Christians SPEAK UP! —Your Source for Christian Talk Radio

A serious diagnosis took Lori Ann Wood on a faith detour she never saw coming. As a lifelong believer in Jesus, she felt profound disappointment in the God she thought she knew. Wanting answers, but more than anything, needing permission to ask the questions, Divine Detour is a result of a risky decision to embrace those difficult questions. In this episode of Christians Speak Up! Lori shares her hard-won insights through her journey, inviting you go deep into the heart of a God who often doesn't behave as we might wish. https://loriannwood.com/books/

Join us for a chat with Allen Arnold, author of "Waves of Creativity." * Create New Things With God * Start Seeing Yourself the Way God Sees You * Use Your Art and Creativity in New Ways The Creator of galaxies, oceans, wildflowers, and stallions made you creative. He gave you an imagination. Eyes to see what has never been. A voice to speak things into existence. The reason why is astonishing. It's not so you'll get busy doing things for God. But so you'll pursue the very things you love with God. That is true creativity. And this is your invitation to experience it as never before. Allen Arnold—noted creativity author, coach, and speaker—has helped thousands with his teachings on co-creating with God. This book brings together his central insights on topics such as Imagination, Opposition, Questions, Wonder, and Expectancy. Each page features original quotes or timeless Scripture that, like waves, will wash over you, refresh you, and stir you to greater creativity. Your art wants to grow deeper, wilder, truer. It's just waiting for you to go first. It is a journey best taken one thought at a time. The goal isn't to get somewhere fast. But to become more fully you along the way. https://www.withallen.com/books

R. Christian Bohlen is a professional communicator. He is a #1 Amazon best-selling author and an award-winning consultant to Fortune 500 companies, providing instructional design services and developing human performance improvement programs. He has been involved in ministry and church leadership for more than 30 years and worked for over a decade with juvenile offenders as an educator. He's enjoyed a successful career in corporate training, resulting in prestigious personal and team awards including the 2013 Brandon Hall Silver award and the 2015 ISPI Outstanding Human Performance Improvement award. He holds a Master of Science degree in Communications from Clarion University of Pennsylvania. Christian has been active in his faith throughout most of his life, serving in his church family and witnessing of Christ to many. He speaks regularly at congregations in central PA and central FL. His interest in writing Christian learning materials developed twenty-five years ago as he looked for simple resources to help youth understand the Bible and find Christ. Unable to find brief, plain-English materials about the life of Jesus, he decided to begin writing and ultimately blogging.   https://rchristianbohlen.com/ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BZV95NZ/ http://StormyMarriage.info

Join us for a chat with John Riddle, founder of I Love To Write Day. https://ilovetowriteday.com/ "My goal for I Love To Write Day is to have people of all ages spend time writing. They can write a poem, a love letter, a greeting card, an essay, a short story, start a novel, finish a novel…the possibilities are endless. But I want people to take the time to put their thoughts down on paper. They will be amazed at the results. “Writing can be fun, but also challenging. People need to be challenged, and writing is but one of many creative ways to express yourself. I am very excited because I Love To Write Day activities are already being planned all across the United States. “For many people, that will be the beginning of their writing career. I Love To Write Day has the potential to launch the career of the next John Grisham, Mary Higgins Clark, Stephen King or Toni Morrison.” Be encouraged with John's latest book: The Flying Nun, A Light Bulb Moment and Me: 40 Years Making Money As A Freelance Writer (Hey, You Can Do It, Too!) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09JB63C5P/

In this edition of Christians Speak UP! Ester Lovejoy talks about how holiness is not an endless list of “thou shalt nots.” It's not how we behave, what we think, or how we react or respond to life and the people around us.  A frequent retreat and conference speaker with over thirty years of ministry experience, M. Esther Lovejoy leads us back to the scriptural understanding of holiness. In An Unnatural Beauty, you'll discover… •    Foundational truths from Scripture •    The path to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God •    Holiness can't be achieved through our own efforts. With relatable stories, Esther challenges us with God's call to holiness and encourages us with God's enabling to make this real and practical in our lives. Holiness is not a what, but a glorious Who, and He's inviting you to share in His divine nature. Buy An Unnatural Beauty today and begin your journey toward a more intimate relationship with God. Book Ester for your next women's event! https://viewfromthesparrowsnest.com/ lovejoy988 (at) aol.com

Timothy Holder has published several books on presidents, their faith, and leadership. His interest in presidents is both a cause and effect of his work as a History professor. Tim's Christianity is the source of his interest in faith as a writing topic. And over the years, he has been a boss, and has been bossed around, hence the interest in leadership. He has a Ph. D. and a Masters degree in History from the University of Kentucky. He also received a Masters in Applied Theology from Carson-Newman University, and during his undergraduate studies at Asbury University he majored in both Bible and Education (with a History emphasis for the latter).Tim is former Assistant Dean in the Behavioral and Social Science Division at Walters State Community College. Join us on our Christians Speak UP podcast as we discuss Tim's books: Devotions with Presidents, Presidential Stories, Ask the Professors Keys to College Success, and Presidential Character: Geroge Washington-John Qunicy Adams. https://www.amazon.com/Timothy-D-Holder/e/B002BMICP0?

Nancy E. Head attends the non-denominational First Church of Christ. Nancy is a lifelong resident of Blair County in central Pennsylvania, dwelling for most of her years in Altoona―with a brief interval in Logan Township. She is a graduate of Penn State and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She teaches Advanced Placement English at Great Commission Schools and composition classes at Penn State Altoona. Nancy is a United States Armed Forces Mother and a member of the Blair County Republican Committee and Toastmasters. Nancy worked in both radio and print journalism before becoming a high school and college-level teacher. She blogs about Church and social issues twice weekly, and CBN.com has published several of her devotionals. Her experiences as a single mother raising five young children showed her how poverty alleviation is an issue for the church and an issue requiring a Church in accord. Written in an easy-to-understand, conversational style, Restoring the Shattered is an account of Nancy E. Head's journey through single-motherhood and poverty. The permanent divide between her and her husband led to a shattering of their family as the children settled into separate camps. The story begins when Nancy and her children have little to eat. Through a miraculous intervention, God provides—and leads them along their way. Other interventions and more guidance came from people of different denominations, illustrating Christ's love through the larger Church. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H2QDPRM/

Sherry's heart is to share everything she can about recovery and what it looks like to surrender to God and the life He is calling you to live. What do you struggle with? Drugs? Alcohol? Food? Shopping? Relationships?  Whatever it is, She Surrenders! is the right place to find encouragement for today and find comfort that you are not alone. We all have our stuff. Let's fine hope together. Find freedom from those things that hold you captive every day and enjoy have renewed strength to stay on your journey! https://www.shesurrenders.com/

Drawing from her international experiences as the wife of a career naval officer and attaché that have taken her from the east coast of the USA across the Pacific to Hawaii, the Atlantic to Europe, the Gulf of Mexico to South America and back, Penny shares in her book, Bounce! Don't Break, the way she has learned to bounce-back from set-backs and emerge from unwanted change stronger, more authentic and resilient.   She also writes for children and is the author of the Amazon bestseller, "Little White Squirrel's Secret – A Special Place to Practice," dedicated to her severely autistic granddaughter, and the picture book in rhyme, Rodeo Mouse and The Greatest Escape Plan in Mouse History. She is currently working on Piper Tales-The Adventures of a Very Lucky Black and White Dog. These stories were originally published in a local newspaper and on-line as a popular children's serial. Her blog, A Thought From Penny, is a continuing source of encouragement that provides specific tactics, practical advice, stories and words of encouragement to help readers develop and maintain a strong inner foundation and build resilience for the challenges of life's ups and downs. Learn more at: PennyLHunt.com

Carol grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and lived in the Midwest most of her married life. In her first novel, Lake Surrender, Carol uses her love of Michigan lakes to tell a story of a woman to see a greater hand at work amidst her struggles with abrupt change and difficult circumstances. With slices of humor, Carol writes of the hardships many face, especially single moms. Her characters include the parent of a disabled child, a displaced employee, a lonely widow and a once homeless young man.  https://www.carolgstratton.com/

Jay Mills is the author of The Game On! A Coach's Game Plan For Discipleship. He is an accomplished writer and sought after speaker who offers a unique and biblical perspective on leadership, discipleship, and personal and spiritual growth. Whether during the pivotal moments of our lives or in our routine days, we all need the inspiration of a coach. Regardless of the topic, Jay Mills conveys a message that needs to be heard. https://coachjaymills.com/

Join Jane Herlong as she talks about all things South, Southern, and sassy from her new book, Sweet Tea Secrets from the Deep-Fried South: Sassy, Sacred, Southern Stories Filled with Hope and Humor. Southern humorist Jane Jenkins Herlong brings joy and humor with her 50 unusual-but-true faith-filled stories of growing up in the South Carolina low country. Whether you love Southern ways of life or find their ways strange and amusing, you'll be entertained and inspired with warm Southern-fried humor and tried-and-true tips for attaining the best version of yourself. Jane's 50 stories address specific landmark events along with issues in a woman's life, such as fitting into the covered-dish church culture, sacred sisterhood, sassy seasoned Southern women and why we are drawn to beauty pageant competition, and much more! SiriusXM Southern humorist Jane Jenkins Herlong, journeyed from the rows of  her father's tomato farm to the runway of the Miss America Pageant and beyond, Jane ‘s Southern storytelling compels audiences to laugh- out-loud while learning how to deal with difficult people, through unexpected challenges  and say “NEXT” when people tell you “NO."

Del Duduit a life-long resident of the Southern Ohio area and an award-winning writer. As a sports writer, he won two Associated Press awards for columns. As a broadcaster and news director, he received an award from the Ohio News Network. In television, Del earned a sales award from The WB Network. For the past several years, he's been a pharmaceutical sales professional.  Del's dabbled in the freelance arena and has many articles published in Sports Spectrum — a quarterly magazine dedicated to highlighting Christian athletes. He's interviewed Andy Pettitte of the New York Yankees and recently spent some time with Andy Dalton of the Cincinnati Bengals. Del is a contributing writer for OneChristianVoice.com, Sohiovoice.com, and also a guest blogger for Almost an Author, and have been published in The Sports Column as well as ToddStarnes.com and Clubhouse Magazine — a publication of Focus on the Family. In addition, Del writes for PM Magazine, a quarterly publication that highlights the positive aspects of Southern Ohio, where he lives with wife Angie. They have raised two godly men who are both preachers, and Angie sings and plays piano at Rubyville Community Church. Del's new book Dugout Devotions releases in February, 2018. https://www.amazon.com/Dugout-Devotions-Inspirational-Stars-Faith/dp/156309133X

Cheryl Crofoot Knapp is passionate about using her life experiences to encourage others. She is a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, speaker, author, blogger, and Mrs. Minnesota-America 1996. Her book, Undefeated Innocence: How God Helped My Parents and Me Navigate the Alzheimer's Journey, combines personal and humorous anecdotes with Biblical truths to share His hope and encouragement to caregivers, and includes factual information and research. Cheryl was a caregiver for her parents who both died of Alzheimer's. She cried out to God, “Where are you in Alzheimer's?” Undefeated Innocence is a study of the Beatitudes with the fruit of the Spirit, and includes lessons and tools she learned in caregiving. Undefeated Innocence is a challenge to find God's calling and to know that His grace is always sufficient. Cheryl believes that those who have been through much are called to give much. She encourages readers to find passionate patience, look for life's collateral beauty, and recognize that it's okay to store toothpaste in an underwear drawer. She and her husband are members of First Baptist Church of Mountain Home (Arkansas). She participates in Walks to End Alzheimer's and has served in Bible study, worship, evangelism, and prison ministries. She founded Regifted Grace Ministry and shares her contagious faith at conferences, retreats, banquets, and churches, as well as on television and radio. Her husband Chuck is inducted into the Minnesota Broadcasters Hall of Fame and is highlighted as one of only a hundred radio jocks in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland.

A murder . . . A mystery . . . A monster . . . Is there a vampire killer running loose in Transylvania, North Carolina? Last summer, Nick Caden became an Internet celebrity for almost a whole day when he discovered Billy the Kid's killer in the "living" ghost town of Deadwood. (Not the real Billy the Kid -- he's been dead for years.) When the owner of the Cool Ghoul Gazette learns of Nick's super sleuthing skills, he hires Nick to investigate the death of a vampire. In Transylvania, North Carolina, Nick finds a corpse with fangs, bite marks and a stake driven through its heart. But once he begins to peel back the clues surrounding the murder, Nick finds his new job is not only dangerous but could suck the life out of him. Review links: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FBM962X/ https://www.audible.com/pd/B08FBJ82DQ Listen to this audiobook for free! at audible.com/acx-promo with these promo codes: US codes: FHY7NLDZP9DLF J8K9ZLNES8QRE KX7CAQQ7PT3S8 KYFHS3BFXWSJB M2HMGG52XPFJZ MYKDSSUQBBYSD MYRJ5QQMTN2YA R5773ZAWQ5GWS RNUL68BBKTPYT UTLYWZZFMCMF6 WP3WKXF42ZRDP ZX2PRC79FTXJW UK codes: H5GDMEHKYG4Y9 HNHUFSM8UD6U6 NLPXNUZWDECFK RETKFZQXBRSYX RME69A3HY8LFB TYHS464ZD9WG2 UQP83QU46KYZU Y6P8PUDKYZ4Q4 YNBU6J2MAP8LU

Voddie Baucham wears many hats. He is a husband, father, former pastor, author, professor, conference speaker, and church planter. He currently serves as Dean of Theology at African Christian University in Lusaka, Zambia. Voddie makes the Bible clear and demonstrates the relevance of God's word to everyday life. However, he does so without compromising the centrality of Christ and the gospel. Those who hear him preach find themselves both challenged and encouraged. Voddie's area of emphasis is Cultural Apologetics. Whether teaching on classical apologetic issues like the validity and historicity of the Bible, or the resurrection of Christ; or teaching on biblical manhood/womanhood, marriage and family, he helps ordinary people understand the significance of thinking and living biblically in every area of life. It is impossible to understand Voddie's approach to the Bible without first understanding the path he has walked. Raised in a non-Christian, single-parent home, Voddie did not hear the gospel until he was in college. His journey to faith was a very unusual and intellectual one. Consequently, he understands what it means to be a skeptic, and knows what it's like to try to figure out the Christian life without relying on the traditions of men. As a result, he speaks to ‘outsiders' in ways few Bible teachers can. Voddie and his wife, Bridget have been married since 1989. They have nine children: Jasmine, Trey (Voddie, III), Elijah, Asher, Judah, Micah, Safya, Amos, and Simeon. The Bauchams are committed home educators. To find out more about Voddie, his books and resources, visit his web site at: https://www.voddiebaucham.org/  

A murder . . . A mystery . . . A monster . . . Is there a werewolf running loose in Sleepy Hollow? ★2020 Selah Award Finalist - Middle Grade Fiction★ When his mom's childhood friend invites Nick to stay on her estate in Sleepy Hollow, New York, Nick reluctantly agrees. On the train ride up Nick re-examines the news accounts in the "Daily Crawler" for any clues as to the mysterious death of Candee Brenneman. Law enforcement officials claim a wolf or some other large animal killed the jogger under a bridge in Rockefeller State Park. Large misshapen paw prints were found around the body. There were also bite marks on her hands, and arms. Her death, occurring during a full moon, have led some to suggest that a werewolf may be running loose in Sleepy Hollow. Nick knows there is no such creature as a werewolf, but as he digs into the case, he uncovers hints that part of the werewolf legend may be true. Now, as the last full moon of the month rises over Sleepy Hollow, Nick is about to learn that some monsters are real. And the worst kind of monster is the one you never see coming. Available online at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GCWWQR5/ and https://www.audible.com/pd/B08GCX9573 Listen to this audiobook for free! at audible.com/acx-promo with these promo codes: US codes: E64YGYKNDZJY8 K5T2N3B9SL4UT YC6MJ78YZ54PH UK codes: 4BX9RCRYYNE8H 6SBPZXD5WG6TC 7T4EDHL9MY9U5 7W9YEQUL2PB45 7XUCPFGUWKZ2P 9GLECT4BLD6Z2 9L8F24WN6SUPG

Kevin Sorbo has enjoyed success on television for over twenty consecutive years, a feat rarely accomplished by an actor. Sorbo quickly rose to stardom in the title role of the hit series, Hercules, the Legendary Journeys. The immense popularity of the five initial 2-hour telefilms in 1993 resulted in the launch of a weekly series by 1994. The series not only became a breakout hit by becoming the number one first-run program in syndication, it also passed Baywatch as the most watched TV show in the world. Now the "God's Not Dead" and "Hercules" actor Kevin Sorbo is urging churches of all sizes to back faith-based and God-glorifying films, especially in a culture that has an “ever-increasing anger” toward Christians.  “I get stopped, and 80% of the time people say, ‘Please make more movies like ['God's Not Dead'],'” Sorbo revealed in an interview on Abby Johnson's hit podcast, "Politely Rude." “It's amazing — pastors will stop me and say, ‘You can reach so many people. I'm a pastor of a small church.' And I go, ‘I don't care how small your church is. We need your support.'”

At the conclusion of a seminar on, “Trances and Visions: Exploring the Out-of-Body Experience,” the wealthy daughter of a prominent physician approaches Ricky with an offer. "If my father could fix things so your mother would receive the best cancer treatment for free, would you go back in time to clear my ancestor's good name?" Ricky explains that he can't simply will himself to have an episode and take a time-travel trip. "Absence seizures don't work that way. Even if I could go back, I can't control when and where I end up.” But Ricky also knows there have been instances where someone claimed they slipped into a trance and saw past and future events. "They saw things," Ricky says to the rich girl, "but didn't change what happened in the past." Moments later Ricky finds himself in pirate land with Stede Bonnet, a rich sugar plantation owner who thought becoming a pirate might be a fun way to live out the rest of his life. Set sail from Barbados with Bonnet's crew as they slant west towards the North American coast, and run afoul of the British Royal Navy, the good citizens of Charleston, and the pirate Blackbeard. Get the audiobook online: amazon.com/dp/B08VD48YKM/ http://www.audible.com/pd?asin=B08VDYWD6D Listen to this audiobook for free! at audible.com/acx-promo with these promo codes: US: B3K8M5636UD9J DJGEQWC9SSUYD EDP32HCC3NS87 FJHEXJ83PWR8K JRNAEHNPFZ68X L37WEY9GX3DZB L3WC88NBNQH8X L77LAEHRPXDR8 LRLSTRWCTJSTJ MCDUR6JXXMRJF N2JCUSRKLS6TD  

2020 Selah Award Winner for YA Literature While searching for rumored treasure in a cave on Coffin Cay, a small island off the southwestern tip of Haiti (Hispaniola), Ricky suffers an absence seizure. During his last trance-like episode, Ricky uncovered a treasure from the Nuestra Señora de Riqueza, a vessel in an armada of ships sailing the Spanish Main. Now back on Coffin Cay with his parents, Ricky hunts for the treasure he found in the cave over three hundred years earlier during his trip back to pirate land. The End of Calico Jack is a fictional retelling of the pirate escapades of Calico Jack, Anne Bonny, and Mary Read. The story is based on historical research of the life of "Calico Jack" John Rackham. Some liberties have been taken in the telling of the story, but many of the events reflect what historians believed happened to Jack, Mary, and Anne.  Also, in real life those who suffer absence seizures may appear to be in a trance but cannot recall what happens during their episode.  Get the audiobook online: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08NVQ36FQ/ http://www.audible.com/pd?asin=B08NVR1L9N Listen to this audiobook for free! at audible.com/acx-promo with these promo codes: US codes: GSAJ9MYB827A5 U4YMS2HU3SAAZ UUBRY36HBBH4P WDDBA3234NK97 UK codes: RP8DARKW4ZRJR WND2DAZZJXQEL YXDHQAKHX3Y2X ZA7FAYCK97D9L ZSQWC5UN5GR7W

Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott McCausey tackles Krabbe Disease with NFL Hall of Famer Jim Kelly and his wife Jill. Two weeks after Jim Kelly retired from his Hall of Fame career with the Buffalo Bills, his son was born. He and his wife, Jill, were ecstatic. The protégé son had arrived full of life and promise. The Kelly family was growing and life seemed perfect. With their two-year-old daughter, Erin, shadowing their every move, Hunter adjusted to life…Kelly style. And while he initially appeared to be just a very fussy infant, Hunter was actually fighting for his life. The news of his fatal, genetic disease was shocking. It's every parent's deepest terror. Jim and Jill were told that Hunter would not live to see his second birthday. With no treatment, no cure, and ultimately no answers, desperation set in.  What do you do when your family's world is turned upside down? What do you do when you don't know what to do? How do you face the trauma and press on when all hope is gone?  The Kelly family turned to God. Following His lead, Jim and Jill have become authors and the founders of Hunter's Hope. Find out more about their lives as they share this powerful testimony. You can also help discover more about Krabbe Disease by visiting http://www.huntershope.org.

Join host Marianne Jordan for an archived edition of  Christian-Devotions-SPEAK-UP with #1 New York Times bestselling author Nicholas Sparks. Nicholas Sparks has published twenty one novels and two non-fiction books, all of which have been New York Times bestsellers, with over 115 million copies sold worldwide in more than 50 languages. Eleven of his novels have been adapted to film, including The Choice, The Longest Ride, The Best of Me, Safe Haven (on all of which he served as a producer), The Lucky One, Message in a Bottle, A Walk to Remember, Nights in Rodanthe, Dear John, The Last Song, and The Notebook, with a cumulative domestic box office totaling more than $574M. Sparks lives in North Carolina, where he contributes to a variety of local and national charities. In 2011, he launched The Nicholas Sparks Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to improving cultural and international understanding through global education experiences for students of all ages.

On this episode of Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! our host Marianne Jordon interviews Emily Fitchpatrick of Hope House about the serious problem of sex trafficking - modern day slavery for young girls and women. Emily is the founder and executive director of On Eagles Wings Hope House. OEW is a refuge for girls who are rescued from sex trafficking. OEW offers assistance to those still trapped, and restores those that have survived by offering hope, empowerment, and a brighter future. OEW focuses on prevention, outreach, aftercare, and empowerment. Listen and learn how you can invest in a life.

Michael Wolff is founder and director or Reconnections Ministries. Jesus' Great Commission to us was to make disciples, yet for all of modern Christendom's preaching, teaching, and activities the polls reveal we are failing the vast majority of men. Just as it was 2,000 years ago when Jesus came to earth, the temple worship religious model now fails God's people. It is our mission to help the many men now languishing in pews across this land to awaken to the reality of a literal kingdom of heaven on earth and engage the great adventure of the Christian faith! At Reconnections Ministries we seek the reawakening of Christian men because it was men God ordained to lead in their homes, their fellowships, and their communities. It is our passion and calling to help men find Jesus' great adventure by following Him out of their temples and in to kingdom living in the marketplaces of life once again, and then beyond that to the establishment of true “Acts” church communities! You can also find Mike at work with Marketplace Saints, a ministry dedicated to creating communities across the country that bring individuals, businesses, and ministries together in one place for work, for fellowship and for community. 

This is a rebroadcast of an interview with Rob Cook, author and founder of 252 Underground. Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! as Scott McCausey and Rob talk about the troubled youth in our country. Rob Cook has been working with teens for over thirteen years – meeting them on the street, lending a hand, buying a lunch, sharing his life and his faith. "I just want to do for others what someone did for me when I was a teen," says Rob. In 2006, Rob rented a building at 3 West Main Street in Lansdale, PA to create a place where teens could come, be accepted, hang out, hear good music, play games, meet some role models, and hear a story that changed the lives of millions. There have been many challenges, but the changed lives have been worth it! Rob has been writing since he was about fifteen years old. He is well known for short stories that are thought provoking – teaching without preaching. He tackles real life topics that no one else wants to address. Rob's first published work, Regener8, is scheduled to be released in September of 2012 through Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Keep an eye out for Regener8. Check out Rob's ministry at http://www.252underground.com/252/.

This is a rebroadcast of a previously recorded episode of Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” The First Responders in your community do just that. They sacrifice comfort and safety to protect the lives of others, always waiting, and always wondering when they will find themselves answering the next call. Pat's book, Answering the Call is a collection of inspirational stories based on his experiences as a street paramedic in Durham, North Carolina. Each unique story is written as a devotional with an insightful application section that offers the reader a glimpse into God's Word. Use it for your daily devotions, as a guide for your small group study, or simply to share Pat's experiences and better understand the lives of paramedics and other first responders. Pat is a writer, a photographer, a paramedic, a volunteer chaplain, and an instructor of Emergency Medical Science. His stories are true, based on real experiences from the streets of Durham, North Carolina where he served as a street paramedic for seventeen years. 

This is a rebroadcast episode of Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! Join us this week as Zena Dell Lowe shares her faith and how it impacts her work in film. Zena is a screenwriter, producer, and filmmaker based in Bozeman, Montana, and one of the owners of the Mission Ranch and Mission Ranch Lodge. As an actress, Zena worked successfully in Hollywood for over thirteen years in theatre, independent films, and national commercials. In 2000, Zena transitioned to the writing and filmmaking side of the business when she attended the acclaimed Act One: Writing for Hollywood Program, which led to her first paid writing gig for the short film The Haunted Heart, for which she won a Silver and a Telly Award. Soon after, Zena was honored to become the Associate Director of Act One and began teaching at writers' conferences around the country. In 2005, Zena moved back to Montana to help take over the family ranch after her mother's untimely passing. Today, Zena helps run the family businesses, writes, produces, and directs full time. She also teaches classes on screenwriting and playwriting as an adjunct professor at Covenant College in Georgia, performs with the acclaimed Vigilante Theatre Company around Montana, and is the director of theatre arts at Journey Church in Bozeman. 

Ron Benrey passed away on MAY 11, 2014. This broadcast is from a previously recorded episode of Christian Devotions Speak Up! Ron Benrey was perfectly content in middle age with being sort-of Jewish. He saw Christianity as a collection of nonsensical teachings that most believers don't understand and can't explain. But on one ordinary August afternoon, God "flipped his switch"- without an invitation and without any warning. Almost instantaneously, everything Ron had heard about Christianity made perfect sense. Seconds later he knew that he'd become a Christian. Ron's efforts to learn how to write mystery fiction played a central role in his unexpected conversion to Christianity. Ron imagined writing himself into a novel and abruptly understood that the Incarnation was possible and how God could be a Trinity. The Day God Flipped My Switch tells the fascinating story of Ron's remarkable change of mind and heart-and the novel teaching approach that God used to convey the truth of Christianity to him. Whether you're a fellow late bloomer or you became a Christian much younger in life, Ron shows you how to use the same ways of thinking to build your faith and grow your understanding of Christianity. Ron Benrey, author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing Christian Fiction, began his writing career as Electronics Editor of Popular Science Monthly. He is an experienced non-fiction writer who has written more than a thousand bylined magazine articles, eight published books, and scores of major speeches for the CEOs of Fortune-100 companies. Ron holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a master's degree in management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and a juris doctor from the Duquesne University School of Law. He's a member of the Bar of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Suzie Benforado was a missionary for over 25 years who spent most of her missionary time in Romania. This is a rebroadcast of an episode shortly before her passing. "Before starting in this new ministry, I could have never imagined myself involved with a church planting effort. But now, I bit down the road, it seems to me that everything that I've ever done in my Christian life and as a missionary was preparing me for this time and this place. This is such an amazing feeling... knowing I am here for such a time as this." Her journey has been marked by many amazing demonstrations of God's power-- healings, deliverances, and salvations.Join in and listen to how God is changing the world one soul at a time.

Esther has a strong passion for mental health. She manages events and workshops sharing her story to inspire and influence the upcoming generation. In a secular world where identity is based on societal standards, Esther reassures that everyone has a unique gift that shouldn't be compromised despite the current circumstances. Using her life experiences, she shares stories of how her Faith strengthened the third year of university. She has had several interviews with different pod-casters including Premier Gospel Radio, The Authors Podcast, Keeping It Real Radio, and Power Xtra Radio. She has been invited to the Barclays Wealth Management to talk about the vision of Authentic Worth, as well as speaking at her previous University (of Kent) at the Kent Africa Summit in March 2019. She has two years of property management experience and is knowledgeable in fashion. Esther is looking to support new and aspiring authors in writing their first book, providing them a platform to share their story and turn it into purpose.

Joleen Steel is the curriculum specialist for Camping Stick Kids. She has a B.A. in elementary education. She taught public school for ten years before deciding to open her own music studio and homeschool her boys. Joleen is a pastor's wife and grew up as a pastor's kid. Her love for the good news of Jesus Christ flows out of her and into the Camping Stick Kids curriculum. Her easy style and creative approach to teaching will encourage your student to learn the Gospel story and be able to share the good news with their friends and family. Joleen would love to have you visit the camping stick kids website and blog at campingstickkids.org.

Del Duduit a life-long resident of the Southern Ohio area and an award-winning writer. As a sports writer, he won two Associated Press awards for columns. As a broadcaster and news director, he received an award from the Ohio News Network. In television, Del earned a sales award from The WB Network. For the past several years, he's been a pharmaceutical sales professional.  Del's dabbled in the freelance arena and has many articles published in Sports Spectrum — a quarterly magazine dedicated to highlighting Christian athletes. He's interviewed Andy Pettitte of the New York Yankees and recently spent some time with Andy Dalton of the Cincinnati Bengals. Del is a contributing writer for OneChristianVoice.com, Sohiovoice.com, and also a guest blogger for Almost an Author, and have been published in The Sports Column as well as ToddStarnes.com and Clubhouse Magazine — a publication of Focus on the Family. In addition, Del writes for PM Magazine, a quarterly publication that highlights the positive aspects of Southern Ohio, where he lives with wife Angie. They have raised two godly men who are both preachers, and Angie sings and plays piano at Rubyville Community Church. Del's new book Dugout Devotions releases in February, 2018. https://www.amazon.com/Dugout-Devotions-Inspirational-Stars-Faith/dp/156309133X

Del Duduit a life-long resident of the Southern Ohio area and an award-winning writer. As a sports writer, he won two Associated Press awards for columns. As a broadcaster and news director, he received an award from the Ohio News Network. In television, Del earned a sales award from The WB Network. For the past several years, he's been a pharmaceutical sales professional.  Del's dabbled in the freelance arena and has many articles published in Sports Spectrum — a quarterly magazine dedicated to highlighting Christian athletes. He's interviewed Andy Pettitte of the New York Yankees and recently spent some time with Andy Dalton of the Cincinnati Bengals. Del is a contributing writer for OneChristianVoice.com, Sohiovoice.com, and also a guest blogger for Almost an Author, and have been published in The Sports Column as well as ToddStarnes.com and Clubhouse Magazine — a publication of Focus on the Family. In addition, Del writes for PM Magazine, a quarterly publication that highlights the positive aspects of Southern Ohio, where he lives with wife Angie. They have raised two godly men who are both preachers, and Angie sings and plays piano at Rubyville Community Church. Del's new book Dugout Devotions releases in February, 2018. https://www.amazon.com/Dugout-Devotions-Inspirational-Stars-Faith/dp/156309133X

Zack Shelton and 64 to Grayson have scuffs on their boots from all up and down the east coast and nothing is looking to slow them down.  Voted one of the “Top 20 Most Prospective Groups” by Music Connection Magazine, Zack Shelton and 64 to Grayson's unique blend of backwoods instruments, lyrical wit, and hardwood-pew values makes for an experience that will leave you with a smirk on your face and a tap in your toes. The band's six-foot-three lead-singer, Zack Shelton, seen with acts such as Josh Turner, The Gaithers, and The Charlie Daniels Band is unmistakably no stranger to the stage. Being the son of Gospel musician Thomas Shelton, Zack gets his passion for music honest.  Teaming up with Zack to form 64 to Grayson is cohort Craig Cunningham. In January of 2018, Zack and 64tG released their newest album “Between the Pews” which marked their fourth full-length studio album.  The record's first two singles, “Mercy We Don't Deserve” and “Jesus in That”, have captured the attention of listeners both new and old alike.  Geared toward an array of all ages and backgrounds, Zack Shelton and 64 to Grayson has lit a fire of a following that is burning brighter with each show.  “Whatever God is getting ready for us,” notes Zack, “we'll be charging at it face first and full-throttle.” In September of 2018, Brody Allen was battling for his life and a small town banded together to give him one last Christmas celebration. The Lord welcomed him home late October. Now Brody's brother Andrew fights for his life following an accident. Zack has recorded a song in honor of #TeamBrody and hopes to raise money to help the Allen family in this time of need.

Long before his YouTube videos went viral, spawning an appearance on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and a performance with the surviving members of Queen on “American Idol,” Marc Martel spent 13 years recording and touring the globe with Canadian rockers Downhere. Not only did the rock band visit all 50 American States, but also toured throughout Europe and even Northern Africa, collecting worldwide acclaim and four Juno Awards in their native land. Marc Martel has spent his career praising the Lord with his musical talent. From the famed group Downhere, to a solo musician and the Queen Extravaganza Tour lead singer, Marc's testimony shines clear. Enjoy this episode of music and insite into his life.   

Eddie is Founder and CEO of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and co-founder of Christian Devotions Ministries. He is also an award-winning novelist of middle-grade fiction for boys. In 2016 LPC was named Publisher of the Year at the Greater Philadelphia Writers Conference. LPC Books launched its general book publishing division in 2007.  Cindy Sproles is an author and speaker. She is the cofounder of Christian Devotions Ministries. She is a novelist and best-selling author. She is a speaker to women's conferences addressing not only the heart of women, but also their biblical responsibilities to their families. She is a contributing author to CBN.com and is the Executive Editor for www.christiandevotions.us and the Managing Editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas' imprints: SonRise Devotionals and Straight Street Books. Her book, New Sheets – Thirty Days to Refine You Into the Woman You Can Be is being used to help raise funds for Hope House, an abortion crisis center and her novel, Mercy's Rain, is giving a voice to children who suffer sexual child abuse. Her latest award winning book is Liars Winter. She is the mother of four adult sons and  lives in the mountains of East Tennessee with her husband. Cindy can be contacted at www.cindysproles.com or by emailing cindyksproles@gmail.com.

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She combines unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers' Choice, and Carol award contests. Firewall, the first book in her Houston: FBI series, was listed by Library Journal as one of the best Christian Fiction books of 2014. DiAnn  is co-director of The Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference and The Mountainside Marketing Conference with social media specialist Edie Melson where she continues her passion of helping other writers be successful. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country. DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She's an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas. DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on: Facebook, Twitter, or any of the social media platforms listed at diannmills.com Grace Egert is an elementary school student in Friendswood, Texas. She loves to write short stories for her family and friends. Grace's hobbies are basketball, gymnastics, reading, making videos, and hanging out with her friends. Want to take her out to eat? Her fav food is Chinese, and she loves root beer. Grace is active in her church. She enjoys short-termed mission trips.

Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott McCausey tackles Krabbe Disease with NFL Hall of Famer Jim Kelly and his wife Jill. Two weeks after Jim Kelly retired from his Hall of Fame career with the Buffalo Bills, his son was born. He and his wife, Jill, were ecstatic. The protégé son had arrived full of life and promise. The Kelly family was growing and life seemed perfect. With their two-year-old daughter, Erin, shadowing their every move, Hunter adjusted to life…Kelly style. And while he initially appeared to be just a very fussy infant, Hunter was actually fighting for his life. The news of his fatal, genetic disease was shocking. It's every parent's deepest terror. Jim and Jill were told that Hunter would not live to see his second birthday. With no treatment, no cure, and ultimately no answers, desperation set in.  What do you do when your family's world is turned upside down? What do you do when you don't know what to do? How do you face the trauma and press on when all hope is gone?  The Kelly family turned to God. Following His lead, Jim and Jill have become authors and the founders of Hunter's Hope. Find out more about their lives as they share this powerful testimony. You can also help discover more about Krabbe Disease by visiting http://www.huntershope.org.

Karl's first book, An Eye for Glory: The Civil War Chronicles of a Citizen Soldier (Zondervan, 2011), received a number of accolades including PW's “Top Inspirational Fiction Pick,” a Christy Award Finalist designation, and 4.7 out of five stars on Amazon. Karl grew up in the picturesque town of Woodbury, Connecticut. From youth Karl has been a serious student of the Civil War. His first book took ten years from conception to completion. Thousands of hours were spent researching every detail through copious reading, Internet research and personal visits to each battlefield. He was committed to making the novel as historically accurate and believable as possible. Karl lives in Naugatuck, Connecticut with his wife of thirty-three years, Jackie. Discover more of Karl's writing ministry at www.kbacon.com.

After years of working with broken people through different recovery venues such as divorce and various 12-step groups, Robin Gilbert Luftig founded Renew Ministries in 2009 with the purpose of sharing God's plan for healing with spiritually- and emotionally-broken men and women. She has written From Pain to Peace: A Journey to Peace After Divorce and often speaks on what she discovered from her research. Robin communicates openly and practically with great energy, passion, humor, warmth, and grace. Because of her compassion for brokenhearted people, Robin counts serving all of God's people as one of her greatest privileges in life. Robin is currently working on, God's Best During Your Worst. This personal memoir tells of redemption and triumph over brokenness when she faced paralyzing fear and discovered there is no place so far from God that He cannot reach through and redeem a willing heart. Robin and Lew are the parents of five wonderful children. Discover more of Renew Ministries and Robin's testimony at www.robinluftig.com.

Catherine Jacobs has lived in the SC Lowcountry for 25 years.  During that time she raised her family of four children and became heavily invested in her community church.  St. Paul's, Summerville, eventually became both a place of worship and employment, as she served on the parish staff for 14 years as the full-time Director of Children and Family Ministry. As part of this team, Catherine transformed the children's ministry into a center for training parents and grandparents who encourage their children to become life long followers of Jesus.  This passion for increasing the impact of a parent and grandparent's impact on their child's heart led to the creation of Pass the Legacy. Today, Catherine continues her service to the Kingdom and fellow grandparents and grown parents through the ministry of Pass the Legacy: www.passthelegacy.wordpress.com.

Del Duduit a life-long resident of the Southern Ohio area and an award-winning writer. As a sports writer, he won two Associated Press awards for columns. As a broadcaster and news director, he received an award from the Ohio News Network. In television, Del earned a sales award from The WB Network. For the past several years, he's been a pharmaceutical sales professional.  Del's dabbled in the freelance arena and has many articles published in Sports Spectrum — a quarterly magazine dedicated to highlighting Christian athletes. He's interviewed Andy Pettitte of the New York Yankees and recently spent some time with Andy Dalton of the Cincinnati Bengals. Del is a contributing writer for OneChristianVoice.com, Sohiovoice.com, and also a guest blogger for Almost an Author, and have been published in The Sports Column as well as ToddStarnes.com and Clubhouse Magazine — a publication of Focus on the Family. In addition, Del writes for PM Magazine, a quarterly publication that highlights the positive aspects of Southern Ohio, where he lives with wife Angie. They have raised two godly men who are both preachers, and Angie sings and plays piano at Rubyville Community Church. Del's new book Buckeye Believer, 40 Days of Devotions for the Ohio State Faithful releases in April, 2018.

The heartbeat of Life Action has always been their local church team ministry, because of the interaction and involvement with God's people in a personal and protracted way. Not only are biblical truths preached, they are lived out in front of the body of Christ. It's about putting new life into action! Life Action is burdened to challenge God's people to quit “playing church.” They not only have a vision for revival, but a passion to see God use this ministry to bring revival to His church. Life Action Ministries has three Revival Teams that travel the country sharing this message of hope. Each team is comprised of two Revivalists and their families, as well as a worship team and youth team. Schuyler Baxter lives in southern IL and has traveled with Life Action for one year as an electric guitarist. He's been familiar with the ministry for a long time. Over the last 7 years, four members of my family have traveled on road teams. Cameron McCausey calls Michigan home and has been touring with Red Team for three years. His time with the ministry has grown his faith, where he leads worship with a guitar in his hands. Josh Beam resides in Drummonds, TN and has played instruments all his life. He is the current drummer of Red Team and takes the reigns as worship leader next year.

Doug Smith is a grateful follower of Christ and an avid Bible student who is willing to follow the truth wherever it leads. He brings an insider's perspective on the power of technology, informed by over two decades of web programming experience and a lifetime of Bible study. Doug writes and speaks on the desire-shaping influence of screens, Christian theology, and apologetics. He is blessed by his wife Lyneta, who is also an author and speaker and writes at ww.lynetasmith.com. Smith and his wife are empty nesters, and share four grown daughters and two grandsons. They were homeschoolers for many years. The Smiths currently live near Nashville, Tennessee after living most of their lives around the Pacific Northwest. Discover more about Doug at www.thatdougsmith.com.

Join us this week on Christian Devotions SPEAK UP! when Scott talks playoff baseball and Jesus with former Los Angeles Angels player Terry Evans. Terry Evans was born and raised in Dublin, GA, where he continued to live until he graduated from Trinity Christian School in 2000. He went on to attend Middle Georgia College for two years before being drafted and signing with the St. Louis Cardinals. After five minor league seasons, Terry made his first big league appearance in 2007 with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. He played in parts of three Major League seasons with the Angels and eleven full seasons in the minor leagues with St. Louis, Anaheim, San Francisco, Philadelphia, and Kansas City. Terry retired after the 2012 season with the Kansas City Royals organization and came on staff with UPI full time October 1st of 2012. Terry is the chaplain for the Atlanta Braves and currently resides on the north side of Atlanta, in Woodstock, where he leads Bible studies for current and former players around the Atlanta area. Terry also assists international trips to the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico with the possibility of leading these trips in the near future. Terry is married to his wife, Tanner, and they have three sons: Asher, Jude, and Isaac.

Karen Nolan Bell, an award-winning writer of fiction and memoir, writes as Karen Lynn Nolan. Her debut novel, Above the Fog, releases in November 2018. Karen's stories appear in the anthologies, Stupid Moments, Merry Christmas Moments, and soon-to-be-released Coola-nary Moments. Her other loves include music, theater, art, reading mysteries, and being pampered by her only son. She resides in Atlanta. Contact Karen at karennolanbell@gmail.com, on Twitter @KarenNolanBell, or www.diamondsinmycoalbucket.blogspot.com.

Andy Clapp is an author and a pastor who lives in North Carolina. His passion for Jesus has pushed him to strive to reach a lost world as a pastor and as an author. Whether it is speaking to a group of ten, delivering a message to over a hundred, or in those quiet moments while in his office writing, his goal is to lead others to Christ. Andy lives in his hometown with his wife, Crystal, and their two daughters, Cheyenne and Autumn. He is represented by Cyle Young, Hartline Literary Agency. To learn more, continue through the website: www.andyclapp.org.. Make sure you check out his blog and sign up for his newsletter.  

     Cheryl Crofoot Knapp is passionate about using her life experiences to encourage others. She is a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, speaker, author, blogger, and Mrs. Minnesota-America 1996.        Her book, Undefeated Innocence: How God Helped My Parents and Me Navigate the Alzheimer's Journey, combines personal and humorous anecdotes with Biblical truths to share His hope and encouragement to caregivers, and includes factual information and research. Cheryl was a caregiver for her parents who both died of Alzheimer's. She cried out to God, “Where are you in Alzheimer's?” Undefeated Innocence is a study of the Beatitudes with the fruit of the Spirit, and includes lessons and tools she learned in caregiving.         Undefeated Innocence is a challenge to find God's calling and to know that His grace is always sufficient. Cheryl believes that those who have been through much are called to give much. She encourages readers to find passionate patience, look for life's collateral beauty, and recognize that it's okay to store toothpaste in an underwear drawer.         She and her husband are members of First Baptist Church of Mountain Home (Arkansas). She participates in Walks to End Alzheimer's and has served in Bible study, worship, evangelism, and prison ministries. She founded Regifted Grace Ministry and shares her contagious faith at conferences, retreats, banquets, and churches, as well as on television and radio.         Her husband Chuck is inducted into the Minnesota Broadcasters Hall of Fame and is highlighted as one of only a hundred radio jocks in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland.

A Speak UP Merry Christmas from the Christian Devotions Ministry Founders Eddie Jones and Cindy Sproles. Eddie is Founder and CEO of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and co-founder of Christian Devotions Ministries. He is also an award-winning novelist of middle-grade fiction for boys. In 2016 LPC was named Publisher of the Year at the Greater Philadelphia Writers Conference. Cindy Sproles is an author and speaker. She is the cofounder of Christian Devotions Ministries and the cowriter of the popular He Said, She Said Devotions written with her cofounder, Eddie Jones. She is a novelist and best-selling author. She is a speaker to women's conferences addressing not only the heart of women, but also their biblical responsibilities to their families. As a teacher and speaker for Christian Writers Conferences, Cindy teaches writing skills and how to write placing God in the forefront.  She is a contributing author to CBN.com and is the Executive Editor for www.christiandevotions.us and the Managing Editor for Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas' imprints: SonRise Devotionals and Straight Street Books. Her book, New Sheets – Thirty Days to Refine You Into the Woman You Can Be is being used to help raise funds for Hope House, an abortion crisis center and her novel, Mercy's Rain, is giving a voice to children who suffer sexual child abuse. Cindy is also the coauthor of He Said, She Said – A  Devotional Guide to Cultivating a Life of  Passion. She is the mother of four adult sons and  lives in the mountains of East Tennessee with her husband. Cindy can be contacted at www.cindysproles.com or by emailing cindyksproles@gmail.com.

Susan is a versatile writer, creating both fiction and non-fiction for adults and children. Her debut novel, The Fabric of Hope: An Irish Family Legacy, released on March 17th, St. Patrick's Day! Before Susan jumped into the fiction world, her first two books were nonfiction, co-authored with her husband, Dale. Countdown for Couples: Preparing for the Adventure of Marriage made the Tyndale best-seller list for several weeks, went international with an Indonesian version and a Spanish version, and has helped thousands of couples. Their second book, The ReMarriage Adventure: Preparing for a Life of Love and Happiness, has helped thousands of couples getting ready to blend their families. Susan is the Founding Editor of Thriving Family magazine and the former Editor/Editorial Director of 12 Focus on the Family publications including the Focus on the Family magazine and the Focus on Your Child newsletters. Susan is also the author of her first two indie-published picture books, Lexie's Adventure in Kenya: Love is Patient and Princess Madison's Rainbow Adventure. After many years writing non-fiction, Susan's writing has taken a fresh new turn, impassioned by extensive research into her own family's history. She is thoroughly enjoying her second life as a novelist. She loves the world of fiction and letting her imagination run wild to create inspiring stories. Susan is vice president of Christian Authors Network (CAN) and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), the Association of Women Speakers & Authors (AWSA), the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), and Evangelical Press Association (EPA). Discover more about Susan and her books at www.susangmathis.com.

Bethany and her husband Joe both grew up in frugal families. Bethany grew up on garage sale clothes and never remembers her parents driving new cars. Ever. Being homeschooled, she was raised outside of mainstream culture. Because of personal connections and work ethic, neither she or Joe had a problem finding jobs; Bethany worked as a secretary and Joe worked in construction. Once married, Bethanay quit her job and become a full-time housewife. Joe recently took over the family business, so there was plenty of opportunity for Bethany to help in that area as well. She also pursued writing, hobby farming, gardening, selling things on Ebay and other projects. Bethany finds homemaking incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. Why be frugal if you don't have to? When you lower your standard of living, it creates a cushion of extra money. Depending on your income, this can be a huge cushion. Everywhere you look, people are eating, wearing, and driving their money away. They are throwing away their influence and ability to make the world better. It's often not intentional; it's just the way folks have been raised. Being frugal helps save for the future or help a friend in need. Discover more about Bethany and her books at www.therenaissancehousewife.com.