Helping women of faith finish well by building a legacy life that lasts for generations. Hosted by Chris Syme and Diane Bradley, authors of the Women Finishing Well Bible studies.
In this episode podcast original co-host Diane Bradley returns to join Chris to discuss the challenges of building a legacy in your everyday life when God is calling you to a “new thing.” Show Notes & Links (Click' em, they're live) -The heart of Women Finishing Well's calling: Romans 12:1-2 -God has called us to run a race with others and pass our faith to others in the race (Heb. 12:1-2, 12-13) -Review of the legacy seasons: Spring: women ages 25-40 Summer: women ages 40-54 Fall: women ages 55-75 Winter: women over 75 -Our circle of influence can change in various seasons. Be open to the people God puts in your life as you get older. -Moving into a new season can bring a sense of urgency and anxiety. But God will show you the next thing as you follow Him in trust. Scriptures about trusting God in a new season : 2 Peter 1: 13-15, Isaiah 43: 18-19 - When you want to take on something new, you need to put something down. How do we choose what to give up when God calls us to something new? Diane calls it “finding your best yes.” -Our stories: what we are moving on to. -When God does something new, it's exciting! Links and stuff you need: -Stay connected over the summer with a new devotional series, giveaways, and news by signing up for our email list. We won't spam you—just the good stuff about once a week. Click here to sign up.** -Link to the Legacy inventory -Link to Saundra Dalton Smith book, Sacred Rest -Link to Building a Legacy of Faith Bible study book (print edition on sale) **Note: The Women Finishing Well Facebook page will be closing this summer. The cost to run a Facebook page to reach people who already like your page is becoming prohibitive. We thank you all for your support! Please sign up for the email list (above) so you can stay in touch.
Welcome to the last lesson (lesson four) in the online Bible study, The Four Seasons of Legacy Building. In this lesson you'll discover how you are uniquely and wonderfully made by God to build a legacy of faith that lasts for generations. Show Notes & Links Where we're going in this lesson: You'll discover the unique purpose God has for you using our Legacy Inventory online tool. Clarify the definition of “building a legacy of faith in your everyday life.” Introduction to the Legacy Inventory: How are you wonderfully made? Step One: Who Am I? Step Two: Where Have I Been? Step Three: Where Am I Now? Step Four: Who Has God Put in My Life? Step Five: Putting it All Together As you access the online inventory, be sure you have all your tools ready (journal, Bible) and start each step by watching the video. Be ready to take notes on the video in your journal! After you watch the video, go through all the instructions and exercises for that step in the inventory. Warning: Life-changing information ahead! Scriptures for this lesson (New Living Translation, unless noted): Romans 12:1, The Message Jeremiah 29:11 Php. 1:6 Deuteronomy 11:18-21 Links (click ‘em, they're live): Click here to access the Legacy Inventory on our website. Click here to access a pdf of the first two chapters of Building a Legacy of Faith if you don't have a copy. Click here to get your copy of Building a Legacy of Faith on sale on Amazon. Both digital and print versions are on sale. Click here to access our Facebook community. Join us and share your legacy! Be sure and email us if you have any questions or just want to say “hi.” Email chris@womenfinishingwell.com
What does building a legacy of faith look like in the different seasons of life? In this episode, some of our former podcast guests will share their current legacy-building challenges. Scriptures, Show Notes & Links: Scriptures we use in this podcast: 1 Cor. 9:26-27 Ps. 1:1-3 2 Pet. 1:12-15 Jer. 29:11 John 15:4 Show Notes: -Review of the four season of legacy building; their ages and characteristics. -The Challenges: Spring: time for parenting, friends, finding a place/time to serve. Summer: Change in parenting styles from the spring season because of kids' ages--giving them more freedom; job changes and trying to advance careers; finding the time and place to serve; few leadership opportunities for women this age; making time for friends. Fall: Identifying the next step in family and job transition; hard to let go and pass the baton to youngers, hard to connect with younger women and older women—too young for some, too old for some. Changing family status (children leaving, grandchildren arriving) Winter: How to ignite my stored energy to influence youngers; difficulty finding a place to serve; shifting of priorities and health challenges. The biggest challenge is the church's perceived irrelevance of women at this age. Links: Click here to download the Four Seasons of Legacy Building study guide. Click here to check out Jean Fleming's book, Pursue the Intentional Life. Click here to get your copy of Building a Legacy of Faith (book by Chris Syme). You can email Chris at chris@womenfinishingwell.com. The Tree of Seasons:
Welcome to lesson two of our online study, The Four Seasons of Legacy Building. This episode is dedicated to helping you get started with the study guide and lead you into an immersive experience with the study material. You'll get the most out of this episode if you download the study guide first here and follow along as you go through the podcast: https://womenfinishingwell.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Lesson-4-study-guide.pdf Don't be in a hurry to work through this lesson. I recommend starting with 10-15 minutes/day with your journal. Pray that God will open the eyes of your heart as you listen and journal through the guide (Ps. 119:18). Show Notes & Links: -God is the Orchestrator of all our seasons. -List of scriptures from the study guide. You may want to do a short study taking one scripture passage per day. We'll cover the basics of the SOAP method of study in this lesson in the Digging Deeper section. It's very user-friendly and will help you get more out of your Bible reading. • Psalm 1:1-3 • Psalm 78:2-4 • Psalm 145:4-6 • Exodus 20:4-6 • Colossians 3: 1-2 • Hebrews 12:12-13 -Be sure and use your journal to take notes as you are going through the lesson. Links Send me an email with any questions or just let me know how you're doing. You can email me at chris@womenfinishingwell.com. If you don't have a copy of the Tree of Seasons, you can save (right-click) the image below:
Get out your journal and get ready for lesson four in our Bible study, The Tale of Two Legacies. In this episode we'll start the process of identifying what “season” of life we're in and how we can craft the narratives that will help us build a legacy of faith in this season. Show Notes: What 2 Listen 4 in this lesson: In this lesson we're going to learn the basics about the four seasons of legacy building and discover the stories (narratives) of your season. Before you start, download the image of the tree of seasons in the show notes or right click on the image below. We will refer to it in the podcast. Discover the season of life that defines where you're at right now. Each season has unique narratives that help us build a legacy during that season. More on the how-to in lesson five. The seasons: Spring: ages 25-40*. New, exuberant life. These are the leaves on the far left of our tree of seasons. Summer: ages 41-54*. The season of strength and growth. The leaves are green and sturdy. Fall: ages 55-75*. This season is normally a season of transition and change– the one with the most vibrant colors of life. Winter: ages 76-plus*. This is a strong season of stored energy essential for the regeneration of seasons in the spring. The most challenging season of legacy building. *seasonal ages can vary a few years on either side Scripture verses in this lesson (all scripture is from the New Living Translation unless otherwise noted) Psalm 1:1-3 Psalm 78:2-4 Psalm 145:4-6 Exodus 20:4-6 Colossians 3: 1-2 Hebrews 12:12-13 Links and downloads: You can download your copy of the “tree of seasons” and your lesson four study guide under the lesson four resources HERE. Download your Lesson 1 study guide here. You can email Chris at chris@womenfinishingwell.com with any questions or resources you need to access. CLICK to visit our Facebook page and join the community of women learning to build a legacy of faith.
In this episode, we're introducing a new 4-lesson online study that will help you build a legacy of faith no matter what season of life you're in. Notes & Links: -When God wants us to step out, sometimes He leads us through some challenges. No worries--He's just getting you ready for what's next. -Join our new online study starting the week of April 24: The Four Seasons of Legacy Building where we will explore what it takes to build a legacy of faith in every season of your life. No matter what your age or season of life, we've got you covered. -This study is great for grandparents and moms who have kids out of school in the summer. Click here to join our Facebook community Click here to subscribe to our newsletter and get episodes early and chances to win free books. The Four Seasons of Building a Legacy Tree:
In this episode of our new series, Help For The Hurting, we'll talk about the three kinds of questions to ask God when we are faced with a season of hurt. God wants us to bring him into our troubles. He knows the way through. Show Notes & Links: There are some common challenges we face and questions we ask in a season of hurt: Common challenges: The misplaced "shame" of questioning God. The two truths we need to establish when trouble shows up. Three kinds of questions we face when we hurt: The questions we ask God (who, what, when, where, why) The questions the world asks us: if you really are a child of God, then why did God let this happen? Did God really say? The questions Jesus is asking us. The 5 W's: The questions and the scriptures. I encourage you to take some time and study these questions and answers to help you connect with God in a season of hurt. Today we'll talk about the first four: who, what, when, and where. We talked about the why in last week's blog post. You can read that here: https://womenfinishingwell.com/why-god-why/ Who is involved in the hurt—how far did it reach? Is it just me? Are there others? What is God's take? It's time to bring God alongside—He is the biggest “who” in the equation of every hurt. All things come through Him (not, "are caused by Him"—there is a difference. Read Romans 11:36). Are you protecting me in this? (Ps. 73:25-26, Rom 11:36, Ps. 23:7, Ps. 138: 7-8) What? What just happened here, God? Am I discerning the cause, the effect? Is this important? What attacks of the enemy do I need to guard against in light of what happened? Show me what is the truth and what is a lie or a conclusion fueled by my emotions? What do you want me to see? Are you protecting me? (2 Thes. 3:3, Is. 54:17, Psalm 59, Ps. 23:5, Rom. 12:2) When? How long will this last God? We need prayers for endurance, wisdom, and strength of heart and mind. When will I (my friend, these people) be restored? How can I keep connected to you in this trouble? How can I let go of this? Ask God to help you walk through the process of grieving/making amends, or whatever needs to be done in His perfect timing. (Php. 4:13, Php 4:5-7, Ps. 29:11, 2 Chron. 6:19, James 1:5, Mt. 11:28-30, John 16:33) Where? Where are you, Lord? Are you here with me? Help me to see your healing hand in all this. Where can I turn? What friends, scriptures, and wisdom should I seek in this situation? It feels like You have abandoned me. (Heb. 13:5-6, Ps. 73:23-26, Ps. 37:24-26) Links: click 'em, they're live: Listen to the kickoff episode of our new series here. Sign up for our newsletter to get new episodes delivered to your Inbox and chances to win fun prizes! Click here and be sure and check your email inbox for a confirmation after you sign up. Join our Facebook community. Meet other women finishing well. You can email me at chris@womenfinishingwell.com
In this episode, we start a new series called Help For the Hurting. You'll want to hear this kick-off episode with writer and speaker Melanie Davis Porter as she shares how God brought her family through a season of grief, and how He used that grief to inspire Melanie to reach out to help others through her writing and everyday life. Show Notes & Links: Defining grief as a season and how God brings balance to our seasons. How the enemy of your heart can complicate your grief. Defining your season of mourning and its purpose for the healing journey. How to share your grief with others. How looking back at God's faithfulness helps us deal with our present hurt. Why you should keep an inventory (journal) on how God shows up in your grief. Andrew Murray prayer for troubled times: “In time of trouble, say, First, He brought me here. It is by His will I am in this strait place; in that I will rest. Next, He will keep me here in his love, and give me grace in this trial to behave as his child. Then say, He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me lessons he intends me to learn, and working in me the grace he means to bestow. And last, say, In his good time he can bring me out again. How and when, he knows. Therefore, say, I am here (1) by God's appointment, (2) in His keeping, (3) under His training, (4) for His time.” Where to find Melanie…(clickable links) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelanieDavisPorter/ Twitter & Instagram: @melaniedavisporter Blog & website: https://melaniedavisporter.com/ *Start our podcast Bible study, The Journey Back to Your Heart, here: https://womenfinishingwell.com/episode161/
In this episode we take a look at how to set our heart and mind on making 2023 our best year ever. Learn the keys to building a deeper walk with God in the new year. Scripture verses we'll dive into: Hebrews 12:1-3, The Message Hebrews 12:1-2, NLT Psalm 90: 12, 17 Philippians 1:6 Romans 12:2, The Message Show Notes & Links: -Why we need to start out every year asking God to teach us to number our days. -The important difference between a goal and a purpose. -How to write a life purpose statement. Details are below in the tools section. -Always remember that it is God who works in you. We're seeking His purpose (Philippians 1:6). -"Transformation will happen when you consistently do what others occasionally do" (Pastor Ashley Wooldridge). Other tools you'll need: How to Write Your Life Purpose Statement: Get a blank sheet of paper. Title it, My Purpose in Life. Pray for wisdom. Start writing. Write. Write all you can. Words, phrases, complete sentences, Just write . Don't stop and edit. Write more. Repeat step two until you get the answer that makes you either cry or jump up and down with excitement. Boil it down to a couple sentences. It has to make sense to you only. Chris' Life Purpose Statement: My purpose in life is to live and love for God, and bless all the people He puts in my life; to trust in Him completely to lead me in the way I should go, come what may; and to put on the easy yoke and carry the light burden. Links: Click 'em, they're live Tools for starting a morning time with God: 1. Load the Lectio 365 (app) on to your Apple or Android Device. It will help you connect with God in just ten minutes each morning: https://www.24-7prayer.com/resource/lectio-365/ 2. Take advantage of the reading plans on any book of the Bible or any topic in the YouVersion Bible app. Load it on to your Apple or Android device here: https://www.youversion.com/the-bible-app/ You can also use this app to read from any Bible version, search for verses and topics, and study reading plans with friends. 3. Click here to learn more about the five-year journal. -Click here to join the Women Finishing Well Facebook community-get involved in 2023! -Click here to join the email list and be a podcast Insider! Access to new podcasts, giveaways and more! Send Chris an email: chris@womenfinishingwell.com
This episode is the finale of our Bible study, The Journey Back To Your Heart. We'll discover that beginning with the end in mind is the key to our successful journey. Get ready to be blessed! Show Notes, Scriptures & Links: Scriptures in this episode: Hebrews 12:1-3, Hebrews 12: 12-13, Philippians 1:6, Colossians 3:1-2, Romans 12:2, Ephesians 1: 3-14, Matthew 7:13-14 -This episode brings us full circle in the journey back to the center of our hearts with God. As we step up to the starting line, we'll learn how a good beginning mindset produces a strong finish. -In this episode, we tackle our last life habit: begin with the end in mind. We aren't called just to start our race; we are called to finish well. -Running the race God has marked out for us to run: Jesus has already been there, done that. Learn how He did it! -Finishing the race takes perseverance--life is full of challenges. -Two keys to beginning with the end in mind and finishing strong: Keep your heart and mind fixed on things above, and the tools to help you do that. Determine to live counter-culturally. (Romans 12:2, The Message). Don't let the world squeeze you into its mold. The gate is narrow and the road to life is difficult. But Jesus is leading us! (Mt. 7:13-14) Links: Click 'em; they'll get you there: Click here to access the first episode (161) in the study and start your journey! For a deeper experience with this study, get a copy of the Bible study, Building A Legacy of Faith: how to influence others with your everyday life. Lectio 365 app for Apple or Android here Download the First Things First tool here You can connect with our Facebook community here. Find other women who want to finish well! Sign up for our mailing list here and get insider access to every podcast and giveaway! You can unsubscribe at any time. Don't forget next week's episode where we explore the process of setting our hearts and minds above for 2023. Learn the difference between purpose and goals. It'll wow you! Tell a friend.
In this episode, we discover the practice of rest as part of our Bible study, The Journey Back To Your Heart. Listen in as we learn together that rest is not found in a destination, but in a Person. Scriptures in this episode (all scriptures quoted from the New Living Translation unless otherwise noted): -John 14:27, Matthew 11:28-30, Romans 12:2 (The Message), Psalm 23, Matthew 6:24-27, 2 Cor. 10:3-5, Colossians 3:1-2 (NIV) Show Notes & Links: -Rest is not found in a destination or a set of calming daily tasks—rest is an internal state of being that begins and ends in a personal connection with God. -Jesus call everyone to His rest (Mt. 11:28)--no one is excluded! -Jesus is our shepherd. His job is to care for us. Our job is to let Him. (Ps. 23) -Keeping our heart and mind set on things above (Col. 3) is like a truth filter for everything that comes into our lives. -We hear from God when we are connected to Him. Tips for keeping your mind open to God's voice. -Don't let the culture squeeze you into its mold (Rom. 12:2) -What are the "rest-busters" that are keeping you from experiencing rest with God? Links (click 'em, they're live) -Do you have the Kindle Reader app so you can download a free copy of The Mary Answer (in case you don't have a Kindle). The app allows you to download and read books from Amazon on any computer or device--phone, iPad, whatever. Download it now so you can get your free book Dec. 21-25. Both Apple and Android versions available here: https://www.amazon.com/b?ie=UTF8&node=16571048011 -Listen to episode 172--the introduction to Remain: https://womenfinishingwell.com/episode172/ -Click here to check out Linda Troyer's Bible study, Rest Revealed. -Sign up for my email list here and don't miss a podcast or a blog post. You'll find lots of other goodies in these short, snappy emails! -Check out our Women Finishing Well Facebook community here: https://www.facebook.com/womenfinishingwell/ Don't miss the blog post this week on Practicing A Sabbath Rest! Find it on the Facebook page or my blog: https://womenfinishingwell.com/blog/
In this episode we start the last leg of our Journey Back to Your Heart Bible study: learning to remain. We'll learn how to pack our backpacks for a journey that will keep us in the center of our heart with God no matter what comes. Show Notes & Links: Scriptures in this episode: Colossians 3:1-4, 15-17 Matthew 11:28-30 in the New Living Translation and The Message John 15:1-12 -Review of the Life Habits we've learned so far: #1 Pause (episode 161) #2 Declaring the Truths of Who God is and who we are in Him (episode 163) #3 Recalibration Checklist (episode 164 and Women Fininshing Well blog: https://womenfinishingwell.com/your-recalibration-checklist/) #4 Remembering What God Has Done (episode 165 & Women Finishing Well blog: https://womenfinishingwell.com/know-the-truths/ #5 Learning How to Pray Scripture (episode 167) #6 Building Communities of Influence (episode 168) #7 Spiritual Warfare & Armor of God (episode 169) #8 Personal Worship & Lament (episodes 170-171) -The two elements we need to pack up for the journey of Remain: Set our hearts & minds on things above (Col. 3) Take on the yoke and the burden (Mt. 11:28-30) -What does it mean to remain? -John 15: abiding is all about relationships, not about keeping rules (John 15:1-12) -The relationships of the Gardener, the Vine, and the branches. Links (Click 'em, they're live) -Sign up for the email list here and get early access to new podcasts, tools, and exclusive giveaways. -Find Women Finishing Well on Facebook here. -If you're new to our current study and would like to start at the beginning, start listening here. You can email Chris at chris@womenfinishingwell.com Next Week: Practicing Rest
In this episode Chris interviews writer and teacher Melanie Davis Porter about the blessing of lament--learning how to bring God into our troubles. Is being honest with God about how we feel a good thing? Listen in and find out. Show Notes & Links: Scripture verses in this episode: James 1:2-4 Romans 8:28 Psalm 138:7-8 Psalm 73:1-22, Psalm 73:23 Psalm 130 Psalm 10 Psalm 6 Php. 4:6 (NLT) -Melanie's story -"The enemy will try and complicate your grief with more chaos." -What is the meaning of James 1:2? Are we really supposed to be happy when we have problems? -Not knowing that our loving God has a purpose for our troubles can keep us in the dark and afraid. Trusting that God is always with us gives us confidence in trouble. (Ps. 137:7-8) -In the midst of all our troubles, God is remaking us and renewing us so that perseverance can make us mature and complete, not lacking anything. He is reviving us in our trouble. (James 1:4) -We can get distracted and busy in our grief in an effort to not deal with our feelings. We need to embrace our trouble and our feelings with God. Being honest with God opens our heart to his healing. -David was a good lamenter because he knew God personally and he was self-aware of what he was feeling. Pouring out his heart to God was a spiritual discipline that kept him close to God's heart. -Henri Nouwen quote: We need to embrace our own brokenness so we can minister to broken people. When we suffer willingly, we can comfort those who suffer. -We need an everyday, talking relationship with God. Church is not enough to know God personally. -Melanie's favorite Psalms of lament: 130 (forgivness), 10 (Why are you so far off, God?), and 6 (I am completely tired and worn out from this) Links (click 'em, they're live) You can find Melanie online here: melaniedavisporter.com (website) Courage to Endure Facebook page Melanie Davis Porter on Instagram Melanie is also part of the Proverbs 31 writing and podcast team: https://proverbs31.org/read/devotions You can email Chris here: chris@womenfinishingwell.com Join the Women Finishing Well Facebook community here If you're new and you'd like to start the online Bible study, The Journey Back To Your Heart, click here to start with the first episode. -If you'd like to become a podcast insider and get a weekly reminder and lots of free tools to help, join our list here.
In this episode, we're going to discover the true meaning of the phrase, "count it all joy whenever you face troubles of many kinds." We'll learn why troubles in our life are evidence that we are God's children. Notes & Links: Scriptures in this lesson: -James 1:2-4, Romans 11:36, James 1:5, James 3:17, Psalm 92:1-2, Psalm 42, Jeremiah 29:12-14, Psalm 90:14 -My story about overcoming lies I believed about James 1:2-4. -My lesson learned: trouble was something God allowed in my life because He loved me and he wanted me to have a more sacred life. -Three things trouble stirs up in us: We worry (and fear) We focus on the trouble and lose our perspective. Our "fix-it" impulse kicks in. -At the first sign of trouble, pray for God to show you what He wants you to see. Invite Him in. Let Him lead. -Trust God's truths: He is always with you, you are His child, you are no longer a slave to fear, Trust in Him with all your heart. If you have doubts in any of these areas, find the truths that destroy the lies and drive them into your heart with study, worship, memorization, declaration, or whatever it takes. -Why worship is our path out of sorrow. -The mindsets of worship we need to start with. -Next Episode: How lament opens the door for God to turn our sorrow around. Links (click 'em, they're live): -Check out the book Fierce Faith by Alli Worthington -Check out the book Life Of The Beloved by Henri Nouwen -Check out my Bible study, Building A Legacy Of Faith here -Sign up here to be a podcast insider and get a link to new episodes and other news sent to you Inbox before the episode is released tp the public. -Join our Facebook community here. -If you are new, you can start The Journey Back To Your Heart from the first episode here. You can email me at chris@womenfinishingwell.com
How well do you know your enemy? In this episode we tackle an often-neglected Life Habit, putting on the armor of God and why it's key to keeping our hearts centered on God. Join us as we continue in our online Bible study, The Journey Back to Your Heart. Show Notes & Links -Recap: We started our journey with recalibration: leading our heart back to the center of being present with God. Now, we are working through the practices of Renew that keep our hearts in that center place as we grow deeper roots. -In mythology (the stories of humankind's origin), there are two common themes that have emerged over history: The war between good and evil. The quest for love. -Do we live like we have a real enemy? We need to know the weapons and schemes of our adversary. -In the New Testament scriptures on spiritual warfare, there are two recurring themes: stand firm and be strong in your faith. -Don't underestimate the power of the enemy and his army. His "powers" are limited, but his army is powerful. -Satan's biggest tactic is to get our eyes off the "real" battle (spiritual) and distract us with the battles round us in this world. (2 Cor. 10:3-5) -We prepare for regular spiritual battle with two things: We need a pep talk to develop a battle mindset (Eph. 6:10-13). We need to put on every piece of God's armor and understand its purpose (Eph. 6:13-18). -The offensive weapons help us advance: prayer and The Word (Eph. 6:17-18). This week's challenge: do a personal Bible study of Eph. 6:10-18 asking God to teach you how to put on the armor of God. You may want to use the SOAP method of study. Click here for a link to a free tool that will walk you through the SOAP study method. Scripture verses in this episode: Eph. 6:10-18 1 Peter 5:8-9 2 Cor. 10:3-5 Rom. 11:36 Links (Click 'em, they're live!) Click here to join our Facebook community--I'd love to connect with you there. Click here to get on our email list and get the inside scoop on new podcasts, giveaways, and other goodies. You can email me at chris@womenfinishingwell.com
In this episode, we explore another life habit on the journey back to our heart called influencing through community. Where has God placed you in life to influence people for Jesus? You might be surprised. Show Notes & Links -We'll start with a review of our purpose in this next leg of the journey: Renew -Renew is where we're learning how to integrate spiritual habits into our everyday lives that will keep us at the center of our hearts with God. -Renew is also about fortifying our legacy of faith with the people God has put in our lives. Who are your people? -We all have an everyday, ordinary life where God gives us an opportunity to influence others for Him. -How can you identify your circles of influence? Who has God put in your life? -Learning the unforced rhythms of grace. -Is church attendance sufficient to develop the kind of community that Jesus calls us to? Scripture references in this episode: Deuteronomy 31: 12-13 Matthew 11:28-30 (The Message) Romans 12:1 (The Message) Hebrews 12:1-2 Hebrews 10:24-25 How to find your communities of influence: Our lives are filled with groups of people we regularly move in and out of. We may not know all the people by name or have relationships with them outside those places, but we can develop a level of influence with them that reveals love and hope to them by the way we value their presence in our lives. Let's think about what some of those groups might be. Start a page in your journal called My Communities of Influence. As I give you these examples, maybe there are others you can think of in addition to the ones mentioned. Write them down in your journal as well. This will become a prayer list. Remember, you may or may not know their names. Just write down a phrase describing who they are if you don't. They could be people you interact with in a club or hobby setting like a Bunco group, or a card-playing group, a book club, yoga class members, or a crafting group. They could be service providers you interact with regularly like grocery store clerks, baristas, home care providers, mail and delivery people, childcare workers, hair stylists, house cleaners, or the checkout person at Staples. Use your imagination. Who do you see in a day? They could be people at church you visit with but don't socialize with outside of the church. They could be people you work with but don't spend time with outside of work. Neighbors you don't socialize with. You may see them at the mailbox, but you don't really know them. Circle the people on this list you don't have a name for. Make a point over the next month to find out their name and come back to your list and write it down. Dale Carnegie who wrote the classic, How to Win Friends and Influence People wrote, “a person's name is to him or her the sweetest and most important sound in any language. Start calling them by name when you see them. This should be easy in most stores because employees are usually wearing a name tag. Greet them by name; smile at them. If your communities of influence are just one or two, add a prayer request to this list asking God to open the eyes of your heart to see the people around you every day that need a word of encouragement. Also, just a hint from doing this in my own life. If you go to the store or the coffee shop at the same time of day, usually you will start seeing more of the same people. Look around—take notice of the people God is putting in your life. These are the people He is asking you to influence for Him. Links (click 'em, they're live): The first episode of the journey back to your heart. Start here: https://womenfinishingwell.com/episode161/ Connect with me here: Women Finishing Well Facebook page Email me at chris@cksyme.com Interested in free books, news, and notifications of new podcasts? Sing up for my email list here: https://forms.aweber.com/form/40/1204767040.htm Coming Next Week: Renew: Cultivating Mental & Emotional Resilience-Learning to Bring God Into the Good and the Bad Times
In this episode, Chris will dive into Life Habit #5: The power of praying God's Word. Learn how to amp up your prayer life. Show Notes & Links: -What are the "5 Ws" you need every morning? (5 minutes is all you need) -How God leads us to pray His Word into our spiritual life. -Use the five prayers of renewal from Psalm 143 as an example of the powerful prayers in God's Word. -Why we need to personalize our prayers. -How to understand what we're praying for and identify what "scriptures" to pray into our lives. Links: -Click to start here if you're new to the study. The first episode of The Journey Back to Your Heart. -Learn more about the 5 W's in our original study, Building A Legacy of Faith. The paperback is on sale on Amazon for $4.99 Click here to find out more. Scriptures in today's episode: -Hebrews 4:16, Matt. 6:9, 1 Thes 5:16-18,1 John 5:14, Psalm 143:8-10, Heb. 4:12 List of Paul's prayers for your reading and study: Romans 15:5-6 Romans 15:13 Eph. 1:17-19 Eph. 3: 15-19 Php. 1:3-6 Php. 1:9-11 Php. 4:6-7 Col. 1:3-14 1 Thes. 5:23-24 (benediction) 2 Thes. 1:11-12 2 Thes. 2: 16-17 (benediction) Philemon 4-6 Check out our Women Finishing Well Facebook here. You can email Chris at chris@womenfinishingwell.com if you have any questions or would just like to say "hi."
In this episode, Chris kicks off the second part of the journey back to your heart: Renew. You'll discover how to grow deep roots in God's love. Show Notes & Links: -This week's scripture list: Ps. 143:8-10, Mt. 11:28-30 (MSG), Eph. 3:14-19, Rom. 12: 2(MSG) -Lessons we can learn from the Saguaro cactus. -What is a taproot? -Renewal is about building deeper roots in God's love for us. -Three things we can't miss from Ephesians 3:14-19. -Flexibility is the key to incorporating new habits into our everyday life. Find ways to connect with God that match your lifestyle. -The five Renewal Prayers from Psalm 143 that will transform your day. -We are learning new rhythms that help us live freely and lightly (Matt. 11:28-30, The Message). Links (click 'em, they're live) -Episode 161: the beginning of the journey back to your heart. Click here to start your journey. -Link to Women Finishing Well Facebook page. Click here. -Click here to sign up for my newsletter. You can unsubscribe at any time. -Link to Chris Baxter's The Heartbeat Of God devotional -Link to download the Lectio 365 devotional app You can email me at chris@womenfinishingwell.com
In this episode, Chris will finish the process of recalibration in our study, The Journey Back To Your Heart; Recalibrate, Renew, Remain. We'll take a close look at the materials we can use to build on the foundation Jesus gave us for our best life. Show Notes: -What has happened to our hearts in the last couple years to pull us off-center and out of tune? -We need to pause to pray, "God, "Where am I?" -Review of the process of recalibration and Life Habits we've covered so far. -The most important Life Habit in our journey. -How is declaring God's truth out loud different from scripture memory? -How are you doing with the Recalibration Checklist? Don't get overwhelmed. Let God lead you gently. -What's next? How do we keep on the path of our journey? -Renewal begins with a look at our "building process." What are you building on the true foundation of your life? - Paul said in 1 Cor. 3:10-15 that Christians can use gold, silver, jewels, wood, hay, or straw to build on their foundation. Be careful what you build. -Recalibration is about making choices. Show Notes & Links (click 'em, they're live): -For new listeners: link to the first epsiode in the study (Episode 161) -To sign up for the advance reader list for the new Bible study, you can email me at chris@cksyme.com. I will send you a follow-up email so you'll know what all is involved. Thanks much for being willing to help! Email me if you have questions or comments at chris@womenfinishingwell.com. Scripture verses in this episode: I encourage you to make a simple SOAP study of these verses this week (Scripture-Observation-Application-Prayer) 1 Cor 3:10-15, Romans 12:2, James 1:22-23
Show Notes Why do we need to recalibrate our hearts? A review. When we pray scripture, are we mindful of what we're actually praying for? Do we know how to see specific answers? God isn't interested in punishing us for our mistakes; He is interested in drawing us back to Him. Only God can recalibrate our hearts. Our part is to embrace what He is doing in our lives (Rom. 12:1, The Message) The first question God asked humans was, "where are you?" (Gen. 3:9) In order to experience our best life with God we need to get our physical, mental, and spiritual lives in sync with God's Spirit in us. How to use the Recalibration Checklist. You're not looking for solutions in the first step of the process. You're just truthfully answering the questions to find out where you are. We start the process of recalibrating with small incremental steps, not large, unattainable goals. Prayer is a necessity all throughout the process. Prayers before you start (personalize them): Psalm 46:10, James 1:5 (the promise of wisdom), Philippians 4:6. Scriptures used in this episode: Eph. 3:17, Psalm 139:23-24, Psalm 51:10, Romans 12:1, Gen. 3:9, 1 Peter 3:11, Luke 11:24-26, James 1:3-4 Links: Click 'em, they're live! Download your pdf of the Recalibration Checklist here. Link to last week's Life Habit blog post with the Recalibration Checklist here. Link to the first podcast episode in this series here. Link to our email list sign-up here. We like to give away stuff in addition to short weekly updates. Email Chris at chris@womenfinishingwell.com
In this episode Chris explores the process of finding and declaring your personal truths from God's Word--the truths that will recalibrate your heart to God's best. Show Notes & Links -Review of episode 162 and the two essential truths we all need to start recalibrating our heart to God. -How Chris found her personal truths and made them into personal declarations. -Why is declaring God's Word out loud daily so important? -Take an inventory to find your core truths. How does that work? Chris' sample declarations with scripture references: O God, You Are Wise (James 1:5 and James 3:17) O God, You are Faithful. You will guard me from the evil one (2 Thes. 3:3). O God, You are Holy. I will make no agreements that compromise your holiness. You are holy in all things. (1 Samuel 2:2 and Is. 57:15). O God, You are my redeemer in trouble (Ps. 69:16-18, Psalm 4:1). O God, You are Trustworthy in everything you do (Ps. 145:13). O God, You are my burden-bearer. Thank you for daily bearing my burdens. I am not created to carry my load. (Ps. 68:19, Mt. 11:28-30). Scripture verses in this episode: 2 Tim. 3:16-17 John 8:32 Eph. 1:17-19 Eph. 1: 3-14 Links (click 'em, they're live) Chris Baxter's devotional, The Heartbeat Of God. Info on the Lectio 365 app for phone (Apple) Lectio 365 app on Google Play Listen to last week'e episode here Women Finishing Well Facebook page Sign up for the weekly email here The Life Habit blog post for episode 162 on how to write personal declarations.
In this episode, discover the two truths that will guide you on the journey to recalibrate your heart. Discover the power of declaring and personalizing God's Word for your life. Scripture verses for this episode. Pray that God will speak to your heart as you read each one this week: Matthew 22:37-40, Php. 4:6-7, Is. 40:28, John 8:32, Eph. 1:3-14 (Chris' personal declaration scripture), Eph. 3:18-19, 1 Peter 5:8-9, Dan. 7:25, Rom. 11:36, 2 Cor. 10:3-5, Ephesians 6 (Armor of God), Col. 2:15, Eph. 1:20-22, Is. 30:19-21, John 16:33 Show Notes & Links: -Review of last week's episode: introduction to the three steps in our journey: recalibrate, renew, and remain. -Recalibration: to tune an instrument (or person in our case) to a place of zero adjustment or perfect pitch for optimum performance. Think of tuning a guitar. In our case, think of returning to the "inmost being" of our heart. -First Truth of Recalibration: God loves us with a personal unfailing love so great you cannot comprehend it fully. -Second Truth of Recalibration: We have an enemy who wants to wear us down. -Our journey requires a mindset of simplicity: the art of making the journey less cluttered and distracting. What can you do this week to simplify your life? Links (cick 'em, they're live): -Click here to take this week's challenge on learning how to write a personalized declaration from scripture that you can use daily in your habit of pause. This week's Life Habit. -Link to last week's episode-first in the series. -Link to last week's Life Habit blog post on learning to Pause. -Link to sign up to receive an email when a new podcast or blog post in the series is published. You can unsubscribe at any time. -Link to like our Facebook page where you can get all the latest info on the new sseries and interact with the community there. -Email me at chris@womenfinishingwell.com with any questions or concerns.
In this episode we start a new series designed to help you renew and reclaim your heart for God. When life's everyday struggles have pulled you off-center, you'll learn how to get back to your true heart. We suggest you use a journal to document your journey. We'll have tips, scriptures, observations, and prayers to write down as we go. Also, enrich your journey by spending a few minutes each day in a quiet place to reflect and connect with God. Show Notes and Links: -In every episode, you'll get scriptures that you can read throughout the week to restore your heart, soul, mind, and strength. This week's scriptures: Isaiah 30: 19-21 Deuteronomy 6:4-7 Matthew 22:37-40 1 Kings 19:11-13 -Three steps to get our hearts back to center: (Re)calibrate, (Re)new, (Re)main. -What is "zero adjustment"? -How to tune your guitar! -Where do we start the journey? -The five stages of COVID grief(David Kessler) -To start your journey, reflect and pray about this one question: Where am I now? Ask God to help you hear his voice as you pray and listen throughout your day. Are my heart, soul, and mind where I want them to be? Has my heart wandered from zero adjustment? What am I seeing or hearing in my life that tells me my heart needs to be recalibrated? -Come and sit by the side of the pool with Jesus. It's a journey, not a task. Links (Click 'em, they're live): -How to do a simple SOAP study of a scripture passage. -Links to Lectio 365 app for your phone: Apple tablet or phone here Google tablet or phone here -You Version Bible app for phone or tablet (complete Bible, any version) -Email Chris at chris@womenfinishingwell.com if you have a question or would like to ask for prayer.
Welcome to the last lesson in the online Bible study, A Tale of Two Legacies. In this lesson you'll discover how you are uniquely and wonderfully made to build a legacy of faith that lasts for generations. Show Notes & Links Where we're going in this lesson: You'll discover the unique purpose God has for you using our Legacy Inventory. Clarify the definition of "building a legacy in your everyday life." Review from lessons 1-4. Introduction to the Legacy Inventory: How are you wonderfully made? Step One: Who Am I? Step Two: Where Have I Been? Step Three: Where Am I Now? Step Four: Who Has God Put in My Life? Step Five: Putting it All Together As you access the online inventory, be sure you have all your tools ready (journal, Bible) and start each step by watching the video. Be ready to take notes on the video in your journal! After you watch the video, go through all the instructions and exercises for that step. Scriptures for this lesson (New Living Translation, unless noted): Romans 12:1, The Message Exodus 20:4-6 Matthew 7:24-27 Psalm 1:1-3 Jeremiah 29:11 Deuteronomy 11:18-21 Links (click ‘em, they're live): Click here to access the Legacy Inventory on our website. Click here to access a pdf of the first two chapters of Building a Legacy of Faith if you don't have a copy. Click here to get your copy of Building a Legacy of Faith on sale on Amazon. Both digital and print versions are on sale. Click here to access our Facebook community. Join us and share your legacy! Be sure and email us if you have any questions or just want to say “hi.” Email chris@womenfinishingwell.com
In this podcast we listen to women of all ages talk about the challenges of building a legacy of faith in every season of life. This episode is lesson five of our online Bible study, The Tale of Two Legacies. Show Notes & Links (click 'em, they're live) -Listen as former podcast guests share the challenges of building a legacy of faith in their current season. You'll be able to relate. -Scripture verses to study this week from this podcast: We encourage you to take one of these passages each day this week and do a SOAP study. (Read the scripture, write down your observations, journal about how this might apply to where you're at right now, or what God is showing you as you read, and then pray about where to go from here. 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 Psalm 1:1-3 John 15:4 Hebrews 12:12-13 (The Message) 2 Peter 1:12-15 Jeremiah 29:11 Click here for last week's episode and all other lessons in the study including study guides. Click here to access Jean Fleming's book, Pursue The Intentional Life. Click here to access the book, Organic Mentoring. Click here for podcast episode 112: Bridging the Generation Gap With Friendships Click here to sign up for our newsletter: news, giveaways, and announcements. We don't like spam and you can unsubscribe at any time. Are you on Facebook? Click here to join our community of women pursuing the intentional life of finishing well.
In this episode Chris helps you navigate the four seasons of legacy building using the study guide from episode 157. Be sure and see the show notes for download links for this podcast. Show Notes & Links (click 'em, they're live) Scripture verses for this lesson: Ephesians 1:17-19: Paul's prayer for wisdom and revelation. Philippians 1:6 Psalm 145: 4-6 -Link to the image of the Tree of Seasons -Click here to download the lesson four study guide. -Link to the First Things First worksheet-a user-friendly way to remember what God has done in your life. -Chris' email: chris@womenfinishingwell.com -Click here to join us on our Facebook page -Are you on our mailing list? Get notifications of new podcasts, giveaways, and other great stuff. Click here to sign up. We won't spam you and you can unsubscribe at any time!
Get out your journal and get ready for lesson four in our Bible study, The Tale of Two Legacies. In this episode we'll start the process of identifying what "season" of life we're in and how we can craft the stories that will help up build a legacy of faith in this season. Before you start, download the image of the tree of seasons from the link in the show notes. We'll refer to it in the podcast. Show Notes: What 2 Listen 4 in this lesson: In this lesson we're going to learn the basics about the four seasons of legacy building and discover the stories (narratives) of your season. Discover the season of life that defines where you're at right now. Each season has unique narratives that help us build a legacy during that season. More on the how-to in lesson five. The seasons: Spring: ages 25-40*. New, exuberant life. These are the leaves on the far left of our tree of seasons. Summer: ages 41-54*. The season of strength and growth. The leaves are green and sturdy. Fall: ages 55-75*. This season is normally a season of transition and change and the one with the most vibrant colors of life. Winter: ages 76-plus*. This is a strong season of stored energy essential for the regeneration of seasons in the spring. The most challenging season of legacy building. *seasonal ages can vary a few years on either side Scripture verses in this lesson (all scripture is from the New Living Translation unless otherwise noted) Psalm 1:1-3 Psalm 78:2-4 Psalm 145:4-6 Exodus 20:4-6 Colossians 3: 1-2 Hebrews 12:12-13 Links and downloads: You can download your copy of the "tree of seasons" and your lesson four study guide under the lesson four resources HERE. You can email Chris at chris@womenfinishingwell.com with any questions or resources you need to access. CLICK to visit our Facebook page and join the community of women learning to build a legacy of faith. NEXT: In episode 158 we'll go over the study guide for this lesson. Don't miss it! Publishing date: Aug. 2.
In this episode we hear the last of the "storytelling" episodes that will prepare us to move on to lesson four in our Bible study, A Tale of Two Legacies. Nuts and bolts--you'll want to take notes. Show Notes & Links: -Learn how to craft your own narrative of The Greatest Story Ever Told--how Jesus makes a difference in your everyday life. -Start by learning the life stories of people God used in the Bible. Spoiler: they were not perfect people. -Start with the woman at the well (John 4), Hannah (1 Samuel 1), and Paul (Acts 8 and beyond). -The two elements of a good story: relatable context and discernment. Tips for finding good stories: -Think of a scripture you love that comes from a story in your life. -Work on being able to tell three kinds of stories: 1. A story not bound by time and situation (be careful to make it a conversation). 2. A story limited by time and situation. 3. A 30-second “elevator pitch.” This technique needs practice and preparation. -Your redemption story might be a turning point in your life if you were saved as a child. -Be careful about using a “Christian” vocabulary. Not everyone has the same definition for theological concepts. Besides, non-Christian people will be lost. Learn to tell stories without Bible words. -Your redemption story may vary according to situation and context of the meeting. -Always be able to tell about the “why” of your faith. Scripture verses used in this episode: 1 Peter 3:15, Hebrews 13:14-16, Romans 12:1-2 Links: Catch up on the first three lessons of the free online Bible study including study guides here: https://womenfinishingwell.com/free-bible-studies/. Remember this is a go-at-your-own-pace study. Join our Facebook community--it's where we hang out and share the good stuff: https://www.facebook.com/womenfinishingwell You can join our email list and get news updates and new podcasts delivered to your Inbox. We're not fans of spam and protect your privacy. You can unsubscribe at any time: Click here to sign-up. If you have a question or comment or just want to say hi, email Chris: chris@womenfinishingwell.com
NOTE: This episode is the second of three encore episodes on storytelling to prepare you for the next lesson in our Bible study, A Tale of Two Legacies. Enjoy learning more about this all-important skill of storytelling. Show Notes & Links: -Rudyard Kipling was right: if history was taught in the form of stories, it would never be forgotten. -Why having a system of remembering is the beginning of a storytelling legacy. -Good storytellers understand two important story elements: relatable context and perception, or discernment. Six Truths of Biblical Storytelling from Psalm 87: 1. We are commanded to tell the stories about how God works in our lives. (vv. 2-3) 2. Our stories are meant to be told to all people in our everyday lives. (v. 4) 3. Learn how to tell a good parable. (v. 2) 4. Good storytellers draw people in and encourage them to tell their stories. (v. 6) 5. Storytelling increases our faith in God. (vv.6-7) 6. Telling God's stories from our life helps us avoid rebellion and sin. (v. 8) -Learn to tell your stories of trouble with discernment and compassion. Scripture verses from this episode: Mt. 7:15-20, Mt. 7:24-26, Ps. 78:2-8 Links (click 'em, they're live) -Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get all the resources we have to help you build your legacy of faith. Also, we've been known to give stuff away in our newsletters! Click here to sign up. -Join our Facebook community. We'd love to meet you there. Here's the link: https://www.facebook.com/womenfinishingwell -Email us here: chris@womenfinishingwell.com -You can also find great resources on our website here: https://womenfinishingwell.com/
What happens when your legacy foundation gets some weak spots? In this episode Chris walks you through the study guide of lesson three from A Tale of Two Legacies: keeping your foundation strong. -If you haven't started or downloaded your study guide yet, no worries. Download here and follow along: https://womenfinishingwell.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Lesson-3-Study-Guide.pdf -Have you downloaded the First Things First worksheet for this lesson? You can find that here: https://womenfinishingwell.com/first-things-first-free-tool/ Follow along as Chris shares her challenges and "aha" moments as she worked through this week's lesson. -Don't forget to go to our Facebook page to share your insights or ask questions: https://www.facebook.com/womenfinishingwell -I'd love to hear from you. You can also email me (Chris) personally if you have any questions or insights you'd like to share at chris@womenfinishingwell.com --Don't miss next week's episode. Lesson four is Chris' favorite chapter in the study: how to build a legacy in the different seasons (generations) of life and some of the challenges of each one. You'll want to tell a friend about this one.
In this episode Chris teaches lesson three from the online Bible study, A Tale Of Two Legacies. Be sure and download your study guide in the show notes and get ready to learn about the essential legacy building blocks.
Welcome to lesson two in our Bible study: A Tale of Two Legacies. Learn how your everyday life can influence generations. Be sure and download the study guide below before you listen. In lesson two we'll learn about how to choose the right foundation to build our legacy of faith on. Join us as we take a close-up look at Matthew 7:24-27. Don't forget to download your study guide before you start! Show Notes: -Start by downloading your study guide before you start listening to the first lesson. It is availabe in pdf and Word formats. Click here to access your guide in Word. Click here to access your guide as a pdf. Access every lesson with digital study guide in one place. Click here. -Sign up for our email list to get a notification every time a new lesson is released or we sneak in a live bonus episode on Facebook Live. We won't spam you. Unsubscribe at any time. Click here. -Be sure and follow our Facebook page for updates and conversations. Share how your study is going and get inspiration from others. Click here. -If you have any questions about the study, email chris@womenfinishingwell.com Join our Zoom gathering on Wednesday, June 1 at 6:30 PM Pacific time, and we'll talk about lesson two. Check our Facebook page or bi-weekly email for a link! -The next lesson will be released on Wednesday, June 8.
This episode is the beginning of our new online Bible study, A Tale Of Two Legacies: how your everyday life will influence generations. Download the study guide at womenfinishing.com/podcast
In this episode Chris shares what our listeners said were the main challenges to building a legacy of faith in every season of life. Show Notes & Links: In this episode we interviewed several women at different ages and stages of life about what their main challenges are to building a legacy of faith. -Chris' celebration: 25,000 Days and counting! -A preview of our new Bible study. -Which of today's challenges resonated the most with you? Share your thoughts on our Facebook page or in the comments on the podcast page of our website (links in section below). -The surprise of our interviews: younger women shared a common challenge: wondering if it is something important to do at this stage of my life? Links: -Share your thoughts on the podcast episode on our website here: https://womenfinishingwell.com/episode151/ -Share your thoughts in our Facebook community. What challenges resonated the most with you? What about the challenges we didn't talk about? Join us here: https://www.facebook.com/womenfinishingwell -Next week: What's the difference between seasons and stations of life and how do they influence building a legacy of faith?
This week we are sharing the most popular podcast of our three seasons--our fan favorite--called "Up Close Ithe God." In this interview with author Chris Baxter, she talks about how her quest to get closer to God turned into a devotional that blessed readers all over the world. Links & Show Notes How a daily habit of journaling turned into a book. A look at the unique conversational style of Chris' book and how each day's devotion started as a personal prayer. Chris' treadmill story. You'll love it! Chris tells the story of how her personal time with God evolved over the years. Words of encouragement for listeners struggling to began a daily personal time with God. Links: Click 'em, they're live Buy Heartbeat of God (Amazon) Chris Baxter's Website: Respite For the Weary Get a free ebook copy of our Bible study Building a Legacy of Faith this week. Subscribe to our newsletter or join our Facebook community and we'll share the link starting Monday, April 11. Sign up for our monthly email here and get our First Things First tool free to get your personal time with God on a new track! You can unsubscribe at any time. You'll receive a confirmation email after you sign up so be sure and confirm your subscription. Hint: You may have to hunt in your Spam folder. -PLUS- you'll get a free First Things First tool after you confirm your subscription! Please join our Facebook Community! Join us as we ramp up our content and resources in our Facebook community heading into our fourth season. Lots more opportunities to interact. We hope you'll join us here: https://www.facebook.com/womenfinishingwell
Want to make a real difference in your neighborhood? In this series, The Best of the Women Finishing Well Podcast, Diane shares her favorite episode of the last three seasons--an interview with Dave Runyon, co-author of The Art of Neighboring. Show Notes & Links: -Does the command to “love your neighbor” mean to love your actual neighbor? -What happened when a team of pastors went to their city leaders and asked what they could do to help the city with its neighboring project. -What if we just drew a circle around where we are and worked out from there? -Step One: learn your neighbor's names. Dave's war stories. -Sometimes our neighborhoods are already filled with opportunities to meet up. Maybe we need to slow down long enough to connect with what's already going on? Should we check our life pace? -Dave throws out the challenge: neighboring is not an evangelism strategy. If you knew your neighbor would never take a step toward God, would you still make the effort to follow the command? -Where should we start? Links: click 'em, they're live -Find resources and how to get the book (website): https://www.artofneighboring.com/ –COVID-19 Neighboring Toolkit –Block map download –Books and refrigerator magnets Join the conversation in our Facebook community
In this episode Chris replays her favorite podcast from the first three seasons and chooses a few honorable mentions that changed her life. Her favorite podcast so far: Rekindling Your Passion For God's Word (episode 145). In this heartfelt interview with author and Bible teacher Cherie Wagner, you'll learn about how important your interaction with God's Word really is. It is the Difference Maker. You'll be challenged, encouraged, and motivated to go deeper with God in His Word and let its power transform your life! Chris also reveals her favorite honorable mentions from the first 147 episodes with links to each episode below. Don't miss this passionate interview with two women who have a heart to bring God's Word to women everywhere. Show Notes & Links: -What you need to know about Cherie. -Has there been a dangerous shift in the church away from the spiritual disciplines calling them legalistic instead of faithful? -Cherie talks about how legalism is a heart motivation and not a set of habits. -Is the young church leaving their first love? -How Cherie's passion for serving God was formed in every valley, every pain, and in every mountaintop experience. -When people don't know who they are in Christ, they don't know how to live like Christ. -The importance of scripture memorization: it's hard to bring things up to mind that you haven't put down in your heart. -Cherie's thoughts on how to build a legacy of faith: "The greatest work we can do is right inside the four walls of our own home." -Want to know where you're going? Ask yourself who or what is the loudest voice in your life. Links (click 'em, they're live): Neue Thing Facebook page. Click here. Neue Thing website and Cherie's books. Arise Movement info Chris' Honorable Mentions-each is a live link: Episode 139-The Challenges of Changing Lanes in Life with Michelle Nezat Episode 138 - Bridging the Gap With Millennial Women with Lauren Foster Episode 135 - How To Pray For The World Episode 130-How Courage and Endurance Work Together with Melanie Davis Porter Be sure and join us March 29 for Diane's favorite episode and a list of her honorable mentions! Join us on Facebook at Women Finishing Well!
In this episode Chris and Diane interview longtime friend Kathy Swenson who is making a big dream God gave her years ago into her legacy of faith. Show Notes & Links -How God prepares us even before we know Him. -Letting God lead and learning to be obedient. -Road blocks are just part of the journey. Keep praying. -Look for open doors, signs, and listen to the people God brings into your life. Hear how God opened doors for Kathy's next steps. -Never give up hope. -Kathy's biggest piece of advice to make it through: always make a commitment to obedience first. Links (click'em, they're live): -Learn about the Love and Sonshine ministry here. -Check out the newly re-launched Bible study Building a Legacy of Faith on Amazon. Get your sale copies now. -Join our Facebook community
In this episode, Chris and Diane interview author Beth Hackworth about her exciting book, Practice Listening To God. Join them as Beth shares how God speaks to us today. Show Notes & Links: -All about Beth and her freelance coffee cup ministry. -Why Beth initially disqualified herself as a writer. Sound familiar? -What does it mean to listen to God? -What if I ask God something and I don't hear anything? -God speaks in multiple ways. -How do we know who we are hearing? God? Ourselves? The enemy? -The difference between condemnation and conviction. -How to look for confirmation about what you're hearing. -How to listen for others. Links: (click 'em, they're live) Find Beth's book here. Listen to episode 141 with Linda Troyer Find past podcast episodes here.
In this episode Chris interviews Cherie Wagner, founder of Neue Thing and 30-something lover of God's Word. Join them as they talk about the need to rekindle our love for God's Word. Show Notes & Links: -What you need to know about Cherie. -Has there been a dangerous shift in the church away from the spiritual disciplines calling them legalistic instead of faithful? -Cherie talks about how legalism is a heart motivation and not a set of habits. -Is the young church leaving their first love? -How Cherie's passion for serving God was formed in every valley, every pain, and in every mountaintop experience. -When people don't know who they are in Christ, they don't know how to live like Christ. -The importance of scripture memorization: it's hard to bring things up to mind that you haven't put down in your heart. -Cherie's thoughts on how to build a legacy of faith: "The greatest work we can do is right inside the four walls of our own home." -Want to know where you're going? Ask yourself who or what is the loudest voice in your life. Links (click'em, they're live): Join the launch team for "Building a Legacy of Faith." See what all the hub-bub is about here. Neue Thing Facebook page. Click here. Neue Thing website and Cherie's books. Arise Movement info
In this episode Chris and Diane visit with Dave Runyon, author of the bestselling book The Art Of Neighboring. Find out what Jesus really meant when he said, "love your neighbor as yourself" (Mt. 22:37-40). Show Notes & Links: -Does the command to "love your neighbor" mean to love your actual neighbor? -What happened when a team of pastors went to their city leaders and asked what they could do to help the city with its neighboring project. -What if we just drew a circle around where we are and worked out from there? -Step One: learn your neighbor's names. Dave's war stories. -Sometimes our neighborhoods are already filled with opportunities to meet up. Maybe we need to slow down long enough to connect with what's already going on? Maybe we need to check our life pace? -Dave throws out the challenge: neighboring is not an evangelism strategy. If you knew your neighbor would never take a step toward God, would you still make the effort to follow the command? -Where should we start? Links: click 'em, they're live -Find resources and how to get the book (website): https://www.artofneighboring.com/ -COVID-19 Neighboring Toolkit -Block map download -Books and refrigerator magnets Join the conversation in our Facebook community
In this episode Chris interviews Erica Wiggenhorn, the author of one of the Must-Read Books For 2022, Letting God Be Enough. Show Notes & Links: -Erica's new book, Letting God Be Enough, is based on the life of Moses and his struggle with Imposter Syndrome (feeling you are not good enough). -How this fear of inadequacy exhausts us and destroys our relationships. -Why Mose was the greatest self-doubter in the Bible. -How our self-doubt is tied to self-reliance. -Why is it so hard for us to trust God with our troubles? -God is constantly putting us in places where we need Him because He desires intimacy with us. -"Don't believe the lie of the enemy that if you are following God's call, your life should be easy. That's not this life; that's heaven. This life is a battle. We're going to battle all the way home. Our promise is that God will never leave us or forsake us." -We need community. God used the people in Moses' life to get him through the desert. Links (click 'em, they're live): -Visit Erica's website to take advantage of all her resources including all her books and giveaways. -Check out Erica's book here. -Click to sign up for the Women Finishing Well newsletter so you can help us put together resources for 2022 that meet your needs. -Link to this week's episode to share and to leave a comment about today's podcast--can you relate to what Erica is saying? -Link to the Getting Ready for 2022 Checklist. See the list of this year's must-read books. -
In this episode Chris and Diane offer a free book to everyone to say thanks for your support in 2021! This 6-week study will get your 2022 off to a better start! Show Notes: -The Mary Answer: Embracing God's Disruptions and Detours is part of the Getting Ready for 2022 Checklist. The must-read Bible Bible study highlights the lives and lessons of people God challenged with detours in the Bible. -The six-week study and 30-day devotional is perfect for individual study or a group study. It's available for free as an ebook on Amazon or a print book for just $6.99. See the show links for details on how to get yours. You don't need a Kindle to read the free ebook! Offer good Dec. 21 through Dec. 25. -Diane shares why the 30-day devotional in the book is a game changer. -Hear Chris and Diane's favorite "disrupted Bible hero" stories from the book. Links: -Click to find out how to download a free Kindle Reader app for your device, phone, or computer. (Be sure and get your free Kindle app first if you don't already have it so you'll have somewhere to send your free ebook!!) --GET YOUR FREE EBOOK HERE OR $6.99 PRINT BOOK HERE -Link to the introduction to the Getting Ready for 2022 Challenge podcast with all the tools you need! -Join our Women Finishing Well Facebook community here. Next podcast: January 4, 2022. MERRY CHRISTMAS! -
In this episode Chris interviews Linda Troyer, author of Rest Revealed. Linda's life-changing book is part of the Getting Ready for 2022 Challenge. This isn't just a book about rest--it's a book that will lead you to find the rest Jesus promised in Mt. 11:28-30. Show Notes & Links: -The answer to finding real rest is not by scheduling it on your to-do list. -The four keys to rest are found in the REST acronym: Repent, Enjoy, Sit, and Take In. -Repentance: God is pursuing us to restore us, not to punish us. -The part the enemy plays is our unrest: the enemy is a big, fat liar. -To push through the experience of God's love trimmers (pruning), we have to believe God is Good and we can trust Him, not just believe in Him. -Jesus is our rest partner (Mt. 11:28-30) Take His yoke upon you and you will find rest for your souls. -Being yoked to Jesus is how we learn His humility and gentle heart towards us. -"Sitting" is an outward declaration that God is in control. -Actively deny the lie that the more you work, the more you will get done. -"Take in" is an intentional and tangible action of rest. Take in, breathe in, give in, and stay in. -Rest is all about learning to be present in the moment with God. Links (click 'em, they're live): -Click here to listen to the Episode 140, the short introduction to the Getting Ready for 2022 Challenge and get all in! -Click here to find Linda on her website. We recommend signing up for her newsletter. -Click to get your copy of Rest Revealed here on Amazon. -Here's the link to share this podcast with a friend or on your social media pages:
In this short episode Chris previews a tool that will change your life! Join the Getting Ready for 2022 Challenge with our five-step checklist. Show Notes: -Thanks to all our listeners for your support in the last year. We want you to have the best year ever in 2022! Thanks for all your encouraging emails and Facebook messages! -The Getting Ready for 2022 checklist includes five steps to building a strong foundation for your legacy of faith--a legacy that will stand the test of time (Matthew 7:24-27). 1. First Things First-your free tool to get it done! 2. Must-read books for 2022. 3. Tools to help you dig in deeper to God's Word. 4. Digital resources: devotionals and streaming services to keep your mind and heart set above. 5. Get connected to Women Finishing Well online. Links: -Here is the link to access your Getting Ready for 2022 Checklist and all the live links and info you'll need for the five steps: https://womenfinishingwell.com/2022-checklist-challenge/ -Click to go to the Women Finishing Well Facebook page Link to share the podcast with a friend (copy and paste): womenfinishingwell.com/episode140 Don't miss next Tuesday's Facebook Live Show!
In this episode Chris interviews alumni WFW guest Michelle Nezat about the challenges of changing lanes in life. (Note: We use the term "Gen X" in this podcast which refers to the generation ages 40-55.) Show Notes & Links: -When we feel the "nudge" toward changing lanes we need to seek God's voice for guidance. -First step: consider the challenges of change: who is affected? Talk to the people in your circle and find out how change will affect them. -Am I really hearing the voice of God leading me? Pray about the motivations involved in the voices you hear. -Michelle's biggest lesson: Don't stay longer in your present lane because you feel you're irreplaceable. -Good advice to the person who replaces you: You are not filling "my" shoes. God gave you your own pair of shoes. -God's plans for us aren't always revealed to us from beginning to end before He asks us to step out into something new. Keys to hearing God's voice: -The enemy is an accuser. God's voice is not. -The enemy is a liar. Make sure you stay in God's word and pray to detect any lies you might be hearing. -Michelle's biggest tip for changing lanes. Don't miss this! Links: -Click here to check out Michelle's More Than a Song podcast. -Click here to explore the Compel Training for women interested in writing, speaking, podcasting, or blogging. Please join the Women Finishing Well Facebook community. We have fun Facebook Live broadcasts there, give away books, and offer resources to help you build a legacy of faith that lasts for generations.
In this episode Chris interviews millennial leader Lauren Foster about how older women can help younger generations of women build a legacy of faith that lasts for generations. Show Notes & Links -All about Lauren. What does a Director of Hospitality and Outreach do? -What does it mean to build a legacy of faith as a young woman? -Advice on helping younger women escape the comparison trap of social media. -How important are multigenerational ministries? -What a younger woman wants to tell the older generation of Christian women. It'll surprise you. -How to overcome the challenges of getting younger generations into Christian fellowship. -Facing the challenges of being a young woman in a church leadership role. -Why life groups (small groups) are the church's secret weapon to build community. Links You Need (click 'em, they're live) -Click to listen to the That'll Preach Podcast produced by Springhill Presbyterian Church in Bozeman, MT. -Click to subscribe to our bi-weekly news brief so you don't miss a chance to win books and more plus get an update on our latest podcast. As our thanks, you'll get a free mini Bible study on how to start a daily habit with God called First Things First. You can unsubscribe at any time. -Please join our Facebook community. We've got some exciting things going on there including a bi-weekly Live video where you can be a part of the action! Click here to join us!
In this episode Chris kicks off the new series, The Four Seasons of Legacy Building by interviewing Courtney Lowman, founder of the Journey of Ruth ministry in Phoenix. Courtney teaches multi-generational discipleship to women of all ages. You're going to want to grab a cup of coffee and your favorite girlfriend for this one! Show Notes & Links -All about Courtney from A to Z. -How God led Courtney into a ministry of worldwide discipleship. -Why multigenerational disciple is so critical for legacy building. -God sometimes calls us to uncomfortable places. It's okay to admit you don't know what you're doing. -How do we "make disciples of all nations"? (Mt. 28:19 -The framework for becoming or finding a mentor (the PLAA process). -Why a "no" from a potential mentor is not a failure. -Why it's important for young women to began building a legacy of faith when they're young. -Courtney's "one piece of advice to rule them all" about discipleship. Links: How to find Courtney online -Listen to The Journey of Ruth podcast on your favorite player or find it on her website here: https://www.journeyofruthpodcast.com/ -Courtney's podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCedVKM6bC3goMciq8jedYvA -Courtney's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/journeyofruth/ -Courtney on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyofruth/ Link to all our past podcast episodes and subscription links: https://womenfinishingwell.com/podcast/ **Sign up for our snappy newsletter and get the latest podcast link and first chance at resources and giveaways. It comes every other week and you can unsubscribe at any time. As our thanks you'll get a free mini Bible study on First Things First: https://forms.aweber.com/form/40/1204767040.htm
In this episode Chris reveals exciting news about the Women Finishing Well podcast. You won't want to miss this episode. Plus your chance to receive a free mini Bible study! Show Notes & Links: -This is a short, newsy podcast with a couple links you'll want to explore. Exciting changes are coming to the podcast! Links: Won't you join our Women Finishing Well Facebook community? Check out the beautiful image of our new Four Seasons of Legacy Building series. Click here to see the beautiful "Four Seasons" image on our Facebook page. Subscribe to our every-other-week short and sassy newsletter to get the new podcast link for the week and a chance at other great resources. When you subscribe you'll get our free mini Bible study, First Things First as an attachment in your follow-up email. Look for it in your Inbox! CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE See you all the week of Oct. 19 for our new podcast re-launch!
In this episode Chris gives tips and scriptures on how to effectively pray for our world during this difficult time. Show Notes & Links: -If you are already a prayer warrior, keep going! -Don't get distracted by world events. Tips to overcome distractions: Turn off the TV news. Read selected online digests to know what's going on. Temper your social media. FOMO is a real addiction. You don't need to know everything from every viewpoint. Be confident in God's wisdom. (James 1:5) How should we pray for the world? Remember time spent praying is not as important as your heart. (Mt. 6:6-7) Be sure and listen. Prayer is two-way communication! Who should we pray for? Pray for your neighborhood. Pray for your community and churches. Pray for our country. Pray for the world. Before you pray, remind yourself of these six things: God has it all covered. (Rom. 11:36) He is faithful (2 Thes. 3:3) He is patient, not slow. (2 Pet. 3:9) God is in control and trustworthy. (Ps. 145:13) One thing God asks us to do: be still (Ps. 46:10) "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring to you today. The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still." Ex. 14:13-14 Links: -While we're off in September, catch up on episodes you haven't listened to yet here: https://womenfinishingwell.com/podcast/ -Link to the Scott Saul's book, The Gentle Answer: https://scottsauls.com/books/
In this episode Chris finishes the mini series on storytelling with an in-depth look at how to share the stories of what God has done for you with the people he puts in your everyday life. Show Notes & Links: -Learn to tell your story that tells The Story--the one Jesus came to tell the world. -Start by learning the life stories of people God used in the Bible. Spoiler: they were not perfect people. -Start with the woman at the well (John 4), Hannah (1 Samuel 1), and Paul (Acts 8 and beyond). -The two elements of a good story: relatable context and discernment. Tips for finding good stories: -Think of a scripture you love that comes from a story in your life. -Work on being able to tell three kinds of stories: 1. A story not bound by time and situation (be careful to make it a conversation). 2. A story limited by time and situation. 3. A 30-second "elevator pitch." This technique needs practice and preparation. -Your redemption story might be a turning point in your life if you were saved as a child. -Be careful about using a "Christian" vocabulary. Not everyone has the same definition for theological concepts. Besides, non-Christian people will be lost. Learn to tell stories without Bible words. -Your redemption story may vary according to situation and context of the meeting. -Always be able to tell about the "why" of your faith. Scripture verses used in this episode: 1 Peter 3:15, Hebrews 13:14-16, Romans 12:1-2 Links: If you'd like to listen to the first two episodes in this series: https://womenfinishingwell.com/episode132/ https://womenfinishingwell.com/episode133/ If you're interested in bulk copies of the Women Finishing Well Bible study, email Chris: chris@womenfinishingwell.com
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