Grace and Peace: Heart to Heart

Light illuminates and allows one to see. No matter how dark it may be, light dispels the darkness.  Matthew 5:15 tells us, Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.  Matthew 6:22goes on to say, The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. (Tit 2:11-14).                                                                                          ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Over the years, I've come to rely on the use of acronymns.  I'd like for us to examine two of them now: GRACE = God's Riches at Christ's Expense. PEACE = Provisions Extended Appropriately Currently (and) Eternally.   References:  Romans1:16-23, Galatians 1:3, Ephesians 1:2, 1 Pe. 1:2, 2 Pe.1:2, 2 Thes. 2:2.

Trusting God in the muck and mire of life can be a challenge. Do we dare trust Him when we can't see in front of us?  Proverbs 3:5 and Romans 8 are the scripture references.  Zenobia also shares from Carol Cymbala's song, He's Been Faithful to Me. To call in during the show, dial (563) 999-3623.

After a long hiatus of a series of very unexpected "appointments" and a cross-country move, I am excited to be able to return to the Podcast. Today's episode will examine themes of social standing that many wrestle with. The themes of the haves and the have nots...The themes that leave the impression that the wicked prosper and the faithful do not. Psalm 73 will be our main focus. To call in during the show, dial (563) 999-3623.

A Special Note:  The actual broadcast has a few lapses and then begins at the 1:54 mark.                                                                                                                ************  During today's episode we will look a bit deeper at the role of forgiveness and the importance of a shared vision.  I pray that you've found the insight from the readings of Debbie Laaser's Shattered Vows as inspiring as I have.  These are times of tremendous pressure for the family.  Laaser's transparency with her shattered marriage and its wholesome rebuilding, illuminates the hope that is available to and for anyone of us.  To call in during the show dial 563.999.3558.

Today's episode examines how this could have happened.  Our author opens this next reading with the subtitle, Understanding the Real Problem, followed by Misguided Assumptions, including blame.  Laaser refernces 1 Corinthians 4:5 which states: Judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of people's hearts. To call in during the show dial 563.999.3558.

Who has believed what he has heard from us, And to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace...             ~  Isaiah 53       

Episode Eight   "Be still and know that I am God..."                   ~ Psalm 46:10   The healing journey involves three components:  My Safe Place; His Safe Place; and Our Safe Place.  Our author helps us examine all three. To call in during the show: 563.999.3558.  

Episode Seven... "Boundaries" is where we'll start today's segment, reading Shattered Vows.  The framing of boundaries to help govern relationships can be beneficial and are something that we all should keep in mind for ourselves and respect those set by others. On the other hand, ill framed boundaries can contribute to the ruin of relationships. Laaser shares questions that she has found often arise concerning finances, children, and oneself in this time of marital, often family crisis.  As so many know, "the pain endured from sexual betrayal can break your heart, but it does not need to break your life."   To call in during the show, dial: (563) 999-3558.

Episode Six...   Today, we hear Debbie Laaser's perspective regarding something that is all too often an issue for women, no matter where we find ourselves: CONTROL. Let's dive in.  

Episode Five Thank you for joining me, today.  What Am I Supposed to Do Now... First Steps for the Brokenhearted is being presented a day earlier than usual. Our last segment ended with a broad sweep of the practical quesstions that many wives find themselves asking at the start of their "discovery."  Our author, Debbie Laser, leads us through a deeper examination of some of the questions that typically arise concerning husbands, children, and the wives, themselves, in the midst of the unveiling.          To call in during the show, dial: (563) 999-3558.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

"Consider the ravens: Thy do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!"                   ~ Luke12:14   Episode Four Today's reading opens with Chapter One of Debbie Laaser's Shattered Vows, a personal journey of Laaser's betrayal. Over the years, she has done extensive work with hundreds of hurting women. Two decades after the disclosure of her husband's infidelity, she enjoys an intimate marriage and provides "meaningful answers to questions that arise from the complex fallout of broken vows."

Episode 3 Debbie Laaser offers hope and healing to women who have been sexually betrayed.  Her extensive work with hundreds of hurting women, and her intimate marriage two decades after the disclosure of her husband's infidelity, provide meaningful answers to the questions that arise amid the complex fallout of broken vows."  As so many know, "the pain endured from sexual betrayal can break your heart, but it does not need to break your life."   To call in during the show, dial: (563) 999-3558.

Debbie Laaser brings hope and healing for women who have been sexually betrayed, through 245 pages, entitled, Shattered Vows.  Her personal journey "through betrayal, her extensive work with hundreds of hurting women, and her intimate marriage two decades after the disclosure of her husband's infidelity provide meaningful answers tot he questions that arise amid the complex fallout of broken vows." As so many know, "the pain endured from sexual betrayal can break your heart, but it does not need to break your life."  Shattered Vows will be read in its entirety. To call in during the show, dial: (563) 999-3558.

Debbie Laaser brings hope and healing for women who have been sexually betrayed, through 245 pages, entitled, Shattered Vows.  Her personal journey "through betrayal, her extensive work with hundreds of hurting women, and her intimate marriage two decades after the disclosure of her husband's infidelity provide meaningful answers to the questions that arise amid the complex fallout of broken vows...the pain endured from sexual betrayal can break your heart, but it does not need to break your life."  Shattered Vows will be read in its entirety. To call in during the show, dial: (563) 999-3558.

Today, we continue to snatch glimpses from A Mother's Heart, by Jean Fleming.  Mary White authored the book's Foreword which says, in part, "Jean taught me the importance of giving extended time to review each child's strengths and needs, and then to make a plan to develop the strengths and meet the needs.I observed her encourage her children and stimualte them to develop physically, artistically, and socially," Whether we have tots, teens, tweens, adults, or in between, mothers benefit from encouragement and support. Fleming will do just that, for all of us.

A Mother's Heart, by Jean Fleming launches our next book series. Mary White authored the Foreword which says, in part, "Jean taught me the importance of giving extended time to review each child's strengths and needs, and then to make a plan to develop the strengths and meet the needs.I observed her encourage her children and stimualte them to develop physically, artistically, and socially," Whether we have tots, teens, tweens, adults, or in between, mothers benefit from encouragement and support. Fleming will do just that, for all of us.

Some of the lyrics to a favorite song say: Everyday is a day of thanksgiving. God's been so good to me, everyday He's blessing me. Everyday is a day of thanksgiving; take the time to glorify the Lord today. I thank God for the moments when I worship His name, I thank Him for the sacrifice of praise. It's no mystery to say, how my God is everyday; making my way through clouds so dark, bringing His light into my heart. He keeps blessing me, blessing me... Take the time to glorify the Lord, glorify the Lord, glorify the Lord today. If you would like to call during the podcast, dial 563.999.3558. *Selections from Psalm 95 and 104   

A dictionary meaning of stewardship is "the responsible overseeing and protection of something considered worth caring for and preserving; the position and duties of a steward, a person who acts as the surrogate of another or others. Today, I am interviewing Najja E. Brown, founder and executive director of Yield to the King Ministry, a non-profit organization,  Najja would be the first to tell us to not let the title confuse us. She's no different than you or me and this is precisely why I invited her at this juncture of our podcast series, having spent the last two segments looking at Kingdom Stewardship, by Tony Evans. Ms. Evans Brown, a mother, grandmother, sister, niece, Godmother, and friend to many, learned to apply the biblical teachings and principles of financial stewardship early in her Christian walk. She has long believed that everything belongs to the Lord and gives her time, talents, and treasure back to Him. The focal point for this segment is the question, Does stewardship belong to a select group or are we all called to be stewards?   Listener participation is welcomed. Phone (563) 999-3558 during the broadcast.

                                                      Far too many believers with means spend far too much time enjoying                                                         God's generosity and far too little time using His divinely bestowed                                                               gifts of time, talents, and treasures to minister to others and                                                                          advance His agenda as His Kingdom stewards.                                                                                                       Dr. Tony Evans   Ttoday's podcast experienced some "human" frailties, courtesy of yours truly.  This promotional piece was corrected and placed after the broadcast.  Enjoy a chuckle or two as you listen.  I am grateful that you choose to join in.  Phone (563) 999-3558, during the broadcast, with your comments and/or questions.

Yesterday's broadcast was postponed.  However, we are continuing to reading from Tony Evans' Kingdom Stewardship.  Last week, we paused at Dr. Evans' Top Ten Tips to Reduce Expenses and Manage Money as a kingdom steward. They are: 1.   Paying off debt 2.   Reducing Entertainment Costs 3.   Use cash 4.   Pay off car or home 5.   Select an economical car 6.   Purchase energy saving lightbulbs 7.   Prepare meals at home 8.   Fund short term savings 9.   Shop for cost effective insurance premiums 10. Pursue weight loss programs God's way Comments and questions are welcomed. Phone (563) 999-3558 during the broadcast.

These are truly unprecedented times, on a number of levels. High at the top of the list, for many, is money. While I am not naive enough to think that this podcast can address everyone's need in this area, I do believe and have experienced what I consider adequate and less than that. So, it is with mind-set and heart that we begin. Comments and questions are welcomed. Phone (563) 999-3558 during the broadcast.

Slander is usually thought of as a false statement that is made about someone with malicious intent. It is damaging to one's character or reputation. Gossip, often carried out due to the plagues such as anger, jealousy, and arrogance betrays a confidence.Someone who thought another to be trustworthy finds that they've been wronged. Thanks for joining me today for Carole's next chapter... Slander and Gossip.

Carole Mayhall, our author, shares: 'Reckless is defined as careless, heedless, not regarding consequences; headlong and irresponsible; rash.  Some synonyms for reckless are incautious, unmindful, neglectful, unthinking, and thoughtless.' She says, "I am convinced that daily, perhaps hourly, we need to ask God to help us bite our tongues before voicing careless remarks that can hurt, even devastate.  We need to ask Him to help us think before we speak."

Complaints are often comprised of Words That Hurt. For instance, my response to a dish or even an entire meal, by a family member or host, that I don't find pleasing is frowned upon or greeted with a few distasteful words. Such reactions give no thought to the labor and maybe love that went into its preparation. Someone who may have taken an hour or more to prepare something, specifically for me, is devalued within a few minutes. Today's chapter is entitled, Woe is Me!

James 3:5 says, the tongue is a small member. Yet, it boasts of great things... (6) It is a fire... (8) no human can tame it...(9) We use it to bless the Lord, God and to curse people who are made in His image.  Chapter 2 of Words that Hurt Words that Heal is entitled, "Aren't I Terrific?" It helps us to discern the words, the type of talk, that should come out of our mouths and ready us to dispense words of healing.  

**Friday's scheduled broadcast was suspended due to a family emergency. We're picking it up today and we also hope that you are enjoying a restful Labor Day**   When folks think of you and their interactions with you, are you perceived as a fountain or a babbling brook?  Proverbs chapter 10 and verse 11 tells us that "the mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life." Today, we continue to explore whether or not our mouths are fountains of life or not. Do you know how you are perceived by others? How do you perceive yourself? During our last reading, we learned that Praise is one factor that converts our mouths to fountains of life. Although an incomplete list, The Word of God, Encouragement and Comfort, and Wisdom and Justice are others. 

When folks think of you and their interactions with you, are you perceived as a fountain or a babbling brook?  Proverbs chapter 10 and verse 11 tells us that "the mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life." Today, we will discover what Carole Mayhall has to say about the matter.  

When we paused at last week's reading, we'd just heard the events that led to the hands of a small statured woman (Beverly) being damaged. It was devastating to hear.  Yet we read that her face was illuminated, as she told the story, and her heart was full of praise, evidenced by the fact that she sang praises to God, alongside sharing her story.  During today's reading, we will see the impact this encounter made on Carole's life and, perhaps, discover the impact it makes on ours. If you have comments or questions, feel free to call in at: (563) 999-3358. 

Our new book, Words that Hurt, Word that Heal, by Carolel Mayhall is very much self-explanatory.  However, we are going to dive in, to unfold her pages of wisdom to, hopefully, spread healing and not hurt by what we say. Feel free to call in at 563.999.3358.

In the midst of toil and chaos, grace and peace are available to everyone.  They may well be rejected in the form presented, but it does not nullify the fact that they are available.  Today, I will be reading portions of scripture, without comment. During the show, feel free to call in by dialing (563) 999-3358. 

Sharon Betters and Susan Hunt wrap up today's podcast with Concluding Thoughts. It has been my extreme pleasure to not only be a beneficiary of their wisdom, but to have personally known Sharon, Chuck, and their family for the two years that my husband and I were members of a very vibrant church in Delaware. Sharon was a powerful ladies' ministry leader, then. This, just one of several books she's authored, is an example of the work our great God continues to do through her as well as Susan, not only for their individual good but that of others. Sharon and Susan, we applaud and thank you for sharing such an open testimony with all who read (or hear) Aging With Grace: Flourishing in an Anti-Aging Culture. I'd be remiss not to thank the Lord for putting Aging With Grace in the hands of a dear friend, Gaila Harriff, who made it known to me, not realizing that there was any connection between me and Sharon. This, too, is another example of the Lord, (Tapestrymaker) for the purpose of reference, and a tapestry where, before time, He knew these lives, from the District of Columbia to Delaware to Georgia to NY, NC, Indiana, Maryland, and then Washington, would intersect and lead to a podcast audience, listening to Betters and Hunt, from China, the UK, Russia, Ghana, and the US. Because of its writing and reading, may we all equip ourselves  and embrace the privilege to Age with grace and flourish, in our anti-aging culture.

Today, let's open with where we left Naomi, last week.  We saw that "while she believed that God was sovereign, the pain she experienced as the result of the death of her husband and sons, disconnected her from God's hesed; His enduring, everlasting, faithful, eternal, merciful, kind, love, and so much more." Feel free to call in to the show by dialing (563) 999-3558. You may also send questions/comments to: zenobiabailey.live@gmail.com

"(The) covenanted commitmtent of (God's loyal love for us) is a central theme in the Old Testament and forms the melody line of the book of Ruth." For the mountans may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you.  ~ Isaiah 54:10 Feel free to call in to the show by dialing (563) 999-3558. You may also send questions/comments to: zenobiabailey.live@gmail.com

When we put down the pen, stop trying to write our story or the stories of others, and wholeheartedly trust the author of our story to write His gospel story in our lives, we begin to see the mundane and the miserable moments as essential sentences that eventually become a majestic story of grace, because the plot of dirt where we die is also the place where we flourish.   ~ Susan Hunt During our live broadcast, feel free to call in by dialing (563) 999-3558. You may also send questions/comments to: zenobiabailey.live@gmail.com

Susan shares, "Going behind the curtain where Jesus is, and remembering His covenant faithfulness and love, ignites hope and fuels praise - elements of flourishing."   ~ Hebrews 6:18-20 During our live broadcast, feel free to call in by dialing (563) 999-3558. You may also send questions/comments to: zenobiabailey.live@gmail.com

When it comes to flourishing, we can always use a bit or significant encouragement. Elizabeth's journey, as it relates to aging, was against all odds. Yet, we see the impossible become possible for her and it gives us the hope and encouragement we need for our individual journeys. Today's segment continues.

When it comes to flourishing, we can always use a bit or significant encouragement. Elizabeth's journey, as it relates to aging, was against all odds. Yet, we see the impossible become possible for her and it gives us the hope and encouragement we need for our individual journeys.

 "As life slows down, we can become controlling and critical, or we can reflect on God's sovereign love that chose and planted us in His house. The more we live in the light of the reality of His presence, the more we flourish as His Spirit fills us with sap to nurture and encourage others to flourish."      ~ Susan Hunt During our live broadcast, feel free to call in by dialing (563) 999-3558.  

Today, Susan Hunt shares the topic, Flourishing and Fruitful with us. Hunt says, "...The physical and mental decline of aging does not decrease the power of his grace to reverse the effects of the fall and to make us flourish spiritually. God has spoken and he will do it." Feel free to contact me at:  zenobiabailey.live@gmail.com or 650.741.4137 with questions or comments.  During the live show, you can also call in by dialing (563) 999-3558.    

Mother's Day 2022 is upon us. This week's segment is a wonderful reflection of mothers of past centuries. We will not only remember them but our very own Matriarchs.  Thank you, Sharon Betters!  I toast you as a matriarch of many women, including me.  Just know that your fingerprints helped to mold me. Happy Mother's Day to mothers, guardians, and other stand-in Moms, the world over.  I especially want to remember my Mother, without whom I would be lost.

Today, our encounter with Destiny and Destination continues. "As long as we live in this world, we are prone to look down. The rhythm of Sabbath and daily worship recalibrates our minds and hearts in the present moment to remember our destiny and destination while waiting for our blessed hope,the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ..." Let's be encouraged to look up, as we age with and in grace.   Feel free to contact me at:  zenobiabailey.live@gmail.com or 650.741.4137 with questions or comments.  During the live show, you can also call in by dialing (563) 999-3558.  

We can indeed flourish in an anti-aging culture.  With each reading, I am learning to embrace this, more and more. The Sharon Betters & Susan Hunt team share: "...when life becomes quieter and slower, is prime time to reflect on the power of the gospel to change us.  It is also a time when we are tempted to think small; to think about our aches and pains, our disappointments and unrealized expectations.  Will we be good stewards of our old age?  Even as physical strength diminishes, will we pursue our destiny - knowing God?  We are never too old to look up and be transformed from beast to beauty, without Botox or anti-aging cream."  

This week's reading will give us a glimpse of what it looks like; what it means to live covenantally as aging, and some of its companions, come to visit us.  One woman, Jane, shares a portion of a tough segment of her life.  As we read, the details she share rise off the pages to meet us and, hopefully, help us move forward with anticipation for what God can do and how we should respond to Him and our circumstances.

Aging With Grace: Flourishing In An Anti-aging Culture  This segment continues with an examination of Anna There are many things we can no longer do as we age, but age does not keep us from fulfilling our purpose to glorify and enjoy God.  An ever-growing knowledge of God's undeserved love --- His grace --- changes our motivation...When our prayer is that his love for us will increasingly compel us to stop living, for ourselves and to live for his glory.  Much like Anna (and others in the Bible), we find that we can also age with grace.  The question is, will you and I choose to do so?   

From the great Pacific Northwest, Zenobia Bailey brings her listeners scripture passages and other readings with the purpose of exhorting and encouraging all. She invites you to come aside for a few minutes; to exhale and be refreshed as she continues to read Aging With Grace Flourishing in an Anti-aging Culture, written by Sharon W. Betters and Susan Hunt.  The next segment of the show looks at Anna, as the Bible records her, in the second chapter of Luke, verses 25 - 38.  

We are reading Aging With Grace: Flourishing In An Anti-aging Culture  This segment is entitled Worship.   There are many things we can no longer do as we age, but age does not keep us from fulfilling our purpose to glorify and enjoy God.  An ever-growing knowledge of God's undeserved love --- His grace --- changes our motivation...When our prayer is that his love for us will increasingly compel us to stop living, for ourselves and to live for his glory, we will age with grace.       - Sharon Betters and Susan Hunt, authors  

The reading of Aging with Grace continues.  Written by Sharon W. Betters and Susan Hunt, phenomenal Christian women who love their families, personal and church, communities and, most of all, their God. In an age when so many and so much negate the role, value, and acceptance of our seniors, Betters and Hunt offer a timely read, based on scripture and life experiences, theirs and others, to remind us that we are not only "fearfully and wonderfully made," we are who God designed us to be.  This fact alone should give us cause to confidently stand and walk in His grace, love, and strength.  It should encourage us to FLOURISH, just as God intends.                                             

The reading of Aging with Grace continues.  Written by Sharon W. Betters and Susan Hunt, both phenomenal Christian women who love their families, personal and church, communities and, most of all, their God.  Although I was familiar with some of the writings of both women, I had not known of this one until a very dear friend, on the other side of the country, shared what a blessing Aging with Grace was in her ladies' bible study. I ordered a copy, not only because of her zeal, but because I know Sharon, personally.  In fact, she is the wife of one of our pastors from years ago. True to my friend's description, "a  piece of heaven," I've decided to read it in full, believing that there are others who will also want to dine on this piece of heaven.

Aging with Grace is written by Sharon W. Betters and Susan Hunt, both phenomenal Christian women who love their families, personal and church, communities and, most of all, their God.  Although I was familiar with some of the writings of both women, I had not known of this one until a very dear friend, on the other side of the country, shared what a blessing Aging with Grace was in her ladies' bible study. I ordered a copy, not only because of her zeal, but because I know Sharon, personally.  In fact, she is the wife of one of our pastors from years ago. True to my friend's description, "a  piece of heaven," I've decided to read it in full, believing that there are others who want to dine on this piece of heaven. We will begin with excerpts from the Foreword and Notes from Sharon and Susan.  Scripture passages:  Ps. 92: 12, 14   Ps. 92: 1 - 4, 2Co. 5:14

The imprisoned, but freed heart of Corrie ten Boom traveled the world to tell everyone she could that there is no pit so deep, that He is not deeper still. Author of the Hiding Place, an incredible story of love and forgiveness, Corrie ten Boom was the only family member who survived concentration camps as punishment for caring for Jews.    Scripture Passage:  To be announced Postponed from last week