.
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Lori Margo wife and mother of three adult children, knows what it means to stay awake all night and worry - like all good mothers do! She knew God loved and cared for her—even while facing cancer four times and losing her mom at a young age. But her faith stalled out one day and she prayed, "Lord, I need to know you are with me. Show me ways you are present here in these struggles." And that began her process of tracking God, keeping short lists, recording how He's answering prayers, big and small. She prayed: God I just want to know that you are with me. If you answer my prayer or if you don't—I'm still going to trust you, no matter what."
Lori writes:
Life is hard AND God is incredible.Both phrases are true and happening simultaneously: Life is hard. God is incredible.
That’s my story.
I’ve had hard things come my way AND I’ve experienced the faithfulness of God alongside the pain and suffering. He met me where I was and brought peace as I held the pieces of a life I never imagined for myself.
Some gems:
Life is hard AND God is incredible.To track how God is present helps keep me emotionally resilient.I acknowledge my fears but when I look for how God is working on my behalf, worry turns more easily to worship. Psalm 73 is where I go for help: God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. I didn't want to just say the words, "God I trust you"—I wanted to get into the habit of observing His miraculous presence in my trials and difficulties. Sometimes I stall out and I just say, "God I need to hear from You" and then I keep a pad of paper and a pencil nearby.You CAN have a deeper connection with God, even when life is hard. Take the quiz HERE.Learn more from Lori at lorimargo.com.
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Speaker, author, Keith Ferrin heard someone tell or perform the entire book of Luke on stage for two hours straight. He made a lunch date with the presenter for that next day, a lunch date which lasted nine hours. For the last two decades, Keith's been presenting Scripture by the book as a storyteller. "The Bible is not only meant to be studied, understood and obeyed", Keith says, "it's meant to be enjoyed." We discuss the Thdifference as well as what it means to internalize the word vs memorizing the words.
Keith is passionate about helping people know and love God's word and offers great series on YouTube as well as on his website. Keith is offering my Welcome Heart listeners a half-off coupon for two of his great resources: get both for the price of one.
One course is called Relational Bible Study. www.keithferrin.com/rbs
The other is called The Simplest Way to Internalize the Bible www.keithferrin.com/internalize
Use this LINK to get them both for the price of one.
His free resource is: The Simplest Way to Study the Bible. LINK HERE.
Some gems:
People are under the false belief that massive parts of Scripture is confusing so they don't even attempt to read it.The main difference between Christianity and all other religions is this: the Creator saw that His creation was in trouble and He set out to rescue and fix what they can't fix on their own.The Bible is not only true, it's also powerful and amazing and transforming and meant to be enjoyed.I realized that God's Word isn't just to be studied verse-by-verse like little sound bites; rather it's to engage my mind, emotions and soul and that's made all the difference.To internalize Scripture is the know the Word; to memorize Scripture is to know the words. The more relational we are with Scripture, the more information we will retain.Our primary purpose in reading the Bible is to hang out with Jesus.To learn more about Keith and how to learn to enjoy the Bible, follow Keith on all social platforms @keithferrin or his website: keithferrin.com.
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Bret Lott knows how to make a woman cry. Possibly a man, too, but I'm not sure. I know he's cried (sobbed, he admitted) when reading Leif Enger's book, Peace Like a River. I already liked Bret Lott but that made me like him even more.
Bret Lott, award-winning author of now 16 books (both fiction and non-fiction) didn't start out to become a writer and, in fact, met obstacles along the way. I'm glad he persevered; if you've read Jewel, one of Oprah's Book Club selections, then I'm sure you're glad as well. He wanted to ride a horse and be a Park Ranger. Grateful that didn't pan out.
Fun sidenote: Since I'm also from Southern California, it was a delight to find out that Bret used to work at Knott's Berry Farm at the candy apple booth and once-a-month he made waffles for Mr. Knott.
Bret is giving away a signed copy of his latest book out this month entitled: GATHER THE OLIVES, On Food and Hope and the Holy Land - comment below or on social media to be entered!
Born in Los Angeles in 1958, Lott grew up in Buena Park, CA and Phoenix, AZ before returning to California to live in Huntington Beach, CA. He met and married his wife of 40 years, Melanie Swank Lott, at First Baptist Church of Huntington Beach/Fountain Valley. A graduate of Cal State, Long Beach(1981), Lott headed to Massachusetts for graduate school at UMass Amhurst. He received his MFA in 1984 and landed his first teaching position at Ohio State Univ. In 1986, Lott joined the English Department at the College of Charleston, where he is now a tenured professor and director of the new MFA program and leads writers retreats to Italy.
Find out more about his writing retreats here: https://bretlottwriting.com
Be sure to comment below to be entered to win: Gather the Olives.
Some gems:
The difference between a good writer and a bad writer: the bad writer says, "Here I am, I have something to say." The good writer writes a good story and you're not aware he or she even exists.I write to try and understand things, why people do what they do and what happened to their lives.I shared a short story with a girl I liked. She wasn't impressed. I knew right then that I loved her. Jewel was based on my grandmother's life. She had 6 kids and the 6th, my aunt, was Down Syndrome. You're given what you're given in life; the writer's job and joy is to write the pages torn from that life and try to understand it better.The best art fills us with wonder and glory and mystery and beauty which are all manifestations of God. -
Connie Lawson, wife and mother of three little girls has suffered more than most. When asked, "Do you ever wonder why you went through so many trials?" she replied, "Not anymore. When you really push into Jesus and decide that He's enough, you find out that He really is enough."
Misdiagnosed at age 11 with a mental illness that didn't get changed around until her late 20's, Connie could be bitter over all those lost years. Instead, she's turned her pain into an opportunity to help others trust the God that she's come to know and love, even in and in spite of the darkness. Hear more of Connie's story on her podcast, Weeds, Seeds and Beautiful Things.
Some gems:
I don't understand the why behind my trials, but I do know that God is good, no matter what.If you aren't anchored to the truth, you'll drown, and the truth is that God is loves you and is present in your suffering. My mission is to help others come to know the God I've learned to trust. When you pray for more faith in God rather than praying for a changed outcome—it changes you.My suffering is a doorway to see the face of God. An entitled anger says, "I don't deserve this pain" and keeps me from seeing God's hand.For more encouragment, follow Connie at WeedsSeedsandBeautifulThings.com.
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My friend and fellow podcaster, Mary Hess of The Back 40, invited me and 3 other gals (from the back 40!) to chat on her podcast.
Here's what Mary had to say about all of us crazy and fun ladies:
Ever found yourself in a predicament because your body is going through changes you don't quite understand? Or perhaps you're struggling to find your identity amidst the pressures of social media, comparison, and the expectation to constantly achieve? Well, ladies, you're not alone. I'm accompanied by four incredibly inspiring women - Sue Donaldson, Ruthie Gray, Susan Macias, and Carol Feil - who have each navigated their unique journeys and have come to share their wisdom on these common, yet often overlooked subjects.Our conversation doesn't shy away from the personal, the profound, or the downright hilarious. We candidly tackle the often-ignored topic of menopause and each share our own experiences with hormone replacement and our strategies for coping with life's inevitable transitions. I think you'll find comfort and camaraderie in our tales of overcoming fears, breaking free from societal timelines, and taking action, no matter what stage of life you're in. But that's not all. We dive deep into the challenges of finding your true identity in a world that demands comparison. We discuss the power of authentic communication, and the importance of being true to yourself. Wherever you are in your faith journey, whether you feel you're just starting out or you've been walking the path for decades, this episode is for you. So, get comfortable, grab a cuppa, and join us for a conversation that will have you nodding in agreement, laughing out loud, and maybe even shedding a tear or two. You won't want to miss it.Connect with Sue Donaldson: https://welcomeheart.com/Connect with Susan Macias: https://www.susankmacias.com/Connect with Ruthie Gray: https://authenticonlinemarketing.com/Connect with Carol Feil: https://carolfeil.com/
Find our host, Mary here at The Back 40
Some gems (we do think we are funny...)
I had to make a choice, to say this is my new season, and I'm going to assume that God didn't make me faulty. It's not bad. Hot flashes are never fun.I just want to be so in sync with what the Lord is doing in my life, so that, if I snap at someone, that I can do short accounts—to get our relationship back on track as soon as possible—like with God and my children and my husband.Because we can now walk around with, you know, computers in our back pockets, I think we have to really really guard our hearts and minds to what we allow to settle in and take up that space.I think sometimes it's easy for me even to get into the mindset of oh my gosh, I'm in my 50s now and what do I have to show for it? What do I have to show that I've been doing ministry or I'm successful in some arena or some way?I don't know that comparison ever really goes away and I kind of thought it would.To be surrounded by people who inspire you is is self-serving sanctification. To go into community on a regular basis and say have someone say, "You're not late, Susan, you're blessed. You're doing what God wants you to do today."When we start feeling lonely or down about what we're doing or anything to do with our second half of life, the worst thing we can do is stay to ourselves. -
Scott Savage, pastor, husband of a judge and father of 3, realized one day in a church meeting that he was in the wilderness of burnout. What followed was 9 months of finding and knowing God on a deeper level and he's here today to share with us part of what he learned. You may not be in a wilderness yourself right now, but you may know someone who could use Scott's encouragement. He's offering a free resource which you can access here: Don't Give Up When It's Time To Change: 10 Things You Need to Hear When You're Ready to Quit.
Scott and his wife, Danalyn often say, "Everyone has a story if we stop long enough to listen." Perhaps that's the main thing you need today: someone to listen to your story. You can connect with Scott here.
Some gems from today:
What if you started looking for God's kindness in your wilderness where He leads you tenderly closer to Himself.We can wake up and discover that we are somewhere where we never intended to be and find we are in a wilderness. Friendships forged in the hard places can be our deepest and most life-giving relationships. I knew I was burned out from focusing on my public life more than tending to my private life with God.Burnout is something we have more control over; wilderness can often be the result of outside circumstances. My prayer is that people will connect to me in my stories so that they will connect with God. When feeling burned out we can claim the promise we are not alone: God hasn't left and He can provide others to accompany us in the hardest of times. Scott Savage is a pastor, author, and speaker with the best last name ever! As a seasoned Millennial pastor, Scott has served churches for nearly 20 years. He currently leads Cornerstone Church in Prescott, Arizona. His writing has been read by over a million people in places like Our Daily Bread, RELEVANT Magazine, Air1 Radio, and the YouVersion Bible App: here's a sample.Through his writing and speaking, Scott loves helping people who are navigating difficult situations to find hope and healing. He is married to Danalyn, aka Judge Savage, and they’re raising three brilliant children. You can learn more about Scott at ScottSavageLive.com or follow him on social media (@scottsavagelive). -
Kristen Hallinan knew she needed to make some changes. How she responded to situations was threatening the peace in her family and costing her precious relationships. Once she figured out that much of her over-reactions were based in deep-seated early life trauma, she was able to begin to move forward: for her sake and for the sake of the next generation.
As a result of what Kristen learned, she's put together a resource that is her legacy and will be of help for many who feel stuck in the pain of their past. That may not be you but you may know someone who needs to hear her story and how to get beyond small-t trauma and live in the freedom and wholeness that Christ provides.
A copy of her newly-released book will be part of a giveaway all week long. Be sure to comment to be entered:
Legacy Changer: Heal the Hurt, Redeem Your Story, Create Hope for Your FamilySome gems from our conversation:
It took me many years to resource all the tools to help me heal. We are forgiven completely when we come to faith in Christ, but not always fully healed.I love seeing women walk in freedom when God redeems their past pain.As a child, I felt unwanted, unseen, and that I was simply annoying to others. It took courage to speak up about my needs and face the fact that many were not met as a child.To quiet the lies in my head, I list them out and contrast them with the truths of who God says I am. I am teaching our children that it's okay not to be enough because God is enough.I've learned that I am in charge of my emotions—they are not in charge of me.Kristen Hallinan is a sought-after writer and speaker, passionate about helping women redeem the pain of their past and move towards a healthier and more hopeful future. On mission to equip women and support families, Kristen previously worked as Director of Development for MOPS International. She enjoys working with teen moms, crisis pregnancy centers, and serving as a pre-marital mentor with her husband Shawn in Dallas, TX. Legacy Changer is Kristen’s debut book, and you can find her other writings in publications like Relevant Magazine and The Joyful Life. Laughing with and chasing after her four children helps burn off the calories she consumes of her favorite treat—homemade gluten free churros.
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Pam Fields of The Mom Next Door Podcast shares with us today her desire to come alongside other moms and throw out the anchor of God's truth, hope and love, encouraging them in their parenting and their walk with the Lord. She came from a difficult place in her own childhood and didn't really understand what it was all about but she met the Lord at 15 and knew right then that God loved her and that she was His favorite. I wanted to argue that I was His favorite, but as we know, God loves us all.
Pam, a recent resident of Tennesee after living in Oregon for many years, is a mom of 9 and grandma to 4. She hosts the free Facebook group called: Tending Fields Moms Group and interviews moms from all walks of life on her podcast.
Some gems:
I want to throw out the life preserver and provide an anchor for moms who are needing support and encouragement. An online community is a starting place for sharing hope and practical resources.I know that there is so much power in prayer and when we can't make a casserole for someone, we can still pray.I always knew that God loved me and that I was His favorite.Because of the dark places in my past, I know that I kept myself from fully experiencing my emotions until I met with a counselor and recognized my childhood trauma.To get beyond a painful past, we must surround ourselves with people who point us to God and His healing truth.We aren't meant to grow on our own.I want a home where my people feel comfortable and supported whether or not things are going well or not so great. As a mom of 9, Pam has learned how to incorporate prayer into the busy moments of mothering life. She would love to share this resource with you! In this guide, you will find prayer prompts as well as step-by-step instructions for crafting a prayer bracelet which will be a great reminder to pray for any concerns that you are carrying. She writes about the bracelet HERE. Prayer Bracelets: A Practical Idea to Remind You to Pray Here is the link: https://subscribepage.io/3e30w2 Follow Pam:IG: https://www.instagram.com/tendingfields/FB: https://www.facebook.com/TendingFieldsWebsite: https://tendingfields.net/ - Visa fler
