Stand with Lynnette

When I published my last episode in May of 2023, I did not anticipate a nine month break! But it happened...and we're finally back! In this episode, I give an update on what has happened in the last nine months and what to expect moving forward ( plus a BIG announcement about my wonderful new co-hosts). Then, using D&C 50:40-44 as a backdrop, I share some thoughts about navigating our confusing world by choosing to trust God instead of focusing on worry and/or fear. Together, let's STAND! Follow along on Instagram @lynnettesheppard

The Lord has tasked the parents of this generation with a daunting and, frankly, terrifying task: to prepare their kids to greet the Savior when He comes again. Before we can adequately prepare them, however, we must first believe in ourselves, our divinity, and our God-given charge to help raise His youth battalion. We must cling to the truth that we are part of a marked generation, putting us among the ranks of God's most courageous, capable, and determined spirits. And then, we must get to work. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by this charge, you're not alone. Listen in for some encouragement and a preview of what's coming in the next season of this podcast. P.S. If you would like to download a free pdf of all the April 2023 General Conference invitations, you can do that right here. Follow along on Instagram @lynnettesheppard

When Adrian Groth left for college, she also left the Church. She married young, despite the Spirit's promptings to walk away from the relationship. That decision put her into a heartbreaking situation she knew she needed to leave but did not know how. Eventually, when she found herself unexpectedly pregnant, Adrian came back to church. Through many difficult experiences, she learned to rely on the Savior. In her subsequent quest to understand how she fit into God's plan as a woman, the Lord taught her the powerful truths surrounding the divine differences between men and women. She discovered how He feels about women, which provided a stark contrast to what the world teaches. This understanding changed her life. If you have ever wondered how the Lord feels about His daughters, how they fit into His plan, or why men hold the Priesthood and women do not, this episode is for you. P.S. If you would like to download a free pdf of all the April 2023 General Conference invitations, you can do that right here.

In the weeks since General Conference, I have spent much time in prayer and self-reflection, especially concerning President Nelson's counsel to avoid contention. In light of my work in sharing my faith online, I have been asking, “Is it I? Am I contributing to the contention President Nelson warned us to avoid?” My pondering has led me to the scriptures to study the life of the Savior, with particular attention to how He responded to criticism, mockery, and attempted provocation. What I discovered changed how I view contention, particularly as it relates to teaching and standing for truth. It might change how you view it as well. Listen in for all the details. SHINE CHALLENGE: Study President Nelson's April 2023 talk entitled “Peacemakers Needed” with a prayerful heart, and record any thoughts or impressions that come. Then, create a plan to act on them. P.S. If you would like to download a free pdf of all the April 2023 General Conference invitations, you can do that right here. References: 1. Dieter F. Uchtdorf. Five Messages That All of God's Children Need to Hear. BYU Speeches. Aug. 17, 2021. 2. Dallin H. Oaks. Loving Others and Living with Differences. General Conference Report. October 2014. 3. Jeffrey R. Holland. The Cost and Blessings of Discipleship. General Conference Report. April 2014. 4. Russell M. Nelson. Peacemakers Needed. General Conference Report. April 2023.

When Rosalie Mastaler's oldest son was four years old, he was attacked by a dog, which led to the amputation of his leg below the knee. While in the trauma of that critical situation, Rosalie prayed for a miracle: that her son's leg would be spared. When that did not happen, she had to learn about the nature of miracles and how to hold onto faith when miracles look different than anticipated. You don't want to miss this inspiring story! Connect with Rosalie on her website and Instagram **If you'd like to take your faith to the next level with the Shine 40 Challenge - a 40-day challenge to help you build lasting spiritual habits - you can learn more and sign up here. (P.S. You get a free buddy pass to complete the challenge with a friend)

Angela Adams started struggling with anxiety when she was a child but had never heard of generalized anxiety disorder until she received that diagnosis after her youngest child was born. Through her struggle, she learned that Christ's Atonement covered sin but also pain of all varieties - a realization that changed everything. She also learned to let go of control and trust the Lord at all times and in all things. This is a story of hope, healing, and learning to trust the Savior at all times and in all things. Connect with Angela here. **If you'd like to take your faith to the next level with the Shine 40 Challenge - a 40-day challenge to help you build lasting spiritual habits - you can learn more and sign up here. (P.S. You get a free buddy pass to complete the challenge with a friend)

Decia Brown has struggled with anxiety and depression since her teenage years, but, until recently, she hid it well. She was always smiling, always helping others, and always outgoing. She hit rock bottom last year when she attempted to take her own life. Through a series of miracles, she survived. While in the hospital recovering, she learned for herself that she was not alone. Christ was by her side. At that point, His atonement became real to her, giving her the strength to keep going. She committed to fighting her personal battles when she realized that because Jesus had already won her battles, she could, with His help, emerge victorious. Decia's story is real, raw, and relevant. Whether you struggle with anxiety and depression or know someone who does, her story will give you hope in Christ. **If you'd like to take your faith to the next level with the Shine 40 Challenge - a 40-day challenge to help you build lasting spiritual habits - you can learn more and sign up here. (P.S. You get a free buddy pass to complete the challenge with a friend)

Matt Davis first saw pornography at age six and then started viewing consistently at age 11. He got clean in time to serve a mission but fell back into old habits when he returned home. Matt brought his pornography problem into his marriage without telling his wife, Katie. She did not know anything was wrong until she received a very strong prompting on their first anniversary. The Spirit told her to ask Matt specific questions related to pornography use, which brought his addiction to light. The road to recovery was rocky for both of them, but Matt has been clean for four years. He and Katie are on a mission to discuss this tricky subject and help others navigate recovery with hope in Christ. Their story is inspiring, hopeful, and a MUST-listen for all, even those who do not struggle with pornography use. It will be especially beneficial for couples in the messy middle of addiction recovery. Follow Matt and Katie on Instagram Listen to their podcast: Supported Sobriety Find an addiction recovery meeting near you **If you'd like to take your faith to the next level with the Shine 40 Challenge - a 40-day challenge to help you build lasting spiritual habits - you can learn more and sign up here. (P.S. You get a free buddy pass to complete the challenge with a friend)

When Emma Ellis heard President Nelson's October 2019 General Conference talk entitled Spiritual Treasures, she felt a push to learn more about God's priesthood power. That study led her to the temple every week, where the Lord taught her about His priesthood and how it applied equally to women and men. In this episode, Emma shares what the Lord taught her about the priesthood power of women. It contains truth every Latter-day Saint woman needs to hear. Follow Emma on Instagram at Poherful and Why.I.Go Emma's new temple journal will be released to VIP email subscribers on March 28, 2023, and to the general public from March 30-April 6. Limited quantities will be available. Hop on the VIP email list to ensure you get a copy. Follow Lynnette on Instagram **If you'd like to take your faith to the next level with the Shine 40 Challenge - a 40-day challenge to help you build lasting spiritual habits - you can learn more and sign up right here. (P.S. You get a free buddy pass to complete the challenge with a friend)

Erin Ropelato is an expert on learning styles, especially as they relate to gospel study. She believes the purpose of gospel study is to help us build a relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. As we understand and apply our unique learning style to our study, we can maximize our relationship with Them. Listen in to hear an explanation of each learning style (social, individual, hands-on, book, STEM, music, nature, and visual), how to learn and teach according to learning styles, and what this has to do with standing with the Savior. Find Erin on her website and on Instagram **If you'd like to take your faith to the next level with the Shine 40 Challenge - a 40-day challenge to help you build lasting spiritual habits - you can learn more and sign up right here.

Mandy Collins and her husband struggled with infertility for several years. Against all odds, they conceived a son. At their first prenatal ultrasound, they discovered their baby would be born with a cleft lip and palate. Other abnormalities became apparent as the pregnancy progressed. When her baby was born, Mandy had no idea what to expect. She knew her baby's health conditions would require several surgeries, but she did not know the full extent of his challenges until much later. Through it all, she learned to trust the Lord with everything she could not control, developing patience and joy along the way. Mandy's son, Tanner, is now 19 years old and serving as a service missionary. If you have ever wondered about whether a service mission is right for you child, she shares what it is like and why she feels service missionaries are vital to the work of salvation. This story is sure to inspire you! P.S. If you want to learn more about the service that automatically prints missionary emails and pictures into a book after their mission, you can find it right here. (We talk about it in the interview, and I have LOVED using this service for my missionaries.) Follow along on Instagram **If you'd like to take your faith to the next level with the Shine 40 Challenge - a 40-day challenge to help you build lasting spiritual habits - you can learn more and sign up right here.

Are God's laws loving? If we listen to popular cultural paradigms, we might be confused about the nature of God's love as it relates to His laws or commandments. In this episode, I share a portion of my parenting journey and what it taught me about the inseparable connection between love and law. Then, with scriptures and quotes from modern prophets as a backdrop, I explore how God's laws are evidence of His love rather than a contradiction. Understanding this concept is crucial to standing firmly with the Savior amid a social environment that labels God's laws and those who follow them as unloving. Shine Challenge: Read Dallin H. Oaks' talk entitled Love and Law and President Russell M. Nelson's BYU Speech entitled The Love and Laws of God. Follow along on Instagram **If you'd like to take your faith to the next level with the Shine 40 Challenge - a 40-day challenge to help you build lasting spiritual habits - you can learn more and sign up right here.

Priscilla Davis was born into the Catholic church. When she was 10 years old, her friend invited her to attend Primary. A few years later, she and her family were baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In 2020, Priscilla and her husband were asked to facilitate a pilot group of the Church's new self reliance course entitled, Finding Strength in the Lord: Emotional Resilience. In carrying out that responsibility, Priscilla learned that Jesus Christ was the missing piece in her mental and emotional health journey. That understanding has forever changed her life. In this episode, Priscilla shares her inspiring story and several practical tools to help you build lasting, Christ-centered emotional resilience. Follow Priscilla on Instagram right here **If you'd like to take your faith to the next level with the Shine 40 Challenge - a 40-day challenge to help you build lasting spiritual habits - you can learn more and sign up right here.

What are the costs of discipleship? And are we willing to endure them? In this raw and unscripted episode, I share my thoughts on following Jesus into the fire. **If you'd like to take your faith to the next level with the Shine 40 Challenge - a 40-day challenge to help you build lasting spiritual habits - you can learn more and sign up right here.

Several years ago, Audra Elkington make a deliberate decision to walk away from the Church with no intention to ever come back. But, a few years later, the Lord orchestrated a miracle that led her back to church again. This time, however, her husband did not come with her. In the years since returning to the fold, Audra has discovered that the Book of Mormon holds the answers to all of her questions, including how to find the difficult balance between church responsibilities and vital family relationships. In this episode, she shares her powerful testimony of the Book of Mormon along with valuable insights on how to support those who are just coming back to the fold. Follow Audra on Instagram **If you'd like to take your faith to the next level with the Shine 40 Challenge - a 40-day challenge to help you build lasting spiritual habits - you can learn more and sign up right here.

Satan's entire goal is to frustrate the Lord's plan to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of both men and women. And, since the dawn of time, the father of lies has focused a huge amount of effort distorting the truth about women. Why? Because women are central to the success of the Lord's plan for the salvation of His children. Unfortunately, the adversary has been stunningly successful in his sinister plot, and many have adopted his cunning lies as reality. If we, as covenant women, desire to stand firmly in our faith in these last days, we must recognize the lies Satan tells us about ourselves and our purpose. And then, we must learn and embrace the truth of who we are and what we are on earth to do. In this episode, we will explore both Satan's lies and the Lord's life-changing truths about our roles and responsibilities as women in the His Church. This Week's Shine Challenge: I invite you to ask God about your divine role and how you fit into His plan. I invite you to pray for His peace, which surpasses all understanding, regarding womanhood and motherhood and femininity. **If you'd like to take your faith to the next level with the Shine 40 Challenge, you can learn more and sign up right here. References: 1. Sheri Dew. "Women and the Priesthood: What One Mormon Woman Believes." Deseret Book. 2013 2. Russell M. Nelson, “Lessons from Eve,” Oct. 1987. 3. Ulysses Soares. "In Partnership with the Lord." Oct. 2022 4. The Family: A Proclamation to the World 5. Spencer W. Kimball. The Role of Righteous Women. October 1979. 6.Russell M. Nelson. A Plea to My Sisters. October 2015. Disclaimer: This podcast is not sponsored or endorsed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. All opinions expressed are those of the host and/or guests.

Teri Sheppard believes in angels and prays for their help daily - a practice that became more meaningful last year when she suddenly lost her 9-year-old grandson. He went to bed and never woke up for reasons only known to God. Her faith in Jesus Christ sustained her through the heartwrenching days surrounding his death and through many years of personal health challenges and other trials. She has learned to be grateful in all circumstances and to serve God by serving others. Teri's story is sure to inspire you. **If you'd like to participate in the Shine 40 Challenge that helped Teri develop a deeply personal relationship with the Savior, you can learn more and sign up right here.

Have you ever felt inspired to do something that went against the grain? That has been the story of my life! When my kids were young, my husband and I felt inspired to transform our parenting in a way that went against the grain of popular parenting practices in a big way. We got some significant backlash for doing so, but our why kept us pushing forward, despite the opposition. The result was transformative. All three of our kids who have launched into adulthood have, at separate times, thanked us for how we raised them. This experience taught me that I could trust the Lord to lead me to the answers that are right for my family, even if they go against the grain (and they often do!). Listen in to hear the story and my top three takeaways that relate to strengthening faith in Jesus Christ. **Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during the October 2022 General Conference, which is now available for download. You can grab your free copy right here. References: 1. Neal A. Maxwell, "Swallowed Up in the Will of the Father." October 1995. 2. Kevin W. Pearson, "Are You Still Willing?" October 2022. 3. Dale G. Renlund, "A Framework for Personal Revelation." October 2022.

Amy Harris grew up in a large and active Latter-day Saint family. When she got married, she wanted to create the same thing with her new husband and future children. However, that is not how things turned out for her. After a few years of marriage, Amy's husband decided the Church was no longer for him. Several of her children later chose to walk away from the gospel: a choice that broke her heart. In this episode, Amy talks about how she learned to move from fear for her family's future to faith that the Lord was in control. Regardless of our current circumstances, we can all learn much from Amy's journey. **Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during the October 2022 General Conference, which is now available for download. You can grab your free copy right here.

As I have reflected on 2022 and as I look ahead to 2023, a quote from Spencer W. Kimball has been playing on repeat in my mind: “Much of the major growth that is coming to the Church in the last days will come because many of the good women of the world … will be drawn to the Church in large numbers. This will happen to the degree that the women of the Church reflect righteousness and articulateness in their lives and to the degree that the women of the Church are seen as distinct and different—in happy ways—from the women of the world.” Today, we will explore how we can become those women. This Week's Shine Challenge: Send me a DM on Instagram, letting me know you are ready to stand and share the light of Jesus Christ. **Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during the October 2022 General Conference, which is now available for download. You can grab your free copy right here. References: 1. Kimball, Spencer W. The Role of Righteous Women. October 1979. 2. Nelson, Russell M. A Plea to My Sisters. October 2015. 3. Bednar, David A. Flood the Earth Through Social Media. Liahona Magazine. August 2015.

Cherie Hyde is 87 years old and has lived what she calls "the worst and the best life." She was born in the covenant, but her parents stopped attending church when she was young. Out of the blue, when she was 14 years old, her dad was called to be a Branch President of their Kansas branch, which thrust them back into activity. The years that followed were filled with missionary service and a growing love of the gospel, which she never lost, not even when her husband decided, after 13 years of marriage, that he no longer believed and wanted a divorce. At the age of 32, with five young children in tow, she moved from Kansas City to Salt Lake to build a new life as a single mom. It was the 1960s, and divorce was uncommon, which posed its own challenges. But she learned to rely on the Savior to help her. She eventually remarried, blended her family with another, and learned how beautiful marriage can be. She raised her children with her new husband, served several missions, and grew in faith. Cherie's story is filled with hope, not just for single mothers but for all who desire to remain faithful in the Gospel of Jesus Christ amid challenging circumstances. She is wise beyond her 87 years. **Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during the October 2022 General Conference, which is now available for download. You can grab your free copy right here.

When Cody Hoskisson was a child, she navigated periods of bullying combined with medical trauma from two life-saving surgeries. Those childhood experiences created a form of PTSD called a freeze response (cousin of the fight or flight response) that still affects her daily life as a young wife and mother. Cody has learned to rely on the Savior and her covenants to support her through her challenges. While she is not out of the woods yet, she has faith that "everything is going to be okay because God has promised me things, and He doesn't break His promises." Cody's hopeful story is sure to inspire you to turn to the Savior and your covenants when life gets hard. **Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during the October 2022 General Conference, which is now available for download. You can grab your free copy right here.

When Brigette Heller was young, she developed a relationship with the Savior that carried her through some intensely challenging experiences and has served as an anchor point throughout her life. But, as an adult, depression, anxiety, and her sister's death challenged everything she thought she knew about Jesus. She was ready to give it all up when a miraculous experience connected her to her angel sister and the Lord in a way that continues to transform her faith and life today. Brigette's story is filled with light, hope, and the footprints of Jesus. It is a conversation that still has me thinking about how I can walk a little closer to Christ, even when the path is intense and scary. Find Brigette on Instagram and her website Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during October 2022 General Conference, and it is now available for download. You can grab your free copy right here.

For many years, I was a parenting coach who hosted a parenting podcast and launched a 12-month parenting program to help parents raise children into capable, confident young adults. Then, in early 2022, I abruptly changed directions, indefinitely putting all parenting rhetoric on the shelf. When people ask me why I made that change, I usually say, "The Lord handed me this new direction on a silver platter." That is true, but there is so much more to it. I have wrestled with whether I should share the details of this story because it is incredibly sacred to me. I feel it is time to share because this story is, at its core, about YOU and Jesus. I hope you will see yourself as you listen. P.S. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. You will also receive our weekly(ish) newsletter entitled 5 Quick Things. P.P.S. I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during the October 2022 General Conference, which is now available for download. As you study and apply these invitations, you will reap the spiritual blessings attached to them. (Don't worry...I will show you how to do this without getting overwhelmed!) You can grab your free copy right here.

When Greta White had her first baby, she was unprepared for the postpartum depression that hit her like a truck. She lived in a constant state of fear and was unable to spend time with her baby, let alone bond with him, for several weeks following his birth. Through that experience, which she relived after the births of each of her seven children, she learned to rely on the Savior. She discovered in a deeply personal way that the atonement is for rescuing. And now, she does all in her power to keep her covenants by helping to lift others. Listen in to hear Greta's story of finding light and hope amid darkness. It is a conversation I will not soon forget. Follow Greta on Instagram and YouTube for FREE and fun aerobics instruction Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during October 2022 General Conference, and it is now available for download. As you study and apply these invitations, you will reap the spiritual blessings attached to them. (Don't worry...I will show you how to do this without getting overwhelmed!) You can grab your free copy right here.

I have spent the past week thinking about things that don't make sense. And, when I say "things that don't make sense," I mean questions that don't have easy answers and trials with no apparent ending. I mean wrestling with counsel from prophets that does not seem to fit with our interpretation of following Jesus. I mean physical, mental, and emotional challenges from which we have yet to find rest. I mean paths the Lord inspires us to walk or even chooses for us that feel much too steep and well beyond our ability. I mean roadblocks we encounter as we follow Him that seem to halt our progress again and again. My thoughts have led me to the powerful lessons of Gethsemane and Golgotha. I believe understanding these events can forever change how we view our challenges and the suffering they sometimes create. This Week's Shine Challenge: Read Luke 22-23, which recounts the events of Gethsemane and Golgotha, and Jeffrey R. Holland's talk, "Lifted Up Upon the Cross." Imagine yourself as a character in the story. What would it have been like to witness those events? Would you have the faith to follow Him forever had you witnessed His sacrifice firsthand? Write your thoughts in your journal. References: 1. Lifted Up upon the Cross: Jeffrey R. Holland 2. None Were With Him: Jeffrey R. Holland P.S. Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during October 2022 General Conference, and it is now available for download. As you study and apply these invitations, you will reap the spiritual blessings attached to them. (Don't worry...I will show you how to do this without getting overwhelmed!) You can grab your free copy right here.

Abigail Miller is a military wife, a mother of two young girls, and a disciple of Christ. Navigating periods of inadequacy, doubt, worry, and fear has taught her that the gospel is simple and joyful. As she focused on the basics of the gospel, Abigail found peace and hope amid her challenges. She also discovered that sharing the gospel need not be scary. It can be normal, natural, and fun. Listen in to hear Abigail's simple and joyful journey of faith. It is sure to inspire you along your own journey to Jesus. Follow Abigail on Instagram Would you like to share your story of faith? Apply to be a guest on the podcast right here. Are you ready to STAND and start putting your faith into ACTION so you can have greater access to God's power? I have compiled a list of every invitation issued by our leaders during October 2022 General Conference, and it is now available for download. As you study and apply these invitations, you will reap the spiritual blessings attached to them. (Don't worry...I will show you how to do this without getting overwhelmed!) You can grab your free copy right here.

When Andrea Ashford was seven years old, her parents were divorced, and her mom left the Church. She felt she had to choose between her mom and the Savior at that young age. Even as a young girl, Andrea felt the magnitude of her choice. She chose to be baptized, even though her mom did not want that. Though it was difficult, that choice shaped her life and her view of covenants in beautiful ways. Andrea explains, "My covenants give me the power to keep my covenants." As Andrea shares her story, you will hear how her covenants have taught her about the Savior, His grace, and how to access His power every single day. Follow Andrea on Instagram @andreaashfordd Would you like to share your story of faith? Apply to be a guest on the podcast right here. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. You will also receive our weekly(ish) newsletter entitled 5 Quick Things.

Last weekend, I hiked the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim with my husband and son. The 23.5-mile trek was overflowing with miracles, both small and great. God's fingerprint was evident in every step of this journey. In this episode, I will tell you about every miraculous event we witnessed, what it has taught me about seeing God's miracles on a daily basis, and how each of us can develop eyes to see the miracles God works on our behalf. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. You will also receive our weekly(ish) newsletter entitled 5 Quick Things. References: 1. Russell M. Nelson. The Power of Spiritual Momentum. April 2022. 2. Russell M. Nelson. Overcome the World and Find Rest. October 2022. P.S. I would love to start interviewing Latter-day Saint women from all walks of life about what it looks like to STAND with the Savior in their unique circumstances. We NEED your voice in our community! If you would like to be interviewed on the show, fill out this form.

In the New Testament, there is an account of a rich young ruler who was also a follower of the Master, Jesus Christ. He was already keeping the commandments but asked Jesus a question we would all do well to ponder: "What lack I yet?" When we break that question down into two modern questions and take them to the Lord, He can open the windows of Heaven for us: 1. What is the number one most important thing I can stop doing that will most transform my life? 2. What is the number one most important thing I can start doing that will most transform my life? I call this practice trading up, and in this episode, I will teach you why it matters and how to use it to unlock the power of God in your life. This Week's Shine Challenge: Ask the Lord the two questions above, record His answers, and make a plan to implement them. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. You will also receive our weekly newsletter: 5 Quick Things. P.S. I would love to start interviewing Latter-day Saint women from all walks of life about what it looks like to STAND with the Savior in their unique circumstances. We NEED your voice in our community! If you would like to be interviewed on the show, fill out this form. References: 1. What Lack I Yet? Larry R. Lawrence 2. Spiritual Treasures: Russell M. Nelson 3. We Can Do Better and Be Better: Russell M. Nelson 4. Eyes to See: Michelle Craig 5. A Framework for Personal Revelation: Dale G. Renlund 6. Give the Lord Your Loyalty: Spencer W. Kimball

General Conference was fantastic! But what good are inspired messages from God unless we take the time to study and apply them? The Spirit cannot teach us how those messages will fortify our faith or grant us the prophetic blessings attached to them when they are collecting dust on a shelf or tucked away, out of sight, in the Gospel Library app. So, I ask you, my friend, how will you be different because of what you heard at General Conference? What did the Spirit teach you, and how will you apply what you learned? In this episode, I share my top 6 takeaways from October 2022 General Conference with an invitation to GO and DO what the Lord, through His servants, inspired you to do. This Week's Shine Challenge: Ponder what you learned at General Conference and set one actionable goal to put what the Spirit taught you into action. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. You will also receive our weekly newsletter: 5 Quick Things

Nutritional recommendations are constantly changing, which makes it extremely difficult to determine what diet strategy is the "healthiest." Low fat? Low carb? High protein? No grain? Low glycemic index? No dairy? Low calorie? Which expert do we listen to when the experts do not agree? But the Lord, who created our bodies and knows how best to care for them, tells us exactly what to eat and what to avoid in D&C Section 89. The Word of Wisdom is not just a list of don'ts, but also a comprehensive list of do's. Listen in to hear about the Lord's plan of health which, in many ways, directly contradicts current nutritional recommendations. This Week's Shine Challenge: Prayerfully read Doctrine and Covenants 89 and see what specific and personal insight the Lord can share with you. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.

Listening to a recent interview with Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, it hit me with great force that society has mixed up the order of the first two great commandments. Rather than loving God first, the world teaches that we should love ourselves first, then others, and maybe we will get to loving God. To build sustainable faith, we need to get the order right. This episode will show you how. This Week's Shine Challenge: Pray to know how to put God first and then DO whatever He tells you. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. References: 1. Church News Podcast: Episode 85: Elder Jeffrey R. Holland and Sister Patricia Holland, with guest host Sheri Dew, Part 2 — Becoming disciples of Jesus Christ 2. John Chapter 21 3. Jeffrey R. Holland. The First Great Commandment. October 2012 4. Jeffrey R. Holland. The Cost and Blessings of Discipleship. April 2014.

Four days ago, my 10-pound puppy was attacked by a coyote. Miraculously, he survived, for which we are grateful. But the experience has me thinking about spiritual coyotes that, as Nephi described, "leadeth [us] away carefully down to hell." (2 Nephi 28:21) There is much we can do to arm ourselves against spiritual predators, and this episode will show you where to begin. P.S. If you would benefit from a structured, supportive, incentivized program to help you conquer spiritual predators and securely bind yourself to the Lord, the Shine 40 Challenge is perfect for you. It is ONLY open for enrollment from now through midnight on Sunday, September 18. As an added bonus, you can invite a friend to participate with you for FREE, thus exponentially increasing your chances of success. Find out more and join the challenge right here.

Last week, I learned something that has changed how I see the temple garment I learned that the English word atonement comes from the Hebrew word kaphar, which means to cover. In learning this, my mind immediately went to the Garden of Eden. I thought of the coats of skins that the Lord made as a covering for Adam and Eve before He cast them out of the Garden. Coverning = Atonement In this episode, we will dive into the scriptures and find the deep symbolism behind the temple garment. They are much more symbolic and significant than I ever imagined. This Week's Shine Challenge: Study Genesis chapter 3 and Moses chapters 4-5. Write down your insights and impressions about the temple garment. If you would like a little help or motivation to JUMPSTART your spiritual habits, join me in the Shine 7 Challenge - a FREE 7-day challenge designed to help you gain MASSIVE spiritual momentum. The challenge starts on September 8, 2022, at which time the doors will close. I don't know when the next challenge will be, so join now! (No cost. No risk. MASSIVE growth potential!) Learn more and sign up here. See you on the inside!

Today, I want to build upon what I taught last week by addressing a question that might be running through your mind: “Lynnette, you talk about tracking habits as if doing so will facilitate massive growth, both spiritual and otherwise. But isn't faith more than a checklist?” The short answer: of course, faith is infinitely more than a checklist. But a checklist can and will get you going in the right direction. Listen in to discover: WHY a checklist or habit tracker is NOT the end goal (and what is) HOW a checklist or habit tracker can help you strengthen your faith and develop a relationship with God WHEN a checklist or habit tracker will lead to lasting spiritual change and when it will not If you would like a little help or motivation to JUMPSTART your spiritual habits, join me in the Shine 7 Challenge - a FREE 7-day challenge designed to help you gain MASSIVE spiritual momentum. The challenge starts on September 8, 2022, at which time the doors will close. I don't know when the next challenge will be, so join now! (No cost. No risk. MASSIVE growth potential!) Learn more and sign up here. See you on the inside!

Our lives are not made up of big decisions, whether spontaneous or otherwise. They are made of small and simple choices we make multiple times every day. Our small choices or, in other words, the way we choose to spend our time and energy, almost make the big decisions for us. Not in a way that takes away our agency, but in a way that reinforces it. Small choices lead to big choices and big outcomes, both positive and negative. And habits, whether conscious or unconscious, are the building blocks of our choices. We have much more power over our circumstances than we sometimes believe. As James Clear said, “You get what you repeat.” Listen in to find out WHY habits are so powerful and HOW to gain momentum that will lead you to the outcomes you desire. This week's SHINE challenge: Come up with at least one small habit you can implement today that will increase your positive momentum. Then, do that thing each day. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.

Do you ever feel like you are in a comfortable rut with your spirituality? Do you feel more distant from the Lord than you want to be? Do you want to narrow the gap between you and God so you can hear Him more clearly? In this episode, we learn why our relationship with God is a two-way street, and why we must show up for Him if we want Him to show up for us. We learn what God requires of us in order to obtain His promised peace and blessings. We learn how He compensates us for the small and simple ways we bind ourselves to Him. This information is vital for anyone who desires to feel closer to God. This week's SHINE challenge: Commit to giving the Lord enough time for daily scripture study this week. You decide how much time that is. The important thing is that you commit to showing up for Him in whatever way you feel is best. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. References: 1.We are Women of God: Sheri Dew. General Conference, October 1999 2. Spiritual Treasures: Russell M. Nelson. General Conference, October 2019

Can you imagine what would happen if you started to build a house without a blueprint? What if you poured a random foundation and then just started nailing boards together, hoping it would end up with just the right dimensions? That idea is almost laughable, but the same concept applies to our lives. We must have a blueprint if we want to create the life of our dreams. Otherwise, life will simply happen to us while we sit and watch. To create a blueprint, we must have a clear picture of our future self: who we want to become. Only then, can we intentionally build our lives in a way that leads us to that outcome. Listen in to learn how to first see and then become the future self of your dreams. This week's SHINE challenge: Get in touch with your future self, however far out you want to imagine. It could be your future self next week, next month, next year, and beyond. Write about what she is like in as much detail as possible. After you know her, determine the things she does every day that have created the outcomes you now hope for. Then, make a plan for implementing those daily habits into your life right now. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here.

Do you ever get discouraged because you are not where you want to be? Maybe, on your journey to self-improvement or spiritual fortification, you feel like you take two steps forward and one step back. Perhaps, you fall off the wagon altogether for the one-millionth time, and you wonder if it is worth getting back on when you cannot seem to stay there. If you have ever felt that way, you are normal! Welcome to the club. But there is a more fulfilling way to live. Today, I am going to show you what that might look like by teaching you to mind the gap and measure the gain. This week's SHINE challenge: Determine one way you have been measuring the gap instead of the gain in your life. Try to turn that around by assessing how far you have come since starting your journey. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. References: 1. Exodus 14:10-12 2. Numbers 11:4-6 3. 1 Nephi 17 4. Perfection Pending by Russell M. Nelson 5. Be Ye Therefore Perfect - Eventually, by Jeffrey R. Holland 6. “The New Way,” Leo Tolstoy: Spiritual Writings, sel. Charles E. Moore (2006), 81–82.

In last week's episode, we dove into Moroni 7 and what it teaches about discerning truth from deception. We learned how we can have a perfect knowledge of whether something is inspired of God or not. If you have not yet listened to that episode, I recommend starting there. In this lesson, I will teach you how to spot the difference between a message that comes from God vs. the adversary based on the differences between how Satan and God work. They do not use the same tools, and it is important to understand the difference. We will look to 2 Nephi 28 and Doctrine and Covenants section 8 as our guides. We will also learn about why it is important to stay in the light, as explained in 2 Cor 6:14-18. Come, stand with me! This week's SHINE challenge: Take inventory of the people you follow on social media. Do any of them teach things that may pull you away from Christ, His commandments, or His teachings? If so, have the courage to unfollow. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. ** Follow along on Instagram

Have you ever heard or seen something about the Church or its doctrine that contained elements of truth but did not feel 100% true? Have you ever worried about yourself or your loved ones being led astray by intriguing but untrue ideas? If so, this podcast will help you gain clarity. Using scriptures from Moroni chapter 7 and several sections in the Doctrine and Covenants, I will teach you how to tell with a "perfect knowledge" whether something is true or false. Let's do this! This week's SHINE challenge: Read Moroni Chapter 7 with a prayerful heart. Record any thoughts or inspiration regarding truth and deception. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. ** Follow along on Instagram

With the craziness of summer upon us, I will be publishing mini-episodes for the next few weeks. Hopefully, these quick episodes will be easily consumable amid your crazy summer! We will get back to our deep dives soon. This week's topic was inspired by a question I recently received on Instagram: "I LOVE all of the different CFM podcasts because the scriptures come alive to me thanks to them. When I read the scriptures on my own I'm so lost. When you say you get answers to prayer while reading, is it the actual words on the page, or is it thoughts that come to mind while you read that is the answer to prayer?" The scriptures can become the windows of heaven. Listen in to hear how. For a deep dive into personal revelation, listen to Episode 6. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. ** Follow along on Instagram

With the craziness of summer upon us, I will be publishing mini-episodes for the next few weeks. We will get back to our deep dives soon. Hopefully, these quick episodes will be easily consumable amid your crazy summer! This week's topic was inspired by a question I recently received on this Instagram reel: "I stumbled on this reel and I just want to say I do commend your loyalty and faith but my question is where do you draw lines for your “prophets” and “prophets” like Warren Jeffs who preyed on the young and innocent and sexually assaulted children? Thankfully he is locked away but some still follow this so-called prophet and when I see reels like this with people who follow a “prophet's” words blindly I don't see how it is any different? Discernment is a gift that should be used." Listen in for my answer. It just might get you thinking about how you might answer similar questions. Want to dive in deeper? Listen to Episode 2. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. ** Follow along on Instagram

If you have ever wondered how best to help others (including your kids) SHINE on their path back to Jesus, this is the episode for you. We will discuss the Lord's plan of leadership (which applies in EVERY instance of helping others along the Covenant Path), how to apply it to different situations, some common pitfalls that trip us up from time to time, and how to overcome those pitfalls. This week's SHINE challenge: Consider one way you can do LESS so those whom you lead in any capacity can do MORE. (Because DOING more will help them SHINE.) Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. ** Follow along on Instagram

We are wrapping up our self-care Fundies this week by talking about finding JOY. Listen in to find out how to find joy amid life's challenges. (And, if you would like to learn about the other Fundies and how they work together to support you, catch up on episodes 8-12.) We will discuss how to recognize what is blocking joy and how to cultivate more joy, no matter what is happening in your life. This week's SHINE challenge: Write a joy list of things you can do to bring you joy. Then, when you need a little burst of joy, do something from the list. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. ** Follow along on Instagram

It is easy to find gratitude looking back over the challenges we have overcome, but what about feeling grateful while climbing the mountains of adversity? Is that even possible? Dieter F. Uchtdorf believes that the secret to such a feat is to be grateful in our circumstances rather than being grateful for things. He said, “We can choose to be grateful, no matter what. This type of gratitude transcends whatever is happening around us. It surpasses disappointment, discouragement, and despair. It blooms just as beautifully in the icy landscape of winter as it does in the pleasant warmth of summer. When we are grateful to God in our circumstances, we can experience gentle peace in the midst of tribulation. In grief, we can still lift up our hearts in praise. In pain, we can glory in Christ's Atonement. In the cold of bitter sorrow, we can experience the closeness and warmth of heaven's embrace.” 3 Gratitude is a choice, and it can become a way of life. We can choose to be grateful while navigating the mountains of life, not because we love the steep passages, but because the view is incredible. Listen in for real-life stories of people who have learned to be grateful, no matter how challenging their circumstances. From them, you will gain perspective and inspiration for learning to feel grateful; come what may. This week's SHINE challenge: Write down three things you are grateful for every day for the next seven days. See if it makes a difference in how you feel. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. ** Follow along on Instagram 3 Uchtdorf, Dieter F. “Grateful In Any Circumstances.” The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Apr. 2014, https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2014/04/grateful-in-any-circumstances.

Through his research about hope, Shane Lopez determined that “hope is the belief that your future will be better than your present and you have the power to make it so.” While I love Shane's definition, I would add God into the equation. So, we, with God's help, have the power to create a future that is infinitely better than our present. With that in mind, we can no longer be powerless victims of our circumstances. Instead, we are co-creators with God. We can work hand in hand with the Creator to build lives filled with hope. But where do we begin? Listen in for perspective and practical tools. This week's SHINE Challenge: Write about one thing you hope for in as much detail as possible. Write about it as if it has already happened. You can use that vision to help you endure when things get tough. You can also use it to help you create, with God's help, the outcome you desire. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. ** Follow along on Instagram

For the next few weeks, we will continue to focus on a series of self-care fundamentals or "Fundies" that drastically affect all areas of our life, including our spirituality. The Fundies include: eat, sleep, move, breathe, be present, be prosperous, be grateful, and be joyful. This week, we will be diving into breath - the bridge between the body and the mind. We will discuss why breath is so powerful and how to use it to stay present, manage stress and anxiety, and feel calmer. I will also teach you a couple of powerful, practical tools you can use in moments of heightened emotion to bring you back into the present. Because, after all, the present is where life is truly LIVED. The past is where depression lives. The future is where anxiety lives. The present is where POWER lives. Let's do this! This week's SHINE challenge: Try flipping the switch with a few deep, mindful breaths when you feel stressed, anxious, or otherwise not at your best. To up the ante, repeat a mantra, such as “Everything is as it should be” or “I love and accept you.” Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. ** Follow along on Instagram

For the next few weeks, we will be focusing on a series of self-care fundamentals or "Fundies" that drastically affect all areas of our life, including our spirituality. The Fundies include: eat, sleep, move, breathe, be present, be prosperous, be grateful. This week, we will be diving into sleep and movement. Why do these things matter? How can they help us bridge the gap between hope and despair? What do they have to do with our spiritual growth? How can you uplevel these areas of your life? Listen in to find out! This week's SHINE challenge: Track your steps. Are you meeting the depression threshold every day? What can you do to add more movement to your days? Make a plan for moving forward in a more supportive way. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. ** Follow along on Instagram References: 1. Why We Sleep: Matthew Walker 2. How Much Sleep Do We Really Need? National Sleep Foundation 3. Sleep and Mood: Harvard Study 4. Among Teens, Sleep Deprivation an Epidemic 5. Even Happier: Tal Ben Shahar 6. The Joy of Movement: Kelly McGonigal

For the next few weeks, we will be focusing on a series of self-care fundamentals or "Fundies" that drastically affect all areas of our life, including our spirituality. The Fundies include: eat, sleep, move, breathe, be present, be prosperous, be grateful. This week, we will be focusing on food, and how what we eat has a MASSIVE impact on, not only our physical health but our mental and spiritual health. This week's SHINE challenge: Read and ponder D&C 89 and prayerfully determine one way you can better care for your body. We are not looking for extremes. Remember, moderation in ALL things. And consider how small changes, over time, can create DRASTIC impact. Want to join the STAND movement? You can start by downloading our manifesto: Covenant Women Who Stand. Read it and grab your free copy right here. ** Follow along on Instagram References: 1. Your Body: A Magnificent Gift to Cherish: Russell M. Nelson 2. In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto: Michael Pollan 3. The Happiness Diet: Tyler Graham and Drew Ramsey