Heal, Equip, and Release Podcast: Women set free

In this episode Karen explores the importance of forming deep, intimate relationships with God and His people - the Church - along the journey of transformation and healing. Far too many people see healing as a pain-filled destination that they can pursue, and then just be done with, so they can "get on with their life"... While healing definitely involves a certain amount of suffering, healing within an Immanuel Lifestyle, also brings you an enduring joy and peace that surpasses understanding. Tune in to get a better understanding of what this approach to healing and transformation looks like and how you can begin living it within your own communities. Click here to learn more about how to live an Immanuel Lifestyle by staying connected with the Two Hearts for HER email community.

It's that time of year again.... We are preparing for Christmas and there is so much temptation to lose our focus and see the Advent season zoom by with more memories of stress than peace and rest. Check out today's episode and consider joining me and hundreds of other women this Advent in the 2023 Enter His Rest Immanuel Advent Prayer Experience. This totally FREE prayer 28 day prayer challenge includes daily audio or written meditations to help you practice BEing with God this season in prayer. Let prayer become a way to practice BEING instead of DOING this season! Click here to sign up! Also, be sure to follow @twoheartsforher on Instagram to get daily support on your journey of faith and transformation. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/twoheartsforher/message

Tune in to hear from Two Heart's for HER's new marketing and creative partner Jacie Jimenez. Jacie has been a dear friend of mine for 15 years, journeying with me in life and faith, while also receiving deep healing through encountering the love of God in inner healing prayer. She deeply understands our mission to help people recognize that the journey of holiness is a journey of healing! As we learn to walk with the Lord, hear His voice, and open our wounded hearts to His love, we will begin to see transformation in every area of our lives! Click here to check out our 2023 Advent Prayer Challenge and ALL the other ways your life can be blessed through offerings from Two Hearts for HER - including FREE downloads, teaching webinars, and ways you can receive individual or group coaching and counseling. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/twoheartsforher/message

Check out today's episode to receive four ACTIONABLE KEYS to deeper transformation in your life! FREE Download of notes and prayers mentioned in this episode here. Check out HER Transformation Membership and get your 14 day FREE TRIAL here. Follow me on instagram @TwoHeartsforHER --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/twoheartsforher/message

It was in a season of perceived failure, when I would usually respond by hustling and working harder to PROVE MY WORTH, the Lord taught me how to REST. This season became a springboard for the inner healing prayer work that I now incorporate into my counseling practice and healing ministry. I hope this episode inspires you to look for the blessing on the other side of each trial the Lord allows you to experience in your life. FREE Truths Vs. Lies pdf download, created by Fr. Ignatius Mazanowski. Be sure to check out the other episodes # 29 and #30 that Fr. Ignatius and I did together on healing and forgiveness. =) Dont forget to follow me on Instagram @TwoHeartsforHER --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/twoheartsforher/message

From the Garden of Eden to your own life today, this battle with shame, fear, and control is one we ALL FACE! We tend to be more aware of a particular struggle with one of these 3 beasts, but they are all connected. God has a plan to set you free in all these areas if you will invite Him into that process. He knows you and loves you unconditionally in the midst of your often messy story! Invite Him in! YOU WON'T REGRET IT! Sign up for the FREE HER Transformation Weekend Challenge Webinar and check out this fall's online HER Transformation group and individual coaching opportunities here: linktr.ee/twoheartsforher --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/twoheartsforher/message

Why does it feel like God answers some prayers for miracles and not others? Sometimes it feels like some people have a life full of suffering, while others “seem” to escape major suffering in their lives. Being that I (Karen) am someone who works in healing ministry and believes that God longs to heal the brokenness in his children's lives, I also struggle when I see faithful people praying for a miracle that doesn't end up coming. I know God is not some sort of genie that answers our wishes, but we know that a big part of Jesus' ministry on earth was geared toward healing. So there is a lot of mystery in this age old question so many of us face. In today's episode we talk about this struggle and how we can continue to press into the goodness of God in the midst of suffering and recognize how much of God's most beautiful work is accomplished through the suffering He allows in our lives. Amber VanVickle's published articles: https://www.ncregister.com/blog/a-mother-finds-love-at-the-foot-of-the-cross https://www.ncregister.com/blog/when-the-miracle-doesn-t-come How you can support Dave VanVickle's ministry: https://everykneeshallbow.fireside.fm/hosts/davevanvickle https://www.patreon.com/DaveVanVickle --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Lent is a beautiful season that calls each of us to strengthen the hearts and minds of ourselves and our children by equipping them with tools to go out and live the beautiful story God has written for each of their lives. Join us as we discuss ideas and resources to help focus your family life around this beautiful Liturgical Season. Saint of the Day https://www.catholic.org/saints/sofd.php Fig and Thimble – Lent Map https://www.instagram.com/thefigandthimble/ Pam Barnhill – AM Time Plans (Poetry, Art, Saint, Books To Read) https://plus.pambarnhill.com/product/lenten-morning-time-plans/ LikeMotherLikeDaughter https://likemotherlikedaughter.org/ Little Oratory https://www.amazon.com/Little-Oratory-Beginners-Guide-Praying/dp/1622821769/ref=sr_1_1?crid=J6BG4OFKMSUC&keywords=little+oratory&qid=1677546686&sprefix=little+oratory%2Caps%2C155&sr=8-1 Catholic Icing https://www.catholicicing.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Do you long to feel more connected to God during prayer? Do you ever find yourself comparing your prayer experience to someone else's and wonder why you didn't get as much out of the very prayer that seemed to blow them away? Do you ever feel GUILTY or like there is something wrong with you because you "didn't get anything out of it"? Knowing this can help you feel freedom from this guilt! This episode is based on the blog by Meg Hunger Kilmer that explores the book Prayer and Temperament by Michael and Norrissey. The book helps you learn how your natural prayer style is connected to your personality type. You can take an awesome free Myers Briggs Personality Type assessment here!! You will get a lot out of the assessment itself, so it's worth your time! TRUST ME! Your personality type will match to one of the following spirituality types: SP (Franciscan), NT (Thomistic), SJ (Ignatian), and NF (Augustinian). We also share some other tips to help you grow closer to the Lord, including some ideas from our own past Lenten experiences. Katie shares THIS AUDIO ROSARY link here, if you want to check it out. Disclaimer: This is not us saying that the quality of prayer is about "how it makes you feel". I also am not advocating that you only ever pray prayers that match your personality type. But this knowledge can help you know where to focus your time/effort when growing in your intimacy with God in prayer. Katie and I are NF personality types and so prayers like the rosary and other memorized/routine prayers are not our natural bent, but this DOESN'T MEAN we should stop praying the rosary or night prayer , for example. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

In this episode join Katie and Karen in a lively discussion of Karen's recent trip to Cozumel, MX with her husband on the Messy Family Marriage Getaway.  Karen shares some of the powerful and practically helpful tips she received from the trip and gives you encouragement in how to get focused and grow in your own marriage in the new year. Messy Family Project Family Board meeting download Messy Family Project Cana 90 program  Messy Family Project FREE Resources (other awesome free resources) Messy Family Podcast The Temperament God gave you book  The Temperament free online quiz RESTORE Marriage self-study (Open all the time) and Group experience (Closes Sunday, February 5th at midnight) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Tune in today for an awesome interview with Maria Spears and Tim Howard, co-authors of the brand new book The Mirror. In this episode we will discuss the 7 steps outlined in the book that will help you to REFLECT the life you want. You don't want to miss it!! REFLECT= Recognize that you have the power to change your life. Each day reflect on what you are grateful for already. Feel the happiness now that you imagine it will be when… Love yourself and let others know you love them. Energize your thoughts towards what you intend to be. Clarify your inner circle. Thoughts are key. Think it—Create it! You can purchase the e-book and learn more about all that Maria and Tim have to offer on their website: https://themirrorbook.com/ Click here to order on Amazon: https://a.co/d/doj9ELh Follow Tim on Instagram Follow Maria on Instagram ---- Register for the RESTORE Marriage Group Experience Watch the informational webinar about the RESTORE Marriage Group --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Check out our the discussion today about simple steps you can take to direct your mind and attention in a way that will set you up for more of what you want in your life this year. We often underestimate the power we have over our minds and attention. Scripture tells that we can "be transformed by the renewing of our minds" and our minds are also under the influence of what we put into our bodies. Today we also talk about some simple ways to make sure you are caring for your body to allow for your mind to function as well as possible! Supplements mentioned in the episode: Megafood and New Chapter multivitamins as well as Nordic Naturals and Nature Made Omega 3. Register for the 28 day prayer challenge here! Register for the Marriage Webinar here - tonight (Jan 19th at 7pm EST). Register for the marriage group and/or get more information here. Email with comments or questions about the show to karen@twoheartsforher.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

We live in a culture obsessed with body-image. And often this time of year we can get sucked into making resolutions to "care" for our bodies that are not entirely balanced or focused on what is best for the WHOLE person. Tune in to today's episode and hear from this seasons new co-host Katie Holder, who is a registered dietician and eating disorder treatment specialist (as well as a homeschooling mom of 7!), as she shares with us some tips for making resolutions that not only help your body, but also help heal the WHOLE person... You don't want to miss it! Registration link to the marriage group I (Karen) am leading with my friend Patrick in February: https://www.restorecatholicmarriage.com/group Link to the FREE WEBINAR on the marriage group schedule for Thursday, Jan 19th Link to registration for the Enter His Rest 28 day prayer challenge (sign up ANYtime... this one never closes!) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Tune in for today's episode and meet the podcast's brand new co-host Katie Holder. Katie is a registered dietician who specializes in treating individuals who struggle with eating disorders. She is also a home-schooling mom of 7 kiddos. She will be joining the podcast and bringing her real life experience as a wife, mom and professional who has a deep understanding of the mind-body connection! You can learn more about Katie at her website: https://holdernutrition.com In this episode we will discuss how you can begin 2023 from a place of deeper rest and peace. Learn how you can also join the Enter His Rest 28 day prayer challenge and kick off your year by linking arms with the Holy Spirit in a regular routine of prayer and meditation -delivered daily right to you inbox in either audio or written format =) Register for the Enter His Rest challenge here. You can also learn more about and register for the Restore Marriage online group experience led by Karen Cruess, MA, LPC and Patrick Metts MA, LPC starting in February here! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Tune in and learn from professional counselors and married couple Patrick and Sarah Metts, as they share with us about their vision for bringing greater restoration and healing to Catholic marriages through their brand new online course called Restore. In this interview Karen shares how she and her husband have also been using this online tool to strengthen their own marriage. You will also learn how you can join Patrick and Karen in a group interactive experience that will give you and your spouse the support and accountability you need to lay a foundation for a strong, healthy marriage. This course will help your marriage grow and flourish, as you learn the tools and skills necessary to communicate and love each other more effectively and in cooperation with the movements and working of the Holy Spirit. You don't want to miss it! Stay tuned for more information on how you can join the Restore Catholic Marriage group experience in 2023! Meetings will be every Thursday night starting February 2nd - March 9th, 2023. Registration opens at beginning of January! For more information about the work of the Two Hearts for HER ministry check out our website: www.twoheartsforher.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Do you pay attention to what you're paying attention to? Where we choose to focus our attention moment to moment plays a huge factor in how we feel each day. The battlefield for our attention is honestly more and more becoming the battlefield for our souls. If we can't learn to focus our attention, we can't focus on God: on His goodness, truth and beauty. And we become to a great what we focus on. Our brains are shaped and formed through focus, so learning to intentionally focus our mind a an enormous part of transformation! Listen to today's episode for more on this topic and how you can win on the battlefield of your mind. For more information on the Rewriting Your Story small group experience and HER Transformation Membership, click here! Check The Two Hearts for HER Website HERE! Have questions? Email me at karen@twoheartsforher.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Welcome to Day 9 of the Holy Spirit Novena! I hope you enjoy today's interview with Fr. Ignatius Mazanowski from the Diocese of Phoenix, Arizona. Father Ignatius graduated with a Master of Arts in Theology from St. Meinrad School of Theology in 2004. He attended seminary at The Catholic University of America and was ordained in 2011. He completed his doctorate in Moral Theology from Santa Croce, Rome, Italy, in 2016. Father Mazanowski has extensive training and experience in healing ministry. He is on the board for Restore Dignity, which sponsors 6-day Grief to Grace retreats in the Diocese of Phoenix. He is also partnering with Witness to Love counseling center in Phoenix, Arizona, to pioneer the Spiritual Healing Program. Additionally, Father Mazanowski completed a three-year (2018-2020) spiritual direction program through the Institute of Priestly Formation. As of May 1, 2022, Father Mazanowski serves as the Pastor of St. John Vianney Parish and the Chapel of the Holy Cross, both are located in Sedona, Arizona. He is also the Director of Medical Ethics and the Chaplain to the Catholic Medical Association in the Diocese of Phoenix. In today's episode Father helps us explore the common misunderstandings and misconceptions within the charismatic movement of the Catholic Church. We hope to encourage you to realize that passion for the Holy Spirit is meant to be central to life in the Church. You can check out Father's new book: The Virtue of Mercy and Forgiveness: Keys to Healing a Broken Heart here - https://www.mercyforgivenesshealing.com/ To download the Holy Spirit Healing Prayer from today's episode, click here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Welcome to Day 8 of the Holy Spirit Novena! So today is a little different because instead of an interview, I will be sharing a bit about my own story and journey with the Holy Spirit. The originally scheduled interview was thwarted by technical difficulties, and in the midst of that hiccup, I felt the Lord calling me to share with you from my heart about what led to this podcast series and why I think we must respond with hungry anticipation for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit in all of our lives. I hope you enjoy! If you want to learn more about the work of Two Hearts for H.E.R., check out our website here. You can read along with the novena prayers at PrayMoreNovenas.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Welcome to Day 7 of the Holy Spirit Novena! I hope you enjoy this interview with Catholic wife, mother, licensed marriage and family therapist, and social media influencer, Melissa Grace Tablada. Melissa shares about her own journey with the Holy Spirit and specifically how she recognizes His GENTLE movements in her marriage and family life. She shares specific examples of how she noticed His presence and guidance during their struggle with infertility and felt reassured that God's hand was guiding every step. You don't want to miss out on the powerful and practical nuggets of wisdom in this episode! To learn more about Melissa's work, be sure to check out her website www.melissagracetablada.com and follow her on Instagram for all the latest updates and news about what she is offering. If you want to learn more about the work of Two Hearts for H.E.R., check out our website here. You can read along with the novena prayers at PrayMoreNovenas.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Welcome to Day 6 of the Holy Spirit Novena! I hope you enjoy today's interview with Courtney Leong. I honestly don't have words to express my gratitude and awe at Courtney's bravery in sharing her story on the podcast today. As Courtney says herself in the show, she has experienced the horrors of hell on earth through the trafficking industry, and God has rescued and restored her. She shares how the power of the Holy Spirit can change and transform even the darkest of circumstances. You don't want to miss this interview! You can learn more about Courtney's mission to glorify God through her story as she helps, serves, and trains those who serve trauma survivors. Her organization is called Freedom After the Trauma. Be sure to check it out! You can read along with the novena prayers at PrayMoreNovenas.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Welcome to Day 5 of the Holy Spirit Novena! I hope you enjoy today's interview with Stephanie Clarisse, Catholic wife, mother, and host of the 500 Seconds to Joy Podcast. In today's show Stephanie shares how she has experienced the Holy Spirit as her helper and guide, especially in the trenches of motherhood. She calls us to remember how apart from God, we can do nothing; and so we must cling to Him through His gift of the Holy Spirit in order to bear fruit in our lives. If you want to learn more about the work of Two Hearts for H.E.R., check out our website here. You can also read along with the novena prayers atPrayMoreNovenas.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Welcome to Day 4 of the Holy Spirit Novena! I hope you enjoy today's interview with Terry Riggins, Catholic wife, mother, and parish liaison for the Charismatic Renewal in the Diocese of Arlington, VA. Terry also works closely with Unbound deliverance ministry through personal prayer ministry and also helping to coordinate Unbound prayer meetings and conferences. Her work is changing so many lives! I know you will be deeply touched as you listen to her share stories of how the Holy Spirit has worked and continues to move and work in her own life and ministry. She bears witness to how you come to know God on an intimate and personal level through the power of the Holy Spirit. May her words grow a holy hunger for more of God in your heart! You can read along with the novena prayers at PrayMoreNovenas.com. If you want to learn more about the work of Two Hearts for H.E.R., check out our website here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Welcome to Day 3 of the Holy Spirit Novena! I hope you enjoy this interview with Catholic wife, mother, speaker, and coach, Megan Mohan. Megan is such gifted and INSPIRATIONAL speaker. Listen to this vulnerable and honest interview that will help you to seek the Holy Spirit as the ONE who leads you to deep repentance and conversion of heart in the midst of the messiness and struggle of your life and vocation. Have you been longing to walk in passionate living in the gifts God has given you? Listen to Megan share with you how to partner with the Holy Spirit to discover your unique charisms and mission in the world. You can learn more about Megan here. You can read along with the novena prayers at PrayMoreNovenas.com. If you want to learn more about the work of Two Hearts for H.E.R., check out our website here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Welcome to Day 2 of the Holy Spirit Novena! I hope you enjoy this interview with Catholic wife, mother, scholar, author and entrepreneur, Carrie Gress, PhD. Carrie is most known for her latest popular book series and online mercantile, Theology of Home, as well as her popular books The Marian Option and Anti-Mary Exposed. Her story is living example of the ADVENTUROUS nature of the Holy Spirit. Listen today and be reminded that God wants to lead you to the desires of your heart for which you are often too afraid (or too embarrassed) to ask... I hope you enjoy! Click here to get email reminders for each day's episode! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Welcome to Day 1 of the Holy Spirit Novena!  I hope you enjoy this interview with Catholic author, singer, songwriter, speaker, wife and mother: Victoria Harris!  As she unpacks a bit of her own journey with the Holy Spirit, we are inspired and reminded of the power of the Holy Spirit to lead us into the TRUTH that sets us free. May you grow in hunger for a deeper revelation of God's truth in your life as you listen. You can learn more about Victoria's work and purchase her book Holy Spirit 101 by clicking on this link. Click here to get email reminders for each day's episode! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

In this episode Karen invites you to tune in and pray the Novena to the Holy Spirit beginning this Friday, nine days before Pentecost Sunday! Each day we will pray the novena prayers over the podcast (thank you praymorenovenas.com!) and Karen will interview a different woman who will share how her relationship with the Holy Spirit has affected, changed and transformed her life. You don't want to miss it! Let us grow in hunger for more of the Holy Spirit in our lives! Subscribe to the podcast to get notifications when each day's episode lands, or click this link to sign up for email notifications: https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/f/holy-spirit-novena --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Have you ever wondered how to take what you know to be true about God from your head to your heart? Do you want to start to personally experience what you know to be true in your head? Your relationship with God isn't meant to be lived merely on an intellectual level. While there are dry times in prayer, God wants us to know Him through deep personal encounter. Listen to Megan Stark's story to gain some insight into how you too can make that journey from the head to the heart. Check out this link for a free downloads to help you surrender and heal your image of God. https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/f/surrender-and-heal-your-image-of-god-pdf --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Check out this episode with Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Brya Hanan.  In it Karen and Brya discuss Disney's latest hit, Encanto, and the way the film portrays different dysfunctional family roles that many of us also experience in our own lives.  See how you might be able to learn  how to experience your own "rebuilding" and transformation from the stories shared within this movie. Check out Brya's website and online course here: https://www.bryahananlmft.com/healwithgod You can use the code “2heartsforher” for 25% off. Check out Karen's H.E.R. Transformation Groups launching this Lent, here.  www.twoheartsforher.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

You can learn more about Deb Rojas and her counseling offerings here. Click here to learn more about H.E.R. Transformation Online Community & Groups H.E.R. Transformation Community and Groups webinar recording. Check out all of Karen's offerings and information at www.twoheartsforher.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

In this episode Karen and Father Ignatius discuss the process of healing and how you can embrace the process, and experience the fruit of transformation. Please check out the link below to print your own free pdf with all the prayers and guides that Father Ignatius has created to help you on your journey. https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/f/healing-is-a-process (Use this link to get your own PDF of Healing of the Heart prayers and guide) Check out this episode on youtube: https://youtu.be/6aLwBWUJAI0 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Do you know that you need to forgive, but you don't know how and you don't even really want to? Many people are resistant to forgiveness because they have wrong ideas and understandings of what God is calling them to do when they forgive. Listen to this interview with Father Ignatius Mazanowski from the Diocese of Phoenix, Arizona and come to understand more deeply the whys and hows of this most important call of Jesus in the Gospels. Check out more about Father Ignatius' ministry here. https://www.mercyforgivenesshealing.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

But I say walk by the Spirit, and do not gratify the desires of the flesh.... the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control; against such there is no law.  Gal 5:16, 22-23 As we wrap up this Enter His Rest Prayer Challenge I thought a reflection on the fruit of Spirit would be helpful. These fruits are truly what it looks like to abide with Christ.  As we learn to rest in the love of God regardless of the circumstances that are swirling around us, these fruits will grow.  We will become more loving and joyful, more patient and kind.  We will find it more natural to choose the good and be faithful.  God's gentlest will radiate from us and we will have strength to exercise self-control. This is our prayer and this is the work of the Holy Spirit in us.  As we discussed yesterday, we cannot makes these fruits come through self-effort...only through abiding.  With self-effort we may succeed for a while or under certain circumstances but the depth of transformation we seek is only possible through God's grace...through ever-deepening relationship with God. To get full access to all the meditations and the ability to ask questions and interact with our community, be sure to sign up for FREE at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch of mine that bears no fruit, he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already made clean by the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in me, and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If a man does not abide in me, he is cast forth as a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire and burned.  If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you.  By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be my disciples." John 15:1-8 Today's meditation points to our ultimate goal on this earth: learning to “abide” in Christ and bear much fruit for the kingdom of God. This is what I found in the dictionary when I looked up the word: Abide (v) : 1. to remain; continue; stay 2. to have one's abode; dwell; reside This definition alone creates a good place to begin meditating on this passage today.  How can we remain with Jesus, continue and stay with him?  How can we make our abode with him and dwell with him? To get full access to all the meditations and the ability to ask questions and interact with our community, be sure to sign up for FREE at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things there are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.  Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.  For you have died and your life is hid with Christ in God.  Colossians 3:1-3. To get full access to all the meditations and the ability to ask questions and interact with our community, be sure to sign up for FREE at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

You who dwell in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty, say to the Lord, "My refuge and fortress, my God in whom I trust."  Psalm 91:1-2 Over the last six months or so my family has felt called to memorize and recite together Psalm 91 every night before bed.  Today's verse comes from the very beginning of this beautiful and powerful declaration of the protection we have under God's care.  As we continue exploring how to allow ourselves to truly abide and rest in God's love and peace, this psalm also gives us some powerful points to ponder. To get full access to all the meditations and the ability to ask questions and interact with our community, be sure to sign up for FREE at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

"As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you; abide in my love.  If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love.  These things I have spoken to you, that my joy maybe in you, and that your joy may be full."  John 15: 9-11 As we walk through this Enter His Rest challenge and continue contemplating how to remain  united with and abiding in God's love,  Jesus offers us another important ingredient in the "abiding" recipe through today's scripture: obedience. To get full access to all the meditations and the ability to ask questions and interact with our community, be sure to sign up for FREE at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.  Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances.  But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good;  abstain from everyform of evil. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 This weeks theme is our ultimate goal, the ultimate path to peace: abiding with Christ. To remain in perfect union with him is to be in perfect peace.  We will not experience this fully on this side of eternity, but all that we do on the path of holiness is meant to draw us into deeper union and thereby deeper peace in Christ. Today's passage gives us a beautiful and simple path to this union: 1. rejoice always 2. pray without ceasing 3. in everything give thanks. To get full access to all the meditations and the ability to ask questions and interact with our community, be sure to sign up for FREE at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Lord, my allotted portion and my cup,you have made my destiny secure. Pleasant places were measured out for me; fair to me indeed is my inheritance. I bless the Lord who counsels me; even at night my heart exhorts me. I keep the Lord always before me; with him at my right hand, I shall never be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad, my soul rejoices; my body also dwells secure, for you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, nor let your devout one see the pit. You will show me the path to life, abounding joy in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever. Ps 16:5-11 As we conclude this third week of Advent and our mini exploration with God of the desires of our heart, I am inviting us to take some time to mediate on where every desire of our heart ultimately finds fulfillment. The Lord is always calling us to a deeper place of surrender and abandonment to him and his love for us because He knows that ultimately this is where every desire is satisfied and lasting peace is found. As we allow God to lead us and take care of us, he provides a beautiful future for us. If we surrender in trust to him, we are able to receive the joy and delights he has planned for us, even when they don't look like we expected. He is ALWAYS faithful to provide… To get full access to all the meditations and the ability to ask questions and interact with our community, be sure to sign up for FREE at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Then he continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. Now I have come to explain to you what will happen to your people in the future, for the vision concerns a time yet to come." Daniel 10:12-14 Today's passage is from the book of Daniel, one of the prophets from the Old Testament. I encourage you to read the entire passage from chapter 10 in the book of Daniel. There are so many things we could ponder from this book of the Bible, but today I want to encourage you to take some time to recognize the reality of the spiritual war that rages around you and your response in times of trial. To get full access to all the meditations and the ability to ask questions and interact with our community, be sure to sign up for FREE at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

“Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat [or drink], or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they? Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span? Why are you anxious about clothes? Learn from the way the wild flowers grow. They do not work or spin. But I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was clothed like one of them. If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith? So do not worry and say, ‘What are we to eat?' or ‘What are we to drink?' or ‘What are we to wear?' All these things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom [of God] and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides."Matthew 6:25-33 Today's passage was one of the first scriptures that I memorized when going through a season of emotional stress and anxiety during my graduate school years. I found it so powerful to really deeply ponder the freedom of the birds who are perfectly provided for and the beauty of creation that delights the eye and brings such joy to our hearts. When we stop and contemplate God provision and extravagance in nature, it truly does give us pause to consider how we are relating to God in our own lives... To get the full access to all the mediations and the ability to ask questions and interact with our community, be sure to sign up for FREE at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

And as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a sizable crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind man, the son of Timaeus, sat by the roadside begging. On hearing that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say,“Jesus, son of David, have pity on me.” And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he kept calling out all the more, “Son of David, have pity on me.” Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” So they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take courage; get up, he is calling you.” He threw aside his cloak, sprang up, and came to Jesus. Jesus said to him in reply, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man replied to him, “Master, I want to see.” Jesus told him,“Go your way; your faith has saved you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed him on the way. Mark 10:46-52 To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge experience at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you encounter various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. And let perseverance be perfect, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and he will be given it. But he should ask in faith, not doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed about by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord, since he is a man of two minds, unstable in all his ways. James 1:2-4 As we continue this week's topic of surrendering our desires to God, we must also come face to face with the reality of the heartache we experience in the trials of life. Times when it feels like God isn't hearing or giving us the desires of our hearts. The space “in between” the promise and the fulfillment. The place where we are tempted to give up and bury our desires. Today I want to encourage you to take a different perspective to these times of life, one that St. James calls us to in today's reading. There are honestly so many points to ponder in this short passage, but I want to point out two that I think will help you as you face the various trials in your own life... To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge (FOR FREE) at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Find your delight in the LORD who will give you your heart's desire.  Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will act... Ps 37:4-5 What are the desires of your heart?  When is the last time you stopped to take look at and NAME those desires? What are you aching for? Are you afraid to look at your desire? Do you feel like you have asked so much for the fulfillment of this desire that you are hesitant to ask anymore?... This week we are going to explore these desires more deeply, and how surrendering them to the Lord can lead us to a profound depth of intimacy and personal encounter with the love of God who sees us in our desire and longs to satisfy us beyond what we can ask, think, or imagine.... To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge experience at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

A woman who had had a hemorrhage for twelve years, and had endured much at the hands of many physicians, and had spent all that she had and was not helped at all, but rather had grown worse—  after hearing about Jesus, she came up in the crowd behind Him and touched His cloak.  For she thought, “If I just touch His garments, I will get well.”  Immediately the flow of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. Immediately Jesus, perceiving in Himself that the power proceeding from Him had gone forth, turned around in the crowd and said, “Who touched My garments?”  And His disciples said to Him, “You see the crowd pressing in on You, and You say, ‘Who touched Me?'”  And He looked around to see the woman who had done this.  But the woman fearing and trembling, aware of what had happened to her, came and fell down before Him and told Him the whole truth.  And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace and be healed of your affliction.” Mark 5:25-34. To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge experience at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.  Do not be afraid, you worm Jacob, little Israel, do not fear, for I myself will help you," declares the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel."  Isaiah 41:13-14. Questions for journaling: 1.  When you read and/or listened to the meditation for today, did you allow yourself to close your eyes and picture the Lord speaking to you? What did you see in your mind's eye? Allow your imagination to take you into a personal conversation and interaction with the Lord.   2.  What did the Lord communicate to you today? What do you sense He wants you to know? 3.  Take some time to form a prayer of DECLARATION about what God communicated to you here.  Lord today you showed me that…. Lord today you revealed to me… 4.  What was the central truth God wanted to show you today? 5.     The Lord wants to engrave this truth on your heart not only through your interaction with him in prayer but also through your interactions with others. Be on the look out now for how the Lord wants to communicate this truth you in your daily life.... Make sure you take time to journal what you notice... To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge experience at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

In this parable the elder brother lived as a servant more than a son of his Father.  He was unable to receive the fullness of life that his dad wanted to give him because it seems that he had not cultivated his relationship with his father.  He didn't know his father's heart... To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge experience at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

“Lord you have probed me you know me: you know when I sit and stand; you understand my thoughts from afar. My travels and my rest you mark; with all my ways you are familiar. Even before a word is on my tongue, Lord, you know it all. Behind and before you encircle me and rest your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me….” Ps 139:1-6 Today's scripture calls us to contemplate being known and loved in ALL THINGS. We all desire to be known and loved, but often there are places in our hearts and minds that we hope that no one will ever know, places of shame and embarrassment, thoughts and desires we wish we didn't have. We keep these places locked up and hidden, and thus there is a place deep inside where many of us think, “If you really knew me, you wouldn't love me…” To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge experience at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” I will rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses,* in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me. 2 Cor 12:9 Please do not allow your times of brokenness and weakness be an obstacles to you receiving my love. They aren't an obstacle for me, so don't allow them to be an obstacle for you… Consider times in your life where you have felt truly loved. Were they not times when you were weak or broken, and someone was there beside you... times when you failed but someone stood by your side saying they believed in you and wanted to stand with you? Do you not feel the most loved when you are weak or sick and someone comes to be with you, even though you are too weak to offer them anything in return? See that in these moments of weakness are opportunities to receive a depth of love this IS NOT POSSIBLE IN MOMENTS OF STRENGTH... To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge experience at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Do you not know that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? Rom 2:4 Over these past 10 days we have been meditating on God's kindness, his goodness, his unchanging and unfailing love because this is an ESSENTIAL foundation that will enable us to embrace vulnerability with God, receive his love and experience true and deep repentance. Our hearts need that firm resting place in God's love in order for the walls of defense to come down and for us to recognize where and how we need to repent. As we realize God's kindness toward us, we are able to reach out to Him for help because we truly can't become holy without him. To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge experience at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, Jacob, and formed you, Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name: you are mine. When you pass through waters, I will be with you; through rivers, you shall not be swept away. When you walk through fire, you shall not be burned, nor will flames consume you... You are precious in my eyes and honored, and I love you. (Is 43:1-2, 4) Imagine for a moment these words being spoken to you. If you put them in more modern language maybe it would sound more like this: “I love you more than you can know. You are so precious to me. You don't have to be afraid of anything because I am here with you, and I will protect you.” Are these not the words of a parent to his child? These are the words of your Father to you... To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge experience at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message

Today's meditation leads us into an encounter with the love of God, who speaks our identity over us in the same way he did over Jesus at his baptism in the Jordan River. Even before there was ever a recorded miracle, sign, or eloquent preaching from Jesus, God spoke His love and pleasure over Him. Jesus began His ministry FROM the place of security in His Father's love. He didn't go out trying to earn that love or pleasure. Jesus knew God loved Him and was pleased with Him and allowed this knowledge to propel Him forward. To get the full meditation, don't forget to sign up for the complete challenge experience at https://twoheartsforher.newzenler.com/courses/enterhisrest --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/twoheartsforher/message