WELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy Life
Sue Donaldson
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Welcome Heart: Living a Legacy Life - A Welcome Heart Podcast with Sue Donaldson. How to Invest in what matters beyond ourselves. We have one life - let’s make the most of it for God, others, and eternity.
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3 days ago
Ep 210 A Legacy of Simple Connecting in the Holidays with Carol Feil
Welcome Carol Feil of Yellow Boot Fame to Legacy Living today! We talk about what matters most during the busy holiday season and we laugh a lot, too! People are lonelier than ever and how can we include rather than exclude to help others connect to a family, even if for one evening? Sometimes choosing "simple" over "elaborate" is the best gift we can give our own families as well as ourselves so we can focus on what really matters and choose to make this time a sacred space.
Some Carol gems:
* Simplifying allows us to focus on what's most important durlng the holidays.
* Love can mean learning to give someone what they are willing to receive.
* I've discovered that doing things that help our family connect is more valuable than buying more gifts and putting on elaborate events.
* Our "shoulds" are not always grounded in reality.
* My family was happier with less; I had to learn to expect less of myself.
* I taught my children that we aren't purposely exclusive when we are purposely inclusive, but we have to look out for that one who is feeling excluded by our inclusivity.
* We "should" ourselves into doing more when it only adds more stress and no one else is expecting it--only us.
A gift from Carol, first a word: I love everything about Christmas - well, almost everything. Tinsel and holly, yes. Stress and overwhelm, no. Coco and caroling, yes. Overloaded calendar, no.
You get the idea. It's easy to overcommit, overdo, then overwhelm ourselves as Christmas approaches. How often does the schedule dictate what you focus on?
I have learned that by choosing what goes on the calendar in advance, I can simplify, stay sane so I can focus on the Sacred of the Season.
I want this for you, too. I've created a FREE resource to remind you: You have permission to choose sane and simple so Sacred can be the focus.
Carol wears yellow-boots in the garden - they are her “listen & learn” boots. She takes pictures of everything! Slugs & bugs & selfies! But, her grandkids are her favorite to frame. She will tell you growth in life is good and gardens are proof. She believes God grows us where we are and helps us to be rooted and grounded in His unchanging character. He knows our pain and loves us more than we can imagine. Let Carol encourage you today, so you too, can plant a seed of hope for another tomorrow. You can find Carol through her website www.carolfeil.com, on Instagram and Facebook.
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Nov 27, 2023
Ep 209 A Legacy of Moving Mountains for the Marginalized with Kristen Welch
Kristen Welch went to Kenya on Compassion trip with an agenda. God wrecked her instead, all for His glory and purpose. Kristen thought she had God and faith figured out but instead she realized she had not been really living the Christian life as God requires all of us to live who call ourselves followers of Jesus. As a result of that encounter with God and with the world's poverty, Kristen founded the non-profit, Mercy House Global. You can hear more of story in her book, Rhinestone Jesus, and today's conversation will encourage you and maybe even wreck you, all for heaven's sake.
Kristen will be hosting a giveaway of her great book, Made to Move Mountains: How God uses Our Dreams and Disasters to Accomplish the Impossible.
You may already know Kristen from her great mom-blog, WeAreTHATFamily.com.
Some gems:
* You never know when you say that "yes" of obedience where God will change you and use you.
* My normal was impacted by the world's normal: 75% of the world live on $5.00 a day.
* Generosity is a spiritual discipline.
* When we see someone start something big we use it as an excuse to not do anything.
* Abiding in Christ is the main thing that keeps me from discouragement because the work is exhausting but it is His work.
* Everyone is commanded to remember the marginalized.
* Doing nothing is a response too.
* I found myself in the classroom of Surrender, 101, and I stopped expecting it to be easy.
Kristen is passionate about empowerment, taking action, responding to God’s command to care for vulnerable people and making a difference with how we spend money. Find all you need to know on MercyHouseGlobal.org.
And prayerfully consider buying your Chirstmas gifts from Mercy House Global. Those subscriptions boxes sound amazing!
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Nov 13, 2023
Ep 208 A Legacy of Normalizing Mental Health and Faith with Caris Snider
Author, speaker, life coach, Caris Snider talks today about how she struggled with anxiety and depression and how that's not a bad thing, it's just a thing that can be progressed through with the help of community, the truths of God's Word and presence, and possibly a coach and/or therapist. Overwhelmed with all the things a mom faces, she began a little podcast that's become a big one called "Car Line Mom" - what we think about while we're in all the lines waiting with our kids or for our kids. Her latest book, by the same title is available today: Car Line Mom: 100 Days of Encouragement for the Mama Who Gets Everyone Everywhere.
Some gems from today's podcast:
* When negative thoughts come in, don't let them stay!
* No matter how we struggle as moms, we are never alone.
* No one in the Bible did their journey alone; ask God for a friend to journey with you as a mom.
* I learned through my own feelings of inadequacy and living an over-committed life that it's okay to say "no" and create healthy margins
* A coach helps us Zoom Out on your life map to see how we can get where we want to go.
* Jesus was a our model even in negative feelings so we don't need to be afraid to have them.
* We don't need to be afraid to talk about faith and mental health.
* As mom's we feel like we can't fail which adds chaos and "overwhelm" to our lives.
* We need to live from the overflow of God's presence. He promises peace; we need to live in and from that peace.
CARIS SNIDER loves to share the hope of God through speaking, writing, coaching, and leading worship. She is the author of “Anxiety Elephants: 31 Day Devotional” and “Anxiety Elephants: 90 Day Devotional for Tween Boys and Girls.” From her own personal experience, she helps women in their journey of overcoming depression, anxiety, fear, and shame. Caris lives with her husband, Brandon, and two daughters in Cullman, Alabama.
A word from Caris:
I am so glad that you have found your way here. You see, I know what it is like to be shackled in guilt and shame, feeling hopeLESS and purposeLESS. BUT, I also know the freedom of those shackles being broken and beginning to live a life FULLfilled. I have my good days and I have my bad days. I have had some pretty dark days as well. I don't know what type of day you are having, but just know that many of us have been where you are, and there is hope to make it out.
Find free resources HERE.
Follow her instagram to learn more: @carissnider
And her website is carissnider.com
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Oct 30, 2023
Ep 207 A Legacy of Surviving Abuse: Live Free, Be Bold with Jilliann Woods
Jilliann Woods grew up in an abusive environement which didn't stop with her childhood. Because she didn't understand the oppression under which she was raised, she found herself in repeated abusive relationships. She finally realized that God created all of us to be heard and seen and empowered by His Spirit, she now lives free and boldly counsels and teaches multitudes of women so that they too can find our God-given freedom in Christ. Thank the Lord, for Jilliann's courage and love for others. Check out her two free resources on her website: jillian-woods.com. And pass them along to anyone you know who might need help in this painful and crippling life situation.
Free guide: How to Climb Out of Oppression
Free printable: Bold and Free Manifesto
Some gems from our conversation:
* I thought it was my duty to be nice at the expense of being honest.
* All the things I wanted to keep secret, I now share to help others.
* One oppressive relationship when younger can lead to a series of abusive relationships as an adult.
* When you suspect someone may be in an abusive relationship, develop trust by just being there for them and then begin asking gentle questions.
* God gives us all kinds of permission to be bold.
* I learned I do have a voice given to me by God, empowered by Him to be used by His Spirit.
* How does a woman transition from being "beside the point" to becoming the very point of her own life?
Jilliann Woods is a writer, abuse survivor, and founder of Be Bold. Live Free—providing encouragement, coaching, and resources for women affected by abuse in close relationships. Currently, she is writing a book for Christian women who seek a path to freedom from abuse and relationship addiction. She is a certified Domestic Violence Peer Counselor. Jilliann is Mom to three amazing adults, and Grammie to seven cherished grands. She happily resides on the Central Coast of California.
3 Steps to Take if You are in an Abusive Relationship: [Safety first for yourself and your children. If physical violence is an issue, find safe shelter. If you don't have a place to go call: 800.799.7233] 1. Confide in a trusted friend. Even if you feel ashamed or embarrassed, a trusted friend will understand and realize the abusive behavior of your spouse is not your fault. 2. Find a mentor or counselor who is trauma informed. Someone who will know what you are going through. Ask your friend to help with this step. If you are a Christian, find a trauma informed faith-based coach or counselor. 3. Be honest with yourself, don't excuse the abuse, and don't accept the blame for his behavior. Pray and ask God for guidance and courage. NOTE: In abusive marriages, Marriage Counseling is not advisable. You need individual counseling. The abuser must be willing to get help and do the work to change his behaviors first. Click here for FREE 5-Step Toxic Relationship Reset Guide (scroll to bottom of Jilliann's home page)
Find and follow Jilliann in all the places--
https://jilliann-woods.com/ https://www.instagram.com/jilliannw https://www.facebook.com/writerjilliannwoods https://www.pinterest.com/jilliannwoodscoach/
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Oct 16, 2023
Ep 206 A Legacy of a Full Cup of Joy, Part II
Things are out of our control. Circumstances do cause us grief and pain, tragedy does strike the good people as well as the bad. What can we do with our sorrow? We hope as Paul wrote in I Thess. 4:13 – “Do not grieve like the men who have no hope.”
We can think that as a good Christian, we should not be grieving—as if being sad is un-Christ-like.
Life IS hard, we’d be foolish not to embrace that fact, and the best way to get through grief is to grieve. But we grieve differently because we belong to God.
How does a follower of Jesus grieve differently? With hope in God who knows what’s ahead and loves us to the uttermost.
We are to come to Him with our grief, we are to hold on tight, as we grieve, and we are to look for God’s beauty and purpose amidst the ashes of pain. I want to add something here that maybe you can relate to: I hate to see my kids suffer – I like to run around and manipulate all their circumstances and their friends and their teachers – just so that my kids don’t suffer pain – but God has something better in mind. He wants them to know Him through their pain. And that is far more beautiful and helpful than anything I can maneuver. They need to learn to know God personally; They need to learn for themselves that God’s joy underlies their grief and the best way for them to learn it, is for their mother to get out of the way of the Holy Spirit.
(Of course, the Holy Spirit still needs my help with my husband . . . just kidding.)
* Joy comes from trusting and hoping in God
* Joy comes from communing and depending on God
* Joy comes from obedience and the main thing to obey is: "Love others as I have loved you." John 15
Sign up here to receive my 31 Days of Prayers: Love God, Love My Neighbor - It's Not Complicated (I make it complicated) One short prayer in your inbox for 31 days (free.)
Also in journal form - see SHOP. A gift for your soul just in time for the holidays. Quantities are limited.
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Oct 2, 2023
Ep 205 A Legacy to Retrain Our Minds with Mimika Cooney
Mimika Cooney, author, speaker and "personal trainer for the mind" is with us today to talk about mindset and legacy and living for things that matter. Wife and mother of three, Mimika had a lot going on until she realized she needed to get off the treadmill of doing too much with too little of relying on God. She needed a mindset change: "Lord, show me what you want me to do and then help me do it." And he did and does. "Our mind drives our actions so I need to keep God in the driver seat by renewing my mind daily—Romans 12:2."--Mimika (pronouced like paprika!)
Author of 10 books including her latest: Unstick Your Mind: Shift Your Mindset, Develop Grit, and Break Barriers, Mimika shares wisdom and inspiration based on her favorite Scripture, Romans 12:2 - "...be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect."
Find her free resource: 8 Steps to Supercharge Your Mind HERE.
Some gems from our conversation:
* Training includes action—God expects us to act so we can be and do what he's created us to be and do.
* We all have "junk in the trunk" that slows us down and needs clearing out.
* We may be living in denial-city if we think we can do God's will without God renewing our minds daily.
* Our mind drives our actions so I need to keep God in the driver seat by renewing my mind daily—Romans 12:2.
* We don't know what we don't know so we rely on God to show us what needs changing and then take action steps to make those changes.
* There are limits to self-help because it's self, not God.
* You have to want to make a change. I help people move from where they are to where they want to be.
* Ask yourself: "What are you thinking and why do you believe that?"
* You're never too old to teach an old dog new tricks.
* Your story is a testimony to God's grace so if you keep it to yourself, you are doing the world a disservice and robbing God of the glory due him.
Find Mimika here:
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mimikacooney YouTube https://youtube.com/c/mimikacooney Facebook https://www.facebook.com/themimikacooney Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mimikacooney Twitter https://twitter.com/mimikacooney
Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Mimika- Cooney/e/B0052GNJGY
Don't forget to check out her latest book, Unstick Your Mind as well as her free resource: 8 Steps to Supercharge Your Mind HERE.
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Sep 25, 2023
Ep 204 A Legacy of a Simple Invitation, Part 2 with Sue Donaldson
When we wake up each morning, do we actually think that what we do can change someone's world in some way? Most of us are grateful to change the sheets on a regular basis, clean the coffee pot with vinegar a few times a year, and water the plants when they show signs of an early death.
Yet, as followers of Jesus, we are not only called to an eternal purpose, to love God and our neighbor, we also get the privilege of partnering with the Son of God to change lives—one life, perhaps—all for His glory and our good and theirs.
Does that sound too hard? Too overwhelming? Too exhausting? It can to me, until I remember how Jesus spoke to many individuals, not only crowds of 5,000 and more. And He met needs one-on-one, as well as breaking bread and fish for hungry men and women and their kids on a mountain more than once.
Think about it:
I've learned that inviting one person for a cup of coffee can change their world.
God loves people, and He wants to use our tables and teapots to show people that He does.
Your cup of coffee or tea, soup or water—can be an introduction to God that someone has been looking for their whole lives.
As my new sweatshirt reads, "My real home is heaven. I'm just here recruiting." (I don't usually wear that on a first time meet-up.)
Awhile ago I shared three stories of how God changed lives through a simple invitation. Here are three more stories of how God changed lives through a simple invitation.
* An invitation to the one who needs a family
* An invitation to the one who needs to live awake
* An invitation to the one who needs a little help
Maybe you've been the recipient of an invitation that changed your life. I'd love to hear about it.
I'd also like to hear if you invite someone over and would like me to pray alongside. Email me: sue@welcomeheart.com. We're partners, after all.
To hear my first three invitations that changed the world, LISTEN to Part, I - HERE.
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Sep 18, 2023
Ep 203 A Legacy of Less Worry and More Peace with Keri Eichberger
Today's conversation with Keri Eichberger is something we all need to hear: how to live with less worry and more peace. Author of the brand new book: Win Over Worry: Conquer What Shakes You and Soar with the One Who Overcomes, Keri, mother of five (now there are five worries!) speaks of her own process in overcoming worry with the truth of God's Word.
Yes, there's a giveaway! Leave a comment below or on social media to be entered to win her book!
Some gems from Keri:
* We must be aware of the temptation to rely on ourselves and our own abilities, for true peace and freedom can only be found when we fully trust and surrender to God.
* Worry is rooted in fear: fear of helplessness and fear of worthlessness.
* The more people I love, the more reason I'll have to worry—until and unless I give them all to God's care.
* Simple steps to worry less takes a commitment and a decision to follow those steps.
* I worry less when I remember that God sees so much that we don't see.
* Identify your root of worry and cover it with God's truth: He is all loving and all powerful.
Overview:
On this episode of WELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy Life, our host Sue Donaldson is joined by guest Keri Eichberger as they dive deep into the topic of worry and its impact on our lives. The conversation begins with a focus on faith and the desire to make a difference in the lives of loved ones through their love for Jesus. The importance of living boldly and vulnerably in our faith is emphasized, as it brings glory to God and raises "kingdom builders" who can make a positive impact in the world.
The discussion then shifts to the root causes of worry and how unresolved worry can turn into fear. The speaker shares personal experiences, like worrying about their child driving, and explains how these fears can stem from deeper rooted fears of helplessness and worthlessness. They highlight the importance of identifying and addressing these root causes in order to overcome worry, reminding listeners that these fears are lies and that we are never helpless or worthless, drawing strength from the truths of God.
In addition to exploring personal experiences with worry, the episode also discusses how faith impacts daily life and how it is important to show reliance on God rather than trying to handle everything on our own. The speaker shares personal struggles and how they rely on God's grace to navigate their responsibilities. They also touch on the prevalence of worry among people of all ages and provide practical strategies for dealing with worry, such as writing down reminders of God's love and control.
The episode continues with an examination of the origins of worry and the tendency for people, including the speaker herself, to learn unhealthy coping strategies and avoid addressing the true source of their suffering. The importance of unlearning and relearning trust in God rather than relying on oneself or the world is discussed.
The conversation then moves to the challenges of parenting and the need for vulnerability in building intimacy and allowing others to witness the grace of God. The speaker encourages authenticity and transparency, acknowledging that it is God being tested, not the individual. They also tackle the issue of self-reliance and the tendency to worship one's own abilities. The speaker references Psalm 73 and ponders whether worry is more prevalent now compared to 100 years ago.
The episode concludes with reflections on leaving a legacy and the importance of embracing and relating to others. The speaker addresses encounters with non-believers and the need to overcome fear and self-righteousness in order to meet others where they are. Their personal journey of growth, including overcoming worry and finding more peace through a closer relationship with God, is shared. The speaker also discusses their decision to write a book on anxiety to help others and their research process. They suggest resources for fostering faith in young children, such as reading biographies of Christians, and highlight the importance of honoring trust in difficult circumstances rather than offering empty platitudes.
Throughout the episode, Sue Donaldson and Keri Eichberger provide insights and personal anecdotes that listeners can relate to. They explore the complexities of worry, the role of faith in navigating life's challenges, and the importance of leaving a legacy rooted in love and empathy. Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of worry and practical strategies to address it, as well as inspiration to live a legacy life with less worry and more peace. Keri Eichberger www.KeriEichberger.com kerieichberger@gmail.com Hang with me on Instagram!
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Sep 11, 2023
Ep 202 A Legacy of an Accidental Homesteader with Kathi and Roger Lipp
You will love this conversation with Roger and Kathi Lipp about their brand new book, The Accidental Homesteader AND they are giving one away! Be sure to comment on social media, on blog or email me so you can be entered to win because you will want a copy for yourself as well as gifts for friends and family: The Accidental Homesteader: What I’ve Learned About Chickens, Compost, and Creating Home Roger and Kathi Lipp had an idea - a big idea - to move from the Silicon Valley to the north woods of California in mid-life and then they "accidentally" became homesteaders and they (mostly!) love it! Hear how they processed their move, and about some of the very real challenges they faced, and how their strong marriage made this a successful venture. Their enthusiasm for learning new things is an inspiration for all of us to learn new things at any age. Their legacy and desire is to continue to care for others as they grow in their love for each other and their neighbors as well as a deepening faith in their God. So many tips as well as over 20 recipes and inspiration for all of us to grow and change no matter what our age. Highly practical, humorous, and inspirational, The Accidental Homesteader will encourage you to live with more peace, joy, and contentment. Some gems from our conversation:
* When you're following God, it's never boring.
* Our brains have expanded, and so has our faith.
* God is our first thought instead of our last resort when a crisis comes up.
* Living as a homesteader makes me more grateful and we are living the life we want.
* If you're homesteading, you're not taking the easy route—it's rewarding but not convenient.
* When creating your home, loved and lovely is the goal—not perfection.
* If you need or want to learn something, there are a million people who want to teach you.
* Learning on the job is rewarding in a way we never experienced before and it brings joy. About Kathi: Kathi Lipp is the Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of 20 books, including An Abundant Place: Daily Retreats for the Woman Who Can’t Get Away, Overwhelmed, and Clutter Free. Along with being a part of the InCourage at Dayspring writing team, she is the host of Clutter Free Academy the Podcast! with Kathi Lipp, Facebook group Clutter Free Academy, and Clutter Free for Life. Kathi lives on her Red House mini-homestead with her husband Roger, a dog, and eight chickens and holds cozy writer retreats for content creators. Find and follow her at kathilipp.com, @kathilipp and clutter-free academy and @writingattheredhouse
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Sep 4, 2023
Ep 201 A Legacy of Living Seen by God and That’s What Counts with Whitney Akin
Whitney Akin felt overlooked,and that her life didn't matter and she didn't have any purpose in the grand scheme of things. Insecure and shy, she hid in the back of any group gathering so that she wouldn't make a mistake and bring even more perceived criticism onto her heart and life. Finally God reminded her who she was and more importantly who He was: beloved by God, created for his purpose and mission. Her mission now is to let everyone know that they count, that our worth isn't based on our big splash in society or our numbers on social media. Listen today to hear what it means to live seen by God and how you can make that a lifestyle vs only a moment.
Her book, OVERLOOKED: Finding Your Worth When You Feel All Alone is a gem and you may need to get one for yourself and one for a friend who is feeling the same way. Good news: A Giveaway for your first copy! Leave a comment below to be entered to win.
Some gems from today's conversation:
* God gives us all the approval that we need, we just need to remember that.
* God's name, El Roi, means he is the God who sees so he can't help but see us—we are never overlooked.
* We like to measure our worth based on how many more eyes are on us, but its the Father's eyes that matter.
* There's a difference between knowing that God loves me and experiencing it for myself in my grief and doubt.
* Feeling like was unseen translated into severe, self-consuming insecurity so that wanted to hide in any social situation.
* If I hid inside myself there was less of a chance of being hurt.
* I want my children to live seen, but also take it a step further to help others feel seen by God.
* Being seen is a moment, living seen is a lifestyle.
Whitney Akin is a wife and mother of three young ones, author and speaker. You can find her here.
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Aug 28, 2023
Ep 200 A Legacy of 80 Years of a Life Well-Lived—Bless-able with Hyatt Moore, Christian, Artist
Hyatt Moore and his wife Anne came to Jesus late, in their later 20's and they've never stopped serving God all these many years. Hyatt, in his third career—when you're just about to ready to celebrate your 80th birthday, you have time for at least 3 careers—describes himself as a Christian who is an artist.
Father of 5 and grandfather of 17, Hyatt wants his legacy to be something that goes on through his kids long after he dies, and he's very intentional about modeling his faith and pouring into his kids and grandkids. First career: Art Director of Surfer Magazine, Dana Pt, CA; second career: Missionary with Wycliffe Bible Translators for 32 years (Director for 5 of those years); Full-time painter (currently painting for many organizations, including donating many each year, and on commission.) See his commission gallery here.
We talk about art and creativity and the talents that God gives all his children. Hyatt says he's a two-talent guy, and God has definitely doubled those. I'm thinking he has five to ten, but then I'm his sister and his biggest fan.
Some gems:
* Creativity is basically problem-solving.
* God and his mercies are new every morning; I get ideas, solutions, creativity every morning.
* After running from God and then found by Him, I wanted to live my life to serve others the way I had been helped.
* Be humble, but step up to your gifting and you'll get more yet.
* I want to live a "bless-able" life—I can prevent God's blessings by how I live.
* God said, "Be holy for I am holy" which implies it's possible for us but only with his help, Spirit and fullness.
Hyatt's portrait painted by a friend and student, Pil
See his art at hyattmoore.com
View his blog here and join his mailing list here.
Hear his testimony on YouTube here.
Hyatt's signature piece is The Last Supper with Twelve Tribes - hear that story HERE.
One of the paintings Hyatt created for fellow-artist, Joni Eackenson Tada:
He's known for his large canvases as in Heroes of the Faith:
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Aug 21, 2023
Ep 199 A Legacy of Honesty and Compassion Through Journaling with Jennifer Dukes Lee
With her latest book, Stuff I'd Only Tell God, A Guided Journal of Courageous Honesty, Obsessive Truth-Telling and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery, Jennifer Dukes Lee gives us what we may didn't know we needed: a self-guided tour of ourselves--and it's only as accurate as we are honest.
On this episode of WELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy Life, host Sue Donaldson talks to guest Jennifer Dukes Lee about her legacy journey. Jennifer shares her story about creating legacy Bibles for her daughters and the importance of leaving a lasting impact on loved ones. In addition, the episode delves into the power of journaling and how it can help build a deeper relationship with God, the value of asking and answering questions to form meaningful connections with others, exploring both the good and the bad memories in our life, and cultivating self-compassion through journaling. Join us as we explore these meaningful topics that can help us all live a more purposeful and intentional life.
What yo…
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Aug 14, 2023
Ep 198 A Legacy of Stewarding Good Health with Grace and Good Sense with Robin Rhine McDonald
Welcome Robin Rhine McDonald of MadeWell.com today as we discuss what may be your favorite topic (or not!)—our physical health. Robin is a faith-based holistic health coach who loves Jesus and has a passion for helping people live their best life physically, all for heaven's sake. I ask Robin some tough questions today—maybe I was feeling a little defensive as I do love my sugar—but she answered everything beautifully. You will learn and be encouraged, no matter where you are on the health spectrum.
Robin learned her good habits because she needed to, and she learned how food and fitness work together to help us live the way God designed. We talk weight loss, bad and good habits, and why God cares about us stewarding our bodies well.
Some gems from Robin: 1. "I think the turning point for me was watching my grandparents' health deteriorate. They dealt with all the common chronic diseases, and I began to see that if we don't make intentional choices, we are going to end up the s…
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Aug 7, 2023
Ep 197 A Legacy of Rest and Overflow with Sue Donaldson
The most important question about our road trip with God is this:
How in the world can I stay on this trip?
The answer is this: “You can’t. Not by yourself. You need God completely.”
And the only way to remember that is to spend time with Him—whether it’s in the car, in the shower, in your favorite chair, or on a walk. don’t expect to do the Christian life by yourself. It’s sure to fail, period.
You’re heard the expression "We need someone with skin on." Our children, our families, our friends need God, but they need God with “skin on” and each of us needs to be Jesus to someone else; we need to be God’s HUG to one another.
However, before we can do that properly, we must first be experiencing God’s HUG for ourselves. In other words, before we can water others, we must make sure our bucket is full. I need constant refilling. We could do a whole study on what causes holes in our buckets.
Someone said, “Ministry is spillage.”
Helping others is a by-prod…
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Jul 31, 2023
Ep 196 A Legacy of Singing God’s Gospel Kindness with Country Singer/Songwriter Laurel Taylor
Country singer/songwriter, Laurel Taylor knows who she is. It took a comment from Jlo on American Idol to make her realize that she didn't know who she was at one point. She needed to go back home and to her Gospel roots, and recognize that she belonged to God, He had given her these gifts, and she would live her life for his kingdom and glory.
Laurel, 29, knew from age 15 she wanted to sing, and she began writing songs in earnest at 17. But then went off the rails for a time, separating herself from friends, family, and God. At a crossroads (literally), after having lost it all, she chose God—seriously and for herself, this time—not just because she was raised in the faith. And she hasn't looked back.
Some gems from today's conversation:
* When you preach something, it comes across differently than when you sing it.
* People still saw me as the person in my past. And for me to move forward, I had to sing about it.
* I'm always looking for an opportunity to talk about the…
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Jul 24, 2023
Ep 195 A Legacy of Courage and Entrepreneurship with Ruthie Gray, Authentic Marketing Coach
Ruthie Gray from Authentic Online Marketing and the Authentic Online Marketing Podcast shares her story of how God has led her the "second half of life"—something we are either in or heading towards. Ruthie's passion is to help women "grow up", try new things--even when it's terrifying—and help Christian women entrepreneurs succeed for the sake of the Kingdom of God. She's a wife of 35 years, mother of 4, grandmother, caregiver for the last 13 years and loves her Lord and the community she coaches and encourages. She acknowledges we can't grow and move forward without helping each other along the way. Listen and be encouraged - and take some time to dream and explore: What's next for your life?
Some Ruthie gems:
* I love looking at Scripture as a whole and read the Bible through each year, starting the day with coffee and the Word.
* If you don't try new things you won't find out what you're best at, what gives you joy, what serves others and what's your superpower.
* You d…
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Jul 17, 2023
Ep 194 Is Your Cup of Joy Full? Is That Even Possible? Joy, Part I
The writer Maree Dee has two grown children with mental illness. When I interviewed her on my podcast she said, “It’s possible to experience joy and pain at the same time.” (Episode 75) How? Because she trusts God, no matter what.
We never know what’s ahead of us each and every day, do we?
We ask God each morning,
“Lord, please give me wisdom and strength to face my day – and grace for those who need to know your joy and peace.”
There’s a world of hurt out there and we need to be so filled with God’s Spirit that we are able to not only remain full when we come under attack, but we need to be so filled, that when jostled and banged around, that the grace and joy of Jesus spills out.
Our benediction at Grace Church is Romans 15:13 – we say it as a congregation at the closing of the service –“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
We need to be giving this b…
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Jul 10, 2023
Ep 193 A Legacy of Fighting Anxiety and Fear with Christy Boulware
Christy Boulware, author of Nervous Breakthrough: Finding Freedom from Fear and Anxiety in a World that Feeds It, learned from experience that living life on overdrive meant she was headed for distruction. On a family vacation one summer, she experienced her first panic attack and she didn't know what was happening to her. When her dr said, Christy, your body is telling you something's got to change and you need to get to the root of it."
That began a process of recognizing she was living in fear and anxiety and the only way to change was to surrender to God. Surrender and give up her way of doing things, her timing of how things were to get done, and even changing a successful career to help others find freedom from their fears.
Leave a comment on blog or social media to be entered into giveaway of her book: Nervous Breakthrough: Finding Freedom from Fear and Anxiety in a World that Feeds It
Some gems:
* Just because you have fear, it doesn't mean you don't have faith.
* We ca…
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Jul 3, 2023
Ep 192 A Legacy of Radical Radiance in the Every Day with Rebecca George
Rebecca George, podcaster, author and speaker is passionate about helping women find and live out their God-given purpose, all for heaven's sake. She wants to "leave a person better than she found them" which can be shown in the every day actions of love, action and encouragement. Rebecca's brand new book, Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-getter Girl helps the reader examine her joys, gifts, and heart-posture before her Creator-God and moves her into a life of purpose and surrender.
She will be giving a copy away this week so be sure to comment on Blog or on Social Media to be entered.
Rebecca's theme verse is Psalm 34:5--—
Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.
We light up our world from looking to Jesus. Hear Rebecca every Tuesday on her podcast, Radical Radiance and follow her on instagram @rebeccageorgeauthor. She offers a free journal SHINE BRIGHT on her website. Sign up here.
Some gems:
* What gift…
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Jun 26, 2023
Ep 191 A Legacy of Faith Enough to Get Out of the Boat
A good definition of faith is: doing what God says and trusting Him with the results. It sounds good on paper. It can be hard in real life. Sometimes it can be hard to trust God to work through another person- or perhaps in spite of another person.
To step out on faith may feel like we’re stepping off of cliff but once you step out you find it’s only a curb because God is there to break your fall. Pity the person who never takes that step to find that out.
“Step out,” God says, “and you will find I am all you need.”
For some, faith might mean closing your mouth and praying only: Hudson Taylor said, “Learn to move men by God through prayer alone.” That’s a tough one – especially for a woman, especially for an extrovert, especially for a red-headed extrovert. . . Faith may mean closing your mouth, AND,
Faith may mean opening your mouth. Paul asked his friends in Colossians 4:3– “Pray that I talk freely of the mystery of Christ, that God would open the door. .…
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Jun 19, 2023
Ep 190 A Legacy of Taking Leaps with Rachel G. Scott
Rachel G. Scott, wife and mom of a blended family knows what it means to obey by faith, look to God for the next step and take that leap that needs taking. Founder of The 5 Leaps Podcast, Rachel is wise beyond her years and counsels her audience that there is more than one way to take a leap, five in fact. She explains there's a difference between being a "nice" Christian and a "kind" Christian, and her legacy is one we share: to serve God well and point her kids to Jesus.
Today she's offering my listeners her free resource: The Five Leaps Quick Guide - click here.
Tools to help you prepare, plan and execute your next leap. Love it and Rachel!
Some Rachel gems:
* We need to always be leaning into what is that next leap God is leading us to make.
* The trailblazer goes where no one has gone before, teaching and bringing others along the way.
* I realized that there is more than one way to take a leap of obedience.
* I can envision the worst that can happen while considering…
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Jun 12, 2023
Ep 189 A Legacy of an Unbound Life with Stephen David Leonard
Steve Leonard, of StephenDavidLeonard.com, joins me today to talk about Dad Guilt, parenting, gains and losses, identity, and living the abundant life. Steve and his wife, Lisa (of Lisa Leonard Designs) are the parents of two sons: David, 21 and Matthias, 19. Their world was changed dramatically when David was born with a rare genetic disorder, Cornelia DeLang Syndrome. You can read about it here.
I first met the Leonards when they moved to San Luis Obispo when Steve became our Family and College Pastor. When Lisa's jewelry took off, Steve then moved out of formal ministry to help manage their fast-growing business. He discusses the challenges he faced in changing roles and parenting a boy becoming a man and moving off to college as well as one who will never move out and move on. Each son provides much joy in the Leonard's lives and we are blessed to know them in our little community.
GIVEAWAY - Two Roman Cross Coin necklaces for two winners!
To Enter: FOLLOW STEVE AND ME AND TAG A…
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Jun 5, 2023
Ep 188 A Legacy of Untangled Faith with Amy Fritz
Amy Fritz grew up loving Jesus but figured out along the way that something needed changing—not with Jesus and not with loving Jesus. That part remained true and held her and her husband, Nathan, fast through a painful and difficult process that included job loss and uncertainty. Rather, Amy learned she needed to step beyond her natural people-pleasing tendencies in order to remain true to God and pass on the legacy to her kids and others that following Jesus and doing the right thing is always the best choice.
As host and founder of the popular podcast, Untangled Faith, Amy explores the sad truth that sometimes people in the faith community abuse their power and hurt others in the name of Christ. She doesn't throw out "church" - that's not God's plan. But she's taken a hard topic and helped people by sitting alongside of them in their pain and questions, inviting them to be with Jesus rather than simply a fan. And sometimes that's a hard choice, but always a good choice, to make.…
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May 29, 2023
Ep 187 A Legacy of an Open Heart and a New Kidney: Stewarding Well with Dale Masten
Dale Masten loved Christ at an early age, and loves Him still at 60. In between years included times of doubt, questioning, skepticism, and looking for anywhere but up for life's answers. Yet, God kept calling him back and Dale listened. "I derailed but I kept coming back. I couldn't live without God."
He also couldn't live very well without a new kidney which he received earlier this year after a 10-year-wait. He got the call from USC Medical Center on a Sunday afternoon. "We have a kidney. If you want it, you need to be here between 4 and 6 hours." Dale and his wife of 35 years, Jill, got into the car without packing and within 5 hours he was on the table, wondering at all that was about to happen.
Dale knows that there is no meaning without God, faith grows in adversity and community, and that meaningful relationships begin with openness, love and vulnerability. He loves people. Reminded me of Jesus. You will be challenged and encouraged today with Dale's story.
Some gems from to…
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May 22, 2023
Ep 186 A Legacy of Finding Holy in the Suburbs with Ashley Hales
Author, speaker, podcaster, Ashley Hales, talks today on how to find holy and be faithful to God wherever He's placed you. "How easy it is," she explains, "to look for our value or distract us from the hard stuff by leaning on stuff—bigger homes, safer places, or a simple To-Do List crossed off on a daily basis." She writes in Finding Holy in the Suburbs: Living Faithfully in the Land of Too Much—"To fill my infinite things with finite things, the more distance I put between God and myself. And the more I do that, it creates a way of being."
Leave a comment on blog or social media to be entered in a giveaway for Finding Holy in the Suburbs.
Follow Ashley at aahales.com where you can read about her ministry, writing and speaking.
Ashley is a mom of four, wife of a pastor here in San Luis Obispo, and seeks to follow Jesus and love others right where she is.
Some gems:
* We get antsy waiting on God so we ask our stuff to save us.
* God has made us hungry people but we remain…
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May 15, 2023
Ep 185 A Legacy of Deeper Faith with Sue Donaldson
If we want a deeper faith, we can ask God for it. He knows our hearts anyway, so we may as well be honest.
When we ask God for more faith, He will do one of three things:
* He will ask you to do something really big
* He will allow challenging circumstances
* He will give you children (or someone to love)—or all three at the same time. And then your faith will have an opportunity to deepen.
Perhaps you’ve heard this before but it’s a good reminder:
Everything I need to know about life, I learned from Noah's Ark:
One : Don't miss the boat.
Two : Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark.
Three : Stay fit. When you're 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.
My favorite is the last one: “Stay fit. When you’re 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.”
Your life’s not over because you’re 40 or 50 or 60 or 600. Just ask Noah. So we better stay fit. Spiritually and every way.
Of course,…
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May 8, 2023
Ep 184 A Legacy of Gardening and Losing the Shoulds with Carol Feil
Carol Feil wants you to see our faithful God, the Master Gardener, in all details of your life. She wants you to know that being rooted in His unchanging character helps you dig deep into His word, cultivating growth even in seasons of dormancy.
Carol wears yellow boots in the garden and calls them her "listen and learn boots", paying close attention to what God's teaching her about Himself and who He wants her to be. Carol admits she struggles with imposter syndrome but continues to walk forward in her legacy of faith footprints—boot-sized!—and praying that whoever she meets will follow alongside.
Do you want help replacing should with could? Carol has an added resource that will help you with that process. CLICK HERE FOR FREE RESOURCE.
Some gems from Carol:
* Knowing God's will is more about the little things he leads us to be and do.
* "Shoulding" messages in our heads are lies that play on-repeat and need to be countered with truth.
* Roses grow best when pruned. So d…
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May 1, 2023
Ep 183 A Legacy of an Unexpected Gift: Transformation and Hope with Jillian Benfield
Jillian Benfield got the news that her second child, Anderson, was Down Syndrome. This news was not her life-plan. Then just four months after his birth, he underwent open-heart surgery. Then their third child, Preston suffered medical procedures for the first two years of his life. Jillian wrote her book, The Gift of the Unexpected: Discovering Who You Were Meant to Be When Life Goes Off Plan, not as a how-to book on how to get through life's difficulties; rather she wrote her own story--the good, bad and the ugly--to offer hope. Wise beyond her years, Jillian's story has much to teach us about theology, Western thought, ableism and how if we are willing to put in the work, that God will transform us from the inside out, for our good and for His glory.
Get this book, for yourself and for a friend. She's giving one away this week. Leave on comment on blog or on social media or email me at sue@welcomeheart.com.
In her own words:
My life fell apart with a 20-second phone call. We call…
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Apr 24, 2023
Ep 182 A Legacy of Following Jesus at Any Age or Stage with Susan Macias
Susan Macias says as long as we have breath to breathe, Jesus still has a work for me to do. I love that and most likely I have fewer breaths to breathe than most of you. And it's still true. Don't you love it too? We never run out of purpose, and that purpose is to partner alongside of God Himself to do Kingdom work. Thanks for the reminder, Susan!
As a mother of 7 and an empty nester, Susan knew what it meant to have a full parenting life (homeschooler, too) and then "all of a sudden" an empty house, but not an empty life. She started her podcast: "We're Not Done Yet!" She hosted me late last year about hospitality and she said it was a hit. Listen HERE.
One of Susan's passions and books is to help women walk out their identity in Christ. She's hosting a giveaway for: Putting Jesus On: My Identity Journal. Leave a comment in blog or on social media to be entered.
About Susan, in her own words:
I’m a fifty-something mom of seven and grandmother of eight. I love my husband, my fa…
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Apr 17, 2023
Ep 181 A Legacy of Gettting Along with Difficult People (Who, Me?)
We should be experts dealing with difficult people because in one way or another, everyone is difficult.
Today we discuss something we all encounter: The Difficult Person. And sometimes that person is us/moi.
What makes a person difficult? Do degrees of difficulty matter? What are some practical ways to navigate a relationshiop with a diffiuclt person without moving to Australia?
I love people. Especially the loveable ones. I think I love people well until I come across a difficult person. On today's podcast we talk about 8 practices to consider while relating with the less-than-easy person in our lives.
* You’ve heard the expression, “Hurt people hurt people.” I forget that fact when I’m the object of that hurt.
* When difficult people lash out, I want to listen with my heart, not just my ears.
* If we keep an issue to ourselves and take the tact of Suck it up, Buttercup things smooth over temporarily, but could lead to bigger issues.
* When I think how I’ve grie…
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Apr 10, 2023
Ep 180 A Legacy of Truth and Comfort Through the Classics with Rachel Dodge
Rachel Dodge understands the importance of "kindred spirits" as a writer, speaker and friend. She began writing companion devotionals for such classics as Anne of Green Gables, Little Women, The Secret Garden and is an expert on all things Jane Austen. What a fun conversation we had about what it means to be a "kindred spirit" and how she goes about her writing process to bring Gospel truth from popular literary classics for all ages.
Her latest offering is The Secret Garden Devotional: A Chapter by Chapter Companion to a Beloved Classic
Rachel is hosting a giveaway this week and I will add a copy of the book The Secret Garden so you can be blessed as you read or re-read the book alongside of her devotional.
Some gems:
* We are adopted into God's kingdom so what better theme to focus on in Anne with an "e", a redheaded orphan longing to belong to a family.
* Good literature includes pictures on earth to help us relate to biblical truths.
* A "kindred spirit" is someone with s…
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Apr 3, 2023
Ep 179 A Legacy of Finding Hidden Manna with Sarah Geringer
Sarah Geringer walked down the lane close to her Missouri home and began to notice things, simple things that helped her find the presence of God, her Hidden Manna, and with that, a deeper trust in God's provision while praying for herself and others. From her experience came her latest book, Hidden Manna on a Country Road: Seeing God's Provision All Around Us.
Leave a comment on blog or social media to be entered in a giveaway. What a beautiful way to pray through the seasons no matter if you live in the city or country.
I first spoke with Sarah on Ep 64 "Transform Your Mind" where we discussed her great book, Transforming Your Thought Life: Christian Meditation in Focus
Artist, author, speaker and gardener, and mother of three, Sarah Geringer loves her Missouri home, God's Word, and coming alongside others for prayer and counsel.
For fun things like why she loves sunflowers and how James Taylor "changed her life," view her website: sarahgeringer.com
Some gems from today's episod…
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Mar 27, 2023
Ep 178 A Legacy of Finding Significance in the Little Things That Go A Long Way with Rachael Adams
Author, speaker, podcaster, Rachael Adams, saw the offering envelope that read, "Love Offering" and wondered what should or could she give? She heard God say, "You are my love offering." That small exchange sealed the deal. Rachael, like many young mothers, had been struggling with questions such as, "Does what I do matter for the Kingdom?" "I'm working at what I need to do to keep my family healthy and happy, yet, I wonder, is that enough? Do I need to do more to live a life of significance?"
Going to God and the Word, Rachael found the answer to all those questions and more. She recognized her where her significance lay and wrote that message in her book, "A Little Goes a Long Way: 52 Days to a Significant Life." She's hosting a giveaway this week—be sure to comment on blog or social media to be entered.
Some gems from this wise young woman from Kentucky:
* A significant life is more simple than we think.
* We don't give to others and then worry about the outcome.
* Pray t…
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Mar 20, 2023
Ep 177 A Legacy of Lemons, Love and Evangelism with Sue Donaldson
The last words of Christ to his disciples were straightforward and clear: “GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL NATIONS . . .” (Matthew 28:18-20 NIV)
We call it the GREAT COMMISSION and put it in capital letters because we know Jesus’s last words deserve all caps. But whenever we hear a message on the topic or come across those verses in our reading, we cringe a little or wonder how they fit into our everyday.
You might be asking: How does God want his commandment played out in my life? I’m not a missionary in a foreign country. I have three kids under three. I need to work outside the home. I have aging parents. How do I do the Great Commission right now, right here?
I’ve had those same questions. I still struggle wondering what God wants from me on any given day. I don’t think he minds that things aren’t crystal clear. He likes it that I’m focused on how to obey him best. He wants me to live a life on mission and how I do that will most likely look different from how it lo…
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Mar 13, 2023
Ep 176 A Legacy of Gathering Around the Table with Betsy Pendergrass
Writer, speaker, gatherer, Betsy Pendergrass and I could be sisters. My southern sister from Tennesee. You will see why when you hear today's episode on making space at the table—a beautiful legacy of hospitality and mentoring. Betsy and her husband Taylor and their four kids know the significance of inviting one—or six—to join them at the table, living room or backyard.
More than ever today, Betsy says, people need connecting and to embrace God's love through our love, and live out from their identity as a child of God.
Betsy is hosting a giveaway all week long of her beautiful set of cards: DATE NIGHT CARDS. Leave a comment to be entered here on the blog, fb, instagram or send me an email at sue@welcomeheart.com
This set of 10 date night cards was created to help married couples spice their conversations. Each card covers a different subject that couples can ask each other while on a date night, road trip, running errands or just use for a fun date night at home on the cou…
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Mar 6, 2023
Ep 175 A Legacy of Bringing Jesus Inside Prison Walls with Rea Berg, Founder of Beautiful Feet Books
Rea Berg, author and founder of Beautiful Feet Books talks today about another passion of her—besides children's literature—her love of the incarcerated and how she and her husband of 41 years have recently switched their "church home" to the California Men's Colony here in San Luis Obispo.
It all started with books and story—teaching her own children, creating Beautiful Feet Books to bring classics back to life, creating curriculum and then seeing the transformative power of storytelling and the Word changing the lives of those maybe most forgotten in our society.
REA WILL HOST A TWO-BOOK GIVEAWAY THIS WEEK--TWO OF HER FAVORITE CHILDREN'S BOOK FOR TWO DIFFERENT WINNERS. COMMENT TO BE ENTERED! For the book giveaway, she will present the 75th Anniversary Edition of Abraham Lincoln by Ingri and Edgar Parin D'Aulaire, and the beautiful exclusive edition of Anno's China by Mitsumasa Anno.
Rea teaches a weekly course to help men earn a four-year seminary degree through The Urban Mi…
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Feb 27, 2023
Ep 174 A Legacy of Hosting a Dinner Party One Day at a Time
To host a simple dinner gathering sounds daunting unless we tackle it one task at a time. When I think of all the work involved, I can feel like quitting before I even begin. I wonder—and maybe whine a little:
“How can I fit hosting guests into my already too-full schedule?”
“I hate to cook and I don’t want to make enemies (or make people sick!”)
“I have house issues: my table is too small, I don’t have enough chairs, my dining room is also the office, the homeschool room, and the playroom!”
“My kids aren’t very well behaved yet. I will need to wait until they are away at college.”
“Who should I invite? Doesn’t everyone already have their friends?”
“Wouldn’t it be easier to get a sitter and meet a couple at a restaurant – and since I don’t have enough money for both those things, I guess we just won’t go out until we win the lottery or some distant rich uncle leaves us an inheritance!”
These arguments are legitimate, to a point. We are b…
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Feb 20, 2023
Ep 173 A Legacy of a Divine Detour and a Deeper Faith with Lori Ann Wood
I'm so grateful to Lori Ann Wood's testimony of gentle faith and insight into how God deepened her faith through a life-changing experience with heart failure. At 51, Lori was healthy and strong, until she wasn't. After 7 years, drs still don't have answers as to why her heart failed in 2015 and how long until it happens the next time.
Lori turned this trial and testing into lessons of deepened faith—lessons we all can benefit from. We might not all get such an unusual and frightening diagnosis, but we all go up against some type of brick wall where we find out what is it we really believe about God.
Her book, Divine Detour: The Path You Didn't Choose Can Lead to the Faith You've Always Wanted, releases this week, and she will be hosting a giveaway. I think you'll need one as a gift and one to keep.
Some gems:
* Anytime when faced with a temptation, we must ask ourselves the question: "Do we trust God to meet our needs or not?"
* I learned that my faith had been all about me…
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Feb 13, 2023
Ep 172 A Legacy of Love and Wings—Parenting ”Bigs” with Esther Joy Goetz
Esther Joy Goetz loves being a mom and shares wisdom, joy, and humor on her hugely successful Instagram, Moms of Bigs. Today we talk about the most important thing we can give our children at any age, and what we can do to be better mothers. As her daughter tells her: We are all learners and teachers. Hopefully that's true at any age and stage.
Esther's mantra is we need to give our kids the roots of unconditional love and the wings of freedom to be completely themselves. She says it more than once; it warrants repeating. It's how God loves us and we get the privilege of passing on that kind of love to our kids. But since we are "control freaks" - a mother, by definition - we need all of God's mercy and grace to help us love as he loves.
Esther grew up a missionary child in Ethiopia, is the mom of four young adults—she calls them "grownish" (and I get it)— and has been married for 31 years. And she's a fellow redhead. (: Follow her on instagram Moms of Bigs and check out her webs…
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Feb 6, 2023
Ep 171 A Legacy of Truth and Faith with Susan Chamberlain Shipe
Susan is one of my favorites. She's lived life and has seen the mercy and grace of the Lord—a true legacy of faith. Author of over 25 books, Susan Shipe blogs at Hope, Heart, Home and this week she's offering a copy of her latest project: Women: See Us Soar —offering us inspiration and encouragement from stories of women in the Bible as well as women she has known. Leave a comment on instagram, the blog or email me to be entered. (sue @welcomeheart.com)
A self-confessed "bad woman of the Bible" Susan knows that she's loved and forgiven which is the best thing anyone can know. She wants to give others the same hope God has given her through all the up's and down's of living one ordinary life with an extraordinary God.
Some Susan-ism's:
* I never had a moment when I didn't know I was a writer
* I'm an ordinary woman who knows God really has a plan for all of us.
* You wake up every morning talking to the Lord and you never say "Amen"—you just keep talking.
* When everyth…
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Jan 30, 2023
Ep 170 A Legacy of Life Beyond the Rut with Jerry Dugan
"Life's too short to live in a rut," says Jerry Dugan. He continued, "You may need to take a risk to get unstuck." Dugan speaks as one who knows what it's like to have been in one rut (or two)—and at age 30, he knew he had to make some changes. "Otherwise, if nothing changed, what would next year look like? The same. And it was a state of bondage."
Jerry Dugan podcasts at "Beyond the Rut" where he offers hope through encouraging stories and practical tools to pick you up out of your rut and into a life worth living.
Jerry acknowledges that God had His hand on his life many times, keeping him safe in wartime, as well as giving him courage to want to a different life than the people he was surrounded by. All listeners today have an opportunity to change and grow by accessing his free 15 page digital resource, Measure It to Make It
Jerry's business, Beyond the Rut Impact, provides leadership training and consulting and he's available for speaking, workshops and coaching. He's a comm…
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Jan 23, 2023
Ep 169 A Legacy of Our Response to God’s Welcome: 5 Hindrances to Intimacy with our Heavenly Father
God is continually inviting us to Himself and whether or not we realize it, we “make our excuses.” We say, “no thanks” all the time—graciously or not—and each time we do, we go further from God rather than closer.
I refer to these “making excuses” as “hindrances to intimacy”.
God may speak to you about some hindrance that is unique to you. You might want to pray—“ Lord, what is keeping me from being intimate with You?”
We all give “reasons that keep us from being intimate with God—there are many. Here are some:
* pride
* self
* relationships
* fear
* complacency
Jesus said, “Except a grain of wheat fall into the ground and dies, it remains by itself alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” (John 12:24)
That sounds harsh unless you know the Gardener. The One who asks you to die to yourself is not only in control, but loves you intimately and there is no risk in that kind of dying.
How does it work that living for ourselves is a hi…
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Jan 16, 2023
Ep 168 A Legacy of Using Your God-Given Gifts to the Full with Wren Robbins
While stirring spaghetti sauce one evening, Wren Robbins "heard" God say, "Wren, it's time to use your gifts to help other podcasters." She kept stirring the sauce. Spaghetti was served that night and four years later, Wren started her most recent podcast, Don't Wing It. She serves hundreds of Christian women who want to leverage their business and make their message from God heard for His glory and their good.
Hear more of Wren's story in today's broadcast, A Legacy of Using Your God-Given Gifts To The Full.
Wren believes:
* We need to be reminded that all good gifts are from God
* We need to surrender them fully to use them to the full
* We miss out when we don't—and so do those who need to hear our message
* We can ask ourselves 5 questions to determine if we need to begin podcasting or not (Hear that podcast HERE)
A podcast strategist and business coach, Wren loves helping business owners launch their podcasts with strategies for business growth with creative and easy…
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Jan 9, 2023
Ep 167 A Legacy of God’s Welcoming Heart with Sue Donaldson
Today is one of my favorite topics of all time: God's welcoming heart. It's why my website is called WelcomeHeart.com. I know most people use their names as in SueDonaldson.com and I know it's a good thing, but I've never wanted to switch.
Everything began with God's welcome. My job is to respond, or in this case, RSVP. We'll talk about that a little bit but leave most of that for next time.
Before there can be intimacy, there has to be a welcome and introduction into the relationship. We can call it that first encounter.
I talk about 3 encounters that are in direct contrast to the welcome of God. Our Father never gives us the cold shoulder (like my friend’s mom did originally) there is never a chill in the air when we step into His presence, and,
* God doesn’t have to put on a good appearance or fake His love for us
* God doesn’t grumble all the way to the door
* He is not a reluctant Host, irritated by the interruptions of His children
* We don’t catch Him by surp…
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Jan 2, 2023
Ep 166 A Legacy of Fresh Faith with Jon Fugler
When asked what he means by "fresh faith", author, podcaster, and radio ministry missionary, Jon Fugler, tells the story of how as an former athlete, it was too easy to transfer his quest for performance from sports over into being the "right kind of Christian doing all the right things." He felt empty no matter how he tried. Fresh faith was the result of a realization that Jesus Himself needs to be our main focus and how easy it is to "over shoot" Jesus while at the same time, trying to serve Him.
You will be blessed! Jon is giving away one of his books this week: 30 Days to Incredible Prayer.
What a great way to start off the new year.
Leave a comment to be entered.
Jon and Noonie are parents of three adult children and enjoy nine grandchildren. He has been writing for Christian audiences for 40 years, sharing simple truths that have had a profound impact on the lives of believers. He has had an influential career spanning Christian broadcasting, publishing andmissions. God has g…
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Dec 19, 2022
Ep 165 A Legacy of Choosing Victory with Amy Elaine Martinez
"To live like a 'victory girl' is an ongoing process of choosing to obey God at every crossroad," says Amy Elaine Martinez, writer, speaker and former radio host. "I was about to make the worst mistake of my life," she goes on, "when I heard God's voice say, 'This is why I died for you—choose Me.'" And she did and it made all the difference.
I love Amy Elaine's legacy of providing a gathering place at her table where friends and family simply show up as is—no rules, no prerequisites—just loved and welcomed.
Author of Becoming a Victory Girl: Staking Your Claim in the Kingdom, Amy Elaine understands we are in process and that victory comes from getting to the end our ourselves.
GIVEAWAY this week. Amy Elaine is giving away two copies of her book to one person: one to keep and one to share with a friend. Comment here or on social media to be entered.
Today on Living a Legacy Life:
* If I couldn't do everything perfectly, I wouldn't do anything at all!
* I was good at knowi…
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Dec 12, 2022
Ep 164 A Legacy of Needing Jesus at Every Age
At eight, I knew I needed Jesus. The Good News Club lady said I would miss out on heaven if I didn’t get saved. I didn’t want hell, and Jesus offered an escape plan. That’s about all I remember about that day besides the cookies and punch and the stain on the carpet as I peeked while praying the sinner’s prayer. It was our house. I knew where the spots were. I had probably made them. I knew I was a sinner. I needed Jesus at eight.
I needed Jesus at eight, fifteen, twenty-four, thirty-five and at sixty-six (when this was first written) and now, of course, at 70; and all the years and months and moments in between. Neediness begets neediness, and as I surrender each day, I find it’s a glory-thing. God delights in our dependence.
Francis Roberts wrote these words of God’s invitation:
“Lay thyself upon My breast and lose thyself in Me."
Through all these years, I’ve needed Jesus and he’s celebrated my coming. He’s intended from the beginning that I find my rest in h…
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Dec 5, 2022
Ep 163 A Legacy of Christ-Centered Christmas Traditions with Mitzi Neeley
Mitzi Neeley is no stranger to leaving a Christ-centered legacy. She began her blog, Peacefully Imperfect, in 2014 and has gone on to write and create many publications that put Christ at the center of her life. She and her "Sweet Man" as she calls her husband, have been married 41 years and she just recently half-retired from working for the Texas Board of Education. All proceeds from her books and ministry go to help girls further their education beyond high school, a non-profit called Girls Aloud.
Some Mitzi gems:
I'm not a drama-girl. I don't waste anytime on that.
I want people to see that no matter what, I'm relying on God.
Give what you can in a spirit of giving.
We got three gifts at Christmas to represent the three wise men--it was good practice to narrow things down! Today we cover what traditions to do this Christmas that:
* Reflect God's glory
* Help our families focus on Jesus
* Develop community, and
* Display Christ to non-believers
Mitzi is giving away a…
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Nov 28, 2022
Ep 162 A Legacy of Hope in Grief with Lisa Appelo
Lisa awoke to her husband's ragged breathing. She called 911 and after the medics had driven Dan, age 46, to the hospital, she told her kids, "I'm coming back. Just pray." Lisa says, "I couldn't tell them that Daddy was going to be alright because I couldn't promise that. I could promise I would be back." Lisa, a mother of 7, became a young widow that day. From that experience, working through grief these last 10 years, Lisa wrote the book with the great title: Life Can Be Good Again and ministers to those who grieve in speaking, writing and conferences. Maybe you or someone you know needs to hear Lisa's story of hope and faith. Contact her at lisaappelo.com
When asked, "What's the greatest commandment?" Jesus replied simply: "Love God, love your neighbor." I imagine He was thinking,"It's not rocket science" or "What's not to like?" or "It's not complicated." He was right, it's not complicated. I make it complicated. I need to pray daily to uncomplicate what He says is best for me an…
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Nov 21, 2022
Ep 161 A Legacy of Authentic Community for our Good and God’s Glory with Halee Wood
Halee Wood is a coach, Bible Teacher, mentor and founder of RuntheRaceTogether.com. She knows the power, blessing and necessity of a living alongside others in strong, authentic community.
Hear her story of healing today and how God uses her experiences to help others along the way. Having been brought up impoverished and abused, early on she decided on two things:
1. to never get too close to anyone and,
2. to never disappoint
—until she could no longer live under that kind of pressure.
Jesus set her free in her 20's, but not until much later in her story did she understand the value of walking through her pain and loss alongside godly mentors. Now she and her husband provide couple's counseling and as well as life and relationship coaching.
Halee and her beau, Ron, have been married for 19 years, and, in addition to 2 children in heaven, they have 2 boys at home (9 and 15). Daily she strives to spread this truth - each of us are worthy of and designed for intimate relationshi…
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Nov 14, 2022
Ep 160 A Legacy of Making Music with Steve Moore
Music changed Steve Moore's life, and began a long life of living a legacy life for God and by God.
Steve is one of my favorites and will soon become one of yours as well. His legacy is wide-sweeping and God-centered and includes the wonderful gift of music, playing and making music.
Steve says you are never too young or too old to begin playing a muscial intrument. Here's your opportunity to begin or to continue something you may have set aside due to "life" and others' needs. Trivia: the Japanese word kyotsugo = "universal language."
He's offering three different winners a 20-minute zoom music lesson--leave comment to be entered!
Steve's "music room"--
Steve says you are never too young or too old to begin playing a muscial intrument. Here's your opportunity to win. He's offering three different winners a 20-minute zoom music lesson--leave comment to be entered!
Here we are at Disneyland, the happiest place on earth especially with my siblings and the Man-in-Plaid.
Steve's bio…
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Nov 6, 2022
Ep 159 A Legacy of Hosting Family at the Holidays (And Surviving. With Joy.)
I love the holidays and I love family. And mostly, I love them at the same time!
These 5 tips help me not only survive hosting family at the holidays, but actually enjoy it. As believers, we have God as our greatest peace and resource for joy. He's in our details and sometimes we need to do some planning to make things run more smoothly so that we can focus on what matters: Jesus and our people.
* Life is easier if I my “To-Do” list is shortened by half on the same day Uncle Tom, Dick and Harry arrive at the door needing coffee and a muffin.
* You may not need a “hosting planner” but you do need a planning system, if only using paper and a pencil with an eraser.
* A practical way to create gracious boundaries is to limit the number of traditions.
* The most important part of preparations is preparing my heart.
* Asking questions and listening to the answers may not be what you think of when preparing to host family, but it can be our biggest act of love and service.…
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Oct 31, 2022
Ep 158 A Legacy of Living Our Best Life at Any Age with Laura Padgett
Today, the darling and wise, Laura Padgett, an award-winning author, dancer, and fairly new podcaster—she began her podcast, Livin' What You're Givin' on her 70th birthday—speaks of the gifts of age, the necessity of inclusion, and enduring-through-dance her life with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Laura looks out for those who may be new to the church, inviting those to the choir who may not know they were "allowed to sing." Her mission is to show and tell the world that aging isn't a disease; rather, we look for more and maybe different ways to serve our Saviour with the varying gifts each season and stage we meet along the way.
Some Laura gems:
Jesus plus nothing; there is no Jesus, plus.
I start each day with, "Wow! Thank You!"
Start looking at what you have instead of what's been taken.
I'm not going to put other people's stuff on my credit card.
Art lives in the heart, not the hands and feet. (That's why anyone can dance!)
Laura wrote a book about her mentor entitles, Delor…
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Oct 24, 2022
Ep 157 A Legacy of Radical Hospitality: Monday Night Dinners with the Cleaths
We don't all have to remodel our dining rooms just because we host 60 people every Monday night for dinner, but that's exactly what Tim and Allie Cleath set out to do when the guest list got bigger and bigger. Hear their story today of "radical hospitality." Try out Allie's biscuit recipe and invite someone over.
I love Allie Cleath's and her gracious giving heart for others. I reminded her recently of the time she handed me a pot roast in a plastic bag. “See?” she said, “I don’t do fancy. I just cook and give because of all God’s given me.” I was grateful that night so many years ago, and many are grateful every Monday night.
If you’re ever in San Luis Obispo, give me a call and we’ll head on over to the Cleath’s. We may need to wash dishes or fold up some chairs, but we’ll be blessed with radical hospitality for the glory of God
Allie’s Homemade Biscuits
Stir together:
2 cups flour
½ t. salt
¼ t. baking soda
2 ½ t. baking powder
Mix in with a fork:…
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Oct 17, 2022
Ep 156 A Legacy of Living Awake with Anjuli Paschall
Mom of five, writer, speaker, spiritual director, Anjuli Pasquall, knew how it felt to always be running after a more-and a later-on and someday-I'll-catch-up kind of life and she knew it wasn't how God wanted life to be— for her, for anyone. She began a quest to find out what it meant to live fully awake—to God's presence, to love, to connection. And she wrote a gem of a book about it.
Leave a comment here or on social media to be entered to win your own copy of AWAKE: Paying Attention to What Mattters Most in a World That's Pulling You Apart
"From a young age, I trusted God. I knew He loved me in my head, but there was a disconnect because I didn’t believe He loved me in my heart. I knew a lot of the right answers, but deep down I was a disaster." -Anjuli
Learn more about Anjuli HERE, and her soul-care course HERE.
We chat about her fabulous "club" that supports moms who need more than the average support. Check it out:
"I founded “The Moms We Love Club.” It is a socia…
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Oct 9, 2022
Ep 155 A Legacy and Lifetime of Discipleship with Cal Samuels
I taught high school with the wonderful and exuberant pastor, teacher Cal Samuels back in the day, and today he continues to teach, disciple and pour into young people with his whole heart and soul. A fellow Marine who had been saved a whole 5 days took it upon himself to read the verse, John 3:16 to Cal after a night on the town, and at that moment he believed and began a life steeped into and led by the Word of God. His legacy is one we all want to live. Enjoy my friend, Cal, who daily desires to imitate his Master, Jesus Christ in the 3 C's and teach, show and "let them go", growing deeper in faith and strength.
Cal, in his own words: l was born in Fredericksburg, VA, the youngest of four kids. Growing up in a small town was absolutely wonderful. I spent four years in the Marines right after high school and became a Christian in the Marines while stationed in Japan in 1970. After getting out of the Marines in 1971, I stayed in California to work with The Navigators in a lay capacit…
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Oct 2, 2022
Ep 154 A Legacy of Curiosity—A Journey of Faith with Lore Ferguson Wilbert
Writer, thinker, self-named "chronic doubter", Lore Wilbert talks today about how asking questions are not only welcomed by God, but often essential to our journey of faith. Whether you are a staunch believer, never doubting, or more in a messy faith situation right now, you will find comfort, grace—even some answers to your questions—in our podcast conversation today.
Lore Ferguson Wilbert is a writer, thinker, learner, and author of the book, Handle With Care. She writes for She Reads Truth, Christianity Today, and more, as well as her own site, Sayable.net,as well as at LoreWilbert.com. You can find her on Twitter and Instagram @lorewilbert. She lives in New York and has a husband named Nate, a puppy named Harper Nelle, and too many books to read in one lifetime. Her wonderful new book is A CURIOUS FAITH: The Questions God Asks, We Ask, and We Wish Someone Would Ask Us.
I love her latest book, A CURIOUS FAITH: The Questions God Asks, We Ask, and We Wish Someone Would Ask Us. I…
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Sep 25, 2022
Ep 153 A Legacy of Recalling God’s Goodness in Anxiety and Isolation with Becky Keife
Becky Keife, wife and mom of 3 boys, talks today of her parenting struggles that led to writing her first book: No Better Mom for the Job: Parenting with Confidence, as well as her encouragement to people in all seasons of life that we have a God-given purpose: to display God's loving kindness whenever we get the opportunity. She speaks candidly of her own struggle with anxiety and depression, claiming that admitting and naming our struggles is the first step in coping and healing.
We're thrilled to be offering two giveaways this week—so be sure to comment here or on Instagram to be entered.
Becky's latest books: The Simple Difference: How Every Small Kindness Makes a Big Difference and her companion Bible Study: Courageous Kindness: Live the Simple Difference Right Where You Are.
Author, speaker, Becky Keife is the Community Manager for DaySpring’s (in)courage, a widely followed online community where authentic women link arms to build community, celebrate diversity, and live c…
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Sep 18, 2022
Ep 152 A Legacy of Habits of Faith with Jen Pollock Michel
Jen Pollock Michele's legacy is about faith and the object of her faith; to stay close enough to Jesus— connected as a matter of habit—so that she knows His voice and obeys what she hears. Michele writes on faith in all her books and articles and the one we talk about today, A Habit of Faith--40 Days in the Bible to Find and Follow Jesus—is written for skeptics, seekers as well as old-timers like myself. She's offering a copy as a giveaway all week-long, so be sure to leave a comment to be entered by Sunday night. It's a Bible-reading experience for the convinced and the curious, in other words, everybody will benefit.
I LOVED THIS BOOK!
And, see where you can begin this habit journey on her website: A 5-Day Jumpstart to Your Habit Called Faith.
About Jen in her own words:
I’ve loved stories since childhood: the intrigue of my dad’s boyhood adventures with his dog, Chief; the friendship of books when I was—yet again—the new kid in town. I followed stories into univers…
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Sep 11, 2022
Ep 151 A Legacy of Going Into the Hard Places For Wholeness and Healing with Jolene Underwood
Jolene Underwood, MA, is a trauma and abuse informed mental health counselor as well as a spiritual and emotional growth coach. She believes a cultivated life is one that experiences more of God and more of the life we've been given by God.
Jolene helps individuals cultivate the courage, character, and connection they need to live as the person they're designed to be.
She's offering a one-page printable to all our listeners today to help us dig deeper into Scripture in a unique way. To download, click here: "Cultivate Connection with God."
Jolene's personal journey towards emotional health, and training in Christian counseling, inform the practical support she provides for spiritual growth and emotional healing. Her tool, Unleash : Heart and Soul Care Sheets, has helped hundreds experience greater freedom and grow closer to God. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her enjoying the journey by laughing with loved ones or adding to her collection of vintage glassware with a 70s fla…
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Sep 4, 2022
Ep 150 A Legacy of Prayer: 31 Days of Uncomplicated Prayers to Love God and Love Your Neighbor
Today we celebrate Ep 150 by turning our hearts and minds to our great Savior, Lord and King with "31 Days of Uncomplicated Prayers." They are brief—brief holds my attention—I don't think it's my age, but it could be. And anytime I attend to my relationship with God, He pays attention.
God is so very good. He created us to relate with us, and praying is a great way to keep our relationship fresh and strong even when we don't feel fresh or strong.
If you'd like a prayer to drop in your inbox every day for 31 days, sign up here.
My relationship with God isn’t complicated. He makes things simple: “Love Me, Sue. That’s it. And, your neighbor. That’s all.”
He’s clear, even gentle, as He bids me follow and obey. I’m the one who makes it complicated.
Hear "31 Days of Uncomplicated Prayers" on today's podcast episode. These simple prayers will help you love God more and your neighbors well.
Some excerpts:
* Father, I’m always trying to figure out what’s next. Thi…
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Aug 28, 2022
Ep 149 A Legacy of Doing the Work You Love with Brian Dixon
Author, speaker, co-founder of HopeWriters.com, entrepreneur and marketing mentor, Brian Dixon speaks today on how he is living out his legacy, for his three kids and the next generation.
As Brian says, “We are only stewards of our message, not owners.”
I want to be a good steward of all God’s given me. Brian helps me figure out what that looks like. Get a pen. You’ll want to take notes.
As a coach, author and marketing mentor, Brian's biggest message is that God has called us to live boldly, adhere to Scripture, know God and make Him known—and not in a shy way. Check out his book, Start With Your People: The Daily Decision That Changes Everything.
Read more about Brian's journey and how he could serve you and your business well at briandixon.com.
Brian offers a free 15-minute coaching call. Sign up on his website. Get a pen. Take notes.
Some gems:
* What's simple to you is magic to others.
* When people pay, they pay attention.
* I want to be called a son of enc…
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Aug 21, 2022
Ep 148 A Legacy to Change the World By a Simple Invitation, Part 1
When we wake up each morning, do we actually think that what we do can change to world in some way? Most of us are grateful to change the sheets on a regular basis, clean the coffee pot with vinegar a few times a year, and water the plants when they show signs of an early death.
Yet, as followers of Jesus, we are not only called to an eternal purpose, to love God and our neighbor, we also get the privilege of partnering with the Son of God to change lives—one life, perhaps—all for His glory and our good and theirs.
Does that sound too hard? Too overwhelming? Too exhausting? It can to me, until I remember how Jesus spoke to many individuals, not only crowds of 5,000 and more. And He met needs one-on-one, as well as breaking bread and fish for hungry men and women and their kids on a mountain more than once.
I've learned that inviting one person for a cup of coffee can change their world, one which seems frightening, one where they feel isolated when faced with difficulty, divorce…
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Aug 14, 2022
Ep 147 A Legacy of a Responsible Social Media Relationship with Chris Martin
Chris Martin wrote a book on social media, not to scare us—okay, scare us a little—but to make us ask this question: "Do we use social media or are we being used by it?" His book, Terms of Service: The Real Cost of Social Media out in February asks this question and many more that we need to ask and answer.
Chris, husband and father of a two-year-old Magnolia, formally with Lifeway marketing, now works as content editor of Moody Publishing. He wrote Terms of Service to educate us as to how we can continue to use it for good without begin trapped in its manipulative clutches, while enjoying the benefits of something in our culture that is not going away.
His legacy is delightful--listen to the end. You will be encouraged, I guarantee.
* Am I finding my worth in the number of my Facebook likes?
* The more Facebook flourishes as a force in social media, the less that people flourish.
* Will we allow Social Media more power than it deserves—like allowing it to define our wor…
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Aug 7, 2022
Ep 146 A Legacy of Spiritual Growth: 3 Things to Keep Us On the Right Track
With our backs up against the doorframe, our shoulders arched, we stood tall while Dad placed a ruler across the top of our heads, scraped the pencil back and forth, and added the date. “Look at that,” he’d say, “You are officially taller than your sister (or brother or mom.) Clapping each other on the back, we congratulated ourselves for something we had nothing to do with, and asked for another piece of cake.
“Who’s tallest?” had more to do with DNA than if we took our vitamins (or ate more cake.) Growing happened to us, not because of us.
Pencil marks and dates faded with time and new paint. No longer did we measure. No longer did it matter. What does matter is my spiritual growth. It’s a goal worth pursuing.
God invites me to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called” (Ephesians 4:1). He had maturity in mind when He created us. God loves us as we are, but too much to let us stay there.
Can a ‘worthy’ life be measured with…
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Aug 1, 2022
Ep 145 A Legacy of Perfectionism vs God’s Love with Amy Carroll
Amy is a speaker and writer for Proverbs 31 Ministries, the author of Exhale and Breaking Up with Perfect, and co-host of the Grit ‘n’ Grace podcast. She also serves other women who are called to speak through Next Step Coaching Services. She's been married to Barry for over 30 years and they have two grown sons and one daughter-in-love.
She wrote her first book out of a deep conviction that her perfectionism was ruining her relationships and God needed to do a work in her heart and the book did that for her. Perfectionism is a sin and a burden, and Amy is incredibly grateful for God's great love that covers all our sin and gently invites us to grow more like His son, Jesus.
Follow and find Amy's resources at amycarroll.org.
Amy's latest book is about one my favorite Bible characters, Esther: Esther: Seeing Our Invisible God in an Uncertain World What do you do when God seems to have vanished? When you have a decision to make, when your stability is shaken, when your sure-fire p…
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Jul 24, 2022
Ep 144 A Legacy of Loneliness vs Solitude: One is Negative, One is Necessary
Today we talk loneliness vs solitude—a topic as painful as it is shameful. No one wants to admit (out loud) they may have difficulty making friends, keeping friends, feeling loved with a full dance card every Friday and Saturday night, and lunch date on Wednesday.
As one of the most extroverted people I know, I have still found myself lonely at times. I don’t like it. It’s a killing feeling. It’s different than solitude because it’s not by choice. And it sucks the joy out of life.
Look what Paul Tillich wrote:
"Language has created the word 'loneliness' to express the pain of being alone. And it has created the word 'solitude' to express the glory of being alone."
We all need some solitude, some of you more than others. That’s the good, the positive part about being alone.
We need solitude so we can make our lists, to evaluate our accomplishments, to pray for our families, to read a good book, to get re-energized, to be still know that God loves us and to remember that…
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Jul 17, 2022
Ep 143 A Legacy of Choices and Do-Overs with Tonya Kubo
Speaker, author, social media expert, Tonya Kubo, joins me today to talk about how we can choose to heal, get help and do life differently from how we're raised. Although Tonya's story may be different than ours—her mom was a hoarder til the day she died—we all have a past filled with mistakes, ours and others', and we all can choose to accept God's lavish grace to help us move forward, and do things differently for the kingdom and for our families.
Tonya's business is marketing and social media, but it all comes down to connection. She says, "People are just people and human connection never goes out of style." She asks this great question in re: to how toxic social media can be: "How are to going to bring light to social media if you leave? You can't change things if you exit the conversation."
Tonya would love to share her "Family Blueprint" with you HERE. Learn how she and Brian have outlined what they want their family to be and how they use it as a guide to help them flouri…
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Jul 10, 2022
Ep 142 A Legacy of Transformation Using the Enneagram with Lisa Lewis
Lisa Lewis talks today about the need for growth and transformation and how using the Enneagram as a tool to help us change into a better likeness of Jesus. As the founder of Let Go, Lean In Podcast where Lisa focuses on women in leadership, she explains how knowing how God has wired us can help us get "un-stuck", get out from the comparison monster, and lean on Him to help us serve the many needs around us.
We talk about what makes the Enneagram unique as a personality tool, how we can bless others by knowing ourselves better, and why that can be a great part of our legacy.
Lisa was one of my early guests on Living a Legacy and, you can listen to our first conversations here where she describes the legacy she is currently living: Ep 24 "A Legacy of Connection and Ignoring the Naysayers in Your Head"
You may want to take advantage of a free first coaching opportunity, check it out here.
Lisa says:
* I’ve worked as a coach for 8 years.
* Prior to coaching I was an educator fo…
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Jul 3, 2022
Ep 141 A Legacy of Becoming a Woman of Excellence with Cynthia Heald
I first heard Cynthia Heald speak over 30 years ago and she made a difference in my relationship with God then and still and again, every time I go through one of her Bible Studies. She's wise, humble, and biblical and knows what it means to be "in process"—that's why she entitled her first book: "Becoming a Woman of Excellence" and went on to write many more in that series, "Becoming a Woman of Freedom...Prayer...Faith, and Whose God is Enough." We continue to "become" all who God wants us to be while earnestly seeking to stay connected to Him.
Cynthia is still speaking to women today, and she wants to be known as a woman who loves God, loves His Word and keeps her hand in His.
You can find Cynthia at: cynthiaheald.com
Her books are listed here and here.
Cynthia shares what she prayed at age 40, and how God showed her in the night that He was stretching our His hand for her to hold, and that has made all the difference. A life continuing to be well-lived, Cynthia continues to me…
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Jun 26, 2022
Ep 140 A Legacy of Unlocking Your God-given Potential with Ruthie Kim
At 18, Ruthie Kim took a risk: she left her quiet village in the UK for the noisy city of San Francisco because she heard God tell her to go show His love to people on the streets. She admits now she had a ton to learn and one thing she learned from personal experience is this: when we take a risk and step out of our comfort zone, that's when we unlock our God-given potential. She now teaches and coaches others to do the same. She doesn't want to leave anything on the table; to not live out all that God's given her to serve alongside of Him for His kingdom
I love that kind of surrender. I want to do the same: "Lord, show me what I'm missing. All great gifts are from You. I want to open them all, even the risky ones. Amen."
WRITER / SPEAKER/ COACH / FOUNDER BECAUSE JUSTICE MATTERS
Ruthie Kim is an executive coach, an ordained minister, and a member of the teaching team at Reality SF church. She is a prophetically gifted and sought-after speaker and a relentless advocate for women an…
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Jun 19, 2022
Ep 139 A Legacy of God’s Idea of Your Dream Home
Whatever the size and shape of my home, I want it to reflect Christ’s light and offer His peace. That can happen with dishes in the sink and laundry on the sofa.
If Jesus walked in my home today, I may caution, “Lord, mind Your step. I haven’t vacuumed recently.” I hope I could add, “Jesus, come this way—see this treasure? You gave it to me. Peace, love, joy, contentment, all from and for You. All because you built my extraordinary home.”
Do you have a verse for your home? This one is a good one. “By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches” Proverbs 24:3 and 4.
I miss out on God’s rare treasures of joy and delight, peace and daily wonders because of my clutter of:
* self-pity
* over-indulgence
* self-righteousness
* entitlement
* laziness
* too many jobs and ministries,
* and bouts of unhealthy introspection, better known as navel-gazing
I need time al…
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Jun 12, 2022
Ep 138 A Legacy of Deep and Practical Friendship with Annie Perdue-Olson
Teacher, coach, podcaster and founder of Leading Better Together, Annie Perdue-Olson's mission is to help leaders get along. Sound simple? I don't think so. In fact, I think anyone could benefit from coaching from Annie Perdue-Olson—moms and dads, included. A fancy explanation is this: to equip ministry leaders to confidently address teh complex people dynamics that trip them up.
Face it: when we get tripped up, it's usually because of people. Not everyone will admit that they are part of the problem. Annie comes from a place of compassion, intelligence and grace as she moves a tangled web of disagreements and conflict out into a place of freedom where groups and individuals use their God-given strengths to enlarge rather than diminish.
Based on her own experiences, she's felt God's calling to be the best friend she can be—to those closest to her as well as anyone she meets.
She's offering a free 27 minute clarification-call to see if she can be of service to you and your minist…
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Jun 5, 2022
Ep 137 A Legacy of Trust vs Fear with Amy Debrucque
Amy's been scared most her life. Her brother died suddenly, and she and her husband lost their firstborn at four months. She lived in the land of anxious "what-if's" even as a believer and didn't even realize it until one day she discovered she didn't have to live that way, trapped in fear and anxiety. Hear Amy's story and learn what it takes to live boldly, taking God at His word.
Amy and her daughter, Blair, co-authored the book Em.bol.den. 1. To give someone courage or confidence to do something or behave in a certain way And she's giving away a copy this week...
Leave comment on blog or Insta to be entered in giveaway @suemooredonaldson
Amy Debrucque is a wife, mom of four, cancer survivor, and co-author of Embolden. She is the founder of the Life On Purpose Movement and host of the Life On Purpose Podcast where she encourages women to live on purpose instead of fear. Amy loves entertaining with family and friends. A self-proclaimed "beach junkie", health nut, and cho…
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May 29, 2022
Ep 136 A Legacy of 70 Years: What I’ve Learned So Far
I haven't learned all there is to know. But I do know a few things. At least 70. Some are serious, some are funny, some are seriously funny. But what counts is that I've attempted to live a life that counts, and God promises favor, purpose, guidance, and tons of mercy and grace. And, wisdom, when we ask.
The most important thing I've learned goes back to early Sunday School: Jesus loves me, this I know. For the Bible tells me so. Paul thought that pretty important too, as he prayed that he and his friends could understand just how great God's love is. So I pray the same, for me and for those I love. You can never go wrong with the Word or one of Paul's prayers. That's not on my 70 Things list. I may need to begin a list for the next decade.
Pray along with Paul and me—we'll be pals in heaven—you too, I hope:
And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the…
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May 22, 2022
Ep 135 A Legacy of Meaningful Work with Michaela O‘Donnell
Michaela O'Donnell joins me today to talk about our work, our vocation, our calling - does it matter? And, do you feel like it doesn't and what to do about it?
She wrote a book about it and will be giving away two copies. Comment below to be entered in the giveaway.
Michaela tells her story of wanting to live seamlessly—integrating work, home and faith—and provides a guide of how to do so in her book, Make Work Matter: Your Guide to Meaningful Work in a Changing World. The Max Dupree Center for Leadership will be giving away two copies so be sure to comment here or on Instagram to be entered.
Michaela O'Donnell, PhD, is executive director of Fuller Seminary’s De Pree Center for Leadership. She is an entrepreneur, a teacher, and a sought-after speaker and consultant who regularly presents on the topics of vocation, career, and leadership to religious, secular, academic, and lay audiences.
Website: https://depree.org/
Twitter: @depreecenter
Instagram: @depreecenter
Facebook:…
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May 15, 2022
Ep 134 A Legacy to Seek, Go, and Create with Tim Winders
Today Tim Winders, soft-spoken with a hint of his Georgia roots, shares his story of how God changed his heart, his vocation and his housing once he sat still long enough to listen to his Creator. He and his wife currently live in a 39 foot motor home on the edge of a river in Southern Utah. He runs a worldwide business coaching business and this week his book releases to the public: "COACH: A Story of Success Redefined" — a business novel with principles for life.
Tim is giving away a free chapter this week to our listeners. But if you order his book by Monday, May 16th, you can receive the Audible version FREE: click here to pre-order and receive the Audible version FREE.
Tim Winders is a strategic coach, author, and host of SeekGoCreate, a podcast and YouTube interview show. He has worked in the areas of leadership, business, and ministry for almost 40 years. Tim was the guy that looked like he had it all: the big house in a Country Club resort, two businesses valued at over a m…
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May 8, 2022
Ep 133 A Legacy of Leaning Into God in the Midst of Pediatric Cancer with Lindsey Noland
Lindsey's world was turned upside-down when her dermatologist discovered her 7-year-old daughter, Claire, had cancer. After months of treatment, they rejoiced to learned she was cancer free and that life could resume normalcy. But then it didn't.
Hear a mother's heart today as Lindsey describes their family's story of pediatric cancer—what God continues to teach her about Himself and how she is leaning into Him in the midst of an unfinished journey.
Lindsey Noland is an experienced speaker, mother to a pediatric cancer patient, ambassador for Stanford’s Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, and runs a private wedding venue in San Luis Obispo, CA. With a background in Communication Studies (BA Westmont College), and an honorary degree in cancer fighting (school of life), Lindsey knows the power of owning and telling our stories.
Lindsey is passionate about sharing her experience of leaning into her struggle, not her strength. Her stories will make you laugh and cry and remind you…
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May 1, 2022
Ep 132 A Legacy of One Good Word with The Ruth Experience
I interviewed the three great women that make up The Ruth Experience back in 2019, Ep 40 - "A Legacy of Kindness" and now today we have two back again, Kendra Emery and Julie Fisk, who, with Kristin have co-authored another powerhouse of a book (WHICH THEY ARE GIVING AWAY THIS WEEK!) entitled: One Good Word a Day: 365 Invitations to Encourage, Deepen and Refine Your Faith.
Wow! Such a great idea to focus on just one word for your day.
Today we discuss how their idea for leaving a legacy for their families turned into a kindness movement for this generation and the next, and how one word, whether a hard one like "lament" or one more welcoming like "inclusive"— can guide our hearts and deepen our faith, one day at a time.
Check out The Ruth Experience on their website and follow on Instagram. Leave a comment on my insta this week or on my blog to be entered to win your own copy of their latest offering.
This is a great gift idea for Mother's Day for the woman who may have enough ca…
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Apr 24, 2022
Ep 131 A Legacy of Truth Instead of the Lies We Tell Ourselves with Susan Vandenheuvel
Susan Vandenheuvel joins us today on Living a Legacy Life where she talks about living free from lies and in the freedom of our identity in Christ. God does a workin us and then a work through us. Love it!
Susan was a great "stuffer" —she discovered she had "stuffed" down her wounds and hurts and lying messages told to her for many years until she couldn't ignore them any longer. God met her during a healing retreat and provided someone to walk alongside of her as she explored why she felt about herself the way she did, and then allowed the truth of God's word to transform and heal her.
She now uses her freedom and healing as a platform to teach women that we don't need to hide or stuff, but, instead, live from our true identity in Christ. You will be encouraged as you listen.
Leave a comment on instagram or blog to be entered to recieve her 31 day devotional that speaks to living in the truth of God's Word:
The Confident Woman Within: 30 Day Devotional
Comment on blog, share on…
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Apr 17, 2022
Ep 130 A Legacy of A Place of Abundance with Cheri Gregory and Kathi Lipp
What a great duo we have today on Living a Legacy Life—so much wisdom, practical truth and joy. Cheri Gregory and Kathi Lipp come together to talk about their latest writing collaboration, An Abundant Place: Daily Retreats for the Woman Who Can't Get Away. A great Mother's Day gift for the women in your life, and you will also want this book for your quiet time basket.
Cheri and Kathi created a devotional that invites us to create a space to reconnect with our Saviour, feeding our soul and mind with truth, love in “small bites”, helping us glance at God's creation, while redirecting us to take the next step when we need redirecting (which I do need on a daily basis!)
Leave a comment on my blog show notes or on instagram to be entered to win a free copy of An Abundant Place.
Through Scripture and storytelling, Cheri Gregory delights in helping women draw closer to Jesus, the strength of every tender heart. She is the founder of Sensitive and Strong: the place for the HSP Christ…
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Apr 11, 2022
Ep 129 A Legacy of Seeing God in Our Dailies with Diana Stuhr
I first met Diana Stuhr on a missionary trip with Practical Missionary Training. It was love and laughing at first sight. Diana has served with World Vision, Central American Mission and has worked with Wycliffe Bible Translators for the last 34 years. Currently, semi-retired in Waxhaw, NC, Diana oversees the events for seniors and she was born for it! Always with a good word of encouragment and a ready laugh, Diana's legacy is evident to all: to be a woman known for loving Jesus, talking about Him as a matter of course in the "dailies of life."
What a great reminder to pray to God to open our eyes to how He works in and around us. And to be ready to talk about it out loud to anyone who may be listening.
You will love Diana! I sure do. Sign up for her weekly email here: Monday Memories: diana_stuhr@wycliffe.org
Diana writes a weekly email with many of her "parables" as well as some of her photography. Here's a sampling: Occasionally, I encounter someone spectacularly rude, astonishi…
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Apr 4, 2022
Ep 128 A Legacy of Right Thinking with Sheree Shannon
Sheree Shannon knows that what we think makes all the difference in how we live. "You can't change your life," she says, "without changing how you think about it." Good stuff. And practical. The more we know and believe what God says about Himself and ourselves, the more we can be Who God designed us to be and live with peace, strength and a security that all will be well in the end.
As believers, we want to look different from those who don't understand how much God loves them, but often we can "fit in" all too well to the rest of the world. Sheree noticed this and came to understand that this starts in the mind. When our minds are whole and in tune with God, we can fight the doubts and insecuirties that are common to all of us.
She wrote a book about it called: The Journey to Wholeness of Mind which sounds like a great place to start. She's offering a free copy this week—please comment here, on the blog or on instagram to be entered. I hope you win!
Sheree Shannon-Author, teache…
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Mar 27, 2022
Ep 127 A Legacy of Living Your Purpose with Tiffany Jo Baker
Today meet, Tiffany Jo Baker, a 3-time surrogate mother, life and project coach, and all-around encourager. I knew I loved her when I saw she signed off all her emails with "cheering you on!" No matter what season we are in or how far we have come or how far we've drifted, we all need someone in our corner "cheering us on."
Hear Tiffany's story of surrogacy and how God used that to "birth" her ministry of holding others' dreams and helping them flourish. She reminds us that God made us differently to uphold His unique purposes.
You may be an arm, she's obviously a womb—and I may be a mouth. But what it is doesn't matter. What does matter is that we listen to God's voice, act in obedience and, take the next step in living out our God-designed life.
Check out Tiffany's book: Soul-Care for Go-Getters, Refresh and Refocus in Five Minutes a Day, a 31-Day Devotional. I have many go-getter friends who may be getting this for Christmas or birthday - don't tell!
Tiffany will give one away…
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Mar 20, 2022
Ep 126 A Legacy of Making Your Life Count for Eternity
Happy Spring! A new year is here—well it still feels like the year has just begun, even though it's March—and time doesn’t stop when I feel stuck, inadequate or needing longer showers (my shower is my “prayer closet” so we need more rain.)
I want to take stock, re-evaluate my days and months to make sure I’m investing in what counts.
How do we know what lasts? We read in I Peter, “ . . . since you have been born again . . . through the living and abiding word of God . . . the word of the Lord remains forever.’ (I Peter 1:23-25 ESV)
No matter how small or insignificant our daily actions seem, living a life that counts means investing in people and the abiding word of God, and then leaving the results of those actions with Him.
The Bible is clear that this life is brief, a “mist” we read in James 4:14 — a “blade of grass” says the Psalmist in Psalm 103. I forget that truth when caught up in my busy day, and stressed by all I’m not doing nor can’t do. God…
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Mar 13, 2022
Ep 125 A Legacy of Loving Kids in the Projects with Nancy Thomason
Nancy Thomason loves kids. And she will go wherever they are to tell them the Good News of Jesus. Nancy worked with Child Evangelism Fellowship for 47 years and she loves talking about what God did through those years because the "searchlight is on God." At 84, Nancy's smile hasn't dimmed nor has her open heart and home for everyone who needs to know that God loved them enough to die for them.
Nancy with the Director of Child Evangelism Fellowship at their conference.
If you want to serve God and you love kids, hosting a Good News Club may be the very best way to get started. Contact Child Evangelism Fellowship in your area to find out more.
I loved hearing Nancy's stories of faith and trust in God as He led her to begin Good News Clubs in her neighborhood, then to Whittier, the San Fernando Valley and South Central LA. She made sure she was ready with a flannel graph story in the trunk of her car and a welcoming smile on her face.
Some Nancy-ism's:
"If we are unplugged from God,…
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Mar 6, 2022
Ep 124 A Legacy of Your Spiritual Game Plan with Cheri Fletcher
Cheri Fletcher is my younger twin—an enneagram 7 with a great smile and desire to help women and young people find their purpose, no matter what they may be facing. While watching her husband coach basketball, she recognized that we all need a "game plan" if we are going to endure the normal trials and troubles of this world. Once we know the plan and our purpose, we can thwart Satan at his own game to sideline us from what God intends for our lives. Our purpose? To show who God is to everyone we meet. Our legacy? To build into our kids a clear understanding of spiritual warfare. God has a plan and Satan has a plot to wreck that plan.
Cheri says:
I want our kids to have a very clear understanding of the war that is going on for their attention, mental health, salvation, marriage, their life! To fully grasp that God has had a plan for them all along and the enemy has had a plot against it.
When things are hard—to be able to step back, to fully KNOW that God is already victorious…
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Feb 27, 2022
Ep 123 A Legacy of Rest: Connecting With God in 2022
I love a good invitation and this morning’s invitation is from God Himself: “Come to Me and find rest” Matthew 11:28
To find rest, we could just all go home and get in the tub and lock the door, which is always a good idea, but for now let’s see what God wants to remind us of today
Why do we need to come when Jesus invites?
Women are tired, period. We do too much, often, for too many people, with too little money, cooperation or sleep.
I’m in the process of learning the 3 d’s to help me get a handle on this overload. I need to figure out one of 3 things:
Do I delegate this job? Do I do things that energize me? Or, do I dump something? (I learned that from life coach, Kathy Vick from runlikeagirl.org)
The main part of rest is connecting with God. How's that going for you in 2022?
Through many years, starts and stops, I've found a rhythm of sitting at Jesus' feet and it's made all the difference in growing in my relationship with God.
This is what I do now and I find…
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Feb 20, 2022
Ep 122 A Legacy of Storytelling with Laura Thomas
You will love hearing Laura Thomas's story today, not only because she's from the UK and sounds like she lives at Downton Abby, but because her love for God and others shines through everything she says. Laura is an author, speaker, and mentor and blogs at laurathomasauthor.com.
She dreamed of becoming a writer as a child and kept it a secret dream for 20 years, and now is a published writer of mostly Christian fiction.
Laura will be giving away a signed, personalized copy of The Glass Bottom Boat - first in her Flight to Freedom Series. Leave comment to be entered!
Her legacy is storytelling not just because she writes stories but because she has seen the value of how our stories can touch and encourage others. We don't have to have a grand story of success or a painful story of crisis to have our story be used of God. He's created us uniquely and all stories are of value.
A published Christian author, Laura writes heartwarming encouragement for your soul. She has three Christian…
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Feb 13, 2022
Ep 121 A Legacy of Staying Married with Conell and Rhonda Hollins
Conell and Rhonda Hollins say that a good marriage is worth the work including all the "heated fellowship" involved along the way. They claim that we can be trained to staying married in a loving, passionate and joyful relationship—the kind of marriage God means for us to enjoy and to model to our children and to a needy world.
Parents of three boys, elders in a large church, and podcast founders of the MetoWeTalk Podcast, this dynamic duo (you will love their passion and laughter) isn't afraid to discuss any aspect of marriage, and their desire is to keep a couple from marriage if they aren't "marriage material" as yet, and to protect and grow the marriage of everyone they meet.
In their book, Marriage Material: Pre & Post-Marital Training Guide they write: "If we break you up before you ever get married to save you from divorce, we did our job!"
Leave a comment here or on instagram to be entered to win a copy. Be sure to order the companion workbook as well.
Start praying now a…
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Feb 6, 2022
Ep 120 A Legacy of Belovedness with Markus Watson
Markus Watson—pastor, podcaster, author, teacher—knows what really matters. His passion is to help show individuals and churches who they really are and how their gifts can align with the mission of God's heart. A self-described "reluctant" pastor, Markus heard God's call in the prayer of St. Augustine, "Late have I loved You." He learned some very hard things in a very difficult situation but knows more than ever that his worth is not in what he does nor how he succeeds, but in how he is loved by God. A legacy worth living and replicating in everyone he knows and meets.
In his own words:
I’m a Presbyterian pastor, living in San Diego with my beautiful wife, Robin, and my three kids, Micah, Macy, and Drew. I currently serve as an interim pastor at a small but mighty congregation in the rural town of Westmorland, about two hours east of San Diego. I also host the Spiritual Life and Leadership podcast and am the author of Beyond Thingification: Helping Your Church Engage in God…
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Jan 30, 2022
Ep 119 A Legacy of Restoration with Sarah de Orlando
I met Sarah at a coffee shop during her book signing. She signed my book. We got acquainted. I asked, "What's your mission in life?" (She's young. She can handle big questions. I'm old. I ask them.)
"My mission is to share with others the foundational, healing, and transformational love of God." That was a mouthful, and you will love hearing some of Sarah's story that sadly includes childhood sexual abuse, depression, and suicide ideations. She came to finally accept that in spite of things she experienced as well as the lies she continued to tell herself, that God did indeed love her. And she wants you to know the same truth.
I ask in this interview, "How did you know God loved you even though you had been a victim of another's sin?" She replied, "Well, one thing was that it could have been worse. I thought of suidcide but I never made a plan." God kept her from continuing down that path and there's nothing more than either of us would have you know today that He wants you to live.…
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Jan 23, 2022
Ep 118 A Legacy of Love and Obedience with Misty Phillip
I met Misty Phillip in 2016 at the SheSpeaks Conference. Since that time, she's authored the top-selling Bible Study entitled: The Struggle is Real: But So Is God, started the podcast, By His Grace-Empowering You to Live By His Grace, and is the founder of SPARK Christian Podcast Community and Conference.
Also, a mom and wife, Misty would tell you that she has only done what she's done by the grace and favor of God while spening time in prayer and listening to His directions. I loved her question: "Where does my gifting and my calling line up with this season in my life?"
When we take time to hear God's direction and figure out our gifting and calling, we will know His strength, leading and blessing in living a life of love and obedience.
From Misty:
Jesus is everything Y’all! And it is only by his grace that we are here to draw another breath each day. Everything is for Him, and by Him and through Him. He has radically changed my life, and I will never get over that.
God called…
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Jan 16, 2022
Ep 117 A Legacy of a Welcome Mat Life with Laura Crosby
Meet Laura whose heart is as big as her welcome—we are kindreds that way, and I'm delighted to introduce her to you!
Laura Crosby lives her welcoming legacy each day as she prays, "Lord, may there be Your welcome mat out in front of my life today so that I can love and welcome others to You." She's been mentored well and now mentors countless of men and women on knowing God and representing His welcome heart well. She loves hospitality like I do and you'll love her stories of what she's learned and what she prays for her children on a daily basis.
Laura Crosby is working on her first book which addresses the much needed topic of “choosing welcome”.
Whether introvert or extrovert, single or married, if there’s one thing Covid taught us, it is that we crave connection beyond pixels on a Zoom, or text messages.
This is a book of stories about connection to God and others that happens when we choose welcome.
It encourages the reader to put out a metaphorical welcome mat at the…
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Jan 9, 2022
Ep 116 Sue’s Thoughts on Connection: Breaking the Chain of Loneliness
We just got through the holidays and they say that the holidays can be one of loneliest times of the year. We want to feel like we are part of a big, happy family that loves and accepts us just the way we are, but instead, we may feel lonely, no matter how many people are around us. Mother Theresa said that the most terrible poverty in the world is loneliness, and she faced poverty every day. Are you lonely? It can be hard to admit. Everyone is lonely some of the time. What can we do about it? Let me know in comments if you have some good ideas that help you when feeling lonely or that can be helpful to the world full of lonely people. I remember when we first invited my friend, Suzanne for dinner. A single mom whose best friends had just moved away. She and her daughter Heather became part of our family from that time on. Do you know a single person who could use an invitation? We are invited to God so that we can pass along His invitation.
___________
One simple way to break the ch…
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Jan 2, 2022
Ep 115 A Legacy of a Healed Life with Mary DeMuth
Happy New Year! I'm pleased to introduce you to Mary DeMuth and all she has to offer to get our new year started off right.
When you ask Mary DeMuth what is the most important thing to know about you, she readily answers: "I love Jesus—He healed me. I couldn't be who I am today without His love." Mary goes on to tell her story of trauma, abuse, and neglect in a way that glorifies the Great Healer and encourages everyone she meets to trust God for complete restoration, love and acceptance.
No matter our background, Mary tells us that our healing can't begin until we begin to tell our story to someone who can be trusted. Both she and her husband are "pioneer parents" in that they wanted to parent differently than how they were raised. You can read about that journey in her book, "Building the Christian Family You Never Had, a Practical Guide to Pioneer Parenting."
Author of 44 books, literary agent, podcaster, speaker, and encourager, Mary DeMuth sends out a prayer for you in your e…
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Dec 19, 2021
Ep 114 A Legacy of Trusting God with Megan Fate Marshman
I first heard about Megan Fate Marshman when our girls came home from Hume Lake Christian Camp and said, "We loved Spirit Girl!" (And Bethany wanted to BE the Spirit Girl--the one who led all the games and was so funny and fun!) Megan still works for Hume Lake as Director of Women's Ministries and is still funny and so fun, but also a great speaker and author. She pastors at Willow Creek Church and ministers at her home church, Arbor Road in S. California. At the time of this recording, Megan had been married 10 years but her dear husband passed away suddenly a few mid 2021 and we pray for her heart to heal and her life to continue to bless hundreds and thousands of her listeners.Please join me in praying for Meg as she mothers her two darling boys.
Today's episode is about her latest book, Meant For Good—The Adventure of Trusting God and His Plans for You. A must-read. Put it in your own stocking!
Some of the many great quotes from Meant for Good:
We want answers, God wants trust…
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Dec 12, 2021
Ep 113 A Legacy of Good News: Invited to God‘s Table
God is in the hospitality business. He continually invites people to His table. He knows He is the only One Who is “perfectly suited to satisfy and sustain us.” So He reaches out to us.
You may have received an invitation before, but never thought it was for you, or, you were too distracted by life to think any more about it. Listening today to this podcast is yet another invitation from the Ultimate Host.
The invitation reads:
Jesus said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one can come to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6)
So, come.
John wrote in John 1:4:”In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.” If you want life, come.
I’m only half-alive if I haven’t entered into life with God. How do I do that?
Admit that I need God.
God already knows we need Him, but there’s a big problem. He’s holy; I’m not. Due to our sin, we are on a fast track to permanent separation from God, hell for all eternity. Jesus talked a lot about hel…
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Dec 5, 2021
Ep 112 A Legacy of Serving Wherever God Puts You with Billie Jauss
Billie Jauss can't remember how many places she's lived or how many times her family has moved—she's married to pro baseball coach, Dave Jauss, and that's how that profession rolls. Billie's learned through 30 years of marriage that she can serve God wherever she lands, and she and her husband have made an effort to do just that. Billie has had great opportunities to teach her three sons that loving everyone equally is the way that God loves, no matter if they are a famous pitcher or the one who sweeps up after the game is over.
Join me today to hear author, speaker, podcaster, Billie Jauss.
Follow Billie at Start Small Believe Big, billiejauss.com
We will be giving away Making Room: Doing Less So God Can Do More. Leave a comment to be entered!
She wrote this book for you if you feel like you’re spiritually crashing. God hasn’t given up on working in and through you.
Every believer experiences dry seasons—times when you’re doing all the right things but feel painfully di…
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Nov 28, 2021
Ep 111 Making Room for God at the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
"No room in the inn!" Sounds like Christmas is around the corner and it is! Do I have room to celebrate the Christ Child or is my planner too full? My life can get cluttered—not just with ordinary stuff—but with good, valuable, worthwhile stuff. And, worship, adoration, joy and peace get thrown out the window in the interest of "getting all the things done."
My mind can get like my pantry. Last year my daughter blessed me with a gift I requested: an organized pantry. This year I'll let her attack my closet, bless her.
God will guide us through the holidays and any season of the year when we take time to make room for Him in our lives. The amazing thing is that we don't! As Mary Grace made the point while organizing for me, "Mom, you can leave space on the shelf--it's soothing to the eye and you can find things easier." I am more at peace and can find His leading better when I make room for Him.
Listen today and see how God may be leading you to change how you organize your life,…
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Nov 21, 2021
Ep 110 A Legacy of Certainty and Identity with Janell Wood
Janell Woods, mother of 4 of her own and 4 abroad, and host of "Finding Something REAL" Podcast shares today her struggle to embrace her identity in God and how that made all the difference in facing disappointment, insecurity, and loss. Because she knows firsthand how God is the only one who can meet our deepest needs, she goes after the "girl in the back pew who is unsure about her faith."
If you are wondering if you are enough, or you want to make sure that your kids grow up with confidence in how God's made them, you will love today's podcast.
Janell's daily questions to her kids when she lets them off for school are:
1. Who are you?
2. Who loves you?
3. Is anything today going to change any of that?
So, go and be a light for Jesus.
From Janell:
What I hope you’ll find whether listening to the podcast, reading my writing, or hearing me speak, are humble stories about finding something REAL. My prayer is that everything I share is an invitation saturated with grace, someti…
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Nov 14, 2021
Ep 109 Home is Where Our Legacy Begins with Meg Glesener
Meg Glesener, a wife of 31 years, and a mother of 8, loves pouring into her family, friends, and church in a very intentional way. She began her podcast, Letters From Home--Everyday Extraordinary Faith Stories - so that we can celebrate the faithfulness of God in His followers, based in the passage in II Corinthians 3:3, "You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone."
Hear Meg's legacy and be encouraged! To live a life that is available to others, offering a home and life that provides healing and refreshment, providing a "visual" of God's ongoing work in our lives.
FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free! Email: lfhpodcast@gmail.com Website: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/letters from home podcast/ Instagram: instagram.com/letters from home podcast Letters From Hom…
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Nov 7, 2021
Ep 108 The Powerful Purpose of an Introvert: A Legacy of Embracing Who God Made You to Be with Holley Gerth
You may know Holley Gerth as the author of inspiring devotional books and co-host of the popular podcast, Not Just Small Talk, but today we are talking about a book I'm very excited about because I love some wonderful introverts! Holley's book, The Powerful Purpose of Introverts-Why the World Needs You to be You can change your life, introvert or not. I told her I was a raging Extrovert and she smiled benignly and continued to encourged me to be exactly who God made me to be.
So refreshing! Trying to be someone you're not can be so lonely and exhausting. Six years ago, Holley faced burnout and began researching what it meant to be an introvert and how God made us a certain way for His pleasure and purpose. She writes this as a gift to help introverts thrive in a culture that celebrates the extrovert until they take the time to appreciate all that an introvert brings to the table. You will love this interview. Thanks, Holley!
Leave a message in comments to be entered to win your own c…
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Oct 31, 2021
Ep 107 A Legacy of Practicing Hospitality: Let God Lead the Way (and It Will All Turn Out Okay)
I like it that we talk about hospitality in terms of practice. It means we get better with practice—but of course, getting better or becoming a great hostess is not the goal. Feeling secure and confident and at-east is so that we can better focus on the guest. That's what it's all about
We've been fooled into thinking that hospitality has to do with us, the host, rather than the one who needs a place at our table. We may think we are in charge, but God will give us all we need when the time comes to answer the doorbell.
As CS Lewis wrote:
“At this feast it is he Who has spread the board and it is He Who has chosen the guests. It is He, we may dare to hope, who sometimes does, and always should, preside. Let us not reckon without our Host.”
Recognizing that I’m not in control of most things reminds me to depend on God for my strength. As my friend, Bonnie told me, “It’s God Who does the real work, anyway – the work that lasts for eternity.” Recently, I got to practic…
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Oct 24, 2021
Ep 106 A Legacy of Sustaining a Beautiful Marriage with Dorothy Littell Greco
I asked author, speaker, photojournalist, Dorothy Littell Greco, why she began writing and speaking about marriage and I got the right answer: her own marriage had been challenging and hard! Dorothy was quick to say that she and her husband of 30 years, Christopher, recognized they were seriously stuck and if their marriage was going to succeed, they needed to step back, examine what was really going on, and get some help. As a result, they learned how to pour into their own marriage to make it flourish after struggling for their first 10 years. Most people don't wait 10 years, they just jump ship and look for the next cruise to pick them up and meet all their expectations.
Listen today and be encouraged to not give up on your marriage, as well as live a life paying attention to and serving the world around you. You may not need this message but you know someone who does. Sharing it with them could help them begin to "get un-stuck"—Dorothy says it's possible and that may be all the…
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Oct 17, 2021
Ep 105 A Legacy of a Wildly Productive Life with Jordan Raynor
You will love this conversation with Jordan Raynor about how to be the boss of your time, living out God's agenda, and being wildly productive without feeling frantic or stressed—instead, just the opposite. I don't like time management books—they make me feel guilty (or frantic or stressed) but Jordan's latest book, Redeeming Your Time: 7 Biblical Principles for Being Purposeful, Present, and Wildly Productive will inspire you to live how God intended. It releases this Tuesday, October 19 and if you pre-order before, you will be entered to win a free trip to the Holy Land.
Buy this book--for yourself and for a friend and maybe your son-in-law and pastor.
Jordan is giving a copy away this week - so leave a comment here or on instagram to be entered.
So many great gems in today's podcast:
"To do our most exceptional work we need to learn to be fully present with one person and one task at a time."
"God gets to define our mission in life becuase He created us, and that mission is…
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Oct 10, 2021
Ep 104 A Legacy of Kingdom Building with Courtney Lowman
Today's conversation is with Courtney Lowman from the Journey of Ruth Podcast. I ask Courtney how she came up with that title, what her main legacy is, and how she fought to keep that legacy in focus. Just because we may hear from God and know that He's telling us some robust instruction, it doesn't mean it's always easy to change direction and follow His voice.
To give you a hint. She heard Him ask: "Whose kingdom are you going to build—yours or Mine?" Listen to hear how she answered and how we, too, can make a choice that builds into eternity. She shares a printable that has helped her and many others. A word from Courtney:
The Journey of Ruth Podcast has a goal of encouraging women in faith and discipleship. I believe all women need to be inspired in their walk with God and have the ability to encourage others around them. Each week I get to have a fun conversation with a wise woman of the faith about their challenges and victories in life.
If you need guidance in how to find a…
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Oct 3, 2021
Ep 103 A Legacy of a Wounded Healer with Bonnie Gray
Author, speaker, soul-care coach, Bonnie Gray shares her legacy of being honest enough to tell your story, no matter the pain and hardship in that story. When she started experiencing panic attacks as an adult she didn't know what was going on. Life was good. Life was moving forward. But her body was telling her something different.
She discovered she needed to return to her past, write her story, and learn that God was with her all along the way.
Bonnie is offering a free audiobook of her latest book, Sweet Like Jasmine if you pre-order by Tuesday, October 5, as well as a journal that you can go through to help you write your own story or share with a group of friends.
Check it out here.
Bonnie Gray was raised in Chinatown in San Francisco. Her mom was a mail-order bride, and her dad ran a noodle house. He left the family when she turned 7. This is the story of Bonnie's search for her day, and finding that God was with her all the time. Telling our stories helps heal our souls, al…
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Sep 26, 2021
Ep 102 A Legacy to Say ”I‘m sorry” with Amber Cullum of Grace Enough
Amber Cullum learned from her husband's family what she didn't learn in her own that to say, "I'm sorry" makes all the difference in building strong, healthy and loving relationships.
Host and creator of the podcast, Grace Enough, Amber's desire is to share stories of faith and resilience that glorify God and encourage His followers that no matter what's happened in our lives, His grace covers it all.
Today she talks about her struggles with postpopartum depression, as well as the legacy she's teaching her children about the value of asking forgiveness, and the practical application of God's Word.
Amber Cullum is the podcast host behind Grace Enough—a podcast designed to encourage believers that God can use you to impact His kingdom no matter your story. He does the changing, the transforming, the redeeming—not us. It does require daily surrender, faith, and trust, but we must remember His grace is enough.
Amber is saved by His grace alone, but doesn't always act like it. She i…
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Sep 19, 2021
Ep 101 A Legacy of Audacious Generosity with Kevin White
With only $500 in the bank and a family of 6, Kevin was calling out to God for some help, some very practical help: they needed food on the table. While praying, he found himself praying these words:
"Lord, give us food so others may eat!"
Hear Kevin's incredible story of how God answered that prayer and led him to build non-profits, feed the hungry around the world--physically and spiritually, and most importantly know and show the generous heart of God. Listen and be blessed and buy his book!
Audacious Generosity by Kevin White. Also available on Audible and Kindle
As an author, speaker, and leader, Kevin White, is convinced that audacious generosity transforms the world. Kevin’s on a mission to empower a culture of generosity throughout the world with his book, Audacious Generosity, and his annual campaign, Generosity Award.
A seasoned pastor and entrepreneur, Kevin founded With Love From Jesus Ministries in 1999 to distribute essential resources to high-need populations. The…
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Sep 12, 2021
Ep 100 A Legacy of Suffering Well with Joni Eareckson Tada
Celebrate the 100th episode of Make it Count: Living a Legacy Life with me today as we hear the story of Joni, a woman who didn't waste her suffering. All for God's glory.
Joni Earackson Tada dove into the Chesapeake Bay in 1969 and broke her neck. For the last 55 years she's lived in a wheelchair, sharing her story of how God met her there and continues to draw her closer to Himself.
"My response to my suffering was not resigning myself to it, woefully yielding to submerged rebellion. Instead, I want to embrace God in this no good, very bad trial and I'm going to find You in it."--Joni
A bestselling author, accomplished artist (with a brush in her mouth), and CEO of her worldwide ministry, Joni and Friends, which advocates and aids those with disabilities and their families.
If you've never read her first book, JONI, I encourage you to begin there. I asked Joni what her favorite book was that she wrote and she replied, "The God I Love" - a book for families. We will be giving away…
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Sep 5, 2021
Ep 99 One Hundred Things I Learned From One Hundred Podcasts
Today I am celebrating God's faithfulness, sense of humor, creativity, leading, and glory!
I didn't actually understand what a podcast was when I started my podcast almost two years ago, and now I'm at the cusp of Ep. 100 next week with my wonderful guest, Joni Eareckson Tada.
Today I share 9 or 10 things from my list of "100 things I learned from 100 podcasts" - I got mixed up. I don't know if it's 9 or 10—can you see how it's a miracle that I've come this far? Amazing.
I'll share a little how I came upon the theme and title for my podcast, and then some great gems from some great guests. Be sure to download the entire list for your inspiration and spiritual growth.
Remember. We all have the same amount of time. It's how we use it is what counts. Living for something beyond ourselves, for God's glory and eternity.
For your complete list of "100 Things I Learned From 100 Podcasts", go here.
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BECOME by The Joyful Life is here now.
Perfect for your Fall reading and…
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Aug 29, 2021
Ep 98 Choose the Right Mindset with the Right Question with Lain Ehman
With my love of questions, I was attracted immediately to lovely Lain Ehman of the A More Beautiful Question Podcast and Radio Show. Her legacy has to do with changing a problem into a solution by asking the better question. Instead of: "Why is life so hard?" ask, "What am I learning right now?"
Lain's desire is to bring people to ask questions about life and God for the express intention to help them live their best life and know the true God of the Bible. Only in knowing and relying on God do we live our whole story with joy and purpose.
Walking out our faith can get tricky. On her show, Lain discusses how we can be the light of the world in all areas of our lives: Home, church, community, work, and beyond — even when things get messy! Using humor, insightful questions, and biblical principles, Lain's mission is as a truth teller and encourage, exhorting women to live courageously for God. Lain and her husband of 25 years are raising 3 young people in the sunshine state of Arizon…
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Aug 22, 2021
Ep 97 A Legacy of Telling the Whole Story of our Spiritual Life with Eric Nevins
Eric Nevins claims we are all "halfway there" because our spiritual growth is an ongoing journey and we can never come to the end of knowing God better this side of Glory. Spiritual Formation isn't just a course of study for Eric. He brings stories of how everyday believers to light by sharing people's stories of their walk with God, whether at the very beginning, the muddled middle or those who are so close to Jesus you can feel it.
The whole story often includes the rough parts. Eric says, "I'm not afraid to walk with someone through their desert because nine times out of ten, they mostly just need us to listen and maybe ask one question: 'What is God telling you through this time?' And if they answer, "I don't know" to be okay with that as well.
A husband and father of four, Eric divides his time with his online media business, encouraging Christian podcasters through his brain child, Christian Podcasters Asssociation, and hosting his own podcast, Halfway There, a podcast…
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Aug 15, 2021
Ep 96 A Legacy of Seeing God in Your Dailies with Kristi Woods
Kristi Woods didn't meet God until her mid-20's, and from the very beginning she knew that going deeper in His Word was not only key to eternal peace, but also a daily passion—a dance, if you will, of seeing Him work in and around her days and moments. From her own experience of knowing God, Kristi longs to encourage others to grow deeper in their spiritual walk.
Her prayer on a regular basis keeps her close to her Savior:
"Lord, show me what's in my heart that doesn't belong there. Amen."
And He does! May we dare to pray this prayer with Kristi.
Kristi Woods is a writer and speaker—but mostly a Jesus girl. She encourages readers to grow in faith with downloadable Bible studies such as Fear What? Debunking the Power of Fear and free, faith-building printables like 30 Days in Psalms: A Bible Reading Plan, available at www.KristiWoods.net. You'll find her work published with BibleStudyTools.com, Crosswalk.com, Focus on the Family, Life Audio, and many others. Kristi, her handsome…
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Aug 8, 2021
Ep 95 Legacy of Contentment, Part 3: Trusting God in the Dark
A contented woman expects great things from God – because He loves her and because He is a great God.
And a contented woman is a surrendered woman. She places all her heart’s desires and needs into the hands of her Savior, and keeps them there.
That’s always the key, isn’t it?
A contented woman surrenders her time schedule to the one who holds her hand in the dark. She chooses the best camping spot—one in which she is not alone and not dependent upon herself.
None of us can see the future, so in a way, we're in the dark. Yet, we can still live with contentment because we know Who does.
“Let him who walks in the dark, who has no light, trust in the name of the Lord, and rely on his God.” Isaiah 50:10
Cyndie Hamley came up with a simple way to recall who God is:
God knows - Jeremiah 29:11
God cares - 1 Peter 5:7
God can - Ephesians 3:20
God is - Romans 8:28,29
God knows you and your needs.
God cares for you and loves you with an everlasting love.
God can do any…
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Aug 1, 2021
Ep 94 A Legacy to Encourage the Next Generation with Patsy Burnette
Patsy had an idea. She knew a little bit about tech and she knew a lot about her God and the great comfort and truths found in His Word. She said: "I needed a place to share what God was giving me."
Patsy made a committment to share whatever He would teach her that day on a social media platform every day—that's a big commitment. From that decision was born her ministry: InstaEncouragements.
Patsy Burnette knows why she was born: to encourage others, especially the next generation. Listen to the founder of Instaencouragements.com today and find out how she does just that. Being raised under the banner of: "To Know God and to Make Him Known" inspired who Patsy is today—an empty nester yet poised for her next role of caregiving for her elderly parents. She's making her days count, and that's what legacy is all about.
Her goal? To build a worldwide community of online encouragers, encouraging others to faith in Jesus Christ. She invites us to grab a cup of coffee and join the movem…
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Jul 25, 2021
Ep 93 Legacy of Contentment: A Contented Woman Prays Expectantly
I Timothy 6:9 says this:
“People who want to get rich, fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction…some people eager for money, have plunged themselves with many griefs.”
And Jeremiah 2:13 adds this practical warning:
“For my people have done two evil things: They have abandoned me— the fountain of living water. And they have dug for themselves cracked cisterns that can hold no water at all!
Not only does drinking at the wrong wells—looking for satisfaction in anything or anyone but God, lead to wrong attitudes but it can lead to actions that ruin lives—yours and your family’s
I usually think of coveting as having to do with things. But, a more serious sort of coveting is coveting a neighbor—not just their house or their car. It leads to adultery and ripping up of families.
If struggling with living contentedly, we can pray and tell God all about it. Our loving God tells us we can "pray big.…
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Jul 18, 2021
Ep 92 From Abuse to Bounty—A Legacy of Freedom with Elizabeth Oschwald
Elizabeth Oschwald, entreprenuer and mother of 7 in her new blended family, shares how she now lives in the freedom Christ offers after enduring an abusive marriage.
She found herself facing the question: "Who am I?" followed by an even more important one: "Who are You, Jesus?"
Follow her story of how God brought her to freedom and how she now lives to encourage others to receive all God has for us as His children. Part of that story includes learning from five different mentors. She would be the first to say, you can't grow and learn and heal all by yourself.
You can find Elizabeth at her website: thejoyfulmama where she writes: My journey of motherhood has not been typical or average. In fact, there have been some pretty sharp twists and turns.
I have been a weak mama to 2 little girls in an unhealthy, and sometimes terrifying, marriage.
I have been a brave mama starting over with those same 2 littles, but struggling with their behavior, healthy boundaries, and my own identity.…
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Jul 11, 2021
Ep 91 A Legacy of Contentment: 3 Good Ideas Why it's a Good Idea
Satan doesn’t come at most of us with temptations to take drugs or rob banks. His main temptation is to rob our joy and rob God of glory by keeping a bunch of unhappy, complaining, whining believers on the loose.
I don't want to be one of those.
I'm not an expert on being content 100% of the time. Maybe that’s why I’m a good person to talk about it. I do know it’s all about trusting God and I always need help in learning to trust God better and deeper. So thank you for joining me on this part living a legacy life.
I thought it might be fun if I could pass out $5.00 to everyone and we get on a bus and go to the outlets up the road and practice buying more for less – sometimes it’s the thrill of the deal that can keep us shopping. I’m always telling my husband how much I just saved by what I spent, but he doesn’t always appreciate my logic.
Speaking of my husband—he’s part Norwegian and part German and he’s from Iowa—I tell you this because my husband is very…
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Jul 4, 2021
Ep 90 Legacy of a Worthy Life with David Hegg
David Hegg, husband of 43 years, father of three, grandfather and pastor, loves the Word of God because he's seen the power of transformed lives, starting with his own. You will hear him say more than once, "The Spirit of God uses the Word of God to do the work of God."
"I'm a better husband, a better man, when I study God's Word, so that helps me get up early in the morning to spend time reading and studying."
Listen here to find out his three-point discipleship tips from II Timothy 2:22. Grab a pen. You'll want to take notes.
David has served as pastor/teacher for Grace Baptist Church, Santa Clarita, CA since March, 2009. David serves as an adjunct faculty member at The Master's University (Santa Clarita, California) in the areas of Preaching, and Theology. David also conducts the annual Speaking by Listening conference for those who teach the Bible and is committed to championing the growth of expositional preaching in our day.
David speaks regularly at Men’s Conferences, Coup…
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Jun 27, 2021
Ep 89 A Legacy of Mentoring: Coming Alongside for Our Good and Another's
God has blessed me through short-term and ongoing mentoring relationships. I’m grateful for my many mentors through the years. For Jeanne, who said, “Your spiritual growth is not dependent upon a man.” For Joan, who said, “Do what’s right and God will strengthen you.” For Annadale who said, “Hearts break but they also heal.” For Lorraine who said, “Choose where to camp: in the land of worry or the land of trust?”
And Laurie, who still says: “Trust God and do the next thing.”
And I love to get texts from Hope and Jenny and Jaime and Katie: “When do you want to meet? Let’s get coffee.” And we do.
We are better together. God made us that way: to receive and to pour. Mentoring is a legacy that must not be ignored, for the sake of your soul and your sister’s soul--that sister sitting right behind you in church. Ask God to bring you alongside another, to invite to your table, to receive and to pour. Begin a legacy of mentoring. It will bring blessings and g…
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Jun 20, 2021
Ep 88 The Legacy of Re-purposed Pain, with Melissa Moore
Melissa Moore speaks from her own experience, not just to tell her story, but to offer hope and strength to those who have suffered loss or mental illness. She's passionate and real and biblical. A great combination.
In her own words:
I want people to understand what it truly means to be loved by God. I have struggled with depression off and on my whole life but my faith, and the right medication, have helped me tremendously to walk in health.
We have to know why we are doing what we’re doing, making the story of Jesus central to our lives and hopes and dreams. Jesus will last forever and is the only thing that will bring true freedom and hope to so many that need it right now. We have to be willing to share our story, even the uncomfortable parts, because Jesus met people (including us) in the middle of their hurt, imperfection, and sin.
Romans 5:3-5 is her calling card as Melissa shares with others that God loves them and will bring hope for our lives no matter what we're going…
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Jun 13, 2021
Ep 87 The Legacy of a Well-Loved Child of God: How He Loves Informs How I Live
My Heavenly Father has great loves, at least two—you and me. He went to great strides to show the world what He treasures most: a personal relationship with each child. I want to do the same: to love what God loves, to treasure what the Creator treasures, and show it by how I live my life.
The older I grow in Christ, the more I want make our treasures the same, and live like God’s priorities are my priorities. I fail daily. But I’m learning that to succeed at all, I first need to fully embrace how much I am our great God’s treasure
HOW WE KNOW WE ARE GOD’S TREASURE AND WHAT DIFFERENCE DOES IT MAKE?
Shortly before becoming engaged, I knew my husband was the one for me when he looked me in the eyes and said, “There’s nothing more you can be or do to make me love you more.” Granted, he was blinded by love. If we weren’t all a little blinded, no one would ever get married. But his proclamation reminded me of Christ’s love for us, except Jesus does know us. The Savior…
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Jun 6, 2021
Ep 86 The Life-Changing Legacy of a Dad's Letter To His Kids with Blake Brewer
Blake is on a mission to help 1 MILLION DADS write at least one well-written, meaningful, lasting LEGACY LETTER to their children. You will be inspired and moved by Blake's story of how his dad's letter changed his life forever.
As the founder of the Legacy Letter Challenge, Blake's mission is to empower father's to connect with their children, lead their families, and run their God-given race with endurance. Blake has a wonderful wife and three children under 5.
Blake's claim: "A father's voice is the most powerful voice on the planet."
A legacy letter answers these three questions:
1. How do you really feel about me?
2. What do you believe about me?
3. What are your hopes for me?
FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM: @theendurance_
Blake absolutely loves being a father. As he leads his family and his children, he draws from many mentors, but none more important than his late father Larry Brewer.
Blake just shared this with me. You will be so inspired to write your legacy letter to your kids:…
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May 30, 2021
Ep 85 Before They Leave Home: 10 Life Skills Beyond Laundry
When I look back at my parenting experience, I wish I could start over and call it: “Let’s Try This Again.” But that’s not how it works. I asked our girls for input, “What did we teach you that you needed to know as an adult?” and added, “But please don’t hurt my feelings.” (I needed some emotional intelligence.) “And yes, I know we didn’t teach you to budget…” Sure enough, the runt wrote right back: “You mean you taught us to pour concrete but not to budget?” Yes. That’s what I meant. And that was your dad’s fault.
Today I share a list of "Ten Things I Might Have Taught Our Kids But Probably Didn't" but the more important than separating whites and darks are the ten things I HOPE I taught our kids and if not, they have my phone number.
Enjoy! It's never too late to build into the next generation with God's help and wisdom.
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Are you looking for a new and fresh Bible study to do this summer? I'm offering the first chapter of Hospitality,…
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May 23, 2021
Ep 84 A Legacy of Wisdom with Steve Burgason
When asked, "What makes a successful person?" Steve Burgason barely pauses before saying through his signature chuckle: "Return back to the simplicity of your faith. When Jesus was asked what was the greatest commandment, He could've picked any or all of the 600 commands but all He said was, 'Love God. Love your neighbor.'"
Steve Burgason is a successful person and he would say it's because of his inadequacy that he is successful. "I need wisdom every day, and when I ask God for wisdom, He continues to bring people my way who need His love, encouragement and wisdom as well."
Enjoy today's episode. Be wise. Be successful.
Steve and his latest grandson, Indie, hanging out.
Steve and his wife Anne have raised three adult children who are all married and live in the same wonderful town of Ames, Iowa. They do life together while doing business together, and as Steve says, "It's messy."
Steve played basketball for Iowa State, and befriended my Man-in-Plaid in HS so that he could get an…
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May 16, 2021
Ep 83 A Legacy of Good Time Management From an Imperfect Time Manager
We all have the same 24 hours in a day. But for some of us and for some days, we get to the end of our 24 hours and wonder where the time went. I'm not a Time-Management Guru - I know people who are. I've taken their courses. They have great ideas (if I would only do them!)
I first wrote about this grand topic for the premier issue of The Joyful Life Magazine. I'll add the "Time-Scriptures" below. I'd love to hear if you picked one to help you manage your time better for the glory of God and the peace of your soul. Or, if you found another to help you think in terms of using your days, weeks and years for a legacy that counts.
Do you make lists and check the boxes on a regular basis?
I’ve learned from each of these amazing women—they ARE time-management gurus, and gracious besides:
Work by Design Course by Claire Ortiz-Diaz
Living Well, Spending Less by Ruth Soukup
Run Like a Girl coaching services by Kathy Vick
"Time-Scriptures"— A word or two from the All-Wise God on how…
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May 9, 2021
Ep 82 Leaving a Trail to Jesus with Jennifer Dukes Lee
Jennifer Dukes Lee, popular author, speaker, and blogger has learned much from the land. An Iowa farmer's wife, she's embraced deep lessons from God and about her walk with her "CEO" by observing the cycle of seasons, seeds planted, unruly weather, and all-in-all relying on God to bring the harvest. "There's always a harvest," she speaks from experience and confidence. You will love her practical ideas on how to leave "a trail of love of Jesus" as well as how she came to write her latest book— Growing Slow: Lessons on Un-Hurrying Your Heart from an Accidental Farm Girl
Coming out this week. Can't wait!
Lovely Jennifer is offering one free copy of this spanking new book. Comment on blog or instagram to be entered!
About "Growing Slow":
We long to make a break from the fast pace of life, but if we're honest, we're afraid of what we'll miss if we do. Yet when going big and hustling hard leaves us stressed, empty, and out of sorts, perhaps this can be our cue to step into a far more…
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May 2, 2021
Ep 81 Our Daily Mission From Jesus: An Expert With Bottom Lines
Did you write your Manifesto after hearing my ziplining story? See Ep 79, if not.
Companies and ministries alike know the significance of creating a great mission statement. I find them in the back of magazines, church bulletins, and online articles. People want others to know what they are about, and in the believer’s case, Who they are about.
We know right away with Paul that His mission is about Someone, not something. Philippians 3:8 reads: “Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ.”
Perhaps that’s the defining difference between religion and Christianity. God calls us to Himself through His Son, Jesus, and we need to clear out all things extraneous that keep us from relating well with Him.
Here's your assignment today (or maybe tomorrow, but be sure to do it!)
Loving God and others gives us something to do, and…
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Apr 25, 2021
Ep 80 What Makes a Strong Woman Strong? with Marva Smith
Marva Smith is a writer, speaker, coach and all-around encourager and hails from the British Virgin Islands. She began writing at her website Sun, Sparkle, Shine to help her through the grief of the loss of her father.
More losses were to come, and she learned through each one that she found her true strength—not in herself, but in who God made her. She comes from a long line of Carribean strong women, and you will be strengthened as you hear her legacy of faith and dependence.
Marva is a Caribbean-based management consultant, leadership trainer, work and life strategist, and author. Yet, her favorite titles are daughter of God, wife to her husband of 17 years, and mom to two teens. As a Certified Life Breakthrough Coach she is passionate about equipping, inspiring and empowering women to thrive beyond the nine to five, and does this through her courses, coaching and online community Free to Thrive.
Her ideal day starts while it’s still dark with her Bible in one hand and coffee…
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Apr 18, 2021
Ep 79 Is Ziplining Part of Your Mission Statement?
I went ziplining once. Just once. To say I did. Today's episode is about what it means to create a "Mission Statement." Do you have a manifesto for life?
Paul's mission rang out loud and clear in Philippians 1:21—"For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain!" (I felt that dying part right before running off the ledge. Six times.)
To write a mission statement is a great exercise. To base it on who we are in Christ—and then live out that mission statement—is greater yet.
I'd love to hear what you come up with. Mine is my tagline on the blog: "To know and show the heart of God."
Sometimes that can feel like ziplining.
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Have you gotten your new copy of The Joyful Life Magazine? It's all about creativity. For this we were born! So beautiful. Order yours today and one for a friend, HERE.
I love their Mission Statement:
"The Joyful Life inspires women to pursue joy and discover beauty in their daily lives by grounding their hearts in Christ and leading them to l…
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Apr 11, 2021
Ep 78 Legacy of a Re-Purposed Life, with Michelle Rayburn
Michelle Rayburn, host of Life Re-Purposed Podcast, wanted a transformed life, but as you know, we often need to admit we need transformation before change can begin. She reminds us that change is often slow and usually layered through the years. We can't hurry what God is doing; rather, trust that He is doing a good work inside our hearts and minds while we humbly draw closer to Him. Michelle's legacy of faith, humility, and fun shows through her desire to love others well, as Jesus does.
Michelle Rayburn is a freelance writer and podcaster who appreciates how life’s difficulties can turn out to be opportunities to learn and grow. She loves dark chocolate, iced coffee, and a breezy afternoon in the hammock with a good book. She’s the author of several Christian living books, including Classic Marriage: Staying in Love as Your Odometer Climbs. She has been married to her husband, Phil, for 30 years and they have successfully launched two sons into adulthood. If lighthearted sarcas…
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Apr 4, 2021
Ep 77 Are You a Creative Person? For This You Were Born
Creativity isn’t one particular path. It doesn’t look the same on you as it does on me.
Isn’t that a wonderful thing? We are made in God’s image, we try to love as He loves, but the way we create looks different on each one of us.
Three questions today:
* Do you view yourself at a creative person?
* If not, how might you begin to change your mindset today?
* What trusted friend can you ask this week to help you see yourself as a creative person?
Let me know how you do. Better yet, tell me what you created this week!
For this we were born.
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I'm mostly a rule follower when I cook—unless I don't have the right ingredient!
I was extra creative the other night while making a favorite pasta recipe. Enjoy this anytime for any occasion:
Mushroom, Sausage, Tapenade Pasta
I didn't have tapenade so I used a jar of marinated artichoke hearts. I had some leftover pan-fried slivered brussel sprouts, so I added those for more "green" in my diet. Delish! (and creat…
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Mar 28, 2021
Ep 76 A Long Obedience in the Same Direction with Lauren Sparks
Lauren Sparks wants to live a legacy of loving others. She talks of how she manages to do that through the singular challenges of being a mom of a special needs young adult, as well as loving others in their hard places.
I love her tagline:
"Where thoughts of a special needs mom intersect with the Cross of Christ."
Do you know anyone who could be blessed by hearing Lauren's story today? Prayer and listening are high on her list of loving others well.
Join me today and be encouraged to love and live as Jesus does.
Lauren Sparks is a wife and mom to two daughters – one with special needs – and one bonus son. She lives, worships Jesus, and teaches yoga in the Dallas, Texas area. She is a contributing author for Perseverance: 30 Devotions for Faith that Moves Mountains, and Prayer: Approaching the Throne of Grace. She shares her adventures, victories, and flub-ups from her laptop at laurensparks.net.
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lauren.k.sparks
Twitter - https://twitter.c…
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Mar 21, 2021
Ep 75 Facing the Unexpected: Trust is a Decision with Maree Dee
Maree Dee made a choice long ago to trust God, no matter what the circumstances. Her family includes those suffering with mental illness - something that isn't talked about enough in circles of faith. Her pastor counseled her in the midst of her grief:
"Maree, we make a decision to trust God. You don't need to waste time in re-visiting that decision every time life throws a curveball, no matter how hard that curveball comes."
Maree is an advocate for those whose lives are touched by mental health issues. If you know anyone who could use her experience, training, and godly encouragement, be sure to check out her resources. Here's a link she mentions in our interview: mental health resources.
I love what she shares about two things being true at the same time. Listen and be encouraged.
Maree Dee is a Writer | Speaker | Advocate | Ministry Leader
Maree's passionate about encouraging and equipping others to embrace life in the midst of the unexpected. She is a warrior who doesn't give…
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Mar 14, 2021
Ep 74 Legacy of Rest: Take Yourself on Sabbatical
Last Fall I was a train headed for a wreck. Every day filled to the brim with all good things. Just too many of them. Reminds me of the time I asked the Man-in-Plaid, "Aren't you proud of me for finding bargains?" And he replied, "Yes, you just find too many of them!" (Still true.)
I decided to block three days off on the calendar and the rest is history. Listen today to find out how God used it in my life.
I promised to leave you this list:
Simple Steps to Taking a Sabbatical
* Put it on the calendar
* Design what works: an afternoon, an overnight, a week away
* Leave your planner at home or in the next room
* Put your phone on mute
* Pack a lunch, a snack, or make a reservation for one
* Take a book you’ve been wanting to read and a blank journal
* Read Scripture in the first person or rewrite Scripture back to God
* Set the scene: candle, ocean, flowers, walking
* Listen to God and, if needed, re-write your banner of love
* Plan your next sabbatical and put…
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Mar 7, 2021
Ep 73 Learning to Thrive in Every Season, with Aimee Walker
New Zealander, Aimee Walker—pastor, author, Bible Study writer and teacher—first came on my show early on in December of 2019. She recently launched her first book: But I Flourish: Learning to Thrive in Every Season and I wanted to share some of what you will gain from reading it, as well as introduce you to Aimee in case you missed her the first time round.
Aimee knows that we all are called to mentor and to be mentored by someone who is just a little further down the road in their spiritual maturity, and she wished she had had someone in her life ten years ago while wrestling with some of these issues in her walk with God. Her prayer is that her book will encourage those women who may be struggling in similar areas.
Some of my favorite parts had to do with "living loved," looking at my circumstances through the character of God, and reflecting on the difference between resignation and surrender. (And about 27 more good points.) You can purchase your copy of "But I Flourish: Lea…
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Feb 28, 2021
Ep 72 Surprised by Joy with Michele Morin
Author, blogger, Bible teacher, Michele Morin was surprised by joy--never in a million years did she think she would live in rural Maine, raise four boys, and mow lawns with her husband of over 30 years. She likes to think the Bible isn't an Answer book so much as an Asking the Right Questions book.
Michele won't care if her grandkids and their grandkids forget her name, but she does work at making sure they don't forget two very important things. Listen today and be encouraged to write your story, a story with a good ending. (I do love a good ending.) She also makes amazing pizza for her family and all those boys (and girls) that her boys bring home. Michele in writing a book on raising boys, and I hope it includes hearty and generously portioned recipes. You can read more from Michele and follow her at these links: The Blog: Living Our Days-- https://michelemorin.net Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/livingourdays Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/micheledmorin/ Twitter: https:/…
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Feb 21, 2021
Ep 71 Is Hospitality Your Legacy? God is the Ultimate Host So When We Invite We Are More Like Him
Do you live out your legacy of hospitality? Did you know we all have a hospitality legacy?
What does yours look like?
Here's the reason why we want it to look welcoming: God welcomed us to His table. We get the distinct privilege to pass along His invitation.
You don't need to invite like my friend, Ceslie, invites. Or how Maria Goff invites. Or my sister, Lynnel invites. Or how I invite.
As a follower of Jesus, you just need to invite.
I like a good recipe. This should help: Recipe for Practicing Hospitality
God will provide all you need to follow Him. Hospitality is different than entertaining. Listen today and let me know who you will invite this week, all for Heaven's sake!
And here's an ample reward: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies from my friend, Patsy.
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Still in quarantine? Here are Seven Prayers for Quarantine.
Would love to hear what you've been praying.
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Booking speaking gigs now as things are beginning to open up for later this year and 2022.…
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Feb 14, 2021
Ep 70 Six Legacy Words to Live By, with Susan Anderson
Susan is a delight, most of all because she laughs heartily and believes in God's word in equal hearty measure. I know you will love her practical wisdom and six words to live by. Maybe you'll adopt her six for your legacy. I plan to.
Some fun facts about Susan Anderson:
"Glenn and I have been married for 46 years, mother of four adult sons, mother-in-law to three wonderfully loving “daughters”, and having the most fun ever being Gramma/Gaga to 7 grandchildren. In my “past” I’ve been a classroom teacher, reading “specialist”, Sr Pastor Administrator, Bible teacher to kids – adults, women’s Bible study leader. God switched things up 10 years ago when I took a class in how to teach English as a Second Language. He opened the door for me to begin my “new teaching career” in the Tacoma mosque!! I co-taught Arabic speaking women for almost 8 years (3 years in the mosque). I currently co-teach an adult ESL class once a week and tutor or conversation partner with three…
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Feb 7, 2021
Ep 69 Seven Prayers For Quarantine—How's Your Prayer Life These Days?
Early on in the shutdown of 2020, I began writing prayers for quarantine. They aren't necessarily only for quarantine, in case you no longer are! And I could've added many (many) more, as it continues on longer than anyone thought it would.
Maybe the children of Israel felt that waiting angst as they wandered 40 long years.
I include only seven prayers—maybe the eighth should be: "Lord, may this not last 40 years!"—one prayer for each day of the week.
To receive a one-page printable of all seven prayers, click here.
I'd love to hear what you've been praying. Feel free to leave your prayer in comments or email me at: sue@welcomeheart.com.
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As things begin to open up, I am ready to speak at your next Christian Women's Event. Check out my 8 Retreat Series and 15 keynotes. Scheduling for 2021-22 now. Email me for queries and questions. sue@welcomeheart.com
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Jan 31, 2021
Ep 68 A Legacy of Being Peacefully Imperfect, with Mitzi Neely
To know Mitzi is to love her and to be encouraged. Her greatest desire is to instill confidence in people of all generations. Though she desires daily to be more like Jesus, she knows she falls far short, and she's learned to be content in her imperfection. Joy comes from thanking God at the beginning of every day as well as recognizing that no matter what that day brings, He is in it and ahead of it.
We will be giving away Mitzi's latest book collaborative: Praying for Revival -Soul Inspired Prayer
Leave a comment to be entered in the giveaway. And a review on the podcast to receive 5 extra entries. I will be using this book for Lent which is around the corner.
Mitzi Neely is an inspiring motivational speaker, Bible teacher and author, who encourages women of all ages through her experiences and shortcomings. Mitzi’s heart is to lighten your load, while conveying the message that nobody’s perfect. Whatever your struggle or need, you will find encouragement through her words as…
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Jan 24, 2021
Ep 67 Doubting Christianity: Dare We Talk About It?
I like to say that I was "surprised by doubt" much like CS Lewis was "surprised by joy" only the opposite. He was thrilled with God's plan of salvation. I woke up one day and doubted that there was a plan or a God.
Today's episode is my testimony of doubt in my 20's and how God drew me back. The hero of the story, as always, is God—His graceful wooing and utmost patience. You may never have doubted your faith. But you may know someone who's in the midst of a dark valley and wondering if and when she or he may come through it. Share this podcast with them and pray while doing so. God loves for us to seek Him, and as it says in Jeremiah 29:13—
“You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”
That's a promise with a condition.
Listen today for three steps back to faith. I dared to talk about it today. Be encouraged.
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Jan 17, 2021
Ep 66 Silver Living in Suffering: Resilience, with Kathy Vick, Run Like a Girl.org
Kathy is one of my favorite people. She's encouraging, wise and practical and the best coach you would ever want to have. She's been in a season of suffering the past 5 years and she shares today how God changed her through the suffering and the benefits to offering each day to God for His leading and care.
We all experience suffering, trials, disappointments in one form or another. What we do with it and how we respond could be the biggest and best legacy we leave for those we love and serve.
Find Kathy at:
kathy@runlikeagirl.org
www.runlikeagirl.org
Kathy’s Bio:
For fifteen years, Kathy Vick has been a Certified Life Coach, Author, and Speaker.
As a coach, her mission is to ignite the spark for your next great adventure! Her desire is to see women fully embrace the mission and calling on their lives. She says, “It is the dream you had at ten and still have at fifty that you need to pay attention to.”
Kathy has worked in Christian Publishing since 1981 on multiple projec…
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Jan 10, 2021
Ep 65 Did You Choose a Word for the Year? Make Sure It Inspires You!
Claire Diaz Ortiz says she chooses a word for the year because it "serves as a guidepost for what you want in the year to come." I began choosing a WOTY in 2016 and it's been an inspiration and often a conviction. Who I want to be and how I want to behave is not who I am now, and when I choose a word, I'm inspired to keep moving forward.
As Crystal Hurst said, "We are both a masterpiece and a work-in-progress!" Isn't that the truth!
A good word helps me focus on what God wants to work into my life. Listen today to get some ideas how how choosing our word can help us continue that "work-in-progress" all for God's glory.
You can read the rest of Claire's article here. After you choose your word, check out Marva’s encouraging post: 3 best steps after choosing your Word.
Here is one of my favorites. Listen to find out why.
Blessings on your new year. May it be filled with words of grace and love from the great Lover of your soul.
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Jan 3, 2021
Ep 64 Transform Your Mind, For Heaven's Sake and Yours with Sarah Geringer
Sarah knows from experience how our mind can control and run our lives, but not always in the way God intends. Her latest book, Transforming Your Thought Life: Christian Meditation in Focus, teaches how to engage with Scripture in 17 different thought-life problem areas. Today you'll get to hear about 3 of those problem areas and you will be encouraged.
We will be offering a free copy of Transforming Your Thought Life: Christian Meditation in Focus - leave a comment to be entered!
In Sarah's words:
I grew up as a child of divorce with deep fears of abandonment, and I faced several seasons of depression. I also married another child of divorce, and neither of us was emotionally healthy when we met. I have also suffered from passivity and codependency as a victim of emotional abuse. When I began reading the One Year Bible in 2003, God began changing my thoughts through the powerful truths of his Word. I began to see how God loved me and valued me, which boosted my self-worth. This new…
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Dec 27, 2020
Ep 63 A Legacy of Fortified Faith, with Author, Speaker Nylse Esahc
What better testimonial than a daughter asking her mother for marriage advice right before getting married?
Who wouldn't love that kind of request?
Nylse Esahc (nee' Andree Miller) speaks on today's podcast about living an authentic faith in front of her children which resulted in her ebook My Best Marriage Advice. Nylse is a Christian wife and a mother of four who currently resides in Los Angeles, CA. Originally from the Bahamas, she lived in New York before relocating to the West Coast. She is a Christian blogger who writes to encourage others from a Godly perspective at www.lifenotesencouragement.com.
Nylse recently published her second book, The Comfort of Night-How Jesus Makes Your Dark Times Alright. You can purchase it here.
About The Comfort of Night: "When darkness envelopes us we are often frightened. Following one of the more poignant phrases in the Bible, at the end of John 13:30 - and it was night, Jesus begins to speak, illuminating His presence."
Connect with Nylse…
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Dec 20, 2020
Ep 62 Living Like a Straw--”Choose Jesus,” with Marnie Swedberg
Marnie Swedberg, author, speaker, musician, women's speakers' advocate - and all-around energizer bunny--encourages us today to choose Jesus, now and forever, and He will make your day perfect in the long run. Marnie says she likes to pray for perfection because that's who God is, but how things turn out—in the long run—is what God deems as perfect, and that's all she really wants. For information on how to join her speaker network, see womenspeakers.com.
Get a pencil and paper - you'll want to take notes!
About Marnie:
Godly women worldwide look to Marnie Swedberg for coaching, connections, and collaboration. As a keynote speaker at Christian Women Conferences, Marnie circumnavigates the globe online and in-person, bringing perspective transformation, deep spiritual healing, and hope, helping women reach women for Christ. She is the author of 13 books, host of a #1 ranked and featured Blog Talk Radio Show and the founder/director of www.WomenSpeakers.com.
Books include:
Th…
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Dec 13, 2020
Ep 61 Does "Peace on Earth" Apply To Me This Year? God's Gift is My Gift to Others
Probably the best-known Bible verse in the world is also the best Christmas verse—and it’s about giving:
John 3:16 states: “For God so loved the world that He gave—“
“For God so loved the world, that He gave…” And, because He gave, we want to give, too.
The heart of Christmas is giving because it began with God giving us His Son; the verse goes on: “…that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
God chose the best gift and the perfect gift for each of us; He didn’t need help from Nordstrom or Amazon.
To be honest, I find there are so many things one can do during the month of December, many of them church-related—I can imagine there are those of you who may already feel up to your necks in Christmas-obligation, expectations, special events to attend and prepare for –that you already wish it were January 1st
Let's make "Peace on Earth" permeate our kitchen, living room and shopping aisle (maybe even the car—maybe especial…
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Dec 6, 2020
Ep 60 Is Experiencing Joy Out of the Question? Keeping Joy with Suzie Eller
You can't write a legit book on JOY unless you've known pain. Author, speaker, podcaster and Bible Study teacher, Suzie Eller has known pain, and her latest book: Joykeeper: 6 Truths That Change Everything You Thought You Knew About Joy is more than legit. I loved how Suzie shares her struggle to find joy while still experiencing fear, grief and potential loss. She allows us to feel all the feels while reminding us that God does the same, in fact, He invites us in to deeper intimacy as we are honest with our feelings.
Some excerpts to whet your appetite:
"Joy is more than a feeling--it's a knowing."
"When we understand that God cares about our feelings, we are not required to control, hide, or mask those emotions."
"Instead of trying to be something you are not, you allow Him to be Who He is."
Biblical, transparent, with practical encouragement, Suzie's provided a great gift to all of us this Christmas season. Buy Joykeeper for yourself so you can write in it (like I did!) and one…
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Nov 29, 2020
Ep 59 What Does God Say is Most Important About the Holidays?
What does God say is MOST important about the holidays? I'll give you a hint: it's not the food. (Darn.)
Be careful what you pray for, the saying goes. You may also want to be careful who you ask to pray for you. My friend, Debbi Weeks prayed and a 14-year tradition was begun. I'm forever grateful.
Here's your Recipe for a Birthday Party for Jesus.
One of my favorite Scriptures on hospitality is from the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus said:
"Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.
“Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you o…
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Nov 22, 2020
Ep 58 A Legacy to Live By Faith (When We Cannot See), with Bonnie Masten
Bonnie Masten is a wise woman and a great friend. She likes to say that a whole lot of God's working is going on that we just can't see. If we could open that "zipper in the sky" we would see God's hand and trust Him more.
If only!
But faith is how we live for the time being: trusting and praising our Sovereign God, no matter our circumstances. Listen today to Bonnie's 3-pronged legacy. You will love it! Add any comments or questions in the comments.
A word from Bonnie: I was raised with my brother in a loving home in San Luis Obispo, CA by parents who lived their faith out loud & valued God & family above all. I have been married to one of the most patient men for 39 yrs this coming October 24th. We’ve welcomed three precious children into our world. All married to three incredible “in-loves”. We have one beautiful granddaughter & a grandson due this November! I believe my reason for being is to be an encourager. To allow others that I meet to feel loved & accepted as God has…
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Nov 15, 2020
Ep 57 Legacy of Gratitude: Why Aren't We Thankful (When We're Not?)
To be a thankful person should be the easiest thing to be, right? We know God. He's given us His Son and forgiveness from sins - sins we have a tendency to repeat. . .
Yet, we don't always feel grateful nor show an attitude of gratitude.
Why is that?
I talk about two reasons common to all. Please share in comments what other reason you may have to keep your thanks to yourself.
::::::::::: Read about Sue’s topics and testimonials at womenspeakers.com How to invest in what matters beyond ourselves. We have one life - let’s make the most of it for God, others, and eternity. Subscribe: Choose one of these popular free listening services, and subscribe there: OR Subscribe to Welcome Heart's weekly email newsletter, blog updates, and podcast notes, here!
If you need a little motivation -- or your family -- download this Thanksgiving placement and get to work. I've used it on the the BIG TURKEY day itself to keep everyone occupied with God's blessings while the bird finishes up an…
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Nov 8, 2020
Ep 56 Your Legacy: Thriving At Home, with Jed Jurchenko
Jed Jurchenko and his wife, Jenny have four daughters and one foster daughter which gives him all sorts of credibility in my view! What a delightful conversation from a godly man who loves his family and is working daily to leave a legacy that counts. Listen today to hear how he is teaching his girls to live gratefully even when it's 70 below.
To thrive at home includes teaching your kids a heart of gratitude.
To thrive at home includes discerning the right "no's" and "yes's."
"A 'no' to one opportunity is really saying a 'yes' to the better and best one."
Jed Jurchenko
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Jed Jurchenko is the husband to an incredible wife, daddy to four amazing girls, and a foster dad to one more. He's served as a children's pastor, marriage and family therapist, psychology professor, and life coach. Jed is the author of 23 books on relationships, parenting, and doing life well. In his free time, you'll find Jed reading, preparing for an upcoming marathon, barbecuing, paddle boarding, and…
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Nov 1, 2020
Ep 55 "Growing is a Privilege"- Growing Something Besides Old, Part III
At salvation, we were reborn into the life of God. And we have the greatest privilege of all—to be able to grow up into all aspects of Jesus as much as possible this side of heaven -- “like Christ in everything.”
Do we value this privilege? I know I don't always do.
My friend, Susan Anderson said, "Christians can be very good at knowing and doing their responsibilities, but not half as good at living out their privileges."
Wow. What do you think?
What does it mean to abide in Christ? Here's your Pdf on Glyn Evans' explanation.
"What Does it Mean to Abide in the Vine?"
Abiding comes from spending time alone with God, often a challenge. This could help - for you:
Retreat in a Basket: A Simple Strategy to
Spend Time Alone with God
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Read about Sue’s topics and testimonials at womenspeakers.com How to invest in what matters beyond ourselves. We have one life - let’s make the most of it for God, others, and eternity. Subscribe: Choose one of these popular…
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Oct 25, 2020
Ep 54 A Call to Unity, with Tim Theule
Not everyone can say "pastor" and "friend" in the same sentence. I'm happy to share with you my friend and pastor, Tim Theule, on a series of quick topics that will inspire, instruct and convict - all good things from a pastor who loves his job, his flock, and his God.
Part of Tim's living legacy is calling our church to unity despite the diversity of opinions and stances even in our small town of San Luis Obispo by "keeping the Gospel the main thing." He checks in regularly with his four kids to make sure they are "good" with being pastor's kids, and that invitation to dialogue is what helps keep his relationships authentic and healthy.
Grab a pen. You'll want to listen more than once and take notes. Let me know what you appreciate most in comments and share with a friend who needs encouragement to invest most in what matters: God and His Word. Thanks, Tim!
Tim was born and raised in Southern California. He trusted Jesus Christ as a child and was actively involved in Campus Crusade…
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Oct 18, 2020
Ep 53 "Growing is a Partnership" —Growing Something Besides Old, Part II
SALE! FRIENDS & FAMILY 25% OFF ALL DIGITAL PRODUCTS
OCTOBER 18-31 COUPON CODE: WELCOMEFRIENDS
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Can we grow into and become God’s idea of a strong, mature woman in our own strength? Or course not. That’s what I love about this: God has high and purpose-filled expectations, but He knows we can’t do it by ourselves.
He knows we are weak and frail and given to fits of petulance and self-pity and pride. The three ugly P’s. I indulge in any and all, all too often.
That’s why we need God and other believers for our maturing process. And the older and wiser woman realizes that truth sooner rather than later.
Need some peace? Subscribe to my blog to receive MINDFULLY HIS: 7 Prayers and Scriptures to Pray Throughout the Day
::::::::: Read about Sue’s topics and testimonials at womenspeakers.com How to invest in what matters beyond ourselves. We have one life - let’s make the most of it for God, others, and eternity. Subscribe: Choose one of these popular free listen…
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Oct 11, 2020
Ep 52 Living Brave, Encouraging Others with GuiltyChocoholicMama, Elizabeth Spencer
I first met Elizabeth Spencer "online" and she immediately won me over with her quick wit, practical and biblical counsel, and of course, out-of-this-world recipes. Her writing encourages moms to stop feeling all that normal shame and guilt that comes with the territory by lifting our minds and hearts to Jesus and giving ourselves and our kids what we and they need most: grace. (You thought I was going to say "chocolate." A close second.)
Her legacy is encouraging others and she uses the acronym: H.U.E - and asks herself: Do my words have the right H.U.E.? Listen today and you will be encouraged!
You can find Elizabeth here: Blog: https://guiltychocoholicmama.blogspot.com/ Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/guiltychocoholicmama/
And a recipe for White Chocolate Pretzel Cookies
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Election season got you down? Or maybe social distancing? Or all the negative noise? Stay attentive to God's peace through these seven prayers and Scriptures to pray throughout your day. It help…
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Oct 4, 2020
Ep 51 "Growing is a Process"- Growing Something Besides Old, Part I
One thing we know is that we will all grow old, unless we die first. Bette Davis said, “Old age is not for sissies.” My mom used to say: “There’s nothing fun about growing old.” She was mourning the loss of her independence due to macular degeneration.
God, in His wisdom, made us all start as baby Christians—– but we didn’t stop there, did we?
One thing is true, we will all grow old, but we may not all grow up. Don't you want to grow something BESIDES old? I sure do.
Be encouraged: Staying in the race IS a sign of maturity.
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A BIG sign of our maturity in Christ is peace in turmoil. I can only live peacefully when mindful of God's presence. For a list of 7 brief prayers and Scriptures to pray throughout your day, subscribe here:
Mindfully His: How to Live Attentive to God's Peace and Presence
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Chino Valley Community Church, Chino Hills, CA is hosting a GATHER event this Saturday and you're invited. Here's the info and I'd love to see you there…
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Sep 27, 2020
Ep 50 Bob Goff, A Man of the Cloth Without the Cloth--The Love Does Legacy: ”The Only Thing That Counts!”
No matter how often I listen to or read Bob Goff, I get inspired, blessed, and closer to who I think Jesus calls me to be. In this interview, you will hear about 17 sermons that preach in about that many minutes.
Get ready. Grab a pen if you like to take notes, and I hope you're not driving because you may need to stop and replay a line or two to make sure you got it.
I asked Bob if he had a favorite Scripture passage and Galatians 5:6 was right at hand: "...The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." Making our lives count through love and faith. Love it.
Love does when we ask Jesus to make our lives count for Him day-in-and-day-out.
Bob Goff is the author of the New York Times bestselling Love Does and Everybody, Always and his latest book, Dream Big, released June 23, 2020. He is the Honorary Consul to the Republic of Uganda, an attorney, and the founder of Love Does—a nonprofit human rights organization operating in Uganda, India, Nepal, Iraq, and Som…
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Sep 20, 2020
Ep 49 What's Your Mission Statement? Living With God's Intention, Part II
Companies and ministries alike know the significance of creating a great mission statement. I find them in the back of magazines, church bulletins, and online articles. People want others to know what they are about, and in the believer’s case, Who they are about.
A Believer's Manifesto has to do with love and identity.
Why a Mission Statement? It frames our lives with God’s intentions, a framework on which to hang our notions, hopes, dreams, and goals.
I don’t want to live willy-nilly. And when the winds and rain come, as they will, we may get wet but we don’t lose our footing.
Write your Mission Statement. List your signposts. Use them in prayer. Take out the photocopy of Jesus we find in Scripture, and you’ll live life as God intended: for Him, with Him, and eventually, like Him.
::::::::::: Read about Sue’s topics and testimonials at womenspeakers.com How to invest in what matters beyond ourselves. We have one life - let’s make the most of it for God, others, an…
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Sep 13, 2020
Ep 48 How Kindness Changes Lives, Starting With Your Own, with Nicole Phillips of The Kindness Podcast
Nicole Phillips, a college coach wife, former Miss Wisconsin, writer, and speaker, is all about kindness. Her legacy begins in her home as she's trained her three cherubs to develop a vision for kindness, teaching them to look daily for something kind:
* What someone did
* Something they saw
* Something kind someone did for them
You will be motivated to present yourself as a "vessel of kindness" on a regular basis, showing off the kindness and grace of God as you do so. I love Nicole and you will, too.
Kindness advocate Nicole J Phillips is a champion for using kindness to overcome life's difficulties. From spending childhood Saturdays in a prison visiting her mom’s husband, to experiencing the joy that comes with forgiveness, to fighting breast cancer with kindness, Nicole shares the transformation that happened in her own life when she made a career out of writing about Kindness– and living life courageously kind! Nicole spreads the message of the healing power of kindn…
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Sep 6, 2020
Ep 47 What's Your Mission Statement? (And Do You Need One?) - Part I
Everybody and their mother is writing their "Mission Statements" these days. Why the big deal? How important is it to develop a Mission Statement? For our daughter, Bonnie’s company, it was important enough for her to spend nine months, as well for her company to pour thousands of dollars into manpower, TV ads and in the end, declaring: “This is what we’re about and it’s a great thing!”
I can’t help but wonder: What is the Believer's Manifesto?
Don’t I need a Mission Statement? Something to live my life under like a well-constructed canopy of truth, guiding and guarding my thoughts, words, and actions. If so, where do I start?
As Christians, we have the ultimate marketing team: God, the Father – Founder, Director. Christ, the Son – Brand Authority. And the Holy Spirit – Influencer/Equipper. Besides the power-packed Trinity, we’re granted 24/7 access to Scripture, a handbook of all wisdom and knowledge breathed from God’s heart to ours.
I have what I need to…
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Aug 30, 2020
Ep 46 Building a "No-Regrets" Life with Rhonda Stoppe
Do you want to be a "No-Regrets" woman? Rhonda Stoppe tells us today how to be just that.
None of us like to live with regret, yet we've all done things and said things we've regretted. How do we get beyond ourselves and live a life "worthy of the life to which we are called?"
Paul wrote in Ephesians:
Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. - Ephesians 4:1,2
Rhonda Stoppe is the NO REGRETS WOMAN with more than 20 years experience of helping women build no-regrets lives. “I could have listened to Rhonda talk all night,” is what women say about Rhonda’s enthusiastic, humorous, transparent teaching, and zeal as an evangelist. She’s committed to fulfilling the Titus 2:4 commission by mentoring, teaching, and writing books that are inspiring, grounded in Scripture, and easy…
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Aug 23, 2020
Ep 45 Everyone Has a Story with Katie Collins
You may know someone who would give you the shirt off your back - but how about a kidney? (I might give a casserole...) Today I have the honor of hosting my lovely friend, Katie Collins: educator, wife, mother, grandmother, and kidney donor.
Katie talks of leaving a legacy of "Less judgment -- More prayer" as she's learned to recognize that everyone she meets has a story and we can be part of their story by lifting them to Jesus at any moment of the day.
Wise words from a seasoned believer:
"Although I wouldn't want to continue to live in any of my past gut-wrenching circumstances--I don't long for the grief they bring. But I now know I wouldn't trade them for how I've learned to feel the word FAITH and taste the word TRUST."
A little about Katie Collins in her own words:
Celebrating 40 years with my best friend, mother of four adult children, retired elementary teacher, now full-time Mamie, I am blessed. As a work in progress, I am thankful for every day as an opportunity to draw…
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Aug 17, 2020
Ep 44 Cheerleader for Faith and Family, with Tiffiney Holmes
Tiffiney Holmes, wife of 26 years, homeschooling mom of 6, hails from Brooklyn, NY. She's quick to say she doesn't have it all figured out, while at the time she encourages us to cling to Jesus and fight to live every moment as one who can share the Gospel at every chance we get.
As a woman of color, today Tiffiney shares her perspective on racial tension ("Satan is having a heyday!") and what's she's learning on how to relate as Jesus would so that whoever she meets will feel His welcome to come into His family.
I loved her post on Facebook entitled: "Dear White Friends" presenting her perspective on our nation's current crisis. An excerpt: I am a black person living in America, so I understand racism. I sometimes cannot breath when I see my young adult sons leave my home late at night, because I know that one wrong encounter could tragically change everything. But if such a thing were to happen (God forbid it!), I wouldn't blame white people, I wouldn't start hating cops (by God's…
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Aug 10, 2020
Ep 43 Solitude vs Loneliness: Celebrating Friendship
God knows we need each other, at every age and stage. Here are 6 descriptions of a good friend. I hope you can celebrate friendship alongside of me today!
There's a difference between loneliness and solitude. One is debilitating, and the other is necessary.
“The most terrible poverty is loneliness and the feeling of being unloved.”-- Mother Teresa
Mother Teresa saw the worst in poverty yet here she knew deep down in her bones: loneliness is the worst kind.
I'm so thankful that Jesus sticks closer than a brother.
Feeling alone today? Text a friend. Invite her for tea and granola. She may need your tea and granola more than you do. I've shared this recipe before - have you made it yet? I got it from my friend, Stephanie at ReadCookDevour.
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Aug 3, 2020
Ep 42 A Legacy of Your Worth, Rebecca Hastings
I found a kindred spirit in today's podcast with Rebecca Hastings. Rebecca is not only a woman of words, but a woman who knows her worth found in God and His Word. You will love her!
A little about Rebecca:
Rebecca Hastings is a writer and speaker encouraging women to find real faith for real life. A wife and mother of three in Connecticut, she is the author of Worthy: Believe Who God Says You Are and Daily Meditations for Christians. Her work has also been featured at Relevant Magazine, (in)courage and The Washington Post. She can often be found typing words, driving her kids places or wherever there is chocolate.
Buy her books here (I just did!) --
Worthy: Believe Who God Says You Are
Daily Meditations for Christians
Subscribe to her weekly 10-second pause of inspiration and hope at myinkdance.com.
Rebecca's favorite recipe looks perfect and simple!
Tuscan Minestrone Soup
1 c. sliced carrots
1/2 c chopped celery
1 c chopped onion
2 cloves minced garlic
2…
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Jul 27, 2020
Ep 41 God's Inclusivity and Four Aspects of His Hospitality
John 4 tells the familiar story of Jesus meeting the woman at the well and how He offered her what she really wanted even though she didn't know what that was!
God's welcoming heart is revealed to the woman at the well, someone who was an outcast in so many ways, and we learn 4 things about showing hospitality, and they all have to do with trusting God.
On the surface, this looks like it’s the woman’s hospitality to Jesus, but it quickly switches to God’s hospitality to her.
“This is your invitation, and it’s the invitation of a lifetime.”
In this familiar story, we find lovely interchangeability of hospitality: God welcomes us and we welcome Him into our lives.
God's welcome is abundant, as we read in Psalm 36. He initiated the relationship by creating us. He welcomed us back by sending His Son. And at the same time we play host to Him—He knocks on our door, and we welcome Him into every corner of our lives. We say, “Lord, make Yourself at home in us. We are at y…
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Jul 20, 2020
Ep 40 Three Girls Out to Change the World: A Legacy of Kindness, with The Ruth Experience
Julie, Kendra, and Kristin—creators of the growing online community The Ruth Experience—are three friends whose lives are intertwined as writers, speakers, wives, moms, and world-changers. They are the authors of five books, including their most recent The One Year Daily Acts of Kindness Devotional and 100 Days of Kindness. They believe that when we walk together as women, we can unleash new possibilities for ourselves—and others.
Why a legacy of kindness? It all began with moms talking about the length of their kids' Christmas Wish Lists. How could pass on a legacy of giving vs receiving at the most wonderful time of the year? Advent Acts of Kindness was launched and the rest is history.
When we look for ways to show kindness, we live more intentionally. We put it on the calendar. We follow through with actions instead of only thinking something is a good idea. And the best part?
Our kids soak it up and become leaders in kindness without our having to tell them to be kind.
O…
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Jul 13, 2020
Ep 39 Got the Mommy Blues? Nothing is Wasted When Walking Close to Jesus
There's nothing worse than knowing you have the greatest job in the world and feeling like a failure in that job. How can we parent with joy, confidence and purpose?
Parenting is difficult (ask God, the Perfect Parent!) yet there is joy in the journey. And God, our Shepherd, is our comfort.
Sarah Young wrote in her book, Jesus Calling:
"Nothing is wasted when you are walking close to Me." (April 10)
Nothing, Lord? That means whether I'm parenting, cooking, cleaning, resting - living! -- it doesn't matter what, what matters most is that I walk close to Jesus.
This is my To-Do List to ensure I do just that:
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A crockpot or instant pot is a mom's best friend. If I can prep dinner at 9 am, I can rest easy at 6 pm when everyone's hungry, tired, and downright snappish. This simple and robust recipe is from the Flores family and we love it.
Tri-Tip Tacos
Place trimmed tri-tip in the crockpot
Pour over two cups of salsa of your choice
Check two hours before dinner if it's…
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Jul 6, 2020
Ep 38 God's Called You to a Wonderful Story—Don't Settle! with Doris Cush
Doris Cush says she's not a patient person but she is a waiter - she knows to wait on God to bring something beautiful from ashes, strength from weakness, faith from pain. The moment you meet her, you know you are loved as she invites you to make Jesus your best friend, no matter what you are going through.
In her own words:
People know me as Doris Cush. but my narrative is encapsulated in a tagline. I’m an “Honest Survivor Embracing a Savior Honestly.”
As I tackle the tough and tender issues we often face, God allows me to turn obstacles into opportunities and trials into trust-filled moments by sharing P.E.P. Talks. It's His gift of providing Perspective, Encouragement, and Peace to life. This year, I published my latest book, "Word Twist: God's Word Imagined In New Ways" and rolled out a weekly podcast I've aptly entitled "Spur-1-On." If I'm not encouraging someone on Instagram, I'm working alongside my "right name/wrong guy" church planting, worship songwriting husband, Da…
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Jun 29, 2020
Ep 37 A Long Life Well-Lived, Wisdom from Annadale White
My friend and mentor, Annadale White, just turned 95. Don't you love that? In her own words, "For some reason, God wanted me to live a long life." She didn't want to be interviewed but I didn't want you to miss out on knowing some of her exuberance in Jesus and her godly wisdom.
Annadale, a PhD in Education, former college professor, Bible teacher, wife, mother, and grandmother is first and foremost, a woman of the Word. She trusts God instinctively, yet she took a while to succumb to the wooing of her Savior. Why? She knew God would want all of her and she didn't want to give in too readily. A smart woman, even from a very young age.
Everyone needs an Annadale in their lives. I called her the other day to see how she was faring in COVID-19. She asked, "How are you, Sue?" I replied, "I'm mad at Mark, if you want to to know!" She said, "Oh, I'll pray for Mark!" Ha. She was supposed to say, "Oh, I'll pray for you!" Whichever, the prayers worked, I'm happy to report. I called to encoura…
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Jun 22, 2020
Ep 36 You Already Count! with Molly ZagRodny
I love my friend, Molly ZagRodny. She's real, loves Jesus, and me! She's the first to say there are no easy answers to our struggles of life on this side of heaven. Yet she trusts God, continues to learn, and serves others humbly.
Molly's Legacy:
For others to know the extent of God's love for them
To offer hope and continue in faith in light of hard questions, suffering and embracing the truth of Scripture
To help others know that we don't earn His favor--we already count in His eyes.
"Your life already counts! I want to live from that freedom that our being loved by God brings. If God already loves me, then I can do scary things because my relationship with God is not at risk." - Molly ZagRodny Originally from Seattle, WA, Molly ZagRodny has served with Cru (the US ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ) for almost 30 years. She's been married to David for 22 years, and has two basically adult children who make her smile and pray every day. When the nest gets really empty, Molly…
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Jun 15, 2020
Ep 35 When Is OK to Boast? Pride, Sand, and Seeds
I need to beware of anything that begins with: "I pride myself in..." I'm sure to fail. I hope to fail. That way I'll remember God is the author of anything worth boasting in. Our gifts and talents are from Him to serve (or in my case, sometimes entertain) others.
Listen today for 3 steps on how to keep pride at bay, totally out of your mind and heart so that God "frees you up" to glory in Him and serve others with abandon.
As Glyn Evans wrote:
"The only way my gifts can live, thrive, and prosper is by using them for others. Kept for myself, they and I will die. The deadness that we find so stifling in the world is not the deadness of inactivity, but the deadness of accumulation."
Jesus explained the pride and dying conundrum in John 12: "I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives." John 12:24
There you go: die to self and fruit appears.
I've been…
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Jun 8, 2020
Ep 34 Start With What's In Front of You with Aly Chase
I first found Aly when I read the lessons she learned when her husband made a dining table from pallets (donated from Whole Foods) and an old door in the garage. I loved everything about those lessons - especially this one: "(The fact that their table is a door) is not lost on us as we open our doors and our lives to those who come and leave with full bellies and fuller hearts." Hear how Aly is learning to turn struggles into assignments, and her assignments all have to do with loving people and her Creator. She's an avid outdoors-woman, loves Compassion International, healthy cooking, and Revelation Wellness. Connect with Aly below: Instagram: @heyalychase Facebook: Aly Chase Revelation Wellness and RevWild: revelationwellness.org Also, find them on Facebook at Revelation Wellness-Healthy and Whole. There is a large community there. Mold sickness education and support: Email Aly: alydchase@gmail.com Or call our office at RCS: (615) 504-0156 Recipe for the soup she makes and freezes fo…
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Jun 1, 2020
Ep 33 Who I Am Determines My Behavior (So I Better Know the Truth of Who I Am)
I know it takes a lifetime to become like Jesus, but one thing--perhaps the main thing--that helps is remembering who I am. I'm a new creation, and new creations act and speak a certain way. My identity in Christ - chosen and forgiven - informs how I live. I speak differently. I act differently. All because of my identity. This list helps me.
My pastor reminded me of our identity when speaking from Ephesians 5--
I am a beloved child -"Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children." verse 1
I am a saint (I'll remind my kids!)- "..as is proper among saints." verse 3
I am light - "..but now you are light in the Lord." verse 8
Recalling who I am, makes a difference in how I behave.
God made me a foodie, too, and I love any recipe from my friend and blogger, Stephanie from ReadCookDevour. I made this yesterday and plan to make much more, box it up in Tupperware and pass it around like cigars! (Healthier than cigars) YUM!
THE BEST GRANOLA
Recipe ingr…
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May 25, 2020
Ep 32 From Abandoned to Anchored, with Micah Maddox
Micah's story from abandonment into healing encourages us to look to Jesus and His Word to fill our souls and hearts. No matter what wounds and disappointments we experience, we can find our hope by hiding under the shadow of His wings.
Her legacy includes living with an eternal perspective which is easy to say but takes working out on a consistent basis. Micah mentions these three contrasts that are "red flags" and remind her to go to God for her daily bread:
Worrying vs Praying
Barking at the kids vs Training the kids
Griping at my husband vs Serving my husband.
I think we can all relate with these three contrasts, Micah. Thanks again for sharing your story.
Micah Maddox is a women’s conference speaker, Bible teacher, blogger, and author of Anchored In: Experience a Power-Full Life in a Problem-Filled World. She is passionate about helping women find purpose, peace, and calm in our chaotic world. As a pastor’s wife, mother of three, and foster mom, she contributes her time…
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May 18, 2020
Ep 31 I'm Good At Excuses Why NOT to Obey God -- What Are Yours?
We can always think of a reason NOT to do something we don't want to do. I'm an expert at thinking up creative reasons to say "no" to God's big idea. "I'm too tired. I'm too old. I don't think I'm hearing correctly..."
God gives grace, yes. But He also loves our obedience and He will give us the strength to do what He's asked us to do.
Be hospitable isn't a suggestion, it's a command. So why don't we do it?
Today I list (just) 8 reasons why we don't. Can you add a 9th? Share in comments.
I mean, why bother?
I get it.
So I wrote this course. For you and your friends. You can pay once and invite a (small) group and take the course together. Swap stories, ideas, and encouragement. Just stay 6 ft apart and bring your own pen and coffee cup. It's a party, but not too big of a party for now.
Half-Off for a limited time. Buy Now. You're invited.
Make scones. Or buy. It's your party.
Lori's Orange Scones (Printable version here.)
Sale on my NO-FEAR HOSPITALITY Course - Half-Off for t…
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May 17, 2020
Ep 30 A Legacy of Living Beyond Ourselves with Lorraine Maksoudian
Jesus called us to live life beyond ourselves in Matthew 6: 19,20- "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth . . . But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal." And He gives us two good reasons:
Heavenly treasures last--no rats or thieves! And they focus our hearts: "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (verse 21)
I want my heart focused on what God treasures. Whenever I spend time with my friend, Lorraine, I get a boost in that direction and I'm grateful.
Lorraine Maksoudian is the mentor of many and you'll see why when you listen to today's podcast. Her legacy includes:
* Teaching the attributes of God to 1st Graders for 18 years (starting with our Mary Grace, 24)
* Reality is much deeper than it appears
* No experience of a believer is ever wasted
* Memorize God's Word and review systematically
* Celebrate how God has made us unique
* Hand off your…
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May 4, 2020
Ep 29 Rest Stops with God, Part 2
So God graciously invites us to come to Him. We need to come. So why don’t we?
Why do we ignore the signs for rest stops? What excuses do we make when Jesus has so gently invited us to rest?
I can think of at least two.
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Prayer to Pray (Before Getting Out of Bed in the Morning)
“So far today, God, I’ve done all right. I haven’t gossiped, I haven’t lost my temper. I haven’t been grumpy, nasty or selfish. I’m really glad about that. But in a few minutes, God, I’m going to get out of bed, and from then on, I’m probably going to need a lot of help. Amen.”
I wrote "Habits Worth Having: Take Five" on Women Wielding the Word last week. What do you think? Is your relationship with the King of the Universe worth five minutes a day?
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How to invest in what matters beyond ourselves. We have one life - let’s make the most of it for God, others, and eternity. Subscribe: Choose one of these popular free listening services, and subscribe there: O…
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Apr 27, 2020
Ep 28 A Legacy of Grace and Love (and Healthy Eating!) with Angela Sackett
Angela, from Everyday Welcome, is a professional photographer, food blogger, and since recording this podcast, she's become a WHOLE30 Certified Coach. Today Angela shares her legacy of grace, pouring into others, and finding He and His Word are all that's needed.
My redheaded younger "sister" (:
Follow Angela Sackett on her website or these media links:
https://www.everydaywelcome.com
Facebook.com/everydaywelcome
Instagram: @everydaywelcome
Angela Sackett is a wife, momma, home educator, speaker, author and photographer (and her house is perpetually in need of a good dusting!). She blogs at Everyday Welcome, where she encourages women to open their hearts and homes to God and others, living as salt and light right where they are. She shares recipes, devotional thoughts, and inspiration for home and family.
Angela combines her love for Jesus and the Whole30 eating healthy system in her unique course: REFINED JOURNEY
Join Angela for 6 weeks of menus, printable recipes, Scripture…
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Apr 20, 2020
Ep 27 Rest Stops with God, Pt 1
Someone said, “Ministry is spillage.”
When we are so full up of God ourselves, our ministry of love and exhortation and healing for others is simply the natural outcome.
Helping others is a by-product of seeking God and finding our rest in Him. In other words, we don’t seek to help others first, but that happens when we seek God first. Loving others is an overflow of loving God.
“Lay thy head upon my breast and lose thyself in Me.” - Francis Roberts. And when we do, others get blessed as well as ourselves.
In Ephesians 3:19 Paul prays they will be filled up to all the fullness of God. I can't begin to understand "the fullness of God" but if he prayed for it, I will, too-- for me and for my family.
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These muffins are a welcome treat for you during your quiet time or to share with a friend or neighbor.
Granola Muffins
1 stick butter, melted
3/4 c. sugar
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 c. milk
1 1/2 c. flour
1 T. baking powder
1/2 t. salt
1 1/2 c. unsweete…
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Apr 13, 2020
Ep 26 A Legacy of Prayer with Katy Taflinger
I love my friend, Katy Taflinger and I'm excited to share her with you today. Katy owned the famous Apple Farm Inn and Restaurant for many years and went on to open the beautiful interior design store, Porch, Home, and Garden. She exudes love, welcome and beauty - and most of all, a deep well of trust in her Savior.
::::::::::::: How to invest in what matters beyond ourselves. We have one life - let’s make the most of it for God, others, and eternity. Subscribe: Choose one of these popular free listening services, and subscribe there: OR Subscribe to Welcome Heart's weekly email newsletter, blog updates, and podcast notes, here!
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Apr 6, 2020
Ep 25 Praying More These Days? That Can Only Be Good
Do you ever say, "All I can do is pray!" And then forget to pray?! And isn't that thinking the wrong way around? The most anyone can do is pray. I forget that all too often.
Some thoughts on the goodness of prayer:
“Prayer does not fit us for the greater work; prayer is the greater work.” – Oswald Chambers
God's interested in what He does in the person praying as much as the answer to that prayer.
“God can handle your doubt, anger, fear, grief, confusion, and questions. You can bring everything to him in prayer.” – Rick Warren
There's no surprising our Heavenly Father with our innermost thoughts and griefs and frustrations - so he welcomes us to come to Him day in and day out, like a good, good Father.
“Prayers outlive the lives of those who uttered them; outlive a generation, outlive an age, outlive a world.” – E.M Bounds
I can't get over that thought: our prayers outlive us. Sounds like legacy living. Makes me want to pray more, you too?
"It is possible to…
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Mar 30, 2020
Ep 24 A Legacy of Connection and Ignoring The Naysayers in Your Head with Lisa Lewis
Lisa is one of the most encouraging and smart people you could know and follow. Whenever I need reminding that God is in control, that He sees me, and that I'm here for a purpose, I call Lisa!
Here you go: Facebook Lisa Lewis Coaching Lisa Lewis Instagram Lisa Lewis LinkedIn Lisa Lewis Coaching Website
Parmesan Chicken
(aka Mrs. Jeffrey’s Chicken)
2 c. seasoned bread crumbs
¾ c. grated parmesan cheese
1 cube of butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste
1 T. dried oregano
2 cloves minced garlic
7 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Rinse chicken breasts and pat dry. Cube the chicken into pieces about 1” x 2” (approximate—even size helps even cooking)
Measure coating ingredients into a bowl.
Put cubed chicken into a large gallon Ziploc style bag; pour melted butter over chicken pieces. Add coating ingredients into bag; close and shake to cover the chicken with the coating.
Spray a 9 x 13 casserole dish; pour coated chicken into dish, spread around to evenly cover the…
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Mar 23, 2020
Ep 23 Sheltering Well--What's That Mean to You?
As the "elderly" parent--Mark is three years my junior--I'm learning how to shelter-at-home and trying to do it well. Not always successful. I'm getting reprimands from my kids: "MOM, WHERE ARE YOU GOING??"
I woke up today remembering the old hymn: "Shelter in the Time of Storm." I can hear my mom singing with a long pause on the first "Oh" of the refrain: "OOHHHHH, Jesus is a Rock in a weary land, a weary land, a weary land. OOHHHHH, Jesus is a Rock in a weary land. A shelter in the time of storm."
Not my favorite tune but true enough.
Hoping you are sheltering well. Listen in--we are trying new gather-round-the-table ideas and they are fun!
Here's Ashley's great Instagram-reminding us Who God is which is the most important thing to remember. #thisonetinylife
Today's recipe is Kitchen Sink Frittata!
Saute slivered red onions in oil
Add leftover cooked sweet potatoes and poblanos
Chop and add the 3 leftover cooked sausage patties
Add 1 cup of fresh spinach - Cook all til soft…
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Mar 16, 2020
Ep 22 A Legacy of Love and Awareness--Poised to Serve! Cindy Langford
I've known Cindy for many years. She's the real deal: kind, gracious, humble, and a successful businesswoman. And she loves Jesus!
Cindy Langford's legacy:
To be kind because you never know another person's entire story.
To remind our kids (and ourselves) that wherever you are, there's Jesus!
To recognize that hard times are preparation for exciting times of service for God.
"I've felt weak and powerless and on my knees. But I have courage in Him. I have hope in Him.
My eyes are open, My head is up, and I can't wait to see how God is going to use me." - Cindy
Cindy Langford is a Pampered Chef Executive and I call her the PC Queen! Always gracious, accepting and loving. She lives what she preaches. Anyone on her team is privileged and blessed.
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One of Cindy's favorite recipes: Chicken & Broccoli Braid
* 1 cup (250 mL) chopped broccoli florets
* 2 cups (500 mL) chopped cooked chicken breasts (see Cook's Tip)
* ½ cup (125 mL) diced red bell pepper
* 1 cup…
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Mar 9, 2020
Ep 21 A Legacy of Mentoring: To Come Alongside
I love to describe MENTORING as to "come alongside" another which is found in The Message version of II Corinthians 1: 3 and 4--
“God comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, He brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us.”
I Corinthians 1:3,4 The Message
Mentorship is a two-way relationship:
1. You and God 2. You and another
You want to relate intimately with God because He made us for Himself. And He never stops going after us. Of course, we need to respond. People don't RSVP much these days. You can change that right now when you respond to God's invitation to know and love Him better. He invited first. I love that about Him. And He invites us into the process: coming alongside another who needs to know and love Him, too.
And then when God brings someone into our lives who needs to know that He's pursuing them, too, we get to come alongside and pass o…
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Mar 2, 2020
Ep 20 Legacy of a Surrendered Life: "I Want What You Want" Gretchen Fleming
Gretchen's passion is to follow hard after Jesus, knowing He is the treasure of a lifetime and worth every minute she commits to Him. God’s Word has been life-changing for her through the most trying times—a great source of strength, wisdom, and truth. Active in women’s ministry for over 25 years, she loves to see Jesus change lives as He’s changed hers.
As an international speaker, she has had the privilege of teaching women of an underground church in China and village women in Peru. She is an active national and local speaker for conferences, retreats and women’s events. As a Bible teacher, Gretchen has written/taught Bible studies for the past 20 years. As a writer, she actively blogs through the chronological Bible at GretchenFleming.com.
Her first book Press On! Encouragement to Keep You Moving When You Feel Overwhelmed is available on Amazon.
Gretchen teaches and mentors women locally through her church, The Church of Eleven22, which is the sixth fastest growing chu…
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Feb 24, 2020
Ep 19 Marriage is a Marathon, Part II
I had a blast interviewing my darling nieces who married into Mark's family. They are young and wise and committed to their marriage. Maybe that's the key to staying in the race: commitment to God and marriage. The word perseverance isn't my favorite word, but a good marriage takes perseverance as well as trust that God is doing a good work - in you and in your spouse.
I love Paul's take on that in Philippians 1:6 - "And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." Sounds like God is in the business of completing a marathon.
Two books worth reading:
Love and Respect by Emerson Eggerichs
How to Improve Your Marriage Without Talking About It by Love and Stonsy
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Take your blog to the next level. Sign up for free training from Elite Blog Academy below or send to a friend:
::::::::::::::::: How to invest in what matters beyond ourselves. We have one life - let’s make the most of it for God, other…
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Feb 17, 2020
Ep 18 A Legacy of Noticing and Boldness with Helena Davies
Helena Davies writes at helenadavies.com - Inspiring Women to Live Radiant in Christ
Helena's desire is to encourage women everywhere to look to Jesus for hope and love, and step out in boldness for Him.
In her own words:
Somewhere during the years when my now-adult children were toddlers through teenagers, I lost that childlike awe of God, and in doing so I lost who I was as His daughter. I had become buried under the many hats and labels I wore.
I had to get to know God again. I hadn’t realized how far away I felt from Him. It was in getting to know Him through praying, reading the Bible and spending time with other believers the awe of God I had lost slowly resurfaced.
My favorite Scripture verse is Psalm 34:5 “Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.”
It’s only as we focus on Jesus will we lose the baggage of our past. When we exchange shame for His grace we will live for something beyond ourselves.
Choose not to get caught up runn…
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Feb 10, 2020
Ep 17 Marriage is a Marathon, Part I
A wise friend told me at my wedding shower, "Marriage is a marathon, not a 50-yard dash!" I may have smiled indulgently at her words and immediately forgot! I was aglow with love and felt like our love could and would conquer all!
I remembered it later and she was right.
These tips continue to help me and bless our marriage.
If you'd like to print this out, here's the link.
::::::::::: How to invest in what matters beyond ourselves. We have one life - let’s make the most of it for God, others, and eternity. Subscribe: Choose one of these popular free listening services, and subscribe there:
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Feb 3, 2020
Ep 16 Do You (Really) Believe You Matter? with Brittany Couch
Brittany Couch believes you matter.
What's more important, God believes you matter. Thoughts on Legacy living from Brittany Couch: * You matter. We need you here. I want every person I meet to know this. * Your legacy is not something you achieve, it’s someone you are. In other words, it’s not about checking the boxes and getting a gold star in achievement. It is who you are, not what you did. There is a big difference. * In a healthy community, you are heard, you are needed, you are missed, you are equipped, you are empowered. Those in healthy community receive all these, and at the same time give all these as well. * Characteristics of a healthy community:
* Listen and ask good questions, with the intention of really getting to know someone. (They will instantly feel they matter, which leads to trust).
* Trust. Creating a safe environment.
* Collaboration. Unity and working together with a common goal.
* Surrendering my expectations and judgments of a circumstance or p…
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Jan 27, 2020
Ep 15 Exchanging Angry Triggers for Gentle Biblical Responses with Amber Lia
Amber reminds us that our legacy can change with different seasons, as well as the surprising twists and turns of life, but one thing remains constant: the more we act like Jesus, the better our legacy will be. We can ask ourselves each morning: "What does the Lord want from me today?" How we treat just one person, in kindness and love, not surrendering to the normal "triggers" that are our natural bent, is how we show the love and grace of Christ on a daily basis.
Get this book for yourself and for a friend: Marriage Triggers: Exchanging Spouses' Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses
Release date 1/28/20 http://bit.ly/MarriageTriggersBookPreorder
A former high school English teacher, Amber is a work-at-home mom of four little boys ranging from 3 to 13. She is the best-selling co-author of Triggers: Exchanging Parents’ Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses and Parenting Scripts: When What You’re Saying Isn’t Working, say Something New. She and her husband Guy o…
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Jan 20, 2020
Ep 14 Are You in a Mentoring Relationship?
To mentor and be mentored is a sure-fire way to live a legacy life. God is all about people and He loves us to draw alongside a sister in the faith, and share what He's been teaching us in His Word and showing us about His character. There is no more exciting way to live.
As a mentor, we need to direct others to Christ, but we can’t do that well unless people feel safe with us. So that they know they won’t get hammered with a sermon or hit over the head with your headful of Bible knowledge. When Mark and I were first married we both knew a lot of Scripture and we could throw it at each other rather than let it us change us instead. That’s one reason Paul wrote: Knowledge puffs up. (I Corinthians 8:1) Yes, it does, and causes damage when used as a form of making us feel like we’re better than the person who knows less than we do.
The whole concept of mentoring is that someone knows less than the mentor – they need you and your knowledge, but they need your love all at the sa…
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Jan 13, 2020
Ep 13 Intimacy with God in a Time of Transition with Pat Fenner
Today we get to hear from Pat Fenner's legacy of blessing:
Embrace your worth in Christ--"He loved you enough to die for you!"
Listening as an act of love
Called to deeper intimacy with God in a time of transition
"There's nothing that you can experience that God is not aware of, drop in His lap and He will hold you and meet your every need." -Pat
Pat's blog this week brings our attention to the plight of human sex trafficking and offers a practical list of things we can do as individuals or ways to include our families to fight this war. Check out her Action Guide to Fight Human Trafficking here.
Thank you, Pat, for helping us help others. Author and veteran homeschooler Pat Fenner feeds her passion for encouraging and inspiring homeschooling moms by writing at her blog Breakthrough Homeschooling. Catch her excitement about parenting and homeschooling middle and high-school-aged young people and get practical help when you subscribe to the site. Amazon author page: amazon.com/au…
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Jan 6, 2020
Ep 12 A Legacy of Goals and Strategies, for Heaven's Sake
Listen to what one young pastor wrote:
Resolve
I’m part of the fellowship of the unashamed. I have the Holy Spirit power. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made—I’m a disciple of His. I won’t look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, my future is secure. I’m finished and done with low living, sight walking, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, worldly walking, cheap giving and dwarfed goals.
I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits or popularity. I don’t have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded or rewarded. I now live by faith, lean in His presence, walk by patience, am uplifted by prayer, and I labor with power.
I'm inspired by his faith and commitment. God expects an unrivaled commitment to Him. And in return, He gives us all that we need and will ever want. I can live with that kind of exchange.
What goals…
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Dec 30, 2019
Ep.11 "One-Armed Bandit"—Legacy of Dependence with Mabel Pittman
Mabel's legacy is:
* Boasting in the Lord
* Accommodating change in different chapters of life
* Practicing joy in spite of circumstances
Mabel Pittman, 84, is a former Pastor's wife, missionary, Bible Study teacher, retreat speaker, and director of women's ministry and is a dear friend, mentor and prayer-warrior. She loves to laugh and she loved my folks--both attributes are good enough for me! She's affectionately called the "one-armed bandit" as she was born short an arm, and went on to do everything she ever wanted to do, including play concert piano. We all need a Mabel in our lives and now I get to share her with you.
Wisdom from Mamma Mabel:
Keep your eyes on eternal values and stay in God's Word.
Be ready to change those things that we can change about ourselves.
Accept the things we cannot change as from a Father Whose heart is kind above all measure.
Do not expect everyone to buy into your lifestyle or belief system, so make it a point to pray and love.
Don't be…
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Dec 23, 2019
Ep10 Making Room for What Counts
It's easy to let everything and everyone get in the way of making room for what really counts at Christmas: the baby Jesus! Here's a reminder to help all of us live with God first and foremost, filling up our lives the way we were made to live.
The funny thing is when we make room for Jesus, He makes room for all that we need and want.
Making Room Printable.
ZUPPA SAUSAGE AND BACON TOSCANA SOUP (printable version here)
A great soup for Christmas Eve Soup and Bread Potluck - easy to make room for stray lambs when soup is in the crockpot.
Ingredients:
1-2 T. olive oil 6 slices bacon, diced 1/2 lb. ground Italian Sausage (Mild or Hot) 1 brown onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 qt. chicken stock 3 baked potatoes, cut into chunks 1 c. heavy cream (I use half-and-half) salt and pepper 2 c. kale (I've used spinach in its place on occasion)
Directions:
Heat oil in a large pot Add sausage and bacon and cook When almost cooked through, add onions and garlic Cook until onions are soft…
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Dec 16, 2019
Ep 9 Legacy of the Word, Aimee Walker
Aimee Walker from Auckland, New Zealand, a former pastor, writes for The Joyful Life Magazine, serves as their community leader, and writes Bible Studies so that women grow up in Jesus.
You can find Aimee here: https://www.aimeewalker.co.nz/ And her Bible Studies here: https://joyfullifemagazine.com/product-category/bible-studies/ Order your copy of The Joyful Life Magazine here What Amiee says about our spiritual legacy: "Slow and deep." Maturity can't be rushed. Don't feel the need to race through the Word--there are times and seasons for doing things like reading through the whole Bible in a year, and grasping the big picture. But there's also much to be said for slowly and systematically reading through books of the Bible. We gain understanding as we repeatedly read and as we take the time to meditate and dig into its truth. The same is true for those we're reaching out to and ministering to--don't be discouraged when there are not instant results. Just be faithful to sow what God…
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Dec 9, 2019
Ep 8 What Does a Joy-filled Woman Look Like?
The sure way for joy and peace is talking everything over with your Heavenly Father. He's in the details and He's into you! My gift for you: "Five Prayers to Get You Through the Holidays."
God knows all about expectations, communication, peace, forbearance, and celebration--and He loves hearing from us!
And here's your bookmark: 10 Facts of a Joy-filled Woman (Print below)
To print click here.
:::::::::::::: Christmas is all about Christ, right? I can struggle with allowing the Lord Jesus to have the main stage. Subscribe to my blog today and receive: "5 Ways to Keep Christ as the Centerpiece of our Holiday Entertaining"
:::::::::::::: How to invest in what matters beyond ourselves. We have one life - let’s make the most of it for God, others, and eternity. Subscribe: Choose one of these popular free listening services, and subscribe there: OR Subscribe to Welcome Heart's weekly email newsletter, blog updates, and podcast notes, here!
Read Sue's blog -- Make it Count: Livin…
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Dec 2, 2019
Ep. 7 Five Prayers to Get Us Through the Holidays
God is interested in every detail of our lives so any prayer is a worthy prayer. Which of the five do you need most today?
To read the transcript of "Five Prayers for the Holidays" click here.
A shorter prayer version - you know we're in a hurry this time of year. Take time to pray these every day!
For a printable version, click here.
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Read Sue's blog here--Make it Count: Living a Legacy Life To receive Welcome Heart's GOD-THOUGHTS AND SIMPLE RECIPES INCLUDING PODCAST in your inbox weekly: SUBSCRIBE HERE. How to invest in what matters beyond ourselves. We have one life - let’s make the most of it for God, others, and eternity. Subscribe: Choose one of these popular free listening services, and subscribe there:
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Nov 25, 2019
Ep. 6 A Powerful Woman is a Grateful Woman
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Colossians 2:6,7
Do we have to wait for a disaster before we become a thankful person?
I want to be that kind of person who is secretly delighted because I know something that others may not: Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.
Reminds me of a plaque I had on my wall in college: "Do we have to wait for a desert before we enjoy water?"
Let’s set our minds on thanking God in all things, and set our lips on a low-simmer – except, of course, we are telling everyone what a great God we have.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving – Let’s be delighted and be a delight – both make us powerful women, all for heaven’s sake.
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Powerful Sweet Potato Casserole
by Heather Worsley Prep time: 1 hour Cook time: 30 mins Total time: 1 hour 30 mins Serves: 5-6 Mom used ca…
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Nov 18, 2019
Ep. 5: What Does God Love Most About the Holidays?
Hospitality is hard work but worth it all when you invite someone to your table who needs an invitation to God's table. Your invitation is what God loves best about the holidays. Invite Him to lead you, and then pass on His invitation.
Matthew 5:16 in The Message
If you'd like to print this out and tape it up in the pantry or inside a cupboard door - just for a sweet reminder, here you go.
Recipe for punch:
Hot Spiced Tea/Punch
(Delectable Collectibles)
1 t. whole cloves
1 stick cinnamon
1/2 t. allspice
1 gal. water
2 1/2 T. tea leaves or 3 tea bags
1 can or more frozen orange juice
1 can frozen lemonade
1 1/2 cups sugar
Tie spices loosely in a bag and bring to boil in water. Add tea and steep five minutes. Remove bags, add juices and sugar; bring to a boil and serve. May be made ahead and stored in refrigerator. Reheat in crockpot when ready to serve. Greet your guests with steaming cups and they will love you (even more than they already do.) I like to use Mom's glass s…
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Nov 11, 2019
Ep. 4: Maureen MacPhie: A Scottish Hospitality Legacy
Maureen MacPhie from Scotland exudes hospitality! She knows the value of an open invitation to our tables for something as simple as a scone and a cup of tea. I was able to interview her while she and her husband were on holiday (as they say) in the south of France - where they hosting new friends from Sweden! I love how God sets His people in all places in the world to eat together and enjoy His hospitality fellowship.
Maureen says that if you make these, your guests will keep coming back! And that you don't need to be too exact in the measurements! (Love that Maureen.)
CHEWY FRUITY BARS
5 ozs corn syrup
4 ozs butter
4 ozs white chocolate, broken up into pieces
5 ozs porridge oats
4 ozs dried apricots chopped
4 ozs sultanas
2 ozs rice crispies
METHOD
*
Melt syrup and butter over low heat.
*
Add white chocolate and stir till melted.
*
Mix dry ingredients together in a large bowl and pour in melted ingredients.
*
Mix well.
*
Press into a small baking tray or 8"…
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Nov 4, 2019
Ep. 3: Dominica Lumazar: Surrender and Joy - Two Peas in a Pod
Dominica's Legacy includes good health: spiritual, emotional and physical
Living with God's priorities: "Show me what's next, Lord?" (And He did!)
When our Creator is the center of all things, our lives will count.
"I get up each every morning with joy in my heart that I get to have another day to make my life count." - Dominica Lumazar
"How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone." James 4:14
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DOMINICA LUMAZAR is the founder of Sweet D Marketing and a world-renowned Strategic Marketing and Branding Consultant. She is also an award-winning #1 International Bestselling Author who has been featured on FORBES, ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, and Total Prestige Magazine. Dominica has consulted hundreds of companies across a multitude of industries. CEO’s, CMO’s, and many celebrities rely on her expertise to run their marketing and branding campaigns. With 10+ years of experience runnin…
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Oct 28, 2019
Ep. 2: Lasagna Legacy: Keeping Hospitality Simple, All for Heaven's Sake
People can find Jesus at our table – it’s as simple as that. God has a “welcoming heart” and we get to show His heart through hospitality.
The world’s idea of hospitality warps our view, making hosting so much effort, we give up before we even begin. As my friend, Liz, said:
"Hospitality is a metaphor for how God woos us. When we welcome others, we welcome them to God." - Liz Heaney
And I like to add: "And God is waiting all along for their arrival." Our arrival. That's you and me.
Lori's Lemonade Chicken in a Crockpot, click here.
For Trishee's Wonderful Crockpot Lasagna recipe, click here.
Another one that's equally wonderful is Crockpot Zucchini Lasagna with Hamburger, click here.
And if you prefer chicken over beef, try Florentine (spinach) Chicken Lasagna, click here.
This is great reminder as you fill your crockpot and invite your guests, all for heaven's sake:
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Oct 13, 2019
Ep. 1: Make It Count - All About Time
Living a legacy life - one that counts - includes a universal truth: we all have the same amount of TIME. What we do with time makes all the difference.
Instead of becoming anxious or frantic since we only have "so much time", here are three calls to action:
We pay attention
We pray for wisdom
We surrender daily
Prayer for today: Dear Father, Help me recognize the brevity of time. Not so I get uptight or frantic or depressed. No! The opposite. So that I join with You, joyfully making each day count for something beyond myself. Thank you and Amen.
Read my blog here-- Make it Count: Living a Legacy Life
Subscribe to my blog at WelcomeHeart.com here to receive weekly thoughts on faith, legacy and a good recipe or two. Welcome, welcome! So glad you came!
Think about what legacy you want to leave:
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