Letters From Home

Compassion can shape lives. So many babies have been born in adversity. Their start in life is so difficult. And yet God has a plan. Adoption is so often part of that. And sometimes, the most hopeless story, can be the one God uses to display His great power, and His gentle compassion. Arie Mahler shares his inspiring testimony, from a tiny village and Sulawesi jungle birth, to his upbringing in Seattle, and his current calling to direct the Compassion Center at Alderwood Community Church in Lynnwood, Washington. Your faith will surely be buoyed as you are invited into Arie's heart and family.Jeremiah 29:11 - “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.”Show Notes: https://bit.ly/42lp2g9Topics Shared:Born on the island of Sulawesi in a grass thatched roof hutHis mother passed away shortly after, due to complications of childbirthHe was left in the hut, and bitten by a wild animalHis uncle brought him to a missionary orphanage in Manato, a 3 days journeyDr. Donald Gish and uncle, went and got Arie to bring him back to the orphanageGrandpa Gish and Nana EvelynThey didn't think he would make it through the nightMiraculously nursed back to healthOn the Cover of the Newsletter for the church in Seattle where he would be adoptedOne year process for him to be adopted by his new Seattle familyHis parents first meet him at Daily's Drive In,A godly upbringingHis Dad gets cancer when Arie was 16A pivotal transitionYoung marriage and familyThe quest to find his birth fatherHealing and answersBecoming Papa and GramA sweet reunion at a memorialTHE P.S. Questions Answered:As a coach and parent do you have advice on figuring out the whole sports life church homebalance?Who is the greatest NBA player of all time? The Greatest Shooter?What is the greatest need in the church today?What legacy do you wan't to leave behind?How to get involved in The Compassion Center at Alderwood Community Church in Lynnwood,Washington and what it is all about.Guest Links:The Compassion Center Website: https: //alderwood.cc/compassion-center/Alderwood Community Church Email: ReachUs@amcc.orgRelated Episode:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/the-search-for-redemption-holland-webb/------------------------------------------For more everyday extraordinary faith stories: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodesin one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store.All free!We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story.lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor Bingeable Series, hover over the “Episodes” tab:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/episodes/We're on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcastslive :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast' and it should pop right up.

Disclaimer: This story contains sensitive content that may not be safe for young ears. Consider putting in earbuds if you have kids present.Has your spouse or roommate ever stumbled upon a private addiction and confronted you? What if you were a young and new pastor who loved working with kids? Today's guest walks us through how his secret porn addiction was discovered, how he asked for help, how it affected his church and pastoring and how the Lord strengthened his marriage. Our God is a God of reconciliation and restoration. Vulnerability and asking for help open the door.Acts 20:24- (NIV) “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me, the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace.”Show Notes: https://bit.ly/40YnnMI----------------------------------------------Topics Shared:Awana kidSaved and baptized at age 9Retired military father, absentTeachers didn't believe in himHe thought he wasn't smart enough for collegeGrowing in faith in teen years Looking for his soulmate in high school“Find me somebody to love.”Found many father figures at churchBecame a youth pastor at age 19Married youngStruggle with pornWife discoversHe shares it with the churchPlan for restorationFinding a new churchBrandon Heath ‘God isn't finished with you yet”Ultimate Healing Some of the P.S. Questions Answered:What would you say to parents who are raising kids while in the military?How has walking in other people's shoes transformed you?If you had limitless time or talent, what other ministry would you like to participate in or start?What is the legacy you want to leave behind?Neil Mathew's Website and PodcastWebsite:https://www.opspodcast.com/Podcast: Other People's Shoes PodcastGuest Quote:“I was so intoxicated with the role of a pastor, I forgot what it was to be a pastor and to be a shepherd.” Related Episode:Ep. 3 - “Secret Addiction & Open Healing” Judianne Charbonneau (young mom)------------------------------------------For more everyday extraordinary faith stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story. lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletter: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/For Bingeable Series, hover over the “Episodes” tab: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/episodes/We're on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live... All you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast' and it should pop right up.

Disclaimer: This story contains sensitive content that may not be safe for young ears. Consider putting in earbuds if you have kids present.Do you believe in Miracles? Is there anyone in your life whom every time you see them, you are reminded with a resounding swell in your heart that God is a God of miracles. Shauna's story is this. Her story is traumatic, impactful, full of hope, full of faith, and wonder. You will see her struggle as she asks God, ‘why did you save me? Why am I alive?” You will also see how her experiences, and faith journey has led her to the beautiful ministry she serves her loving God in today.Philippians 4:13-“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3Kdqgmu-------------------Topics Shared:Traumatic miracle birthGrowing up on 3 sides of the track Witnessing her mother being abusedThe incident Finding forgivenessSafe space found Saved at age 8Bumpy teensYoung arranged marriageAbusive cheating teen husbandBecoming a Mom and divorced at 17Life as a single MomDrug season Hasty marriageMental abuse and pregnancyTraumatic deliveryLosing 7 liters of bloodLeft the hospital after 8 daysWhy did He save me? A long depressionLosing everythingHomeless with two kidsA new chapterPaying it forwardCall to Coaching The P.S. Questions:What are 3 of your most helpful tips as a life coach?What legacy do you hope to leave behind?Shauna Parker's Links:Website: https://shauna-parker.com/Instagram: @shauna.parker.coachingFor more everyday extraordinary faith stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story. lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletter https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/For Bingeable Series, hover over the “Episodes” tab: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/episodes/We're on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast' and it should pop right up.

Newly Quadriplegic. Can you imagine at age 19, after a boating accident, waking up from surgery to the doctors telling you that you will never walk again? Despair settled in. This is the beginning of Joe Delagrave's deep transformation. His journey to forgiveness and faith is one you will never forget. He brings us into his happy but imperfect childhood, his WSU football days, his boating accident, a life-changing prison visit, and ultimately his inner heart working, that gave him the drive of an Olympian. He is a keynote speaker, Team USA Paralympic Wheelchair Rugby Medal Winner and well-loved child of God.Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3XPOXuS--------Topics Shared:Soaking up affirmation from coachesHis goal in high school was being a college athleteSupportive parentsBirth father in prison, missed Joe's entire childhoodIt wasn't 15 years for some crazy offense, it was choices over and overDrugs, check fraud, not paying his rentAt 13 God spoke to him about being a speakerHis battle between pleasing people or pleasing GodFootball Scholarship to Winona State in Mn.Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin and the back sloughs of MississippiBoating accidentSpinal cord injury levelsJoe's neck snaps at the C6 and C7, and he blacks outRescue boat, ambulance, then med flighted to the local hospitalThe Asia Test proves his spinal injuryAirlifted to LaCrosse Hospital for surgery to fuse his C6 and 7Complete quadriplegic or incomplete quadriplegic?Don Beebee House of Speed shirt cut offOpening his eyes to Prov. 3:5-6, and a newly-abled worldSurrounded by loving familyThe God of 2nd chancesFunctioning as an incomplete C6 and C7 quadriplegicGod softens his heart toward his dadVisiting his birth father in prisonReconciliation and forgiveness in one life-changing encounterMarriage, babies and adaptive sportsDiscovering wheelchair rugbyAn athlete againPreparing, making and medaling in the ParalympicsResources:Website- https://www.joedelagrave.com/IG- @jdelagrave14Joe's Quotes:“Are we on fire for God, or on fire for what people think? A lot of times those two don't coexist very well.”“As my athletic career was taking off, my relationship with Jesus was completely going the opposite way.”“We never know what kind of impact we make by simply being kind.”——————————————For more everyday extraordinary faith stories: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/

Can you imagine being falsely accused as a pastor? Then add to that, false charges filed against you where even the FBI gets involved. Markus Watson walks through what he and his family went through at their church, and though months later, exonerated by the Presbytery was voted out of his church. Incredulous. Markus has arisen from that devastating chapter with several new chapters in his life. He is currently the primary podcaster and host for Fuller Seminary “Spiritual Life and Leadership”, the best-selling author of “Beyond Thingification” and the pastor at a new church. Through it all, he is reminded, that no matter what trial he goes through, he knows he is God's beloved. His story will grip your heart, and change your perspective on so many levels.Jer. 31:3-“The Lord appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.”Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3wdso7n---------------Topics Shared:Raised in faithAspiring Hollywood actorA change of plansFuller Seminary Pastoring his first churchEmergency meeting while on sabbaticalAccused of pornForensic analysis of his laptopTurns into a potential criminal investigationThe FBI got involvedHow the attorney knew he was innocentExonerated by the PresbyteryVoted out of his churchFlourish San DiegoBeyond ThingificationPastor at Westmorland Community Presbyterian ChurchMarkus' Quotes:"The FBI had my laptop."" 'Lord, I don't deserve your love.' What a terrible message to be telling myself over and over and over again.""I spent a lot of time in the Psalms, Psalms of lament.""I had this image of myself having lost everything, sitting in a prison cell.""We had double our normal attendance that Sunday. Everyone will show up for a scandal.""The thought of being a pastor again felt like being thrown into a snake pit.""We can't love someone if we are judging them."Markus Watson's Website:https://www.markuswatson.com/------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/

While deployed to Kuwait, Jerry Dugan wrote to his family the “in case I die” letter. His whole hard life had led to this moment. You will see the wonderful way the Lord protected him, changed him and his family, and how he was able to come home. He is truly an honorable man, but one who wasn't always proud of his family name.At 14, in his mind, his family name stood for trouble, heartbreak, bullying, racial microaggressions and brokenness. He had already been through so much in his young life. Jerry shares with us the life-changing prayers and loving God that lead him to a new family honor, and helped him to change the generational patterns that informed his childhood. Jeremiah 1:5-"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations."Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3CTvYYb--------------------------------------Topics Shared:Biracial childhoodTiger MomPerformance-based acceptancePerformance-based affectionTop Gun style bet to break up his parentsHeart-breaking divorceThe Army brushed a lot of things under the carpetSuicide ideations and suicide attemptsInterventionLoving foster homeBullied by uncles in Ca. His gentle father flips the switch to military policeman with army trainingA turning pointDeployment to Kuwait, 1/'03-3/'03Writing the 'in case I die' letterWar homecoming and seeing his kids for the first timeQuotes:"When you are 7 or 8 years old and the amount of affection you are getting from your mom, the kind of attention you get from your mom is solely based on your performance in an activity, that sets a weird expectation.""In the movies they always have that 'in case I die' letter they hand to their buddy to hand off, but I was so convinced I was going to die, that I wrote my letter. I disguised the wording just enough so it didn't freak my wife out when she read it, but it was there. Everything I wanted to say to her was in that letter. I folded it, and I mailed it that night. It was one last mail run before we crossed the border.""We as a church can do better, back off the condemnation, and demonstrate more of the Jesus who hung out with prostitutes and tax collectors and treated them with dignity, treated them with respect because he honored their dignity."References:Beyond the Rut Website & Podcast:https://beyondtherut.com/https://therealjerrydugan.com/Jerry Dugan's Ted Talk:http://therealjerrydugan.com/category/biblical-marriage/Marriage Episode with Meg Glesener:https://beyondtherut.com/meg-glesener-healthy-marriage-btr-236/The Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255& Website: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/

Losing a loved one through medical malpractice has to be one of the most difficult experiences in life. This is Ami Shroyer's story, and she would say she was loved for 100 years in 20 by her beloved Mike. Not everyone gets to experience a love like this. As a traveling teen musician, she met the love of her life. They start their marriage in love and soon after, they started their family. While serving the Lord as a family, preparing land for a new ministry, her husband Mike inhales some debris. Through a series of misdiagnosis and careless medical practice, Mike passes away. Ami brings us into that season of her life, the love, the pain and the beyond. Her name means, 'beloved little follower of the Lord,' and as her story unfolds, you will see her uncommon faith, from just a little girl, to this present day. She is resilient, and has an affinity for daisies, which reminds her of the love of her husband, Mike Shroyer.Hebrews 12:1 - "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us."Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3vcl0J7Topics Shared:Beloved little follower of the LordUncommon faithCreative child whose wings were clippedLived in 21 different houses before 21Jesus clubs and writing musicFriend-zoned Bill Gaither's nephewSkipped graduation to travel around the country singingSevered parental relationship made rightMeeting the love of her life"Miracle of Mercy" Mike's life songQuick & happy marriageWorking at Andy Stanley's church, their Atlanta yearsStarting a family wholeness centerThe 5/11 Wholeness JourneyMike gets suddenly illThe Doctors fumble his careMedicinal toxicity and dehydration sets inOne last visitHorrible passingSupermanLoved for 100 years in 20Fields of daisiesName on the front of the buildingA voice for strong homesAmi Quotes:"I always want purpose, not closure. You can't close off a love like this. We are not meant to. We need to continue to live wide open with purpose.""It literally feels like he is on a trip before we get there, but he just got there first.""The night that he passed away my daughter said 'Mom, now it's even. And I said, 'what do you mean?' And she said, 'Well the two babies that are in heaven have Dad, and you have us. It's even."My son said, "I've been thinking, I could be really angry with God that I am 12 and Sadie is 8, and that this would happen, but I got to thinking, if this were going to happen some day anyway, I would rather that it happen when I'm 12 and Sadie is 8, because if it were later in life, you would be all alone, and right now you have us."Resources:Elizabeth Elliot "Path of Suffering"Ami's Website: https://amishroyer.com/Podcast:Journey Through Fields of Daisies (on her website)------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/

Bible Project has been a tidal wave of blessing to this world and one of the Bible Project's key visionaries is Michael McDonald. Sometimes it takes a rough childhood, and the longing of a young boy to find a father figure, to inform his global focus and mindset. Changed by the love of his Father, he grows up to be a world changer, albeit imperfect. Michael McDonald is currently the Bible Project Director of Global Focus and Strategic Relationships in Portland, Oregon. His story to get there is rare, and is a beautiful global adventure we are invited on. It is so easy for our homes to be self-focused and American-focused. His perspective will change you.Matthew 5:14 -"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden."Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3HzW5q9Bible Project Website: https://bibleproject.com/Topics Shared:Raised strong Baha'iNelson, crazy wild childhoodMental illness and abuse in the homeHow the Baha'i faith shaped his views about GodTraveling alone at 14 and on his own at 17Where he got his love for helping with injustice, compassion and women's equalityLiving in Turkey to find himselfHis move from business into the non profit worldStarting his nonprofit, Hear The Cry10 years + traveling with Bob Goff and Dream BigHis current work at Bible Project, with John Collins & Tim MackieHis heart to bring Bible Project to the nationsBible Project in 30 languages so farBook to help our Global Mindset: "Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes" Kenneth BaileyQuotes from Michael McDonald:"We started a number of schools, opened up some hospitals and some rescue homes for gals getting rescued out of the sex trade. We worked in Ughanda Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Nepal, India, different ministries in each of those places. So we find incredible local leaders that have a passion for one of those types of things and then help create some infrastructure and do that." (with Bob Goff)"I have been part of Bible Project since the beginning, because it has been friends that were working on this project. I saw the first two videos that came out in 2014, and just thought 'wow, these are going to be an incredible resource for people.' I was thinking of them globally right away, just because I worked with so many pastors and teachers in other countries that are starving for good Bible resources, and thought these would be a great asset, especially because they are free, and they are so well done.""The reality is Christianity isn't a western religion. It was a Middle Eastern religion that is coming out of Israel...we need to understand history and context."------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/

How many people choose adoption, while single in their twenties? I would imagine, not many. And to have the boys be age 3 and age 4. That is a true baptism into parenting. This isn't a calling for everyone, but it was a calling for Holland Webb. You will hear how the loss of his own Father at an early age affected him, and how this whole adoption and parenting experience has affected his heart and faith. His life mission and his road to personal redemption are remarkable and relatable. He has co-authored the book 'Adventures in Fatherhood", with Carlton Hughes .Proverbs 31:8- "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute."Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3UxF4Q9-----------Topic Shared:Growing up without a FatherFilling holes from our childhoodSingle parentingHow Americans are perceived in the PhilippinesWorking for non-profit companiesInternational Disability and Development Consortium. Cohosting a podcastChallenging our assumptionsMissionariesAdoption as a single manBiracial familiesFulfilling in others what we lackCaring for parents with dementia Holland's Website: https://www.hollandwebb.com/The Afterword Podcast: https://www.hollandwebb.com/category/blog/ Adventures in Fatherhood: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fatherhood-Devotional-Holland-Webb/ ------------------------------------------For more everyday extraordinary faith stories: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/

Have you ever wondered what it would be like, to move to Hollywood to pursue your dream of filmmaking? Chris Staron brings us right into his experience of dreams fulfilled and disillusionment in Hollywood. He will take us backstage into his own personal foray into the Christian Filmmaking industry. His experience may surprise you. Through all of the ups and downs of his journey, including becoming a starving artist, you will admire the man of God Chris is and see how his faith is anchored.*Mark. 8:35-“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”------------Topics Shared:Homeschooled twinsHis faith storyHeaven's Gates and Hells FlamesBullied in high school Upstate New York Ithaca College Film ProgramSherwood PicturesCampus Crusade Mentor Interning on the Bernie Mac Show Production Assistant on Hells KitchenIndie Movie DirectorBringing Up Bobby successWriting his book, The Cradle RobberThe story of William Jennings Bryan & the Scopes Monkey TrialAdvice for someone being bulliedAudition tipsTruce Podcast and Website: https://trucepodcast.com/Guest Quotes:“I wouldn't characterize Hollywood as necessarily anti-God, it's that they just don't know who he is… it wasn't so much that they were against you, it was that you were an alien species.”“We often glamorize those things, and hold up the success stories, but there is nobody out there talking about the real struggle of being a starving artist in the Christian world.”“In most staunch conservative reformed churches, prosperity is there. We believe that nothing bad can happen to you if you are a Christian. But if you look at the Bible, the central character of the Bible is a guy who gets crucified for being exactly where God wants Him to be.”“Paul gets shipwrecked and bitten by snakes and beaten and thrown out of town for being exactly where God wants him to be. So I think our conception of whatsuccess is and what money is, is way off.” “We can't judge our success based on the numbers and people's response. Success in God's eyes is being faithful.”Show Notes: http://bit.ly/3EkWSrI------------------------------------------For more everyday extraordinary faith stories: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/

Life on the run. From the law. Still a child living with his once carefree but now troubled Mom, the remnants of his semi-idyllic remote hippie childhood... faded into a dark season for the whole family. At only 12, Kipp had already experienced 2 lifetimes of pain. He takes us on his journey... of life... of processing his childhood.. of a life-changing divine encounter... and profound moments. All of this led him down the path of healing, to the remarkable albeit imperfect place he is now at in his life.VERSE: Romans 8:15- “For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!”Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3FW2kUd----------------------------------------------Here are the link to the Mountain & Valley Podcast, where so many wonderful God stories are told:On Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mountain-valley-podcast/id1453868341The Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255& Website: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/------------------------------------------For more everyday extraordinary faith stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story. lfhpodcast@gmail.com

What is in a name? And what could your name tell others, and how is it part of your story? We will explore these questions and more. This episode is in part an audio letter to our children, Naomi Praise, Hannah Rose, Havilah Joy, Josiah Pilgrim, Eden Hope, Micah Zion, Jordan David and Elijah Glesener. You will hear our tribute to them, sharing the inspiration behind their names. Enjoy!Episode Verse: Prov. 22:1-“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor better than silver or gold.”Rev. 2:17-“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it.”Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3gIpRxB-------------Topics Shared:We asked this question to a few previous guests. Is there a name that is special to you?You will hear from Nii Akofio-Sowah, Camille Joy, Cynthia Tobias, Rhonda & Conell Hollins and Lois Gaydos.Here are some other bonus episodes to hear more from my family:Ep. 20 - Bonus Episode 20- “Everyday Extraordinary Characters”https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/everyday-extraordinary-characters/Ep. 30 -Bonus Episode- “2020- The Stories We Will Tell”https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/bonus-episode-2020-the-stories-we-will-tell/Ep.40-"What Does Being a Child of God Mean to You?" Bonus Episodehttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/what-does-being-a-child-of-god-mean-to-you-bonus-ep-40/Credits:Original Artwork: Hannah GlesenerTechnical Director: Jordan GlesenerCohosting an Episode: Eden GlesenerOriginal Music: Jordan Glesener, Micah Glesener, Josiah GlesenerVoice Spots: Elijah Glesener, Josiah Glesener, Eden Glesener, Micah Glesener, Jordan Glesener, Shiloh Glesener. Bonus Episode Appearance: Havilah & Gideon Silva, Shiloh Glesener, Hannah Glesener, Naomi, Nathanael, Kanuah, Kallah and Zaccai Oliver.Bonus Episode Messages: Mike GlesenerUpdated Artwork & Templates: Kyle BeckettTranscription and Social Media Assistance: Debbie SageEditing and Audio Assistance: Scott KarowPodcast Consultant: Rebecca Beckett & the whole Crista Media teamLetters From Home is grateful to be part of the Purposely Podcast Channel and Collective, the Purposely team and the Crista family. We wholeheartedly agree with their message:“Purposely, your life. God's Purpose. Practical podcasts to help you find and live in God's purpose for your life.”Check out some many excellent encouraging podcasts at https://onpurposely.com/To God be the glory. ------------------------------------------For more everyday extraordinary faith stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story. lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/For Bingeable Series, hover over the “Episodes” tab:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/episodes/We're on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :). Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast' and it should pop right up.

Did you know that fulfilling the great commission in the scriptures can be as simple as learning to practice hospitality in our homes? Sue Donaldson had wanted to be a missionary to the world, from her youth. In her adulthood she realized that the mission field starts right at her own address, at her own table. You will see the journey she takes, one step at a time, in obedience to her Lord, to love her neighbor. She now sees her home and table as her greatest way to show the world, the welcoming heart of God, one cup of coffee at a time. We are invited into her home and heart to see where the seed of her now blooming hospitable lifestyle began, and how even the most shy introverted busy person, can take steps toward hospitality. Show Notes:

There is nothing like seeing someone in their 80's still living life to the fullest. There can be a beautiful wisdom, patience, focus and endurance. This sentiment embodies Lois Gaydos and here is her story. She has walked with her Savior for almost 75 years. Her faith through life's seasons will inspire you, as you see her trusting her loving God, even in this last, most difficult season, as a widow.For I know that my Redeemer lives, and that and at the last he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another… Job 19:25-26*This episode is dedicated to the memory of her beloved husband, Ken Gaydos, who along with his lovely wife, lived life to the fullest.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3LPm6lp

Episode Description:In marriage, two become one, but that is definitely a process. Some would call that process "from me to we." Rhonda Hollins shares her profound “me to we” journey of love. You will hear how a painful dating experience affected her, how a miracle shaped her and how the love for her Savior has enabled her to live, and lay her life and loved ones at the altar. Today, Rhonda and her husband Conell are busy helping hundreds of couples start off with strong foundations for godly marriages. And in this story, we are invited into their home, to see where it all started out.Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”----------------------------------------------Topics Shared:Happy Childhood, P.K.Parents married 50 yearsClearly saved at age 6Baptized, and hears God's voice13 yr old rebelling, at odds with momDating abuseLearning to trust againHoneymoon, and the loss of a parentThe “me to we” first yearA very sick newbornMiracle provision, surgery and healingGod has raised beautiful ministry through their familyMinistry of premarital counseling and strong foundationsTHE P.S. Questions Answered:Asking permission before physical encounters in marriage1.Tips on pursuing a relationship, pursue premarital counsel2.Communication3.Heated Fellowship4.How to Keep the fires going in marriage when things become stale 5.How has the pandemic changed youRhonda and Conell Hollins links:Website: https://metowelove.com/Podcast: “Me to We Talk” https://metowetalk.com/Resources: Women in Distress 24-Hour Crisis Hotline 1-954-761-1133Guest Quotes:Conell “Marriage is one conversation, one long, long communication.” Conell “whatever you did when you were dating, keep that going. Why does it have to stop? It only stops because we allow it to our we become stagnant, or we become lazy. We become lazy in love, and once you become lazy and complacent, it is hard to get out of it.” It's hard to get back to something that is special, something that is fiery.Conell “A name has no character, no color, no flaw, but it means so much.”Related Episodes:Raven Hartwell's story.https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/living-and-loving-out-loud-raven-hartwell-ep-51/------------------------------------------For more everyday extraordinary faith stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story. lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/For Bingeable Series, hover over the “Episodes” tab:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/episodes/We are on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :). Just type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast' and it should pop right up.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3LbOs98

What if all you knew as a teenager was abandonment, abuse and drug dealing? How would that shape your perspective and choices? Paul Ybarra takes us right into his home and his life as a teenage drug dealer in California in the 80's. You will hear how his life spiraled out of control, as the stakes got bigger and bigger. He also shares the beautiful way the Lord stopped him in his tracks, called him out of that life and put him on a new path.Psalm 1:2-3 “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.”**Special Note: Because this is a family-friendly podcast I want to take just a moment to let you know this podcast contains some sensitive content that might not be safe for young ears. If you have young kids listening, please take note and consider putting in earbuds. Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3R3EZ5JTopics Shared:Low rider truck club parents, San Jose in the 70'sCharismatic stepfather, big strong partying familyLearned class in the hood Raised Jehovah's Witness, stepdad was in leadership and nice at homeLight switch to narcissism and major abuse, molestationShame and guilt as a familyElders didn't believe the family, coverup ensuedPremeditated evil and double life JailedFresh start in Yakima, Wa. & MabtonMom spirals down, with cocaineCreated a cool imageLoved by a family14 yrs old, feeling abandoned by his momShe chooses another man over her childrenGiven a ticket back to CaLIVING THE GANGSTER LIFESTYLE, GANG BANGER:His Mom moves back and becomes a secret Taco Bell madam, with a prostitute ring.Even the high school counselor gives up on himSo he goes hard into the lifestyleHigh rolling, living the Snoop Dog Video lifeStarts tweaking, and going hard on drugsLoses everything, and loses trust on the streets, depression sets in, and he tries to forget everythingGets sober for a minute, finds a girlfriend who he wants to help and gets right back inA String of jobs, and refuses rehabTwo thirty day stints in county jailCHANGED BY THE LORD:Mike Williams and his helpSuicidalBinging, and doing a paper routeA Cry out to GodQuitting cold turkey, no uppers, no weed, and starting a New sales jobAffair with a young Christian womanReputation lostGets soberHis boss invites him to church, first man he respects since the age of 12.1/09/2005 goes to the altar, salvation New life, and then backsliding begins, back in California A friend helps bring him back and repentanceA year of purificationMeets his wife at churchThree months later marriedSold out for GodMINISTRY:Set Free MinistriesLive-streaming on PeriscopeRecovery is for everyoneCoaching ministry beginsKingdom Linked NetworkSpiritual Father to ManyTHE P.S. Questions Answered:The Importance of Discipleship How The Pandemic Has Changed HimPaul Ybarra Links:Website: Kingdom Lined Network, Connecting Community, Building the Kingdom https://www.kingdomlinkednetwork.com/Facebook Group: We Are Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/wearecommunitygroupPodcasts to check out: Activate Your Next Level Mindset Podcast with Coach Paul, Coach's Corner with Paul Ybarra, On The Go Podcast With Paul YbarraPaul's Book: 100 Power Tips to Set You Free: https://www.amazon.com/100-Power-Tips-Set-Free/dp/1513686631Resources: The Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 & Website: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Paul Ybarra Quotes:“I just found the easy route, because my brother was out there in the streets. The lifestyle was selling dope, making some money, sell a whole lot of weed and have fun, and smoke weed. Right about that time is when gangster rap had just hit the market, in the late 80's early 90's, and you just live the lifestyle. The lifestyle soon became by the time I was 17 in high school, selling dope in school.”“My mom had a job at Taco Bell, and along the way, she actually became a madam for this secret prostitute ring that was in Taco Bell. So it was part of the franchise, and she was making a huge amount of money, rolls of money was coming home every night. At 16 years old, I thought ‘I guess this is how we do life. So I was slinging dope in school. We would go to Taco Bell and get 5 to 10 bags of free food. It was like this junior mafia basically, all my home boys making money, doing the things.”“I was a senior. One day I went to school and my counselor called me into the office and he said ‘Paul, what do you plan on doing with your life? All you do is come here and sell dope. Why don't you just drop out. And I was sitting there thinking, ‘But you are my counselor, really?”“We lived it, we spent it, boats, cars parties, like a Snoop Dog video, that's what we lived. And through that, built a lot of respect in the streets. I was never in a gang, p erse, just gang-banged, always wearing red, a northerner, the whole nine, that's who I was.”“So basically, you have two different roles in the street. You have the thug and you have the money makers. I was part of the money maker crews, but we didn't do the dirt.” “I turned a crazy leaf and lost everything.”“I was no longer the dope addict. I was no longer the home boy that sells dope. I was no longer the connection. I was Paul Ybarra.”“Back then I was a home boy. I'm surrounded by nothing but white boys. I thought they were narcs. I thought it was a set up, because I was high, I was tripping. Then I found my little crew, they were all from Lodi, little Mexican homeboys and white boys that were cool homeboys. We all thought we were surrounded by narcs.”I quit cold Turkey. That was my only escape. So we get on a sales crew. I know all the spots. I learned how to sell cleaner, and I learned it well.” “I I got kicked out of my apartment. I moved in with a friend of mine who lived out in the country, but that trailer that was out there was infested with rats. I literally had to cover myself with a blanket like a cocoon to go to sleep. And one Saturday morning I said ‘God whoever you are, if you just give me a better job, I promise to serve you however you see fit. And that same day….”“Recovery is for everyone. So how do I brand this to where I can reach people that aren't in recovery, but help them deal with the abandonment, the mindset, the rejection, the spirituality?”Related Episodes:Ep. 31- “All Joking Aside” BIG Dave Eberthttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/all-joking-aside-big-dave-ebert/——————————————For more everyday extraordinary faith stories: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!We would love to hear how the Lord has encouraged you through this story. lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletter: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/For Bingeable Series, hover over the “Episodes” tab: https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/episodes/

A strong-willed child. When was the last time you heard a parent say they have a strong-willed child, and were happy about it? This phrase usually has negative connotations and thoughts that fill our minds. But what if it didn't? What if upon discovering we had a strong-willed child, we rejoiced, and knew that we had the tools to teach and guide that child well, and had great hope for the kind of force and strong-willed adult they could one day be for the Lord.Cynthia Tobias was a strong-willed child, and is now a strong-willed adult, a humble force impacting our world for God's kingdom. In her story you will hear the deep impact her loving Father and upbringing made on her life, and how the Lord she has trusted in from youth, has shaped who she is and how she ministers now, with her dear husband of 14 years, Jack Talley, in Bonney Lake, Washington.Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3SSRS3R

Have you ever had the feeling that your life, what people see, and the reality of your heart are so far apart it is like you are wearing a mask.Chris Archuleta was faking his spirituality as a pastor, so much so, that his family didn't even know. This went on for years, until through a series of painful events, God helped him take that mask off. He shares with us that painful, but healing process, and how His loving God captured his heart, and restored him back to ministry.Lk 9:23- “And he said to all, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me'.”Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3SjsaWa

Can you imagine being a mother of 4 at age 21, and stuck in an abusive relationship with a man you thought was someone different? It is in that very season the Lord reached out and saved Camille Joy. Her story of escape, a fresh start, and an even more difficult season in her life, will lift your spirits and show you the power of a mom. You will also see the power of our loving God, who hears every prayer we pray for our children, sees every injustice, knows the plans He has and is working on, through it all. Jeremiah 29:11-"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."Show Notes: https://onpurposely.com/the-power-of-mom-with-camille-joy/

It is a rare person who has soul-baring vulnerability, especially as a deacon, in front of the whole congregation, spontaneously, while on a Live Stream.  Overcome by the weight of his inner struggles, and contradictions, Nii  shares everything... the love and death of his mother, the abuse by a Catholic priest, the suicidal thoughts and the contradictions he was wrestling with.  His wife,  his children, and his church were hearing this for the first time.The  Lord has moved greatly in and through Nii, before, during and after this pivotal moment.  You won't want to miss this everyday extraordinary faith story, which starts in a privileged home in Ghana.IJohn 3:16- "By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers."---------------------------------------Topics Shared:Growing up in GhanaMama's boy, with an absent fatherForced to go to churchMother dies in childbirthMoving into his aunt's home, now momAbused once by a Catholic priest, and not able to speak about itConfusion and rebellious years ensueKicked out of many private schoolsUnplanned pregnancy and marriageJoining the militaryLiving a life of liesHis father is extradited from Canada and is saved in an American prisonSpontaneous confession of  major struggles before church on a LivestreamThe result of his vulnerabilityThe desire to honor his familyFosteringInfo To Begin Your Foster Care Journey:Children's Home Society and Lutheran Social Servicehttps://chlss.org/Nii Quotes:SINGLE MOTHER"My dad did send money, but money doesn't really fix anything. Money doesn't give you happiness. Money doesn't bring back your loved one that died. It helps in certain ways, but it can't hold me when I'm sad and afraid as a little boy. Money can't do that like a mother's love."ADOPTION"You can make that change in a child. And if you are fighting it, ask God, and God will give you that one child, that forever in that child's life, they will always remember you."------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place.  Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!Google Play: play.Google.com/store/appsApple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/Letters From Home Podcast is on Instagram, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher,  Alexa, Siri, Amazon, Audible,  Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MegGlesener)

 Loved in a foster home with 35 other kids.  And only having slept in a real bed for the first time at age 10.  Can you imagine what life in that home might be like?  Or what trauma you would go through, just to get to that point? You will hear her extremely difficult childhood. You will also hear how the Lord saved her, and and has become the hero of her story.    And now, as she is still healing,  she has a worldwide ministry helping others who have suffered from PTSD, and abuse.  Seen, Known, Loved and Heard. Joel 2:25 "I will restore the years the locust has stolen form you."-------------------------------------------------Topics Shared:Home was a war zone, locked in rooms, no beds, not fed, not protected, abusedPedaling boiled peanuts on the street at age 7Her church pastor called the authoritiesRejected by her Mother, parental rights were terminatedSpent 18 months with her pastor and family, the DunningsSlept in a bed for the first time at age 10Moved to Faith Children's Home, now Hope International Ministries Feelings of intense rejection35 other kids in  Victory Faith, with Mom and Dad McGowan (Dr. Lundy and Jackie McGowan)Sharing room with 5 other girlsLoved for who she was, not for what she did  Since 1968 the children's home has 1005 subsisted on donations Traveling and singing at churches all over the regionOn a Greyhound bus with "Faith Children's Home" painted on the sideHope Christian School Years,  CollegeForgiveness and healing with her MomBad DecisionsRocky marriageDomestic Violence and PTSDLosing familyWriting her book and PodcastingSeen, Known, Heard, Loved and ValuedAmy Quotes:"When I hear the word 'home', I think of a dorm settled on 45 acres in Tampa Bay Florida, with 35 other kids, 5 other girls in the room with me. I think of gross food, that one eats at an institution like a children's home, but I think of, that was the time when I was loved for who I was, not for what I did or what I could bring to the table.""I love back then and even now, some Jesus because He is my everything. I think somehow I recognized that there was no way to make it through. He is the only one who has never left me.""There was a group of women that I could tell about my domestic violence,  what was going on at home, and they loved me back to life by pushing me to the throne of Jesus and being His hands and feet."Resources:Amy Watson's Website:https://amywatsonauthor.com/Wednesdays With Watson Podcast:https://wednesdayswithwatson.com/wednesdays-with-watson-season-1/----------------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/for prayer:lfhpodcast@gmail.com*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app Google Play store. All free!Google Play: play.Google.com/store/appsApple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599Letters From Home is on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher,  Alexa, Siri, Amazon, Audible Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Have you made a mistake, a really big one, early on in marriage?  Did you think your marriage was over? Our society is so prone to cancel for the smallest of transgressions. But not God. God wants to not only completely heal us, but to have our healing be a story that can be lived and shared out loud, to help others heal.   Raven Hartwell has a beautiful love story of redemption, that she so lovingly and vulnerably shares.  She has a wonderful childlike faith, and you can hear that 100% trust in her God as she shares. You will be so encouraged.  Raven and her husband Keith love and serve the Lord with their precious sons, influencing this world for good.Rev. 12:11- "And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. "------------------------------------------------Topics Shared:Happy childhoodStruggles with rejectionCutting to deal with the pain72 hours in psych wardForgiveness and letting goFavored by GodHigh school diploma struggle and giftMarried at 20 without parents approvalIn laws cause major stressMarital infidelity early in marriageIt took years to forgive herselfLearning to love each other againStarting their familyA third pregnancy Unexpected stillbirth in 2020Pandemic hospital protocol Precious KylerFreedom from the grip of grief Isaiah 54Time to tell their storyHelping thousands on social mediaStarting a marriage podcastRaven  Quotes:   "He has always favored me, and He has always seen me when I thought my parents didn't."  "I was experiencing rejection from a family that I really wanted to marry into forever.""I think people don't understand. They underestimate how much of an impact family has on your marriage. It is really vital to be of one accord as a couple."  "There is power in forgiveness. You feel free when you are forgiven.""I have never been one to enjoy grief. I don't believe it is a beautiful thing. It is not something that you can sit in. It really can put pressure on you, into questioning your life and holding you back from life, that God has given you to move forward."References:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ravenhartwell6?lang=enRaven Hartwell's podcast, "Beyond The Altar", YouTube Channel and Shopping Store: https://linktr.ee/Raventhomashartwell----------------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/lfhpodcast@gmail.com*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place.  Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!Google Play: play.Google.com/store/appsApple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher,  Alexa, Siri, Amazon, Audible Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

What is the great message and theme of your life?  Would finding the answer to this question make a difference? In my last several podcast episodes I asked this question of my guests, and have put together an audio montage of their answers.  The answers might inspire you to find the great message and theme of your own life,  as well as discover this beauty in others.You will hear from Markus Watson, Lee Ann Mancini, Renod Bejjani, Ami Shroyer, Joe Delagrave, Sue Donaldson and Rodney Olsen. Last year, I discovered the great theme and message of my own life.  You will hear my answer, as well as several other of my family members.  Here is a peek:John 14:3 "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also."-----------------------------------------------Related Episodes:1. Ep. 44- “Falsely Accused Pastor” (God's Beloved, Markus Watson) https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/falsely-accused-pastor-gods-beloved-markus-watson-ep-44/2. Ep. 45- “Family Honor” (The Story of The Real Jerry Dugan)https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/family-honor-the-story-of-the-real-jerry-dugan-ep-45/3. Ep. 46- “Raising Lee Ann” (A Tale of Italy, Alzheimers and Strong Foundations)https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/raising-lee-ann-a-tale-of-italy-alzheimers-and-strong-foundations-ep-46/4. Ep. 47'-“Kidnapped and Tortured” Renod Bejjani's Story of Hopehttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/kidnapped-and-tortured-renod-bejjanis-story-of-hope-ep-47/5. Ep. 48 “Loved for 100 Years in 20” Ami Shroyerhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/loved-for-100-years-in-20-ami-shroyer/6. Ep. 49 “Quadriplegic Paralympian for Team Jesus” Joe Delagrave https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/quadriplegic-paralympian-for-team-jesus-joe-delagrave-ep-49/----------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/lfhpodcast@gmail.com*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place.  Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!Google Play: play.Google.com/store/appsApple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher,  Alexa, Siri, Amazon, Audible Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Can you imagine at age 19, after a boating accident, waking up from surgery to the doctors telling you that you will never walk again? This is the beginning of Joe Delagrave's deep transformation.   His journey to forgiveness and faith is one you will never forget. He brings us into his happy but imperfect childhood, his WSU football days, his boating accident,  a life-changing prison visit, and ultimately his inner heart working,  that gave him the drive of an Olympian. He is a keynote speaker, Team USA Paralympic Wheelchair Rigby Player, and well loved child of God. Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths."------------------------------------------------Topics Shared:Soaking up affirmation from coachesHis goal in high school was being a college athleteSupportive parentsBirth father in prison, missed Joe's entire childhoodIt wasn't 15 years for some crazy offense, it was choices over and overDrugs, check fraud, not paying his rentAt 13 God spoke to him about being a speaker His battle between pleasing people or pleasing GodFootball Scholarship to Winona State in Mn.Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin and the back sloughs of MississippiBoating accidentSpinal cord injury levels Joe's neck snaps at the C6 and C7, and he blacks outRescue boat, ambulance, then med flighted  to the local hospitalThe Asia Test proves his spinal injuryAirlifted to  LaCrosse Hospital for surgery to fuse his C6 and 7Complete quadriplegic or incomplete quadriplegic?Don Beebee House of Speed shirt cut offOpening his eyes to Prov. 3:5-6, and a newly-abled worldSurrounded by loving familyThe God of 2nd chances Functioning as an incomplete  C6 and C7 quadriplegicGod softens his heart toward his dadVisiting his birth father in prisonReconciliation and forgiveness in one life-changing encounterMarriage, babies and adaptive sportsDiscovering wheelchair rugbyAn athlete againPreparing, making and medaling in the ParalympicsA plan of 3'sResources:Website- https://www.joedelagrave.com/IG- @jdelagrave14Joe's Quotes: "Are we on fire for God, or on fire for what people think? A lot of times those two don't coexist very well.""As my athletic career was taking off, my relationship with Jesus was completely going the opposite way.""Going through sports and you see the dads coaching their kids, I was so jealous of the relationship.""We never know what kind of impact we make by simply being kind." ------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place.  Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!Google Play: play.Google.com/store/appsApple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher,  Alexa, Siri, Amazon, Audible Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Loved for 100 years in 20.  Not everyone gets to experience a love like this. Ami did. As a traveling teen musician, she met the love of her life.  They start their marriage in love and soon after they start their family. While serving the Lord as a family, preparing land for a new ministry, her husband Mike inhales some debris.  Through a series of misdiagnosis and careless medical practice, Mike passes away.  Ami brings us into that season of her life, the love, the pain and the beyond.  Her name means 'beloved little follower of the Lord, and as her story unfolds, you will see her uncommon faith, from just a little girl, to this present day.  She is resilient, and has an affinity for daisies, which reminds her of the love of her husband, Mike Shroyer, who loved her for 100 years in 20.Heb. 12:1-"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us."------------------------------------------------Topics Shared: Beloved little follower of the LordUncommon faithCreative child whose wings were clipped  Lived in 21 different houses before 21Jesus clubs and writing musicFriend-zoned Bill Gaither's nephew Skipped graduation to travel around the country singingSevered parental relationship made rightMeeting the love of her life"Miracle of Mercy" Mike's life songQuick & happy marriage Working at Andy Stanley's church, their Atlanta yearsStarting a family wholeness centerThe 5/11 Wholeness JourneyMike gets suddenly illThe Doctors fumble his careMedicinal toxicity and dehydration sets inOne last visitHorrible passingSupermanLoved for 100 years in 20Fields of daisiesName on the front of the buildingA voice for strong homes  Ami Quotes: "I always want purpose, not closure. You can't close off a love like this. We are not meant to. We need to continue to live wide open with purpose.""It literally feels like he is on a trip before we get there, but he just got there first.""The night that he passed away my daughter said 'Mom, now it's even. And I said, 'what do you mean?'  And she said, 'Well the two babies that are in heaven have Dad, and you  have us. It's even."My son said, "I've been thinking, I could be really angry with God that I am 12 and Sadie is 8, and that this would happen, but I got to thinking, if this were going to happen some day anyway, I would rather that it happen when I'm 12 and Sadie is 8, because if it were later in life, you would be all alone, and right now you have us." Resources:Elizabeth Elliot "Path of Suffering"Ami's Website:https://amishroyer.com/Podcast: Journey Through Fields of Daisies (on her website)------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* for you, with all of our episodes in one easy place.  Search Letters From Home Podcast in the links below. All free!Google Play: play.Google.com/store/appsApple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

"Can you imagine  a child being tortured for being a Christian, in several Islamic ruled nations over many years? And that child growing up at age 13, fighting in a war, for survival, because of being a Christian? Renod's story is profound, and moving.  His traumatic upbringing, led to a hatred of Muslims, and turning his back on God for 25 years. 9/11 changed everything. Today, he and his wife Karen serve the people he once despised. You will be enthralled with his story and the needed transformation God brought about in his heart. Their ministry is called "I Hope Ministries".  They have a heart to help bring Muslims to Christ and help equip others to do the same. IICor. 5:20-"Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us.  We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God."--------------------------------------------------Points Shared:Born in Bagdad, Iraq in a Christian Lebanese family Raised in an Islamic ruled nationNon-Muslims had less rights  and freedoms Unorthodox home schoolingAt 5 he spoke about Jesus to friends on the streetKidnapped and tortured by an Islamic extremist His narrow escapeThis pattern continued for 7 years, spanning many countriesHe discovers the meaning of the word kafir, 'infidel', someone who does not believe in the God of Islam.Anger and hate grew in his 10 yr. old heartAt age 13, he fought in the Lebanese war between Christians and Muslims for survival, for 6 months, and was also in hiding.Flying across the world from Tripoli Libya and finding his way around Los Angeles, at 13, alone.Culture shock and bullying in the U.S. Walking away from the Lord for 25 years9/11 changes everything Mission trip back to a Muslim countryI Hope Ministries is born.Renod Bejjani Quotes:"I packed my bags . I would line them up in the closet. I would sleep in the closet with my arm around my bags saying 'Lord I want to wake up with my parents.""Today Islam is the 2nd largest religion in the world, and out in the West including  in America, Islam has been doubling every 10 years, while Christianity is declining fast." Links:Website-https://ihopeministries.org/about-ihope/Books-"Muslims: 5 Biblical Essentials Every Christian Must Know and Do""The Way to Paradise"Related Episode:Letters From Home Ep. 37-"Finding His Father" Michael McDonaldhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/finding-his-father-michael-mcdonald-bible-project-director-of-global-focus-and-strategic-relationships/------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place.  Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!Google Play: play.Google.com/store/appsApple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Living with Alzheimer's. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a parent with Alzheimer's living with you?  How about as a young woman?  Lee Ann shares her story of faith from a little Italian girl, who never knew her father. She was raised by her single mom who though she  only had the opportunity to complete a 6th grade education gave Lee Ann the love and strong faith foundation she would need for life. Today  Lee Ann is an adjunct professor at the South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary and the author of many books, including The Brightest Minds in Children's Spirituality. She has created many videos and children's books to help parents in raising Christian kids. Her desire to give back is palpable, and in her story you will see what made her the joyful Christian woman she is today. IThes. 5:16-18 "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."--------------------------------------Sharing Points:Italian upbringingRaised by a single momSaved from her mother's abusive boyfriendFatherless upbringingSaved from abuseNot able to go to collegeA young adult caregiver for her mother with Alzheimer'sMother with Alzheimer's gets lost for daysTransition to a care facilityMarriage and familySeaKids MinistryRaising Christian Kids PodcastThe Brightest Minds in Children's Spirituality Her producer  Cliff McDowell 23 EntertainmentBooks turned into an animation series called SeaKidsSouth Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary Adjunct ProfessorResources:Lee Ann Mancini's Website:https://leeannmancini.com/Ken Hamm "Answers in Genesis" FB Group Raising Christian KidsSeaKids TV- https://seakidstv.com/------------------------------------------For more everyday extraordinary faith stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place.  Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Family honor.  Does your family name bring you joy? For some it brings shame, and a deep desire to restore that honor.  Jerry Dugan shares his story and journey to bring honor to his family name.   At 14, in his mind, his family name stood for trouble, heartbreak, bullying, racial microaggressions  and  brokenness.   He had already been through so much in his young  life. And this environment took a huge toll.Jerry shares with us the life-changing  prayers and  loving God that lead him to a new family honor, and helped him to change the generational patterns that informed his childhood. He isn't perfect, but he is The Real Jerry Dugan.Jeremiah 1:5-"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed  you a prophet to the nations." --------------------------------------Topics Shared:Biracial childhood Tiger MomPerformance-based acceptancePerformance-based affectionTop Gun style bet to break up his parentsHeart-breaking divorceThe Army brushed a lot of things under the carpetSuicide ideations and suicide attemptsInterventionLoving foster home Bullied by uncles in Ca.  His gentle father flips the switch to military policeman with army trainingA turning pointDeployment to Kuwait, 1/'03-3/'03Writing the 'in case I die' letterWar homecoming and seeing his kids for the first timeQuotes:"When you are 7 or 8 years old and the amount of affection you are getting from your mom, the kind of attention you get from your mom is solely based on your performance in an activity, that sets a weird expectation.""In the movies they always have that 'in case I die' letter they hand to their buddy to hand off, but I was so convinced I was going to die, that I wrote my letter. I disguised the wording just enough so it didn't freak my wife out when she read it, but it was there. Everything I wanted to say to her was in that letter.  I folded it, and I mailed it that night. It was one last mail run before we crossed the border.""We as a church can do better, back off the condemnation,  and demonstrate more of the Jesus who hung out with prostitutes and tax collectors and treated them with dignity, treated them with respect because he honored their dignity."References:Beyond the Rut Website & Podcast:https://beyondtherut.com/https://therealjerrydugan.com/Jerry Dugan's Ted Talk:http://therealjerrydugan.com/category/biblical-marriage/Marriage Episode with Meg Glesener:https://beyondtherut.com/meg-glesener-healthy-marriage-btr-236/The Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255& Website: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Can you imagine being falsely accused as a pastor?  And then adding to that, false charges filed against you, where the FBI gets involved? Awful charges. Markus Watson walks through what he and his family went through,  at their church. But that is not the final chapter.  Markus has arisen from that devastating chapter with a new chapter in his life.  He is currently the pastor at Westmoreland Community Presbyterian Church, and the best-selling author, of Beyond Thingification, but more importantly, he knows he is God's beloved.  His story will grip your heart, and change your perspective on so many levels.Jer. 31:3-"The Lord appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you." ------------------------------------------Topics Shared:Raised in faithAspiring Hollywood actorA change of plansFuller Seminary Pastoring his first churchEmergency meeting while on sabbaticalAccused of  pornForensic analysis of his laptop  Turns into a potential criminal investigation The FBI got involvedHow the attorney knew he was innocent Exonerated by the PresbyteryVoted out of his churchFlourish San Diego Beyond ThingificationPastor at Westmorland Community Presbyterian ChurchMarkus' Quotes: "The FBI had my laptop." "There are some good things that came out of this that were very painful at the time."" 'Lord, I don't deserve your love.' What a terrible message to be telling myself over and over and over again.""I spent a lot of time in the Psalms, Psalms of lament.""I had this image of myself having lost everything, sitting in a prison cell." "We had double our normal attendance that Sunday.  Everyone will show up for a scandal.""The thought of being a pastor again felt like being thrown into a snake pit.""We can't love someone if we are judging them."Links:Markus Watson's Website:https://www.markuswatson.com/Westmorland Community Food Pantry:https://www.westmorlandfoodpantry.com/------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place.  Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!Google Play: play.Google.com/store/appsApple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher,  Alexa, Siri, Amazon, Audible Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Pain. We all have it to various degrees. And sometimes, in the heat of it, we don't know the purpose.  Purpose Pains.  This is the book Deonte Bolden wrote. Deonte, Beloved and Jazzy, hosts of the DNA Podcast share their faith stories, and the discoveries of the purpose for their hardest moments.  This is a journey that will encourage and uplift your faith!Jeremiah 33:3-"Call to me and I will answer you and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known. "------------------------------------------Links:Deonte Bolden Productionshttps://www.deonteboldenproductions.com/Instagram Handles:@thednapodcastshowliveDeonte-@deonteboldenproductionsJazzy-@sassy__jazzyBeloved-@ reignsgems_7 DNA Podcast Hosts Sharing Points:Deonte: -Growing up very young-Muscular Dystrophy-Losing his brother senior year-Delayed grieving process-Experimenting with same sex relationships-Accountability group help-First stage production "Looking For Love in All The Wrong Places"  -"The Skin I'm In"Quotes From Deonte: "He turned that test into a testimony. ""With this whole COVID experience, you realize that life is short and you want to love people while they are here."  "We expose our wounds to let God do the healing."Beloved:-God changed her name -Seeking for long in the wrong places-Three months of marriage and feeling like a failure -Verbal and emotional abuse -the mentality of abandonmentQuotes From Beloved: "When God changed me on the inside, He let me know 'Your name is now Beloved' because you are my Beloved one and I love you with all my heart, mind and soul." "I always just wanted a mother, and she was too busy trying to be my friend.""I know I was born for greatness."Jazzy:-Sweet parents-Traumatic teen years-Unhealthy relationships-Body image-Forgiving her perpetrators-Fear of rejection-The Lord has me on the 'Do Not Touch' listQuotes From Jazzy:"I can identify the feelings that I had back then , but I am not inside of those feelings. I have finally reached a place of wholeness . I use it as a testimony now. I use it to empower myself"."My favorite book of the Bible is Genesis. It is the best soap opera." ------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place.  Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!Google Play: play.Google.com/store/appsApple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon, Audible Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

You don't become the founder of "Raising Kids on Your Knees" unless you have discovered the value of prayer. The founder of this impactful ministry, Tina Smith, shares with us her beautiful journey to get there. And every journey worth fighting for has bumps, and choices, and consequences, and the welcome arms and smile of God waiting, for those who are willing.Romans 8:28-"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." ------------------------------------------------Topics Shared:Privileged upbringingRadical change of financesDivorced parentsSecret abortionYoung marriageInfidelityDifficult public divorce Single motherhoodLifetime mentorSecond marriage Triggers from the pastBlended family strugglesAbortion counseling Starting a prayer lifeHer war chair Zoom Prayer 2020Links:Tina's Website, Raising Kids on Your Knees-https://raisingkidsonyourknees.org/Tina's Prayer Podcast- "Raising Kids on Your Knees"Tina's Parenting Podcast- "Not All Heroes Wear Capes-A Mom Podcast"(both podcast links are on the front page of her website)Tina Quotes:"Lord, if this relationship cannot be restored, please set me free. And within weeks, he set me free. it was crystal clear.""You reap what you sow, but here is the deception. You don't reap in the same season that you sow." "Single momming is hard. I have the utmost respect for single moms.""Second marriages are not like first marriages. There's a whole lot of other nuances.""God began setting me free, and began healing me." ------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/To check out our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/channel/UC_SR3ltt5p1w-hzjvGX5vag?view_as=subscriber/Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

God can take the broken pieces of our childhood, and not only make us whole, but He can make something beautiful, and living and thriving out of that brokenness. Jamie Bailey and her husband Chris have a marriage counseling ministry, Expedition Marriage, that is helping so many around the world heal. In this episode Jamie shares her story, and the remarkable, unimaginable way God put all of her broken pieces together.Habakkuk 1:5-"Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told."---------------------------------------------------Topics Shared:Childhood abuseFeeling unlovedTeen pregnancyTeen marriageDomestic violence and JailA new wonderful husbandGetting her G.E.D.Saved after a Christmas play rehearsal Learning to fall in love with the LordThree years of anxiety and agoraphobiaA move and a new beginningMasters Degrees as counselorsGlorious salvationUnexpected funeral officiantForgiveness and restorationExpedition Marriage5 Things Most Husbands Wish Their Wives KnewWebsite:https://expeditionmarriage.org/Podcast:Expedition MarriageBook: "Newlywed Couple's Devotional"Instagram: @expedition_marriageJamie Quotes:"As hard as it was dealing with him, what hurt the most, is her not protecting me. I started to believe I'm not worthy of love.""I would not know Jesus if it weren't for my husband. He entered into my life as a savior and as Jesus with skin on." If I had not learned to trust his love first, I never would have been put in a position to receive the Father's love for me." "Having a one-sided relationship with a parent is really hard.""I am somebody who loves big.""My hero was your villain.""It was at that moment the stamp was pressed upon me that says 'you are not lovable'."------------------------------------------For more everyday extraordinary faith stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/To check out our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/channel/UC_SR3ltt5p1w-hzjvGX5vag?view_as=subscriber/Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

When I think of who I am, before I think of being a Mom of 8, a wife, a daughter, a Grammy, a friend, a neighbor, I think first of being a child of God. Being a child of God, has changed me, in all of the good ways. And I am grateful. Over the last episodes of Letters From Home, I have asked each guest, the question, "what does being a child of God mean to you?" I trust you will be encouraged by every single voice, and heart. -love, MegJohn 1:12-"But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God."Audio Clips in this episode:Cliff Ravenscraft Ep. 39, TJ McKnight EP. 38, Michael McDonald Ep. 37, Eric Nevins Ep. 35, Chris Staron Ep. 34, Glori Winders Ep. 33, Thomas Stewart Ep. 32, Dave Ebert Ep. 31, Holland Webb Ep. 29, and Josiah Glesener Ep.1.------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/To check out our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/channel/UC_SR3ltt5p1w-hzjvGX5vag?view_as=subscriber/Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

At a new church, a self-proclaimed 'nut job' came up to Cliff and told him that he was going to not only be a full-time minister, but that he would minister to tens of thousands of people. In that moment he was stunned. As his life and mission unfold, you will see how this prophecy is fulfilled, in a very unorthodox way. Cliff Ravenscraft is a maverick minister, and his story will inspire you to carve your own way. He is an O.G. podcaster, who has over 5,000 episodes, has created more than 40 podcasts, and is responsible for teaching thousands how to podcast. He is also "The Mindset Answerman." In his life today, he continues to influence many. He and his wife Stephanie help thousands "Free The Dream" inside of them, and break through limiting beliefs.Romans 8:38-39 "For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." ________________________What Cliff shared about:Difficult early childhood memories Catholic schooling The only non-catholic in a catholic schoolAfraid to burn in hellSaved at a summer campHis experience in lots of denominationsQuestioning his salvationHigh school transformationHis mic drop walk out experienceRejected by a girlFrom 100% commitment, to completely off the gridCollege alcohol to cold turkeyMeeting StephanieA crazy nut job tells him "one day you will minister to tens of thousands of people"Marriage EOTC Bible Study Group "Cliff's Clubhouse handle""Encouraging Others Through Christ"Cell Group multiplicationChartering a church in his home after a church splitFinding his callingReferences:Cliff's Websites: https://www.cliffravenscraft.com/work-with-me, where you can watch a free one hour video that could change the trajectory of your life.https://mindsetanswerman.com/category/pam/Cliff Ravenscraft Quotes:"I have always had a passion and a desire to know about God and to not burn in hell.""He restores my soul and gives me opportunity to be in union with Him, all day every day, even if I am not consciously aware of it." "I wanted to fast from actually receiving the appreciation and praise of anyone in the world."------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!Google Play: play.Google.com/store/appsApple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Alexa, Siri, Amazon, Audible Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

As a young boy, T.J. knew he was called to preach. His mother, his dreams, and even a grocery store clerk, spoke these words into his ears. And he ran from this calling, like Jonah. For a season. Through the love of a once-in-a-lifetime friendship, and the gentle love of a Mother, God moved in his heart and life so much, that he is no longer running from, but running to his calling. And it is a beautiful thing to behold. One Faith.This episode is dedicated to the memory of his beautiful Mama, Yvette McKnight, his loving friend, Maurel Domingo, and his loving wife, kids, family, and church family. Eph. 4:5- "One Lord, one faith one baptism."website: https://linktr.ee/onefaith?fbclid=IwAR2i3gYZwOzgpxQ4zEtg6BimmFTFcl8NKkMHSnbAEGQSD-6DPK4_8czRBXYemail:tlmcknight.jr@gmail.comTopics Shared:Happy childhoodHolt Elementary Durham, N.C. Step TeamMom diagnosed with lung cancer His Mom's lung cancer diagnosisSalvationMom healed Low self-esteem Teenage depression & mental healthBarton College MinistryDeath of his friendsMaurel DomingoPreaching his friend's funeralComplete life changeHis call to ministryA hospital miracleA last conversationHis mother's passingLost and foundA Call to MinistryA new beginningThe Church of God in ChristBreakthrough Ministries The Church of God in Christ Temptations Christmas Album T.J. Quotes:"One of my favorite rappers, KB, he said 'King David , after he sinned, limped all the way to glory. I resonate with that.""He said 'why are you doing this? you are better than this'...he took my drink that I had and threw it away and said, 'I don't want to see you with another drink at this party'...""When I was on the floor crying my heart out... and just really struggling and depressed... I remember hearing a still small voice whisper in my ear, saying 'get up, everything is going to be alright'...and immediately I stopped crying... and I got up.. and I said to God..."References:Rapper KB, King David Kurt Franklin "The Last Jesus" -------------------------------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!We would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/ Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon, Google, Alexa, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Sometimes it takes a rough childhood, and the longing of a young boy to find a father figure, to inform his global focus and mindset. Changed by the love of his Father, he grows up to be a world changer, albeit imperfect. Michael McDonald is currently the Bible Project Director of Global Focus and Strategic Relationships in Portland, Oregon. His story to get there is rare, and is a beautiful global adventure we are invited on. It is so easy for our homes to be self-focused and American-focused. His perspective will change you.Matthew 5:14-"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden." Bible Project Website:https://bibleproject.com/Topics Shared:Raised strong Baha'i Mental illness and abuse in the homeHow Baha'i faith shaped his views about GodTraveling alone at 14 and on his own at 17Where he got his love for helping with injustice, compassion and women's equalityLiving in Turkey to find himselfHis move from business into the non profit worldStarting his nonprofit, Hear The Cry10 years + traveling with Bob Goff and Dream Big His current work at Bible Project, with John Collins & Tim MackieHis heart to bring Bible Project to the nationsBible Project in 30 languages so farBook to help our Global Mindset:"Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes" Kenneth BaileyQuotes from Michael McDonald: "We started a number of schools, opened up some hospitals and some rescue homes for gals getting rescued out of the sex trade. We worked in Ughanda Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Nepal, India, different ministries in each of those places. So we find incredible local leaders that have a passion for one of those types of things and then help create some infrastructure and do that." (with Bob Goff)"I have been part of Bible Project since the beginning, because it has been friends that were working on this project. I saw the first two videos that came out in 2014, and just thought 'wow, these are going to be an incredible resource for people.' I was thinking of them globally right away, just because I worked with so many pastors and teachers in other countries that are starving for good Bible resources, and thought these would be a great asset, especially because they are free, and they are so well done.""The reality is Christianity isn't a western religion. It was a Middle Eastern religion that is coming out of Israel. We need to understand history and context."------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!Google Play: play.Google.com/store/appsApple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Alexa, Siri, Amazon, Audible Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Dare to hope. In 2020, so many of our hopes have been dashed. So much has happened. And yet we know that our God is a God of hope. I have put together this Christmas Episode to lift your spirits, to help us all, to dare to hope. And many of my podcasting friends have prepared thoughts for you too. Praying 2021 will be a year where we all, dare to hope. Luke 2:25 "Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him."-------------------------------------------Here are the credits for my fellow podcasters from the Christian Podcasters Association in the order they appear:Monika Hardy "Moments With Moni" https://www.momentswithmoni.com/on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momentswithmoni/Chris Staron "Truce" https://www.trucepodcast.com/on Twitter: https://twitter.com/trucepodcast?lang=enMichelle Rayburn "Life Repurposed" https://michellerayburn.com/liferepurposed/on Twitter: https://twitter.com/michellerayburn?lang=enBrad Simon "Monday Morning Inspiration"on Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/monday-morning-inspiration/id1539099441Char Candid "The Char Candid Podcast" All links to all of her platforms:https://linktr.ee/charcandidpodHer Website https://char4sure.wixsite.com/charcandidpodHer YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0L6oHffxoIBOmmy3xGxqLw------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/To check out our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/channel/UC_SR3ltt5p1w-hzjvGX5vag?view_as=subscriber/Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon, Alexa, Siri, Audible.com, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

How long did it take you to find your calling from God? For Eric, it took 15 long years. But he arrived. and now, he is living his purpose, as a 21st Century Virtual Visionary. Come along on his journey, from actor to seminary student, to family man, to call center, to podcaster, to speaker, to visionary and so much more. You will hear the journey of a man seeking to find rest and peace before a God, who was with him in his darkest hour, and the love of his life, there with him all along the way. II Peter 1:4-"... so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire."Topics Covered:Crazy birth story Wanting to be an actor and a pastor The value of having mentors Awana love story9/11 storyGoing to Trinity International School in ChicagoLearning your craft and learning the businessTrinity Evangelical Divinity School Hamilton the book Young marrieds in collegeHis dark night of the soul 15 years to find his purposeDenver Seminary, 9 years to a 3 year degreeBooks that changed him A story of how God providesA story of how God is working when we don't know he is workingEarly podcaster influencesHalfway There PodcastChristian Podcasters AssociationSchool Shooting Kendrick CastilloLectio DivinaJohn Denver and The MuppetsThe Christian Podcaster Great Quotes by Eric Nevins:"Learn your craft, but also learn the business.""I think we have enough drama going on in the world that we don't need movies right now,""Nothing says Christmas to me like John Denver and The Muppets." References:Websites:https://ericnevins.com/https://christian-podcasters-association.mykajabi.com/Halfway There Episodes: Skye Jethani #215, Os Guinness #217, his Grandmothers: Betty Lou Long #192, and Harriett Miller #191Books:"Satisfy Your Soul" Bruce DemarestRichard J. Foster "Celebration of Discipine" Dallas Willard "The Divine Conspiracy"Dan Miller "48 Days to the Work You Love"Sam Jones "Off Camera" Podcasters that impacted Eric early in his calling:Cliff RavenscraftJohn Lee Dumas Michael Hyatt Michael O' Neil Mark Marin Sam Jones------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!Google Play: play.Google.com/store/appsApple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon, Audible Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Have you every wondered what it would be like, moving to L.A. to pursue your dreams of filmmaking? It sounds glamorous. But is it? Chris Staron will take us on his own personal journey to filmmaking and beyond. Christian Filmmaking. His experience is that so few actually talk about what it is like to be a starving artist, especially in the Christian realm. And Chris shares with us that experience, the real struggle of being a starving artist. We all get a peek behind the scenes, and will get to see some of the great lessons God has taught him along the way.Chris's Life Verse: Mk. 8:35-"For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?"Truce Podcast and Website: https://trucepodcast.com/Topics covered:Homeschooled twinsHis faith storyHeaven's Gates and Hells FlamesBullied in high school Upstate New York Ithaca College Film ProgramSherwood PicturesCampus Crusade Mentor Interning on the Bernie Mac Show Production Assistant on Hells KitchenIndie Movie DirectorBringing Up Bobby successWriting his book, The Cradle RobberThe story of William Jennings Bryan & the Scopes Monkey TrialAdvice for someone being bulliedAudition tipsGreat Quotes:"I wouldn't characterize Hollywood as necessarily anti-God, it's that they just don't know who he is... it wasn't so much that they were against you, it was that you were an alien species.""we often glamorize those things, and hold up the success stories, but there is nobody out there talking about the real struggle of being a starving artist in the Christian world.""In most staunch conservative reformed churches, prosperity is there. We believe that nothing bad can happen to you if you are a Christian. But if you look at the Bible, the central character of the Bible is a guy who gets crucified for being exactly where God wants Him to be.""Paul gets shipwrecked and bitten by snakes and beaten and thrown out of town for being exactly where God wants him to be. So I think our conception of whatsuccess is and what money is, is way off.""Yellowstone is not even close to being the best part of Wyoming." "We can't judge our success based on the numbers and people's response. Success in God's eyes is being faithful."Chris's Work: The ElephantBringing up Bobby: https://www.amazon.com/Bringing-Up-Bobby-Alexander-Hinsky/dp/B01EGQ4NPQ/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=dvd+bringing+up+bobby%2C+alexander+hinsky&qid=1607077711&sr=8-1Book: The Cradle Robber: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=cradle+robber&i=stripbooks&ref=nb_sb_nossIMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1956957/related episode: https://lettersfromhome podcast.com/podcast/standing-strong-in-her-own-shoes-jernise-young-faith-mamas-pt-2------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. App Links:https://apps.apple.com/us/app/letters-from-home-podcast/id1525564599https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.podsquad.letterspodcast&hl=en_US/Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Contentment is rare. Have you been through a season of having everything? And how about a season of having nothing? The Market Crash of "08 affected so many families to the core. And life itself can be a rollercoaster, especially when it starts out with every E-ticket in the book. As Glori draws you into her remarkable faith story, you will hear the moments that have changed her, and made her to be the content and grateful child of God, Mama, wife, Gigi and RV-living entrepreneurial nomad she is today. Her heart's desire is to help women "Redefine life on your terms and Live Glorified"https://liveglorified.com/Phil. 4:4-"Be cheerful with joyous celebration in every season of life. Let joy overflow, for you are united with the Anointed One." The Passion Translation ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Stories Glori shares:Parent attempting suicideParent threatening suicideLukemia awarenessLoss of a siblingGrowing up fastWhen the child becomes the parentHow parenting changes after the loss of a childThe market crash of 2008The real estate crash of 2008Being an essentialist vs. being a minimalistLoving who her family became through the journeyRV living5 things you probably don't know about rv livingNot having a Plan B for marriageNever saying the 'd' wordStewardship vs. ownershipBeing a minimalist vs. being an essentialistBusiness and ministry to womenCo-creating with her familyGreat quotes from Glori: "A lot of times the kids who are adult children of alcoholics can go two ways, they follow the alcoholic's footsteps or they become the superstar, trying to be so perfect that they will make everything right." "the counselor friend mentioned that really and truly honoring your Mom is not letting her sin against you, and you allowing this behavior is letting her sin against you.""Tim got saved through the Amway business." "We were riding high. We were doing good. And then the market crashed and real estate crashed in 2008.""He even tried to go flip burgers at McDonald's and they told him he was overqualified. He couldn't get the job.""We had a lot of things. And we realized that we just didn't have the things, the things had us.""We don't say minimalist, we say essentialist, because if it is essential and you need it to do whatever it is God has called you to do, okay." "All four of us would say, we don't like the journey we had to go on, but we all love who we became through the journey." Resources mentioned:Seek. Go. Create. Website:https://seekgocreate.com/Glori on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/glori-winders/on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/liveglorified/Related episodes:Holland's Story:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/the-search-for-redemption-holland-webb/Doris's Story:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/finding-her-fierce-calling-doris-swift/For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Have you ever been struck by a proverbial lightning bolt once in your life? How about multiple times? For many, one bolt would be life changing. For some, it is not enough, to change the course of a life, that is off track. In today's story, we see the journey of a small town man, who finds a God, bigger than the ups and downs of it all. And oh, what a sweet sweet encounter. "The Phantasmagorical Chase"One of the key verses to Tom's life: Prov. 22:6-"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it."Tom is one of the hosts of the Biblical Chili podcast. They have a great website to check out:http://biblicalchili.com/Their heart is that you would be part of the conversation, to find out more about Jesus, and when you do, to walk together in your faith journey.You can find their show on Apple Podcasts, PodBean, Spotify and all of the other places podcasts live.Our Letters From Home host was a recent guest, their first female guest:http://biblicalchili.com/28-meg-glesener-letters-from-home/related episodes:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/episode-12-from-bully-to-blessing-blake-beard-age-19/https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/episode-episode-6-not-a-hallmark-movie-love-story-dee-peterson/https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/episode-episode-8-changed-on-a-bridge-brent-busby-high-school-teacher/parts of his story he shares:Christian upbringingBible memorizationmental illness in parentssuicidal parentsno shame in low incomeit takes a villagehouse firemental health counselingsecond chancesGod pursues bad breakupsunexpected arrestdesperation and bridgesmental health awarenessgreen goblin comicsliving in an aquariumhoneymoon in Vegashelping the homelessstarting a podcastfinding a community------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/To check out our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/channel/UC_SR3ltt5p1w-hzjvGX5vag?view_as=subscriber/Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Deep down inside, don't you just wish someone would hear your cry for help? Big Boy Buddy Love was A DJ & Pro Wrestler. Also, a man struggling with severe depression for years. His life takes a giant turn, from a couch to a different stage and a life-changing ministry after he takes his cue from God. This is a story you don't want to miss, the everyday extraordinary, Dave Ebert.This verse was transforming for Dave: IJohn 5:13-"I write these things to yo who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life."Gifts for Glory Website:https://www.gifts4glory.com/ FB/IG/Twitter: @gifts4gloryWell Versed Comedy, Website:https://www.wellversedcomedy.com/FB/IG/Twitter: @wellversedcmdyGreat quote from Dave:"For many years, I used to use comedy to hide who I was, but now I use comedy to reveal who He is."to newbie improv people he would say:"Your job is not to be funny. You do not have to be funny. Take that burden off of you, because improv is built on being human. Humans are funny. I think God built us as much for love and compassion as he did for comic relief."Stories Dave shares:-Father with agent orange and how it affected him as a kid-A relative fallen from grace in the ministry-Rejection in his youth-severe depression-suicidal thoughts-unhelpful counselors-how God spoke to him, in a near death moment-Pro Wrestling-Big Boy Buddy Love's 3 signature moves-Being a DJ-his sister took him in-how the love of God has changed him-how Haha Men Ministry started and evolved-How Well Versed Comedy began-How Well Versed Comedy pivoted during Quarantine-online Improv Nights-HowGifts for Glory podcast came about-God lead him to help with human trafficking survivors-Seeing laughter change people-Improv tips-How he loves wearing Depends. ------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/To check out our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/channel/UC_SR3ltt5p1w-hzjvGX5vag?view_as=subscriber/Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

March 2020 .......... April .......... May .......... June .......... July .......... August .......... September .......... October .......... and beyond. No one could have predicted this year. It has affected so much. Our world. Our countries. Our states. Our cities. Our homes. In a way, the world has stopped. And in a moment, God has gotten the attention of the whole world. We all have shared experience, and we all have unique experience. What is the story that we will all some day tell? ------------------------------------------The guests in order:-Mike Glesener- Markus Watson, host of the "Spirtual Life and Leadership" podcast. https://www.markuswatson.com/2018/08/30/why-spiritual-life-and-leadership-001/-Yohanna Smith, host of the Girls Talking Life podcast.https://girlstalkinglife.com/-Alana Dawson, host of "The Podcasting Party"https://alanadawson.com/thepodcastingparty/-Eric Nevins, host of "Halfway There" podcast., https://ericnevins.com/-Ryann Gaines (leader in the Faith Mamas ministry)-Chris Staron, host of the Truce podcast. https://trucepodcast.com/-Micah Glesener-Jayme Elizabeth, host of the "She Speaks Life" podcast.https://www.jaymeelizabeth.com/-Kipp Wilkinson, cohost of the "Mountain & Valley Podcast" in all of the podcast places.-Dominique, founder of the Faith Mamas Ministry.https://faithmamas.org/devotional-writers/-Amber Cullum, host of the "Grace Enough" podcast.https://graceenoughpodcast.com/contact/-Tim Winders, host of the "Seek Go Create" podcast.https://seekgocreate.com/-Elijah Glesener-Jernise Young (leader in the Faith Mamas ministry)-Micah Horvath, cohost of the "Mountain & Valley Podcast"-Jordan Glesener-Andrew Piccinni, Alderwood Community Church youth leader.-Tina Smith, host of "Not All Heroes Wear Capes" podcast, and "Raising Kids on Your Knees" podcasthttps://raisingkidsonyourknees.org/-Jenna Erlandsen, host of the "Bridge of The Faithful" podcast,https://botfpodcast.com/-Sean McCoy, host of the "Come to The Table Podcast"https://www.thecometothetablepodcast.com/-Jody Howe, host of "The Air That I Breathe" podcast, https://www.jodihowe.com/podcasts-youtube-Neil Matthews, host of "Other People's Shoes" Podcast, https://www.opspodcast.com/-Mary, host of "Take The Stage" podcast,https://www.maryrsnyder.com/______________________________________________________For more everyday extraordinary faith stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free! we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comFor one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Losing a parent at an early age can be traumatic. It can leave a gaping hole, and take years to understand. Holland Webb spent years searching for what was lost, and ultimately as a life mission, has sought to redeem that loss by being that for someone else. Thus began his adoption of two little boys, age 3 and age 4, while himself a single 27-year-old man, which greatly grew his faith in Jesus Christ. His road to personal redemption is remarkable. Currently Holland is a cohost of "The Afterword: A Conversation About the Future of Words and All Things Literary" a podcast, he cohosts with Amy Bowlin. He is also the founder at The Webb Digital Marketing Company, LLC. He has co-authored the book 'Adventures in Fatherhood", with Carlton Hughes.(In this episode he references several books and amazing authors, including Don Miller and Ryan Holiday.)Holland's Website:https://www.hollandwebb.com/The Afterword Podcast:https://www.hollandwebb.com/category/blog/Adventures in Fatherhood:https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fatherhood-Devotional-Holland-Webb/A Bible verse that shaped his faith journey: Proverbs 31:8- "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute."Some of the topics covered in this episode:*growing up without a Father*filling holes from our childhood*single parenting*parenting through the difficult teen years*how Americans are perceived in the Phillippines*working for non-profit companies*International Disability and Development Consortium. https://www.iddcconsortium.net/*cohosting a podcast*challenging our assumptions*missionaries*adoption as a single man*biracial families*fulfilling in others what we lack*caring for parents with dementia------------------------------------------For more everyday extraordinary faith stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/To check out our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/channel/UC_SR3ltt5p1w-hzjvGX5vag?view_as=subscriber/Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Pregnant, engaged and deceived, but not alone. Not ideal for your senior year of high school. Doris walks us through her tough years, to the unbelievable path she is now on. She is one fierce Mama, whose love is infectious. Her love and passion to help women has taken her to some dark places, places where many have been rescued. She is also a podcaster. You can find Fierce Calling Podcast with Doris Swift on her website. https://dorisswift.com/She has a free gift for you there, and would love to hear from you. Her podcast is in all of the usually places podcasts live. https://www.instagram.com/dorissusanswift/doris@dorisswift.comIsaiah 30:21-"And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, 'This is the way, walk in it,' when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left."------------------------------------------For more everyday extraordinary faith stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/To check out our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/channel/UC_SR3ltt5p1w-hzjvGX5vag?view_as=subscriber/Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Pt. 2 of Sean's story. Three things you will want to hear in this conversation: his heart's desire to truly understand and love everyone, as he sees Jesus did; his bright mind, that is constantly reasoning, asking why, and reminding him of his own humanity; and his boyish humor that lights up a room. Add to this the vast amount of countries he has visited, his experience in the military, mistakes that he has made, and a loving family, that has helped cancer patients for decades, and you have a moving inspiring listen. It is like sitting at the table with your wiser older brother you respect. Enjoy!Sean McCoy is the host of "Come to the Table Podcast". His banner statement is 'love in action is listening to understand, not to react.' He has a long list of beautiful moving stories for you to enjoy, that can be found on his website:https://www.thecometothetablepodcast.com/. Sean is a generous, kind man, always available to engage in conversation ------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories and to listen to his part 1:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/To check out our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/channel/UC_SR3ltt5p1w-hzjvGX5vag?view_as=subscriber/Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Fancy cars. Manicured lawns. Elite neighborhoods. Intellect. Science. Is this what life is really about? As life unfolds, Sean finds himself weeping on a porch... empty... searching.In his story, he shares with us his journey to faith... through his mind... and his heart... the childhood that made it harder to do so... and the one thing that changed everything for him and his family.Sean McCoy is the host of "Come to the Table Podcast". His banner statement is 'love in action is listening to understand, not to react.' He has a long list of beautiful moving stories that will challenge your thinking and encourage you. They can be found on his website:https://www.thecometothetablepodcast.com/. Sean is a generous, kind man, always available to engage in spirited conversation and questions about faith. sean@thecometothetablepodcast.com.Tres Dias Camp: http://www.tresdias.org/------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/*FREE APP* Letters From Home Podcast has its own downloadable app., with all of our episodes in one easy place. Search our podcast name in the Apple APP store, and in the Google Play store. All free!To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/To check out our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/channel/UC_SR3ltt5p1w-hzjvGX5vag?view_as=subscriber/Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Amazon, Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Your story matters. If it has brokenness, and hurt. It matters. If it doesn't seem like a flashy story, it matters. Everyone has a story. And every life has impact. So many people in the church grow up in a loving Christian home. Praise the Lord, right? At the same time, it is easy to do all of the right things on the outside, being respectful, going to youth group & church, even leading things, but never have a personal relationship with Christ.Micah Horvath's life is one such story. He takes on his journey to authenticity. And he will share with us, what part music, his family, his mentors & alopecia play in his story.Here are the links to the Mountain & Valley Podcast, where so many wonderful God stories are told:On Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mountain-valley-podcast/id1453868341On Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/anchor-podcasts/mountain-valley-podcastOn Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6J7kVobD8rtPwbUbDau0vvOn iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/256-mountain-valley-podcast-31109108/for alopecia education & support: http://www.worldalopeciacommunity.org/; https://www.naaf.org/find-support------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/To check out our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/channel/UC_SR3ltt5p1w-hzjvGX5vag?view_as=subscriber/Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

A life on the run. From the law. With his once carefree but now troubled Mom, the remnants of his semi-idyllic remote hippie childhood... faded into a dark season for the whole family. At only 12, Kipp had already experienced 2 lifetimes of pain. He takes us on his journey... of life... of processing his childhood.. of a life-changing divine encounter... and profound moments. All of this led him down the path of healing, to the remarkable albeit imperfect place he is now in his life and in his heart, grounded in faith, and beloved by God.Kipp is the cohost for the Mountain & Valley Podcast. Episode 24 is Kipp's story, the first in our two part series "Mountain & Valley Podcast"https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/grounded-beloved-kipp-wilkinson-mountain-valley-podcast-pt-1/Here are the links to the Mountain & Valley Podcast, where so many wonderful God stories are told:On Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mountain-valley-podcast/id1453868341 On Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/anchor-podcasts/mountain-valley-podcastOn Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6J7kVobD8rtPwbUbDau0vvOn iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/256-mountain-valley-podcast-31109108/The Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255& Website: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/------------------------------------------For more inspiring stories:https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/To suggest a story that must be told, yours or someone else’s, let’s chat. Also, we would love to support you in prayer.lfhpodcast@gmail.comTo join our Facebook Group for bonus live stories and convos:https://www.facebook.com/groups/3475957805750898For one splashy bright monthly Letters From Home Newsletterhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/newsletter/To check out our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/channel/UC_SR3ltt5p1w-hzjvGX5vag?view_as=subscriber/Ways to help Letters From Home make better content & and reach more people: here are our prayer requests & a giving link:https://lettersfromhome.com/support/We r on Instagram, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, iHeartRadio and all of the places podcasts live :)... all you need to do is type in ‘Letters From Home Podcast’ and it should pop right up.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Beautifully made. We hear that. Many of us know that. But just repeating that doesn't get us there in our thinking and in our self-talk. Ryann shares with us her story of getting there, to a place where she knows she is soooo loved by her heavenly Father, and uniquely beautiful in His sight. On her journey of getting there, she walked through a difficult season, including postpartum depression, suicidal thoughts and unhealthy feelings of unworthiness. Her loving family and friends walked her through that season, and she has come out on the other side. As we hear her gentle spirit and faith inviting us into her life, I pray we also get to that place of knowing we too are beautifully made.Psalm 139:13–14[13] For you formed my inward parts;you knitted me together in my mother's womb.[14] I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.Wonderful are your works;my soul knows it very well. (ESV)This is the 3rd part in our three part series on the Faith Mamas Tribe https://faithmamas.org/. This is a beautiful ministry of Mama love and prayer.https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/Here are some ways to get involved:Faith Mamas Virtual Village on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/groups/faithmamas/Faith Mamas Podcast on Apple Podcast App-https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/faith-mamas-podcast/id130863671630 Days of Prayer for your Children https://faithmamas.org/prayer-packs/Faith Mamas Podcast on Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/0EbkYyvdnqJKshiODXBzlmFaith Mamas Podcast on Stitcher-https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/faith-mama-mondaysFaith Mamas, Christian Mom Blog, Bible, Prayer, Spiritual growth- https://www.pinterest.com/faithmamas/?autologin=trueFaith Mamas App--on Google- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app.faithmamas&hl=en_US-on iTunes-https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/faith-mamas/id1363751499-on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/faithmamastribe/Join me in prayer for this beautiful ministry. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!

Let's face it. Most of us struggle with worrying about what other people think, and keeping up a good image. Sometimes though, left unchecked, it can lead to a hard path, and hidden choices. Jernise walks us from her happy childhood through her conflicted and transformational thirties...with choices she never thought she would make, and trials she never thought she would face. Her loving God gently transformed her, from the inside out, and kept her, all along the way. And today, she stands strong, in her own shoes, with her little daughter hand-in-hand.This episode was made possible by Jernise's loving parents, Jervins & Tina Young, who raised her in love, and are still walking alongside her & her daughter. The Passion Translation: Psalm 139:5-"You have gone into my future to prepare the way, and in kindness you follow behind me, to spare me from the harm of my past. With your hand of love upon my life, you impart a blessing to me."This is the second part in our three part series on the Faith Mamas Tribe https://faithmamas.org/. This is a beautiful ministry of Mama love and prayer. https://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/podcast/Here are some ways to get involved:Faith Mamas Virtual Village on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/groups/faithmamas/Faith Mamas Podcast on Apple Podcast App-https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/faith-mamas-podcast/id130863671630 Days of Prayer for your Children https://faithmamas.org/prayer-packs/Faith Mamas Podcast on Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/0EbkYyvdnqJKshiODXBzlmFaith Mamas Podcast on Stitcher-https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/faith-mama-mondaysFaith Mamas, Christian Mom Blog, Bible, Prayer, Spiritual growth- https://www.pinterest.com/faithmamas/?autologin=trueFaith Mamas App--on Google- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app.faithmamas&hl=en_US-on iTunes-https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/faith-mamas/id1363751499-on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/faithmamastribe/Join me in prayer for this beautiful ministry. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=32455563" data-patreon-widget-type="become-patron-button">Become a Patron!