The Barbara Rainey Podcast

If you feel weighed down by guilt or shame, there is hope for you. Barbara Rainey explains the solution found only in Jesus.Barbara Rainey invites us to reflect on the parts of ourselves we've always wished were different, sharing openly about her own lifelong struggle with shyness. Through storytelling—from childhood memories to passages in C.S. Lewis's Narnia—and a deep dive into John 9, Barbara reminds us that God doesn't make mistakes with our design or our past. Even the things we might view as handicaps, she says, can be purposed for God's glory. Join Barbara and host Michelle as they explore what it means to find confidence and healing through Jesus, the Son—who is, indeed, enough for every painful chapter in our story.Timestamps00:00 "Narnia Storytime"06:09 "The Paradox of a Good God"07:17 "God's Sufficiency for Your Past"12:29 "Jesus' Initiative and Compassion"15:45 Born with a Shy Nature18:06 "Embrace Your God-Given Traits"20:07 "Barbara Rainey Podcast Outro"Key Topics1. Introduction: Struggles with Our Insecurities and Personality TraitsBarbara Rainey poses a reflective question about what personal traits listeners wish they didn't have.Michelle introduces Barbara's own struggle with shyness.Establishing a theme of personal dissatisfaction with innate characteristics.2. Assurance of God's Purpose and No Mistakes in CreationBarbara asserts that God doesn't make mistakes in our design or life circumstances.She affirms that, even if we never understand why we're made a certain way, we can trust God's intentions.3. The Search for Satisfaction and God as the Ultimate SourceMichelle discusses universal longings and the tendency to search for fulfillment in things apart from God.Introduction to the idea that God—Father, Son, and Spirit—is sufficient for every need.4. Literary Reflection: Excerpt from The Chronicles of NarniaBarbara reads a passage from “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”The children's discovery of Narnia and initial encounter with Mr. Beaver.The children ask about Aslan and learn He is both powerful and not “safe,” but fundamentally good.Drawing parallels between Aslan and God: Good, not always “safe,” mysterious in His ways.5. Wrestling with Wanting a Predictable and Safe GodBarbara shares her own desire for a God she can understand and predict.Insights on learning to accept God's goodness even when His ways are beyond comprehension.Introduction of the theme: “God is enough for our past, present, and future.”6. Focus on God the Son: Jesus is Enough for Our PastPlan to examine three aspects: God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; today focusing on the Son.Context-setting for the selected scripture:The significance of the word “believe” in the Book of John.Exploration of belief as a feminine noun in Greek, and its relational implications (e.g., women's faith at the tomb).Scriptural context for John 9:Story takes place midway through Jesus' ministry, during the Festival of Lights (Hanukkah).7. The Story of the Man Born Blind: John 9Jesus notices the blind man, highlighting divine initiative.Consideration of the man's lifelong dependence, potential for isolation, and feelings of hopelessness.Disciples' question about the source of the man's blindness reflects human desire to find blame and maintain control.Jesus' response: blindness is not a result of sin, but an opportunity for the works of God to be displayed.8. Theological Implications: God's Sovereignty and Human StruggleReference to Exodus 4:11: God as creator of all abilities and disabilities.Wrestling with the discomfort that God can allow suffering or hardship for His purposes.God's higher plans may involve temporary or lifelong struggles to display His glory.9. Personal Application: Identifying Our Own “Handicaps”Barbara shares her own story of lifelong shyness and feeling different.Listeners are prompted to identify and reflect on their own “handicaps” or lifelong struggles.Sharing experiences of feeling like a mistake within one's family or community.Encouragement to see personal struggles as purposeful in God's plan.10. Conclusion: Believing God's Good Purposes in Our StoriesReflection on the blind man's faith and response to Jesus.Posing a question to listeners: Will you trust God's purpose and believe, like the man born blind?Michelle's summary: It takes faith to believe that Jesus is enough for our past and that God is wise in all He allows.11. Closing and Next Episode TeaserMention of resources (Barbara's Substack and epic poem “The Wonder of the Word”).Preview of part two: “God the Father is enough for our present.”

Teenagers are sometimes headstrong and over-confident. Dennis and Barbara Rainey say there's a reason God gives parents to teens. The Raineys help you navigate the choppy—and rewarding—waters of the teen years.

No marriage this side of glory is perfect. Dennis and Barbara Rainey are joined by Bob Lepine to help you avoid repeating mistakes and instead turn them into something that will strengthen your relationship.What You'll Learn in this episode:The Importance of Understanding: Discover why getting to the heart of why something affects your spouse is more meaningful than just knowing what to avoid saying or doing.Rookie Mistakes Are Normal: Hear Dennis and Barbara talk about the rookie mistakes they made in their early years of marriage and learn why these mistakes are a natural part of growing together.Handling Differentness: Understand how recognizing and appreciating the innate differences between men and women can enhance your relationship.The Value of Perseverance: Learn why it's crucial to stick together through thick and thin, adapting and growing in love over the years.Biblical Blueprints for Marriage: Get insights on how having a shared biblical foundation can help couples navigate life's challenges together.Fun Fact from the Episode:Did you know that teasing as a form of affection can backfire? Bob shared a funny yet insightful anecdote about how teasing, which was normal in his family growing up, didn't translate well with his wife Marianne, particularly when he pointed out her pimples. It's a prime example of a rookie mistake that many can learn from!

How can a couple invest in a marriage that lasts? It starts by gaining the right perspective. And, contrary to popular belief, the ultimate purpose of your marriage is not to make you happy. Dennis, Barbara, and Bob cover the first two rules.Fun Fact from the Episode:Did you know? Early in their marriage, Barbara assumed Dennis could fix things just like her dad could because she believed it was a typical male trait. It took her ten years to realize that Dennis had other strengths her dad didn't, teaching her to fully accept and love Dennis for who he is!00:00 Acceptance in Marriage is Ongoing04:20 "Marriage Advice for Young Couples"08:30 Balancing Marriage and Biblical Roles10:41 "Nourishing Love: A Husband's Journey"15:13 Marriage Podcast Series Promotion16:16 "Marriage Rules Beyond Fairytales"5 Keys You'll Learn in This Episode:Shattering Unrealistic Expectations: Barbara shares her experience on accepting your spouse as they are and the ongoing practice it requires.Marriage Beyond Happiness: Dennis explains why marriage is more about a transcendent purpose rather than just personal happiness.Role of Marriage as a Growth Agent: Get insights into how marriage helps both men and women grow up and mature in ways they never imagined.Selflessness in Marriage: Discover why self-denial is crucial and how it positively impacts your relationship.Adapting to Differences: Hear Barbara's journey of learning to appreciate the unique differences between her and Dennis.

Barbara Rainey explores some implications of the incarnation of the Son of God. Link to "Christ of the Abyss" print.

Have you thought about the fact that you can choose to be grateful regardless of your circumstances? Barbara is joined by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth, author of Choosing Gratitude: Your Journey to Joy.

Over and over in the Scriptures, God makes it clear that He loves the orphan, and that He expects His people to do the same. Dennis and Barbara Rainey outline five ways we can care for what the Bible calls "the fatherless."

No marriage this side of glory is perfect. Dennis and Barbara Rainey are joined by Bob Lepine to help you avoid repeating mistakes and instead turn them into something that will strengthen your relationship.

Unanswered prayer…a difficult trial…life just plain different from what you would like? These can result in disappointment with God. Dennis and Barbara Rainey explain why it happens and what to do about it.

As followers of Christ, we're called to be His ambassadors. We represent Him. Barbara helps us remember our homes are embassies of the King.00:00 Believes home reflects heavenly kingdom, welcomes visitors.06:16 Embassies reflect their home countries inside out.08:18 Home is a refuge and the King's embassy.10:37 "Subscribe for Barbara's ebook and exclusive content."Here are three key takeaways from our conversation:Live with Purpose: Remember that as followers of Christ, we're ambassadors for His kingdom in all aspects of our lives, from our homes to our workplaces.Create a Haven: Your home should be a refuge, a small piece of heaven on earth that reflects the values and presence of the King you serve.Intentional Living: Engage in purposeful family discussions and personal reflections on how to represent Christ's love and principles, making your home a true embassy of the King.1. Introduction by Barbara RaineyThe concept of remembering who you belong to.Mention of mundane tasks in our daily lives.2. Understanding Our Identity as AmbassadorsSamantha discusses the importance of living for the king.The tendency to get caught up in personal tasks and forget our higher calling.3. The Role of RepresentativesDifferent roles where people act as representatives (lawmakers, employees).The concept of Christians as ambassadors for Christ, based on 2 Corinthians Chapter 5.The ministry of reconciliation.4. Anonymous Testimony of 'Mandev'Introduction of a person from an Eastern European, atheistic country with a plaque outside their home stating "Embassy of the King of Heaven."This person's perspective of their home representing the Kingdom of Heaven.5. Life as an AmbassadorSamantha elaborates on the way this individual lives their life as an ambassador.Guests visiting him and discussing spiritual matters.His home as a place of refuge and representation of the king.6. Personal Reflections by Barbara and SamanthaPersonal inspiration from Mandev's story.Emphasis on the idea that all believers and their homes are ambassadors and embassies of the King.The concept of temporary residence on Earth and eternal home in Heaven.7. The Importance of Ambassadorship in Modern TimesThe relevance of the concept amid modern confusion about values and concepts.The comfort in remembering that Earth is not the believer's eternal home.8. Embassy Row AnalogyDescription of different embassies on Embassy Row in Washington, DC.How embassies reflect the home country within foreign lands.Comparison of home embassies to spiritual ambassadorship.9. Practicing Spiritual Ambassadorship at HomeThe role of homes as places of refuge and representation of God's kingdom.The impact of seeing a sign or plaque "Embassy of the King of Heaven" as a reminder.10. Practical Steps and ResourcesIdeas to create a sign or plaque as a reminder.Details about the book "Your Home, His Embassy" by Barbara and Janelle Bridenstine.Discussion guide within the book for family use.How to use these discussions to teach children about ambassadorship.Book available in electronic form and through subscription.11. Subscription Benefits and ConclusionBenefits of subscribing to Barbara's friends and family.Additional content available through subscription (Bible Studies, podcast seasons).Information about where to find these resources and the signs.Wrap-up and invitation to the next podcast episode.

Contrary to popular belief, the ultimate purpose of your marriage is not to make you happy. Dennis and Barbara Rainey are joined by Bob Lepine to talk about it.

Parents think a lot about what their children need. In this top ten list, Dennis and Barbara Rainey point out that kids have emotional and spiritual needs that parents should consider, too, as they hone their parenting skills.

When your grown child marries, it can be difficult to find the right balance between under- and over-involvement in the new couple's life. Dennis and Barbara Rainey offer helpful advice in this conversation with Bob Lepine.

If you don't approach growing older with intentionality, the losses you face in life can threaten to derail you. Dennis and Barbara Rainey help you navigate major losses like the unexpected loss of a loved one, and more.

How can we do a better job of representing the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection in our Easter celebrations? Barbara Rainey explores both "why" and "how" we can celebrate our Savior's Resurrection.

Most families don't have traditions in place that help them prepare for Easter. Barbara Rainey hopes to change that. She and Dennis discuss one way to help children look for Bible clues that point to Jesus during the weeks leading up to Easter.

Popular depictions of romance often fall short of reality, especially once we're married. Dennis and Barbara Rainey are joined by Bob Lepine to talk about two important ingredients in order for romance in marriage to flourish.

Dennis and Barbara Rainey want to live out their sunset years with intentionality and purpose. And they want to help you do it, too. Barbara can look back and see how God has grown endurance in her. Can you?

Every marriage faces pressure. The question is how you handle it. Dennis and Barbara Rainey give thoughtful pointers on the Biblical idea of walking wisely and redeeming the time.

Gratitude is a heart habit we need to cultivate. Discover some of the ways Dennis and Barbara Rainey have nurtured thankfulness in their family as a part of their Thanksgiving traditions.

Women tell Barbara Rainey and Susan Yates that they experience a wide range of emotions when they move from having children in the home to the empty nest. Barbara and Susan describe those feelings and what to do with them, in a conversation with Dennis Rainey and Bob Lepine.

When Dennis and Barbara Rainey still had children living at home with them, God arranged an amazing object lesson. Listen to the story of Sweet Pea the parakeet, and how Dennis and Barbara were able to encourage one of their teens.

What were some of the thoughts and emotions going through Barbara's mind in the days before she got engaged to Dennis Rainey? She explains in this interview with the Raineys' good friend, Dr. Michael Easley.

As a representative of the King of kings, you have an important assignment. Dennis and Barbara Rainey discuss that mission.

As followers of Christ, we're called to be His ambassadors. We represent Him. Barbara helps us remember our homes are embassies of the King.

Interrelational conflict. Financial difficulties. Culture wars. Political turmoil. We live in times of upheaval that can easily send us into a tailspin. Dennis and Barbara Rainey join Bob Lepine in the studio to point us to the One who is the stability of our times.

A gummy bear attack at the Sea of Galilee? A contest to find the three most important trees in the Bible? A historical piece of paper containing Barbara Rainey's favorite hymn in the composer's handwriting? It's all part of the Rainey family's recent "field trip" to Israel. Dennis and Barbara continue sharing highlights.

If we're not careful, we can easily forget that the events recorded in the Bible happened within the context of specific times and places. Dennis and Barbara Rainey and their family took some concrete steps to battle that tendency. Hear about their recent visit to Israel.

Have you ever thought of the Bible as a love letter from God to you? Barbara Rainey uses poetry to share the grand, overarching story of Scripture, with Jesus as the Hero.

You know Easter is important to Christians. But what can you do to raise its importance in the eyes of you and your family? Barbara Rainey gives practical ideas for ways you can elevate Easter.

True intimacy grows as you get to know the person you love better. And, according to Dennis and Barbara Rainey, a great way to get to know each other better is by asking (and answering) good questions. In this episode, hear more about the power of a well-asked question.

Sometimes the difficulties of life seem unbearable. They can even cause us to question our faith. In this episode, Barbara Rainey shares from her personal experiences and from the Bible to help cultivate hope when you're facing disappointment with God.

Couples long for greater intimacy in marriage. But often romance is difficult. In this episode of The Barbara Rainey Podcast, Barbara and Dennis are joined by Bob Lepine to examine how we can move from disappointed love to committed love, even in the midst of life's everyday challenges.

How did the early settlers in America fare when they landed at Plymouth in November of 1620? Would the difficulties of their first winter quench their faith in God? Find out as you listen to Part Two of the audio book Thanksgiving: A Time to Remember, by Barbara Rainey.

Thanksgiving, A Time to Remember, Part One --- Gather the family around to listen together. Most of us have heard about the early settlers in colonial America. In this episode you'll hear the first part of the audio book Thanksgiving: A Time to Remember. You'll learn how God protected and provided for the Pilgrims as they set out in faith to make a new home for themselves.

In a day when verbal meanness seems to be at an all-time high, Barbara Rainey encourages parents to train their children to be thankful. Learn three reasons gratitude matters.

Barbara Rainey shares in this episode, "I think we vastly underestimate the fears that we bring into marriage. All of us come into marriage with fears. Therefore, it takes time to expose those fears, because it's a risk to do so. It takes time to work toward that place of being unashamed. It doesn't ever totally go away, because it won't until we go to heaven; but we can make great progress. We can make great strides in that comfort level that we all long for when we get married."

Trials and difficulties are a given in any marriage. Dennis and Barbara Rainey offer couples Biblical, practical advice for how to weather the storms and grow stronger in the midst of suffering.

You know, as we enter the empty nest—and we sort of have been feeling this as our kids become teenagers—but our relationships are changing.  Our marriages are in different places.  My marriage was very different as we approached the empty nest than it was when we began our marriage.  We were two very different people after twenty-five, thirty years than we were when we started.

Barbara and Dennis were good friends, but just friends. And she was content to keep it that way. Find out what changed her mind.

When you've been married for a half century, you learn a few things about life and marriage. In this episode, Dennis and Barbara Rainey share some of the lessons they've learned. Listen in, for highlights from a message they shared with couples on the 2022 "Love Like You Mean It" cruise.

Just about everywhere we turn, we see the harmful effects of a world that has lost its grip on absolute truth. How can we guard against the thinking that truth is whatever you make it to be? Barbara Rainey believes an important safeguard against relativism is telling stories that show how truth matters. In this episode of The Barbara Rainey Podcast, hear the stories of three individuals who clung to truth and the difference it made in their lives.

On Pentecost we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit. But who is the Holy Spirit, really? Barbara Rainey helps us understand the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.

Dennis and Barbara Rainey say one simple habit will help any marriage grow stronger—praying together. Every day. Find out why it's so vital, in this episode of The Barbara Rainey Podcast, from Ever Thine Home.

Everyone is leaving a legacy to those who follow, for good or bad. And mothers are no exception. In this episode of the Barbara Rainey Podcast, Dennis, Barbara, and their daughter Ashley explore the powerful concept of the legacies moms pass on to their children and grandchildren.

Ever since the Hebrew children escaped slavery in Egypt, the Jewish people have celebrated the Passover. In this episode of the Barbara Rainey Podcast, Barbara points out a few of the ways the Passover meal points to Jesus and the events surrounding Easter. Hear ideas for how you can bring those details into your own celebration.

How can we do a better job of representing the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection in our Easter celebrations? Barbara Rainey explores both "why" and "how" we can celebrate our Savior's Resurrection.

What are some of the practical life skills parents can help their teens develop as they anticipate leaving home for the first time? Dennis and Barbara Rainey answer that question in this episode of the Barbara Rainey Podcast.

In the same way we count down the days to Christmas, Barbara Rainey inspires you to count down the days to Easter, the most significant holiday in the Christian faith. Learn to build anticipation and spend time thinking about why Jesus' death and resurrection are so important, as you prepare your heart for Easter.

It's common for people to define love only in terms of our feelings. But how does God define authentic love? That's what Dennis and Barbara discuss in this episode. (Includes a portion of this song: L-O-V-E, Natalie Cole, Unforgettable: With Love ℗ 1991 Craft Recordings., Distributed by Concord.)

All through the Scriptures we see glimpses of God's heart for orphans. In this episode, Dennis and Barbara Rainey share five ways we can obey the command to care for the fatherless.