Epic Journey Podcast

Epic Journey Podcast – Episode #28 - Make Every Day Count In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, “Make Every Day Count,” Sonny and Cindy discuss the importance of making every day count in light of their recent loss of Sonny's brother Bob. Our legacies are made little by little, moment by moment. Choose to speak life. Offer hope. And most of all, live with certainty about eternity. Bob left an incredible legacy and he prepared well ahead, by accepting Christ he was certain that his last breath on earth would lead to his first breath in heaven. Our time on earth is an uncertainty for all of us, but God has prepared a certain future, if we choose it. Life is short. Eternity is forever. Make every day count! Bob was good at that. ------- Epic Journey Podcast #28 – Episode Notes One of the things that we realize is that we know that each of you have your own story. That you have things going on in your families and other relationships as well that we don't know about, and we hope that we can be an encouragement to you in whatever you might be going through. We titled this podcast “Make Every Day Count” because in times like these God will often use our pain and suffering for a purpose and also He will use our circumstances to reveal and remind us of His presence in our lives. Last Summer, my Brother Bob went for a colonoscopy and was diagnosed with Stage 4 Colon Cancer. This was shocking news really because out of all of us (myself, another brother and sister) we would all agree that he was probably the most healthy and active one. Not overweight, would run often if not everyday… I would say we really believed that if anybody would beat Cancer he would. Bob stayed pretty healthy during his fight and we were looking forward to the day he would be told he was in remission. He was traveling and enjoying his family and awaiting the arrival of twin girls that his oldest daughter was getting ready to have and enjoying his other two grandsons. He really has been living life to the full. He went into the hospital on the first Sunday in June and stayed for 5 days and through the power of prayer and hope and faith and surrounded by the love of his wife and children and grandchildren, brothers, sisters, mom, and friends, he was able to get discharged home on he and his wife's 33rd wedding anniversary. He was still very ill, but he was back home. Their faith and prayers got him there. He was able to go home because of them. It was awesome to see his kids rally together and they got everything ready for them to come home. Yea, it was so beautiful. They had decorated the house with rose petals and flowers and signs and candles and music and pictures. And they videotaped him coming in on a stretcher and he had asked them to get his wife long stem roses and he was able to call out her name, “Martha, Happy Anniversary” and he presented her with a single long stem rose. He smiled and they kissed and it was a beautiful moment. But it was one of those tear-jerker moments. Whew. So beautiful though. And in fact, their marriage and their life together had already been lived out in many beautiful moments. He never stopped His calling to watch over his wife, and to love her and cherish her in sickness and in health. It is a good reminder to recall our vows and live them out well just like Bob and Martha have. The other thing that happened in the hospital was when doctors and nurses came into the room, even if they delivered news that was difficult, they were asked by Bobs family if they could pray for them and they did. There were prayers for a husband that had lost his job, for a son that had autism, prayers to bring on more staff at the hospital, prayers for the physicians and for them to see healing and Gods miracles take place. This is who they are as a family and the legacy that Bob has been building little by little, moment by moment, every single day. Bob certainly has made his days count.

Epic Journey Podcast #27 – description In this episode, Secrets and Treasures, Sonny and Cindy revisit Gods' invitation to seek His hidden secrets and treasures and the rewards WHEN you find them. God has a stash of valuable wisdom ready for you to apply to your life for your benefit. He knows just what you need and when you need it. Gods word is full of hidden treasures for you and is THE MOST powerful treasure you will ever find. Join us in this journey and quest for his hidden secrets and treasures. He has hidden them FOR you, not FROM you! ------- Epic Journey Podcast #27 – Episode Notes God has hidden treasures for you, and there is no greater treasure than finding Gods word and applying it to your life. God has a stash of valuable wisdom ready for you to find and He knows just what you need and when you need it. Apply these treasures of wisdom to your life, and you will live out His amazing plan. revelationcentral.com  sermon notes by Robert Pace about God giving us treasures… He writes this: “Several years ago, the Lord spoke to me from Isaiah 45, where God says, “I will give you the treasures of darkness and wealth stored in secret places.” And then he mentions two ideas that the Holy Spirit suggested from this verse. (1)   When God says he will “give us the treasures of darkness and wealth stored in secret places,” it means God wants to open your eyes to things that would otherwise remain unseen, so you can claim what would otherwise remain unclaimed.  (2)    And #2, the question comes up in His mind, Where can I find these “treasures of darkness and riches hidden in secret places. (45:3)? Think about the answer: The “treasures of darkness” are stored in—of all places—darkness! And the “wealth of secret places” is hidden in—of all locations, secret places.” We can miss them if we're not searching for them. These are hidden treasures that require acting in faith by seeking Him and His word in order to find them. In Colossians 2:2-3 Paul is encouraging the Colossians, they were believers, That their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God's mystery, And he goes on to reveal what Gods' mystery is: That is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Your hearts are valuable to Him and in Deuteronomy 26:18 it reminds you how valuable you are to Him. It says this: The Lord has today declared you to be His people, a treasured possession, as He promised you, and that you should keep all His commandments; You are His treasured possession. You are valuable to God. He claims you as His own and says you belong to me. Proverbs 3:13-15 reminds us of the benefits of wisdom How blessed is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding. For her profit is better than the profit of silver And her gain better than fine gold. She is more precious than jewels; And nothing you desire compares with her. So you are reminded of how valuable your search for treasures is going to be. We hope you'll get excited about the pursuit, and in knowing that it will lead you to great rewards for your life. We're grateful for you and we're praying for you, Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

Epic Journey Podcast #26 – Routines That Restore - Episode Description In this episode of the Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy continue the series on the power of your words and discuss how your routines and the rhythms that God offers can restore your soul and breathe life into your heart, mind, soul and your relationships. They'll discuss the importance of attending to your soul and breaking free from the automatic negative thoughts that can deplete you and cause division in your relationships. Join us! ------- Neglecting our souls can disrupt our oneness and God will restore our souls – God doesn't want us to seek relief. He wants us to be restored. Eldridge, John,2020.Get Your Life Back: Everyday Practices For a World Gone Mad, Nashville,Tenn., Nelson Book Publishers. John Eldridge says this: “We may have neglected our soul's need for beauty, we may have neglected our souls need for play. But I have reason to believe that unattended loss is a good place to start if you would recover and heal the vessel God wants to fill, if you would open up room in your life for him to meet you there…” Our lives can get so busy and distracted that we are experiencing that unattended loss. The pain that we are experiencing in our marriages sometimes is really our soul crying out longing to be filled. We make the mistake of assuming this is our spouses responsibility and it's not!!!. Our souls can slowly, and subtlety become depleted, and our hearts hardened, and then we blame our spouse, our marriage, our work, our finances because we are seeking relief because something has to be responsible for this!! But blame only gives us temporary relief… like when we run away from an argument…there is a short-term reprieve but there's no resolution of the problem and we remain distanced from each other. There is an enormous difference between relief and restoration. God doesn't want us to seek relief, He wants us to be restored and reconnected… He wants our conflict resolved, our hearts softened, forgiveness both given and received, oneness with each other and with Him…fully restored. Neglecting our souls, can disrupt our oneness. We're blocking that major artery through which God wants to connect us. We can make choices that not only affect our physical health but our spiritual health too. John Eldridge also talks about healing the soul and what he found in his own life to be helpful and what has been unhelpful. I want to share John Eldridges' list with you because it may hit home with you and it helps us to realize that we do need to stop and consider the health of our own souls. I'll start with his unhelpful list: Grocery stores. Television. Traffic. Draining people that live out of touch with their own soul, airports. The news, especially politics. Social media, your typical dose of movie violence  Now his helpful list: Generous amounts of sunshine, everything living and green, long walks, lonesome country roads, swimming, beauty, music, water, friendly dogs, compassion, not expecting myself to produce the same level of work I normally accomplish in a day, yardwork, building a fence… John goes on to ask these questions: Now which cluster of the things I just named makes up most of your weekly routine? Do you begin to see more clearly how essential it is that we intentionally care for our neglected heart and soul? He's talking about restoring our souls and our connection with God. There will be times our oneness is disrupted, and we need healing and restoration. God has a plan for that. God will restore our souls In Psalm 23:2-3 ESV God is leading us into nature and the wilderness to do just that… He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside the still waters, He restores my soul. We need to literally get out of the man-made world and get back into the wilderness again, we need to lie down and look up and reconnect with God our Father, Our Savior, Our Counselor! Get to know Him...

Epic Journey Podcast #25 – Heart to Heart In this episode, Sonny and Cindy share the most amazing download ever that you can implement immediately to impact your marriage. This will impact both of your hearts and the health of your WHOLE body. God's word and wisdom reveals that the heart is the source of life and speaking words of life and truth and wisdom will affect the heart in an incredible way… the heart will thrive and give life and health!!! Join us! You don't want to miss this one, which is Part 2 of our latest series. ------- Edgar Garcia-Rill PhD, in https://www.sciencedirect.com/book/9780128013854/waking-and-the-reticular-activating-system-in-health-and-disease (Waking) https://www.sciencedirect.com/book/9780128013854/waking-and-the-reticular-activating-system-in-health-and-disease (and the Reticular Activating System in Health and Disease), 2015 But it explains that: The RAS controls sleep and waking and fight-or-flight responses. While this system provides signals that modulate our wake-sleep states, it also serves to help us respond to the world around us. For example, strong stimuli simultaneously activate ascending RAS projections to the thalamus and then the cortex and cause arousal and also activate descending projections that influence the spinal cord in the form of postural changes in tone resulting from the startle response, as well as trigger locomotor events in fight-or-flight responses. This speaks to becoming more attentive and ready for what's coming. Heightened awareness- you're either fighting or you are getting out of there! Sounds like some couples arguing doesn't it! This part of your brain is attentive and there is preparation for what might be next. The body is alert and ready. During sleep, the same system is responsible for the relative lack of ascending sensory awareness during SWS, as well as the descending atonia of REM sleep. So, when we heighten our awareness of our words, just paying attention to them more, we're going to position ourselves to respond differently to them. This awareness can really help you to pay attention in a new way and in a healthier way. Proverbs 4:20-27 has the headline in the HCSB (Holman Christian Standard Bible) The Straight Path. Biblegateway.com 20 My son, pay attention to my words; listen closely to my sayings. 21 Don't lose sight of them; keep them within your heart. 22 For they are life to those who find them, and health to one's whole body. 23 Guard your heart above all else, for it is the source of life. 24 Don't let your mouth speak dishonestly, and don't let your lips talk deviously. 25 Let your eyes look forward; fix your gaze straight ahead. 26 Carefully consider the path for your feet, and all your ways will be established. 27 Don't turn to the right or to the left; keep your feet away from evil. God gives him not only wisdom but also wealth and in 1 Kings 10:23 is says, ”King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth.” Our words ultimately, if we listen to God's word, which says from out of the mouth the heart speaks, Proverbs 27:3, Our words come out of our heart and are deposited into the heart of the listener. Our words become a “heart-to-heart talk.” A heart-to-heart download. We are downloading through our words directly from our heart into the heart of the listener. No wonder our words can injure. This is truly not what we desire or what we intend to do. We don't realize how powerful our words are to injure or to give life and health and healing. But when we do become aware, when we do open our eyes and ears to the power of our words we can make immediate changes, shove our pride aside if we need to, even bully our pride out of the way and choose to speak life! Our words reflect the heart and ultimately our words reflect the heart of God or NOT. Wow this is so convicting but also reminds me of the power of my...

Epic Journey Podcast Episode #24 – Words that Bear Fruit In this episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the power of your words to bear fruit. When you dig into Gods' word, you'll find a lot of guidance, instruction, encouragement and benefits related to your words. There's also a lot of responsibility to choose your words wisely and to benefit those that hear them. Much like cultivating a garden, our words will transform and bear good fruit if we begin with good seed, pull the weeds, and provide light and living water, truth and grace. When you tap into the potential and the power that your words have, you will begin to experience exponential benefits of bearing the fruit that God has for you, your marriage and your life! What if you could 30X, 60X, 100X your fruit!? Check this out: Mark 4:20 20 "But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.” Join us! ------- Epic Journey Podcast #24 – Words that Bear Fruit – Episode Notes The more you study about words and the power of your words, you will start connecting the dots that your words are a reflection of your beliefs and of what you are accepting and receiving into your heart and mind. Luke 6:45 The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. So, begin listening and hearing yourself and ask yourself about the power of your words. Acknowledge the relationship with Christ as the origin, the WORD, the beginning. Then realize how your words come from Gods' truth into your heart, into your mind and then are an expression of what you believe and when spoken will have power to bring good things into your life. If Christ dwells in you, then your words will be an expression of both grace and truth. Psalm 19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Psalm 49:3 My mouth shall speak wisdom; the meditation of my heart shall be understanding. The goals of pleasing God, gaining wisdom, understanding each other…. These are great goals, and it is well worth the effort and patience you'll need to just start the process of listening to your words and making the adjustments in your heart and mind that will help you tend to the garden, bear fruit, and speak life into each other. The Word Became Flesh 1 John 1:1-5, 14 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. Now verse 14 14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. Strong's concordance 1 John the root of the Word which you will see is capitalized in the scripture, is the Greek word logos, which has its origins in another word lego which means to lay forth, to relate, and then back to logos and it says this: something said (including the thought) by implying a topic, also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive, and in John the Divine expression, i.e. Christ. Mark 4:20 20 But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.” Romans 10:17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. This is such a good reminder of the importance of hearing and listening and what it can lead to. Our faith comes from hearing through the word of Christ. Colossians 3:16 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom,...

Epic Journey Podcast #23 – Believe and Receive – Episode description In this episode, Sonny and Cindy reveal some of the challenges they had to depend on God for through examining and claiming their beliefs and faith. They also explore the benefits of belief that Christ is encouraging the disciples to embrace (as well as each of us) as He prepares them for His departure. Sonny and Cindy discuss the superpower available to each believer as you speak out and confess God's word speaking life and belief without doubt into your marriage, your life, and whatever your situation. Join us and tap into your superpower! -------

EP #22 – Episode description In this episode, Something Old, Something New, Sonny and Cindy continue their discussion of the power that lies within shifting your mindset from old to new, from limited to limitless, from fixed to growth. Victories usually don't happen overnight, and not only do they require endurance, but they will build your endurance. Tap into the new mindset, a growth mindset, that will get you where you want to go. In your life, in your marriage, and in your relationships!

Podcast Episode #21 – Manage Your Mindset – Episode description In our next Epic Journey Podcast episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss managing your mindset and the incredible impact that this can have in your life and marriage! You don't even need your spouses' permission or cooperation to do this! You'll need God's help because He'll reveal to you your false beliefs if you ask Him to. Managing your mindset is POWERFUL and will change your marriage and change your life! Join us as we explore the connections between your beliefs, your mindset, and your decision-making ability. -------

Epic Journey Podcast #20 – Stepping Out of the Boat In this episode, Stepping Out of the Boat, Sonny and Cindy discuss the power and role that our mindset has in both limiting and stretching our faith to new levels. They discuss the two mindsets of fixed and growth as described in the book by Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D., titled Mindset, How We Can learn to Fulfill Our Potential. They also discuss the back-to-back occurrences of the stories of the feeding of the five thousand and Peter walking on water from the book of Matthew. These stories teach us much of Christs' work in giving the disciples, as well as each of us, opportunities and challenges that will take our faith to the commitment level to “step out of the boat,” and help our marriages continue to live out a plan that wins. ------- Episode #20 Stepping Out of the Boat – Episode Notes In this episode, Stepping Out of the Boat, Sonny and Cindy discuss the power and role that our mindset has in both limiting and stretching our faith to new levels. They discuss the two mindsets of fixed and growth as described in the book by Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D., titled Mindset, How We Can learn to Fulfill Our Potential. They also discuss the back-to-back occurrences of the stories of the feeding of the five thousand and Peter walking on water from the book of Matthew. These stories teach us much of Christs' work in giving the disciples, as well as each of us, opportunities and challenges that will take our faith to the commitment level to “step out of the boat,” and help our marriages continue to live out a plan that wins. Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D. Mindset, How We Can Learn To Fulfill Our Potential. https://www.shortform.com/blog/change-your-mindset/ (https://www.shortform.com/blog/change-your-mindset/) In the book, Carol describes two types of mindsets. A fixed mindset and a growth mindset. In an article we found from the Shortform Summary of “Mindset” it quotes this excerpt from her book: Your mind is constantly monitoring and interpreting what's happening around you. Your mindset guides how you interpret things. A fixed mindset sets up a mental monologue focused on judging - you feel judged and you judge others. For instance, you might think, “this means I'm a failure,” “what a bunch of losers,” “I'll never be good at handling money.” The excerpt continues, and says this: But you can change your mindset. Growth-oriented people don't constantly judge themselves and others this way. Like people with fixed mindsets, they keep a running mental account of events and feelings, but their interpretations of what's going on focus on learning and action. They think, “This situation is painful, but what can I learn to avoid repeating it?” and “How can I improve?” The fixed mindset hangs around, competing with the growth-oriented ways of thinking that you're trying to adopt. But the growth mindset frees you from constantly judging yourself so you can be authentic and explore your full potential. Matthew 14:13-36 The Feeding of the Five Thousand and Walking on Water Hebrews 11:6 God reminds us of this: And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. Psalm 37: 23-24 A person's steps are established by the Lord, and he takes pleasure in his way. Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed, because the Lord supports him with His hand. Psalm 31: 24 Be strong, and let your heart be courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord. Thanks for joining us! Sonny & Cindy

Epic Journey Podcast #19 – Next Level Faith – Episode description In this episode, Next Level Faith, Sonny and Cindy discuss the power of growing your faith to set the course of your marriage on a growth curve over your lifetime. They discuss the 7 Realities of Experiencing God from the book and small group study, Experiencing God by Henry and Richard Blackaby and Claude King. God provides many opportunities to strengthen your faith and the 7 realities provides an amazing framework for this and to experience God in your marriage and in your life. ------- Epic Journey Podcast #19 – Episode Notes In this episode, Next Level Faith, Sonny and Cindy discuss the power of growing your faith to set the course of your marriage on a growth curve over your lifetime. They discuss the 7 Realities of Experiencing God from the book Experiencing God by Henry and Richard Blackaby and Claude King and the framework it offers to learn how to grow your faith and experience God in your marriage and in your life. Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God Henry and Richard Blackaby and Claude King https://blackaby.org/experiencing-god/ (https://blackaby.org/experiencing-god/) The 7 Realities of experiencing God: God is always at work around you. God pursues a continuing love relationship with you that is real and personal. God invites you to become involved with Him in His work. God speaks by the Holy Spirit through the Bible, prayer, circumstances, and the church to reveal Himself, His purposes, and His ways. God's invitation for you to work with Him always leads you to a crisis of belief that requires faith and action You must make major adjustments in your life to join God in what He is doing. You come to know God by experiences as you obey Him, and He accomplishes His work through you. Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. – John 16:7 I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. – John 15:5 Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him. – John 14:21 Matthew 13:54-58 54 And He came to His hometown and began teaching them in their synagogue, with the result that they were astonished, and said, “Where did this man acquire this wisdom and these miraculous powers? 55 Is this not the carpenter's son? Is His mother not called Mary, and His brothers, James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? 56 And His sisters, are they not all with us? Where then did this man acquire all these things?” 57 And they took offense at Him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not dishonored except in his hometown and in his own household.” 58 And He did not do many miracles there because of their unbelief. Thanks for joining us! Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

Epic Journey Podcast #18 – Unexpected Friendships In this episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the opportunities and blessings that God intends through unexpected friendships and the power of compassion and kindness. Through strengthening your deep friendship with your spouse, you can extend your love and concern for others and love your “neighbors” as God intended. Diving into the stories of Ruth and the Good Samaritan, God reveals His design for you to build multicultural and multigenerational relationships into your lives for His purposes and for your benefit. ------- Epic Journey Podcast #18 – Unexpected Friendships – Episode Notes In this episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the opportunities and blessings that God intends through unexpected friendships and the power of compassion and kindness. Through strengthening our deep friendship with our spouse, we can extend our love and concern for others and love our “neighbors” as God intended. Diving into the stories of Ruth and the Good Samaritan, God reveals His design for you to build multicultural and multigenerational relationships into your lives for His purposes and for your benefit. The Book of Ruth Luke 10:25-37 ESV – Gods Greatest Command and the Parable of the Good Samaritan Summary – The Good Samaritan https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-stories/the-good-samaritan-bible-story.html (https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-stories/the-good-samaritan-bible-story.html) “The Importance of Christian Friendships that Defy Expectations.” Loving one another across generational and cultural differences. By Jamaal Williams and Jim Tipton https://erlc.com/resource-library/articles/the-importance-of-christian-friendships-that-defy-expectations/ (https://erlc.com/resource-library/articles/the-importance-of-christian-friendships-that-defy-expectations/) Cottrell, Stan. To Run and Not Be Weary, Fleming H. Revell Company,1986. Here are some truths from scripture that speak to love and friendship that Christ has modeled and taught us. 1 John 4:7 - "Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God." Leviticus 19:18 - "You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord." John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. 1 Peter 4:8-10 ESV 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: Luke 6:31 ESV 31 And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you. We hope this discussion has gotten you thinking and expanding your mindset about friendships and the command to love your neighbor. And thinking about developing some unexpected friendships that God may be putting together for you. Because He loves you and wants you to share His love with others through friendship on many different levels. Commit to revisiting the friendship with your spouse and determine to be intentional in making sure you're best friends with each other, and you're expressing kindness and compassion and understanding toward each other. Begin to explore the power of friendships in your marriage and in your life. We're grateful for you and we're praying for you! Sonny and Cindy

Epic Journey Podcast #17 – Permission to Dream In this podcast, we (Sonny and Cindy), will encourage you to start dreaming again or stir up and keep the fire of your dream going! We believe that God brings two unique individuals together with their own strengths and weaknesses, gifts, and talents to become one unified team and when on purpose with God will be an unstoppable force for good. Every marriage has a purpose that will have eternal impact and God either has already or will stir your heart with compassion and invite you into fulfilling a dream that starts with you but depends on Him! You were designed to dream big and have visions of faith to accomplish great things in life! Join us we explore Gods plan for us to dream big and share the great accomplishments of others and their dependence on God to live out their dreams! ------- Epic Journey Podcast #17 - Permission to Dream – Episode Notes Proverbs 3: 11-12 11 My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, 12 because the Lord disciplines those he loves,     as a father the son he delights in. Miriam-Webster dictionary – discipline is defined as this: Training expected to produce a specific character or pattern of behavior, especially training that produces moral or mental improvement. In an article by Earl Nightingale, How Big are Your Plans, Nightingale-Conant Insight, Issue 89 he is discussing the power of our mind that influences the life that we live out. He makes the comment that if the average person realized the power he wields over his own life and destiny, he would live in a perpetual state of wonder and thanksgiving. He is free as his imagination; he is limited only by the fences he himself erects and maintains. We came across an article written by Stan Cottrell, Fire and Jade, Nightingale-Conant Insight, Issue 86. He was an ultradistance runner and actually had a dream to run 2, 125 miles across China. He accomplished this goal and averaged 40 miles a day for 53 consecutive days. Cottrell made it a point to say that in the process of this adventure of a lifetime, what emerged was something far more challenging than the actual physical stress to his body, but that it brought him face to face with himself. He states, “everything I believed came to the surface and I found meaning in a new way.” Maybe that's exactly what God is intending!! Cottrell also shared this: "Give yourself permission to dream – to dream greathearted dreams. Give yourself permission to not be frightened by the magnitude of the dream. Dreaming is as natural as breathing. As the poet La Fontaine once said, “When the soul of man is on fire with imagination, impossibilities vanish.” Nehemiah 1: 5-11 5“Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments, 6 let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father's family, have committed against you. 7 We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses. 8 “Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations, 9 but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.' 10 “They are your servants and your people, whom you redeemed by your great strength and your mighty hand. 11 Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this...

In this episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the benefits of laughter for your health and your relationships. God has thought of everything and designed each of us with the ability to decrease stress levels, improve mood, boost the immune system, find more joy, and strengthen our relationships, and more. Join us as we talk about the superpower God has given us to add more fun and laughter intentionally into your marriage and your daily life. It's a great time to free up your sense of humor, lighten up and laugh, and perhaps share a good laugh with others. Everyone could use a good laugh these days, and besides, it's FREE! Join us! ------- Epic Journey Podcast #16 – Lighten up and Laugh – episode notes In this episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the benefits of laughter for your health and your relationships. Laughter is a superpower God has given us and created us with and we need to tap into it more often! Everyone could use a good laugh these days, and besides, it's FREE! Here are some highlights and resources from the podcast: Luke 6:21 Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied, Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. Proverbs 14:13 Even in laughter the heart may ache, and rejoicing may end in grief. Ecclesiastes 3:4 reminds us there is a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance. Proverbs 17:22 A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Psalm 126:2 Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” We need to remember that God created us with this superpower to change our state of being, our physiology. He knows we will benefit from laughter and so we need to tap into it! So here we go for a few more benefits of laughter: It is believed that laugher stimulates the release of endorphins.  These are basically the brain's natural opiate which are produced inside of us. Endorphins can result in decreased pain and a sense of euphoria. Laughter can decrease the secretion of the stress hormone, serum cortisol. Laughter can benefit the immune system. Research has shown a relationship between laughter and activation of natural killer cells and T lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell), which are important for effective immune system functioning. Laughter can help improve your mood Laughter is free, except maybe you're purchasing movies to watch or something but we can at least say it's very affordable.   Laughter lacks harmful or unwanted side effects – except maybe if you've got a hurt back, a broken rib, or you just had abdominal surgery or something. If you're struggling with health issues or illness, moodiness, stress,  I'll just bet you will benefit from introducing laughter more consistently and more intentionally into your life and will carry over into your marriage and your relationships. It just might be exactly what you need right now with whatever is going on in your life. Remember, you can use laughter to help you change your physiology. You're not laughing at the stressful things going on in your life but because of them. To help you. So here's some things you might want to do: Start paying attention to your habit of laughter or maybe lack of. Decide that you are going to find ways to introduce more laughter into your life and your relationships.    Begin to use laughter as a measure of the health of your moods and attitudes in your marriage relationship. If you're not smiling and laughing, this could be a red flag for you like it is for us, and you might need to lighten up and seek some wise counsel if you need to.    Recall some funny stories or circumstances that have happened to you in the past. These could be great stories to share with others sometimes and you'll spread laughter into others' lives as well. Explore your and your spouses...

In this episode, Sonny and Cindy celebrate the lives of others whose legacies have left impact and influence through their unique God-given design and purpose. God created you with passions and a heart like His. He wants to use your gifts and talents, the things that you love and what ignites your soul to reach out to others here on earth and He reminds you of the eternal rewards and perspective on life. Our life here is very short but we are headed into an eternal life beyond this one through Jesus Christ. God is always pointing you heavenward and reminding you that your life here is connected to your life in eternity. Join us as we celebrate the power of legacy. ------- Epic Journey Podcast #15 – The Power of Your Legacy - episode notes Today we are honoring our dear friends and mentors Don and Sally Meredith, Founders of Christian Family Life, and authors of the Two Becoming One book and small group study. Don passed away this past week and we were honored to attend his celebration of life. We are also honoring the lives of George, and Jennifer, whom we also had to say goodbye to this week. You've made a difference in our lives. Thank you for the gift of renewing our hearts and minds to what matters most. You will be missed but not forgotten, because your legacies live on, and they are powerful. In today's podcast, as we continue to dive into the importance of marriage, we reflect on Don and Sally's journey together. Their marriage has been a journey of belief and trust and sharing with others how God will transform your marriage from performance to faith. Their message is this: God designed marriage and He can make it work. Never give up. Never give up on what God can do in your marriage and learn His word and follow through by acting in faith on God's plan for marriage. We are so grateful for their insight and encouragement and the mentorship they have given us over the years. Don will be missed but we're so grateful that the ministry they started will continue on and through the many marriages they have impacted. We are also honoring the legacies of George and Jennifer and the gift they have given so many people, to remind each of us to continue on, live out what matters most, love others well, and fulfill our legacy as we journey through the wilderness of life. Mark 12:29-31 When Jesus was asked which command was the most important one, He answered with this: “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these.” In the Two Becoming One study, Don also encouraged this: and this is a quote from the study: “Clearly, loving and serving God should be our greatest goal in life. While marital oneness is a key part of loving or serving God, it is simply a vital part of the greater goal. He goes on to say this: You should not let a good marriage become the only goal in your lives. Instead, your marriage should be the means to the end, which is serving and glorifying God.” In short, Todd encouraged everyone to live life like his dad through simplifying the words His Father lived out so well. Love God and Love people. Proverbs 16:3 says Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans. Colossians 3:23-24 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Colossians 3:1-4 3 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ...

In this Epic Journey Podcast episode – Plug Into the Power, Sonny and Cindy will give you 6 keys to tap into the supernatural power of God in your life and in your marriage. Do you want a marriage that wins? Do you want your marriage to be a source of strength and joy in your life? Do you want your marriage to be growing and thriving over time? Then learn what it means to tap in and by all means, TAP IN! You want to win big TOGETHER and you do that NOT through your own plan, a human plan, a limited plan, but through Gods' plan which is supernatural and unlimited! Be willing to make adjustments in your game plan. Get in the locker room, get some coaching from God and others that are living this out, make some adjustments and get out there and go kick some butt and experience the supernatural power that will lead you into a marriage that wins! Thanks for joining us! ------- Epic Journey Podcast #14 – Plug Into the Power – Episode notes Tapping into Gods Supernatural Power and Love #1 Decide to find out more about God's plan for marriage, how to participate in His plan, and be willing to apply what you learn and invest time into that. Colossians 1:17 He is before all things, and by Him all things hold together. (this is a great example of His supernatural power in our lives) #2 Make the choice to step into the supernatural power of God so that you will experience the supernatural in your marriage. Well, how do you do that? 1John 3:23 23 Now this is His command: that we believe in the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another as he commanded us. His command is two-fold here: believe in Christ and follow His command to love one another. Your faith + loving as He commanded = a decision that will lead you to experience the supernatural that God has for you. Faith with follow through. Faith with obedience. #3 If you want God to do a supernatural work in your marriage, then ask Him to start with your own heart. He wants to address the condition of your heart and restore your heart…He wants to win you back. Godquest.com “Ever since that day Adam and Eve decided that their way was better than God's way, God lost his beloved. “ They weren't all that different from us. When we think our plan is better than Gods' plan then we are positioning ourselves for less than Gods best and outside of His protection just like Adam and Eve. Godquest.com “Even as he watched his children grow further and further away from him, he vowed to one day win them back. He has even gone to the extent to give it His all. He sent His son to die on the cross for you.” God is way more intimately involved in your marriage and in your life than you know. “The story of the Bible is God's quest to restore His broken family.” #4 Be willing to make adjustments. Confess your sin and acknowledge you've been trying to do marriage your way. Receive Gods grace, mercy and forgiveness. Your marriage is an epic and heroic journey through the wilderness. You are in the middle of a chivalrous enterprise involving an adventurous journey. Remember, your journey should be filled with honor, loyalty, respect and heroic behavior that considers each others hearts. So if it hasn't, confess that to God, take it to Him, and then confess to your spouse that you want Gods plan and not your own. Listen, if there's someone out there and you're questioning your marriage, don't give up! Our own plans are limited, but God's plan is unlimited. He can do the unexpected and way more than we even ask or imagine!! #5 Set your mind on things above and realize that while you're here on earth you are involved in a quest for more of what God has for you and your marriage. You need to see your marriage as being on a quest for answers, a quest to discover truth, and a quest for true love, Gods supernatural love. Gods' love will cause supernatural things to take place. Gods' love restores. Gods' love redeems. Gods' love saves. #6 If you want to...

Epic Journey Podcast #13 – Love Different In this week's podcast, Sonny and Cindy discuss the different types of love that you will experience in your marriage as a Christian, and the overwhelming power of Gods agape and unconditional love to impact your marriage in supernatural ways. S U P E R N A T U R A L   W A Y S!!! Tapping into the supernatural comes only through your relationship with Jesus Christ. The supernatural is unavailable to you without your relationship of faith. Your faith is a direct connect into God's ability to perform supernatural acts on your behalf through His unconditional agape love. Faith is the key that unlocks the closed door and once opened anything is possible… In your life, your marriage, your future. Gods agape love will reveal itself to you in unexpected ways. We're glad you're here! ------- Epic Journey Podcast #13 – Love Different – Episode Notes Gods agape and unconditional love will impact your marriage in supernatural ways. S U P E R N A T U R A L   W A Y S!!! Tapping into the supernatural comes only through your relationship with Jesus Christ. The supernatural is unavailable to you without your relationship of faith. In Greek, eros is romantic love. And Philos is a friendship love, and in the bible was expressed as a devotion to one another, brotherly love. In eros, lovers are preoccupied with each other, but friends are preoccupied with the same thing, interests in common. Christianity.com states this about agape love: “Agape love is unconcerned with the self and concerned with the greatest good of another. Agape isn't born out of emotions, feelings, familiarity, or attraction, but from the will and as a choice.  We have the free will to choose a relationship with God which makes Gods agape love available to work through us. Agape requires faithfulness, commitment, and sacrifice without expecting anything in return.” There's a psychiatrist by the name of Karl Benzio, his organization is Lighthousenetwork.org and they work with addictions - it's a Christian organization – He has done a lot of study on decision-making and he talks about when emotions are high that is the worst time to try and make a good decision because the emotion will distort your ability to think clearly and make a sound decision. You have to get those emotions down so you can think clearly and respond in the best way. Gods unconditional love can be unexpected but also protective. 1 John 4:7-9 God Is LOVE 7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. ( see that there's a relationship with Him connected to His love) 8 Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. (Love is a person) His love is not natural, it's supernatural. 1 John 3:23-24 23 Now this is His command: that we believe in the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another as he commanded us. 24 The one who keeps his commands remains in Him, and he in Him. And the way we know that He remains in us is from the Spirit he has given us. His command is two-fold here: believe in Christ and love one another. It's a command to those who believe in Christ, so it truly is an act that is tied to our faith. If you are a believer, then you are expected to love others God's way, not your way, not the worlds way. As a believer, you have access to His agape love in order to pass it to others. Scripture says when you keep His commands, when you're obedient to what God tells you to do, there is unity with God and the way you know that is, from the Spirit. God's love reveals our true identity. 1 John 3:1 See what great love the Father has given us that we should be called God's children – and we are! God's love gives us eternal life. John 3:16 16 “For God so loved the...

In this episode #12, The Unified Team Part 2, Sonny and Cindy continue to discuss the importance and power of becoming a unified team in your marriage and will give you some great practical ideas for you to continue your journey of two becoming one! Get your creativity going as you rekindle your commitment to one another and continue to be intentional to strengthen your unified team. Join us! ------- Epic Journey Podcast episode #12 – The Unified Team Part 2 Episode Notes TRUTH #1 # 1 God recognized from the very beginning that it was not good for man to be alone. Tim and Kathy Keller, The Meaning of Marriage, Tim Keller says, “It is the first thing in the universe that God finds imperfect.” Genesis 2:18 NIV The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” TRUTH #2 #2 Your marriage should be recognized as a covenant with God, not a contract with man. So, marriage God's way is established as a Holy Matrimony… set apart … In an article by Victoria Riollano, she describes Holy Matrimony and says it is not just the act of agreeing to spend your life together, but it is a sacred act of togetherness, honored by God, and created as a lifelong dedication to one another. Holy Matrimony focuses on building a home that honors God. Eph 2:10 ESV – For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for Good Works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. TRUTH #3 #3 God established that Two Shall Become One - A Unified Team: Genesis 2:24ESV Therefore, a man shall leave his Father and his Mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. TRUTH #4 #4 God has a plan for oneness that is Certain in a world of uncertainty. TRUTH #5 #5 God's plan is abundant life. But the enemy has a plan for your marriage too. John 10:10 ESV “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life and have it abundantly.” #6 Through oneness, you will reign over the enemies plans to divide you. Matthew 16:23 But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” We're grateful for you and we're praying for you! Sonny and Cindy

Epic Journey Podcast #11 – Unified Team Part 1- podcast description In this Epic Journey podcast episode, Sonny and Cindy discuss the importance of becoming a unified team and the power of fighting FOR each other not AGAINST each other. You are often fighting an unseen enemy whose main goal is division and destruction. satan is like a hit and run driver. He swoops in and wreaks havoc, and then goes on his way leaving behind a big mess to clean up and you assume it must be your spouse's fault… and the fighting or silence begins. But WAIT! God has given you everything you need to fight good fights! He has given you weapons to WIN. It's time to pick up your weapons and fight the good fight for your marriage! Join us! ------- Epic Journey Podcast #11 – Unified Team Part 1 – Episode Notes You are often fighting an unseen enemy whose main goal is division and destruction. satan is like a hit and run driver. He swoops in and wreaks havoc, and then goes on his way leaving behind a big mess to clean up and you assume it must be your spouse's fault… and the fighting or silence begins. But WAIT! God has given you everything you need to fight good fights! He has given you weapons to WIN. It's time to pick up your weapons and fight the good fight for your marriage! Here is a great hidden treasure from scripture, and if you truly take hold of this God is going to give you a new perspective of your mate. In Ecclesiastes 4:9 ESV It says this, 9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. (He expects that you will be working together) 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. (you are intended to be a source of encouragement and support for each other, not criticism against each other when you get knocked down. This might be a bad habit on how you try to resolve conflict and you can learn a better way) But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! (Life is hard. You're going to get knocked down. God knows you need each other. He doesn't want you isolated and alone) 11 Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone?  12 And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken. The power of two against one is strong but your power with God makes three and is not easily broken. Your unity has strength and power and is a HUGE advantage! Becoming more aware of the enemy's tactics will position you for winning and staying unified as a team. John Bevere – The Bait of Satan Beware of choosing to be offended by your spouses' actions! This is a tactic of the enemy and instead choose to resolve conflict in healthier ways by making agreements with God about your spouse. God has a purpose for you as a unified team, He has assignments, a call to contribute and the enemy does not want this to happen. It is very effective to distract you from the impact you are designed to have by creating conflict that doesn't get resolved, or unforgiveness, or choosing to be offended. When you're not unified as a team you are not able to accomplish what a unified team can accomplish. Put on your armor and pick up your weapons. Biblegateway.com The Whole Armor of God 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on...

In this episode, Secrets and Treasures, Sonny and Cindy explore Gods' invitation to seek His hidden secrets and treasures and the rewards WHEN you find them. God has hidden treasures for you, and he intends that you find Him and them, in the pursuit, but it requires your determination and believing in the value of the treasures He has for you. God has a stash of valuable wisdom ready for you to apply to your life for your benefit. He knows just what you need and when you need it. Apply it to your life, and you live out His amazing plan. Join us in this journey and quest for his hidden secrets and treasures. He has hidden them FOR you, not FROM you! ------- Epic Journey Podcast #10 – Episode Notes God has hidden treasures for you, and he intends that you find Him and them, in the pursuit, but it requires your determination and believing in the value of the treasures He has for you. God has a stash of valuable wisdom ready for you to apply to your life for your benefit. He knows just what you need and when you need it. Apply these treasures of wisdom to your life, and you live out His amazing plan. So let's take a look at some notes from a sermon that we came across by Robert Pace at revelationcentral.com about God giving us treasures… He writes this: “Several years ago, the Lord spoke to me from Isaiah 45, where God says, “I will give you the treasures of darkness and wealth stored in secret places.” And then he mentions two ideas that the Holy Spirit suggested from this verse. (1)          When God says he will “give us the treasures of darkness and wealth stored in secret places,” it means God wants to open your eyes to things that would otherwise remain unseen, so you can claim what would otherwise remain unclaimed.  (2)         And #2, the question comes up in His mind, Where can I find these “treasures of darkness and riches hidden in secret places. (45:3)? Think about the answer: The “treasures of darkness” are stored in—of all places—darkness! And the “wealth of secret places” are hidden in—of all locations, secret places.” We can miss them if we're not searching for them. These are hidden treasures that require acting in faith by seeking Him and His word in order to find them. In Colossians 2:2-3 Paul is encouraging the Colossians, they were believers, That their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God's mystery, And he goes on to reveal what Gods' mystery is: That is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Your hearts are valuable to Him and in Deuteronomy 26:18 it reminds you how valuable you are to Him. It says this: The Lord has today declared you to be His people, a treasured possession, as He promised you, and that you should keep all His commandments; You are His treasured possession. You are valuable to God. He claims you as His own and says you belong to me. Proverbs 3:13-15 reminds us of the benefits of wisdom How blessed is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding. For her profit is better than the profit of silver And her gain better than fine gold. She is more precious than jewels; And nothing you desire compares with her. So you are reminded of how valuable your search for treasures is going to be. We hope you'll get excited about the pursuit, and in knowing that it will lead you to great rewards for your life. We're grateful for you and we're praying for you, Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

Podcast #9 The Quest – Description In this episode, “The Quest,” Sonny and Cindy discuss God's great quest for humanity… His quest for our hearts and to win us back! They also discuss the quest we have been invited into that requires bravery, chivalry, romance, loyalty, commitment, villains, and honor! Every great quest is seeking something of great value! Your heart, your relationship with God, and your marriage are all worthy of your greatest efforts and quest. Join us and get even better equipped for the great adventure you are in! “Mawwiage is what bwings us togeder today!” The Princess Bride, 1987 _______ Show notes; Merriam Webster dictionary 1 : a journey made in search of something  as in…They went on a quest for gold. 2 : a long and difficult effort to find or do something Examples: a quest for answers, The team's quest to win a championship., a quest to discover the truth. 3.: a chivalrous enterprise in medieval romance usually involving an adventurous journey God's Quest for Humanity – God-Quest.com (excerpts) “In the beginning, God created human children for himself and gave them a perfect, well-ordered home where they could grow and thrive in peace and safety. He loved them and delighted in communing with them and giving them wonderful gifts. But one day, those children decided that all of God's gifts were not enough. He must be holding out on them. They did not trust his love, so they did the one thing that he had forbidden them from doing. On that day, God lost his beloved. But even as he watched his children grow further and further away from him, he vowed to one day win them back. So began the story of God's quest to reclaim his lost love, a quest that would cost him all he had to give. The story of the Bible is God's quest to restore his broken family. God is the main character throughout, and God's quest for the heart of humanity is the main message. Every story points to who he is and why he is worthy of our love and devotion. The Bible is not a history of humanity. It is not a scientific thesis. It is not a list of rules and regulations for proper living. It is certainly not a guide on how to be happy and prosperous. Parts of the Bible address these and many other topics, but none of them is the point. The point is God's love for humanity and why we should love him back. It is an intimate love letter designed to draw us back to him.” So, listen, God is on a quest to capture your heart – He wants to address the condition of your heart and restore your heart…He wants to win you back. He wants you to be on a quest for Him and for your marriage that wins…. Isaiah 30:21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, (this is the way; walk in it.) God will reveal to you His wisdom knowledge and understanding in His quest to restore your hearts and as you make decisions about your marriage, about each other, for each other, on behalf of each other, and restore your oneness with Him as a unified team through the wilderness with Him. God is also giving you protection through the wisdom and knowledge He reveals as treasure. Lamentations 3(ESV) 22 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;     his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are NEW every morning;     great is your faithfulness. 24 “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,     “therefore I will hope in him.” 25 The Lord is good to those who wait for him,     to the soul who seeks him. 26 It is good that one should wait quietly     for the salvation of the Lord.  And that is truly His QUEST for each of you! You are fully known and deeply loved!

In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy continue to reveal some path-altering considerations as you answer the question “where are we in this wilderness adventure?” As you start to become more aware of where you are and what God may be revealing, you will uncover some difficulties in your realities as well as some new things God may be bringing to your attention and awareness. This podcast will bring into your mind God ‘s truth that will fill you with hope and vision as you become aware of where you are and how God wants to position you for your next steps in your journey. Also, go to Http://www.2B1life.com/wilderness you can get this free assessment form that will help you have some discussions together about where you are right now. ------- Gods' word reminds us that He created us and claims us and we belong to Him. He will walk with us and is present no matter what we are going through in the wilderness. Israel's Only Savior Isaiah 43:1-21Remember God is claiming you as His own. What a great picture of the wilderness and the difficulties we may find ourselves in. God wants to remind us of who He is and what He can do through the scriptures. God will make a way and a path regardless of your circumstances. God will provide and as you experience His provision- and things you may not even expect- you will acknowledge that it comes from Him and praise Him for what He is doing and providing in your life. He wants you to start recognizing that He is present with you! In Isaiah 43 God reminds us that no matter where we find ourselves and no matter what is going on He will be with us, provide for us and we will know its Him. Psalm 23 In Psalm 23…. The Lord is my shepherd - We find that God is identified as a Shepherd that leads us in the wilderness and restores our soul. He meets us in the valley of darkness… wherever we are…. As we were studying this, I was thinking of the beauty of restoration in Psalm 23 but then God prompted me to go back and see what took place in Psalm 22. Psalm 22 ESV Why Have You Forsaken Me?22 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?     Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? 2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer,     and by night, but I find no rest. There are times when we feel far from God and that He is not attending to us or noticing what's going on. We can feel very alone. But it's important that we remind ourselves of who God is and what He has done in the past both in our own lives as well as these of those we read about in scripture. In our trials we can begin to doubt ourselves and feel like a victim and rejected by others, but we must remind ourselves of who we are and what He can do. Again, He reminds himself of who God is and the history of his relationship with God and that He is alone except for God. He focuses on his current circumstances, which we all do, and he acknowledges what is happening. He reveals his emotions and the condition of his heart and body during this stressful time. He focuses again on his current circumstances. He acknowledges Gods' presence where before he was “feeling” forsaken. Our feelings do not always hold the truth about our situation. Here he is now making requests to God to deliver Him from evil. Now his experience has led him back to God and he begins to share with others the adventure of his story. 25 From you comes my praise in the great congregation;     my vows I will perform before those who fear him. 26 The afflicted[https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+22&version=ESV#fen-ESV-14231d (d)] shall eat and be satisfied;     those who seek him shall praise the Lord!     May your hearts live forever! He is expressing the hope of God that comes from seeking him. He is encouraged and now encouraging...

In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy will challenge you to step into the power of assessing where you are in your relationship with each other by using analogies of the wilderness. We can find ourselves in difficult times or valleys, we can find that somewhere along the way we started walking on different paths and not heading in the same direction. We can also find ourselves aligned and unified moving forward with a shared vision and enjoying each other. Identifying where you are is HUGE in helping you make the healthy shift toward a better and stronger marriage and will encourage you to begin taking action steps in a better direction of faith and trust in Gods' plan for your life. ------- Episode 7 Show Notes: Http://www.2B1life.com/wilderness you can get this free assessment form that will help you have some discussions together about where you are right now. You can determine where you are based on how far you've come or where you've come from, what's happened in the past…  And for many that may really allow you to have a sense of awe and renewed thankfulness for what God has already seen you through, what you are grateful for and what God has already been doing in your marriage. Or…. Perhaps you look back and you see yourself currently in a declining phase rather than a growth phase. That things aren't going as well as you would like. Now, you can also answer the question of where you are with a perspective of where you aren't yet which you could say is a perspective looking toward the future. It can be really great for your marriage to take a look at the question where do you want to be in your marriage over the next decade? Looking at the next decade of life can sometimes really help put some things into perspective in regard to where you are now. It's really helpful to assess where you are in terms of your spiritual relationship with God, your ability to walk in faith and how both of those affect your relationship with your spouse and your purpose together while you are here on this earth. Remember, God has invited you and your marriage into an epic and heroic journey that is going to leave a lasting and eternal impact. Consider these questions: Are you living out your marriage through faith? Are you applying spiritual practices like reading Gods word, praying together, asking forgiveness, resolving conflict and encouraging each other in the trials of life? Are you living out a marriage that's on purpose and is a unified team and answering a call to contribute? If your ultimate desire in the journey is to have a Godly marriage that wins, are you finding your marriage aligning with God and in agreement with His plan for you? Are you stopping the journey regularly for rest and recovery? Do you know Gods unique purpose for you and your marriage? Are you in need of restoration and stopping to refresh for supplies and equipping to prepare for the next leg of the journey? Perhaps you've been climbing uphill, and you just need some oxygen to breathe life into your relationship? Maybe that comes from the wisdom and encouragement of wise counsel? Are you stopping and celebrating your wins and achievements along the way? Thanking God for all He's done in your lives so far? The Parable of the Lost Sheep Matthew 15:1-7The Parable of the Lost Coin Matthew 15:8-17The Parable of the Prodigal Son Matthew 15:11-24In each of these examples there becomes a new level of awareness, a realization of loss, an effort of searching to regain what was lost, forgiveness and humility, finding what was lost and then rejoicing and celebrating with others. This will create action to get back on the path with God and celebrate the value of who you are and how valuable your marriage is not only to you but to God and others that will celebrate with you. We are so excited for what God is going to be revealing to you and it's a great time of year to take a look at where you are in your...

In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy discuss and define what the epic and heroic journey of marriage means. Your marriage is epic and heroic and you were created to be heroes and warriors as you live out Gods plan for your marriage. Be encouraged and strengthened as you learn more of Gods word and take the next steps into the wilderness, one step at a time. Our 2B1 Life Marriage Manifesto begins with this statement of belief: We believe that marriage is an epic and heroic journey through the wilderness with God while we are here on this earth. We believe the journey doesn't stop when we are done on earth, but the journey is directing us heavenward. Philippians 3:14 I press on to the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Merriam/Webster Dictionary Epic - Essential Meaning of epic 1 : a long poem that tells the story of a hero's adventures Homer's ancient Greek epic "The Odyssey" 2 : a long book, movie, etc., that usually tells a story about exciting events or adventures Ephesians 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do.   Holman Christian Standard Bible The word workmanship in the original Greek is the word poeima.  The word poeima means “that which is made, something fashioned, crafted together, someone's' workmanship, as in a masterpiece.” From poeima, comes the word poem and poetry. You dear friends, are Gods' poem, Gods' masterpiece. You are epic. Isaiah 43:1 Now this is what the Lord says, the one who created you, O Jacob, and The One who formed you, Israel – “Do not fear; for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; YOU ARE MINE. So, we would expand the definition of epic to say that we have each been uniquely created by God to be His Epic Poem (of heroic adventures) and masterpiece. Definition of hero (Entry 1 of 3) 1a : a mythological or legendary figure often of divine descent https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endow (endowed) with great strength or ability b : an https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/illustrious (illustrious) warrior c : a person admired for achievements and https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/noble#h1 (noble) qualities d : one who shows great courage Joshua 1:9 God is speaking to Joshua and encouraging him in His leadership and the battle he is getting ready to live out…. Haven't I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” The word Heroic describes the hero as strong and courageous. The definition of heroic is: of or relating to courageous people Gals…..you are married to a hero! You are married to a champion! You are married to the one designed by God and a masterpiece!!! Partnering with God, with each other, and with others that are like minded, believers seeking Gods best for your marriage is heroic. Journey : something suggesting travel or passage from one place to another Our marriage is designed to be an unstoppable force for good through this journey through the wilderness and heavenward!!! Genesis 2:18 Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper corresponding to Him.” I found a great article about this by Mikella VanDyke, chasingsacred.com, The true definition of the word Helpmate, and she does a great job at explaining this. In Hebrew, the word helper or helpmate is derived from two words, ezer and k'enegdo. The word Ezer appears in the Bible 21 times. The word ezer is used to describe women, also used in reference to military support, and many times in reference to God's help in saving His people. God uses the same word to describe women as helper that He uses to describe himself!!! The word ezer is used to describe a saving and strong presence and is continually used to describe military aid in battle. “Therefore, many interpretations of

In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy will encourage you to tap into the power of investing in your marriage and positioning your marriage to win. Investing in your marriage Gods way will compound your commitment into a great return of future benefits and advantages in your relationship becoming better, more fulfilling and more fruitful. Expect that God is going to give you some huge revelations and help you realize just how involved He is in your marriage. Begin investing into your marriage by finding out more. God will use your curiosity and your desire to fuel this. Other God opportunities for investing in your marriage will take place through your time spent reading the bible, exploring God's word, asking new questions and finding out answers, and developing a stronger prayer life together. When you pray together it is an exercise in oneness because you are placing yourself in agreement with each other and with God. The more often you pray the more you realize the value of your prayers and time spent together with God. We invested our money in books and babysitters to allow us to learn more through Two Becoming One study by Don and Sally Meredith. This meant more time together and to be with other couples wanting to strengthen their marriages. Scriptures: Jeremiah 29:11-14 NIV 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.[https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+29%3A11-14&version=NIV#fen-NIV-19650a (a)] I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.” Proverbs 23:7 for as he thinks within himself, so he is. TLV Let's stick together! We need each other and God is calling on you to be the power couple that He intends you to be! We're praying for you and we're grateful for you, Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy share how powerful your perspective can be in positioning your marriage into a winning perspective. They also expose false beliefs that can come into play shaping your perspective of marriage and each other in negative ways. Definition of perspective: A particular attitude or way of regarding something; a point of view 5 powerful realities that will affect your perspective: #1 We must realize things are not always what they seem. #2 A change in perspective can help you see the value in what matters most. #3 The enemy will use a negative perspective to divide us. #4 Beware of the “ME” filter – and switch to a WE filter or God's filter! #5 God's perspective will change your heart and lead you into His plan for your marriage. John 10:10 NIV 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. Philippians 2: 3-4 NIV 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. God wants to give you a greater vision and perspective of who He is and the plans He has for you. His perspective on your marriage includes an invitation to join Him in what He is doing. His perspective is that your marriage is intended to bless you and those around you. His intention is that your oneness with Him and each other will have great impact in this world and that you will become an unstoppable force for good. Thanks for joining us. We're praying for you and we're grateful for you, Sonny and Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy discuss the power of oneness and unity in marriage. One horse individually can pull about 8,000 lbs but 2 horses harnessed and trained as a team can pull 4 times that amount! You make an incredible team! Unity in marriage on mission and purpose for God is an unstoppable force! God has an incredible plan for your marriage that is powered through the Holy Spirit and through unity and oneness in your relationship. Two Becoming One is not just a catchy phrase for the wedding ceremony. It is a HUGE provision from God to help us navigate through this wilderness on earth and be a force for Good! Sonny and Cindy also discuss some of the threats to marriage identified in Two Becoming One, by Don and Sally Meredith. Exposing threats and addressing them will be a huge advantage for your relationship as well. Scriptures: James 1:2-4 2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. Romans 15:13 NIV 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. We're praying for you and we're grateful for you, Sonny and Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

Podcast #2 The Shift in Our Story- Episode Notes In this episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy talk about their wakeup call of living in a marriage by default instead of design. They share their story of making an intentional shift from an ok marriage to a marriage heading in a new direction that perseveres, thrives and wins. No one starts off their marriage expecting to fail, and even if we find that we have wandered from God and from each other, this mindfulness and awareness will allow us to find God and oneness with each other again. God has a plan for our oneness in the wilderness! Know that it is an Epic and Heroic Journey! Your marriage will benefit from the hope and encouragement that God gives as you live out His plan together. Your story matters as you pass on the hope and encouragement others need as well We're praying for you and we're grateful for you, Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life

Podcast #1 Trailer Episode notes In this first episode of The Epic Journey Podcast, Sonny and Cindy launch the first Epic Journey Podcast and invite you to join them into Gods Marriage Adventure Plan that wins. God has placed each of us in a wilderness adventure together here on this earth! He has a strategic plan for oneness outlined in His word which will give us the power to live different, love different, and finish strong! Join us as we explore God's plan for oneness in the wilderness and live out an Epic and Heroic Journey together! God wants to start something new in your marriage and is ready to meet you in the wilderness wherever you are. Scriptures: Isaiah 43:18-21 “18Forget the former things;     do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing!     Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness     and streams in the wasteland. 20 The wild animals honor me,     the jackals and the owls, because I provide water in the wilderness     and streams in the wasteland, to give drink to my people, my chosen, 21     the people I formed for myself     that they may proclaim my praise. James 1:2-4 NIV Trials and Temptations2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. We're praying for you and we're grateful for you, Sonny & Cindy Zentmeyer, 2B1 Life