Your Spiritual Game Plan with Cheri Fletcher

Have a question? Click Here?Cheri Fletcher's Story of Loss and FaithIn this heartfelt episode, Cheri reflects on how faith and a deep trust in God's plan have guided and supported her family through their sorrow.She discusses her time away from podcasting and the connection between the last aired episode, The Unexpected Things That Happen When You Pray With Holy Expectations to NOW WHAT? When You Pray With Holy Expectations, but the Unexpected Happens!Cheri will share how Deuteronomy 31:8 impacts her life! When she looks back on her experiences in the days and weeks leading up to their loss, as well as the emotional milestones that followed, she sees how God has gone before their family and never left them.She will also introduce her unique, conversational grief cards that she designed to help her family and friends navigate the complexities of grief by fostering meaningful discussions.You can learn more about her conversational cards by clicking this link:  “Moving Beyond I Don't Know What To Say.”Annie Lauren FacebookInstagram

What expectations do you have when you pray?Is your heart watchful - anticipating His reply because you know He will come through - or do you just keep praying and hoping He will come through, but not really expecting much?Sadly, I had placed my expectations in the wrong place and wondered why it felt like I lived in a perpetual Groundhog's Day.It felt like no one could tell I'd been doing so much, yet I'd been doing everything, So I asked God why.The answer? I'd been doing everything!Then, God asked me what I expected from Him.What did I expect from God?My prayers have changed -GOD, I expect more. I expect YOU!That is when the unexpected answers started coming!One of the things that God did make clear was that I surrender this podcast for now.Today is June 20th. I have been telling you that I will be taking a sabbatical, and in this episode, I will share why.The best thing about podcasts is that they don't disappear! The 135 episodes I have already done are still there for you to enjoy and share.During this time, it would be lovely to get to know you! You can stay in touch with me by joining my email, where we can get to know each other better.I will still be writing, continuing to blog, sharing devotionals, Spiritual Game Planning for upcoming events or situations, and updating on the direction God takes this ministry.   I'd love to know  - Was there a favorite episode? Is there specific way I can pray for you?Head over to my website, cherifletcher.com, and click Join Cheri.

Isaiah 32:8 tells us that a noble man makes a noble plan, so he can stand on noble deeds.If we aren't giving our young men noble plans and teaching them how to make them, how do we expect our sons to become men that stand on noble deeds?As Father's Day approaches, I chose a guest that would highlight one of the most important works that God has called Fathers to complete.My guest, Dean Briggs, a father and stepfather to 7 boys, has carried the weight of this important mission heavily on his shoulders knowing that there are only a few brief years in which men can guide their sons into manhood. Dean will share with us:The Virtues of ManhoodHow to help boys grow up to be godly menHighlights from his book: Brave Quest - An Interactive Journey for Young Men to Help Them Build A Godly CharacterThis book is a great resource for fathers looking for a fatherhood Spiritual Game Plan!If you know someone who would enjoy this powerful rite-of-passage system for fathers and sons, be sure to share this and encourage them!

In our world, there has been a decline in outward manliness to the point where people say that chivalry is dead, but what makes up a “real man”?In some cases, a man is defined as a "real man" based on his interests or hobbies, such as hunting, playing sports, grilling meat, fixing cars, and climbing mountains, but that is not the purpose of a man.In this episode, my guest, Brant Hansen, talks us through the godly definition of men and God's purpose for them.  Brant emphasizes that manhood is not about being the stereotypical manly or outdoorsman. He believes there should be a vision of masculinity that is beautiful and awesome rather than the toxic and domineering idea of masculinity.He will share his thoughts on:           What a “real man” really isToxic MasculinityBeing “Keepers of the Garden”As we celebrate Father's Day this month, I wanted to devote this episode to the "real men" in our lives and offer some tips on how we can lift them up as wives, mothers, sisters, and mentors.Can you think of a man in your life who might benefit from reaffirming his purpose?Be sure to share and encourage them!

When unexpected events change the trajectory of our lives, we have a choice to make:Do we overcome the unexpected, as the world recommends, or undergo it?In this episode, Jillian Benfield talks about her experience finding out she was going to have a child with disabilities and her new book -  The Gift of the Unexpected - Discovering Who We Were Meant to Be When Life Goes Off Plan.She will help us break down the following:False beliefs we've built around God and our identity. How we cannot avoid our pain, but how we can learn to feel it in a way that is healing. Discover how our internal transformation leads to external purpose when we undergo the unexpected.God uses the unexpected to disorient us from a culture that values the prosperity gospel (control) and the American dream (achievement).Through His surprising gifts, believers learn how to relate to others' pain and realize how valuable and significant they are.Jillian wants you to know that -  “No matter what you're going through, you're invited to open this gift: The Gift of the Unexpected!” 

As a new mother, what questions did you receive the first few days after giving birth?You are not alone if you were asked more questions about the baby than how you were.Maybe we'll get a pat on the back or hear, "Good job, Mama!" But what we need is a “How are you?”!!There is so much excitement around the birth of the new member of your family that people tend to overlook the major experience you have just gone through.Rachael Elmore, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, shares her personal and professional experiences from her book A Mom Is Born: Biblical Wisdom and Practical Advice for Taking Care of Yourself and Your New Baby.When she had her first baby, she wanted others to know that “the baby wasn't the only one born that day—so was I.”Rachael believes that not everyone needs therapy, but everyone can benefit from it. In This Episode, She Will: Answer two listeners' questions about postpartum Tell us the difference between the baby blues and PPD/PPA  Help you find the balance between caring for your new baby and caring for yourself. Being an empty nest mother, I understand if you don't think that this show is for you - But I hope this message will be a resource you can use to help a young mom, use it as a gift for a daughter or daughter-in-law, or give you some grace if you missed out on these resources when you were experiencing postpartum.

How have you filled in these blanks?“Someday” when I don't have to ___________, then I will _________.Like me, you might need more blanks! Having finally reached my "someday," while I'm enjoying the things I've been looking forward to, I often think back on those days when I was doing all of those things I'd wished away and wish I had taken time to enjoy them. As a young mother, I seemed to be navigating my life one task at a time. I daydreamed about a life I believed would be more fulfilling instead of being awake and in the moment.During this episode, Anjuli Paschall describes what it's like to feel the underlying anxiety that you are missing out on the good life, to zone out, to swipe up, to be slimming down, to be working harder, and to spin in circles with the anxiety of not living life to the fullest.That was something Anjuli wanted to change! Knowing she loved people fearlessly and walked with God faithfully. In addition, she wants to believe that she is loved and even liked.Anjuli is going to tell us how she discovered that the full life isn't found by chasing it. It's found by coming awake to it, and she wants you to live a soul-awake life too!

In your mothering journey, which books from children's classic literature do you turn to for help?That one made me stop and think for a while. Of course, there are plenty of “how to” books for mothering. However, I had never considered looking back at my childhood stories... until now!As moms, we face so many struggles and fears. Is what we're doing enough? How will our kids turn out? As we face these fears, we wonder what we can do.My guest on this episode is Jennifer Pepito, a writer, and mother of seven! Despite her desire to raise a strong family, fear stole her joy as a mother. Likewise, she has asked herself whether what she was doing was the right thing for her children.Then, she discovered her joy in an unexpected place! It was in the pages of classic literature that she read aloud to her children every day. Through these stories, she restored the wonder of childhood to both herself and her children.As Jennifer explains in her book, Mothering by the Book, we can use those lessons to overcome our fears.Jennifer will share lessons from three of my favorite classics:Focusing on the positive from: Little House on the Prairie SeriesSpeaking Life to those around you from: Charlotte's WebTaking time to reflect from: Pride & Prejudice "Becoming a better, happier mom starts with the stories you tell your kids.”

Hello,  I'm Cheri FletcherI would love to wish a Happy Mother's Day to every woman who has a mothering or a mentoring role in someone's life.  I'm glad you're here if you're new to my page.And if you've been around here a while, you know that I love reminding you that -  YOUR ROLES IN LIFE WILL CHANGE - BUT YOUR PURPOSE IS ETERNAL. Today, I will share my journey as a mom and how I struggled for years to feel like I was nothing more than my role.I pray that by sharing God's plan for me and the plot that the enemy used to try and stop it, you'll be surprised why being  "Just" the mother God made you be is actually such high praise!

Suppose you stopped worrying about what others might think if they heard you pray. How would your prayer life change?There is no doubt that prayer is for God and that He desires a personal relationship with us!For Amy Hale, that was the point where her relationship with Him deepened.By studying the Word and drawing closer to God, she has come to share her insights and passion for daily Bible reading with others.“I don't want others to spend most of their lives not knowing how powerful and life-giving it is!”In this episode, Amy will share how her prayer life has grown stronger and more consistent after studying specific prayers from the lives of Abraham and Jesus Himself. She will discuss fundamental key principles she learned, illustrate how she applied them, and then leave us with a challenge to flip the narrative of the enemy!We can see significant changes when we take God's Word and apply even the little things to our lives.

Great changes are taking place every moment of every day, but are the prayers of God's people keeping up?This is a question that Reverend Randy Maxwell asks in his book, Closing Prayers; Facing the final crisis on our knees. Randy is a good friend of mine, and during one of my trips back to Washington, I was blessed to hear a sermon he gave from this book.The moment he began his sermon with an analogy of our current earthly time as a 4th quarter in a game, I pulled out my phone and hit record! I didn't want to miss one word.As we make every effort to finish strong in the last quarter, we pull out all the stops.In Randy's question, he asks whether we pray as if we were aware that we are in the final quarter of human history.In this episode, Reverand Maxwell will share why it is time to pray the right prayers at the right time, in the right way, and for the right reason, and how we do that!Then he will discuss the 5 ways we should be praying in light of the times in which we live right now.Change meSearch meWake meBreak meSend meGod uses forgiven human beings precisely because they have been forgiven. We know what it's like to be weak and what it's like to break our promises, what it's like to doubt, and what it's like to mess up and do stupid things. The angels don't. Listen in for a powerful episode on prayer and the answer to the ONE thing that stands between us and the change we seek!

In what area do you need to trust that God has good and delightful surprises in store for you? Some of the best discussions I have with God are when I'm taking a walk. The fresh air clears the fog from my brain, the sounds of nature drown out the perpetual to-do list in my head, and I can appreciate the beauty that God provides all around me.It is as though He shows me something new every day and every season to remind me of His presence.  It is easy for me to lose sight of how God has provided in the past and forget that His plans are far better than my own.I often find myself praying for God to bless my will and forget to stop and listen for His.Today I will be talking with Sarah Geringer about her latest book. - Hidden Manna on a Country Road: Seeing God's Daily Provision All Around Us.In 2020, she discovered many prayer prompts on her property while walking her dogs.Everywhere she looked, she saw reasons to pray, much like the manna God provided Israel in the wilderness. The metaphors she saw in the seasons are so inspiring and helped add to my own prayer life.  Even if we have practiced our faith for years, prayer can be a mystery to us. But God has hidden prayer prompts right outside our doors in nature. As you uncover their spiritual truths, these treasures can inspire deeper connections with God.

How would things be different if you trusted God as He asked you to start, endure, or even quit a “thing”?So often, we let the “what if” of fear stop us from taking those first steps. The "thing" God has called us to do requires a strong plan to deal with obstacles the enemy places in our way.In this episode, guest Rebecca George is going to share her personal experience of pursuing goals with grace and confidence through prayer and a lot of gumption!As she discusses, tethering ourselves to Him every day is what truly transforms our lives, and that begins with being in His word, walking in community, and with a constant attitude of prayer.This is also the launch day for Rebecca's first book:  Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-Getter Girl!With God's Word as your compass, you have the opportunity to take a courageous step today.

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word boundaries?My friend Leslie Newman asked this question in our writer's group, and she received a variety of answers.My answer was protection, both for the other person and me.Having learned the benefits of setting grace-filled boundaries, Leslie loves helping others do the same.“Setting boundaries is an emotional process, and it has to start with me first, especially when facing a difficult situation, potential conflict, and difficult conversations.” LeslieLeslie wants us to know that boundaries are Biblical. They are a bridge designed by God to bring us together, not always to separate us.In this episode, she will explain her unique approach to setting boundaries without shame and how boundaries can actually rejuvenate us.I would love to hear what word comes to your mind when you hear the word boundary!

When was the last time you avoided a difficult conversation with someone just to get their approval?Did it ever get resolved?Having difficult conversations with those you care about is part of life, so it's better to prepare ahead of time.In my conversation with Lori, she shares that our avoidance of an issue and not facing the hard conversation actually causes the disconnection we are trying to avoid in our relationships.According to Lori, there are three ways for a conversation to go wrong:Avoiding the conversation completelyAssuming thingsBeing unpreparedWith Lori's game plan, my prayer is that you can be better prepared the next time you need to have a difficult conversation by being your authentic self.

How different would your next family gathering, work day, or neighborhood picnic be if everyone chose to celebrate or weep with each other before trying to convince, correct, or lobby for their agendas?Jesus never said that getting along would be easy, especially loving one another. But He did call us to do it.Becky Keife, from (in)Courage, joins me in this episode to discuss the book, Come Sit With me, How to Delight in Differences, Love through Disagreements, and Live with Discomfort.The book features Becky's story, as well as 26 other women from all walks of life who discuss friendship across religious and political differences, putting people over positions and forgiving before or without apology.Relationships are hard, and we hope that today we can give you some tools to help navigate through some of those tensions and leave you with grace-filled learning moments.

What keeps you from extending comfort within your community?When I asked my friends that question, there was a common thread in their answers. It was  “un” comfortable and it causes “dis” comfort.Did you know there's a reason for it? There is someone behind that reason!  We were created to be in communion with each other and to be in unity - Community - but the enemy will do anything to keep us from it.Today in this solo episode, I will share some examples of how God has created us to comfort others and restore community.In fact, you may ALREADY be doing it AND even enjoying it!

What is holding you back from experiencing joy?Joy should be one click away, as self-care and getaways are more accessible than ever before.Yet the search for happiness and joy continues to be a popular topic.My guest Yvette Babs Walker knows all about wanting to experience joy and wondering when she would find it.She will talk about a time when she believed in God but felt numb in her faith. She knows what it's like to be a seeker instead of a believer. Yvette will share her experience of that season as well as what awakened her faith and how we can learn:HOW to choose joy HOW to find itWHERE to apply it in our own homesIf your life is empty, Yvette wants to help you fill it with the joy of the Lord!

Do you ever wonder why so many of our best memories and most cherished relationships involve food?When my kids are going to come home, they will request their favorite meals and desserts. Making it for them warms my heart as their mom!Why is that? Could it be a design decision rather than a default one?There are numerous references in the bible to food, feeding and nourishing God's people, and the feasts God wants to prepare for us. God's gift of food is to be enjoyed in every sense, in our home's environment, in preparation, and in bringing family members together.“God never just fills our bellies. He fills our homes. He fills our hearts.”  Erin DavisBut with every gift that God gives, the enemy will attach shame to it. In this episode, I will talk with Erin Davis about her new book Fasting & Feasting, 40 Devotions to Satisfy the Hungry Heart.She will show how God's Word celebrates food as a gift while inviting us to surrender our lives in every area. Instead of yo-yo-ing between loving and hating food, Erin invites us to accept Scripture's invitation into a different, nourishing, and refreshing rhythm.Erin's approach to Fasting and Feasting will change how you experience and cherish the voice of God!

When was the last time you said to yourself, “I just want to be happy”?How can one truly be happy?I think if happiness were obtainable by our human ability, we would have stopped chasing after it by now. Happiness is an emotion that changes and often relies on what is happening around us, our personal relationships, and our heart's desires.In this episode, Tricia Goyer and I discuss her book Heart Happy, Staying Centered in God's Love Through Chaotic Circumstances.Tricia is going to share how to:Make small, positive changes to cultivate a heart that's happy in the LordUnderstanding your relationship with God in deeper ways allows you to rest in Him, and that's where true happiness is found.If you are ready to rise above the chaos and find some practical application from a mom of 10 who gets it -  then listen in!Happy Valentines Day

Is there a time when your heart felt heavy because of difficult circumstances?Focusing on what I can't handle can feel like my heart is heavy and full of despair.When times like these came, I would escape to our family cabin in Oregon. I called it my Happy Place.My heart would feel lighter when I turned down the road to the cabin. Observing the stars under the vast sky, I felt encouraged knowing God, my Creator, created me and cared for me!Being states away from my family cabin now, I can't go there to escape. Nevertheless, I must remain mindful to keep calming my heart and resting like I did when I was there.In this episode, I will talk to Marci Seither about her book Lakeside Retreat -  Live Giving Devotions from a Restful Shore.Through storytelling, recipes, games, and even some survival tips, Marci will take us to that cabin, to that happy place.You are invited to join us at the cabin and:Inhale and smell pine trees and campfiresListen and hear loons or geese and also Taste Wild Berry Cabin CobblerJoin Marci and me by the lake, and let me know how you plan to rest!I would love to hear from you. You can email me at  Cheri@cherifletcher.com.

January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month.“There are plenty of awareness months and days dedicated to various causes. Some get a lot of attention; some pass by relatively unnoticed. People in slavery deserve attention. They deserve to have a voice. And you have a powerful one through your social media.” Paula Cornell - Love JusticeThis quote was from a recent blog post on the Love Justice website, where you can read stories of real people whose monitors prevented them from completing their slavery journey.It is estimated that 50 million people are trapped in slavery today. Most often, this happens when people are offered an opportunity they can't refuse.In this episode, I will talk to Briony Fickling, who works for Love Justice as Regional Steward for Southern African countries.She will share her journey working with Love Justice as they work to:  Step in during critical moments between freedom and slavery.Prevent the next victim from being trafficked Put Traffickers in jailShare the love & hope of JesusTo learn more about Love Justice International and Human Trafficking, you can go to LoveJustice.ngo

Where were you the first time you felt overlooked, dismissed, or forgotten?It is a feeling that stays with us.  Maybe you worked hard on a project without receiving any thanks, shared an idea only to have it ignored, or have been simply forgotten about.In this episode, I will be speaking with Shadia Hrichi and her study of the life of Tamar.Tamar was mistreated, widowed twice, betrayed, and used as a prostitute.It seemed impossible that God could redeem her story, but His plan of redemption was prewritten for all eternity-and nothing can get in His way.We're going to chat about:A few “overlooked” heroes from the BibleGod seeing us no matter where we are or what we've been throughNo one ever being too “far gone” to be redeemed by our Heavenly FatherThrough our experiences and through the stories and experiences we read about in the bible we learn more about who God is. How he never abandoned them, and He never abandons us! Each one of us is noticed by God, and he cares.If you are willing, share your answer to my question, leave a comment or email me at Cheri@cherifletcher.comI love hearing your stories and knowing how I can pray for you.

What is your first reaction when you think of a child wanting their art displayed?Maybe you remember being that child and having your masterpiece displayed.A smile spreads across the artist's face when the piece is placed under the magnetic clip or framed for all to see.  When I moved to Cleveland, I met a young lady whose passion is displaying and selling masterpieces made by the hands of extraordinary ladies in our community. Today I am excited to introduce you to my friend and city neighbor Hailey Johnston.Hailey is the founder and CEO of Project Free 2 Fly.Her story and mission drew me in, and now I am honored to be a small part of her program.Hailey works with rehabilitation programs in the area to identify women ready to move from recovery to sustainable life. She hires women and teaches them the skills they need to manufacture the products sold in the shop and online.    Free 2 Fly acts as a bridge between recovery and sustainability. We will talk about how sewing teaches these ladies:Self-confidence Patience & Perseverance, Communication skills & Attention to detailWillpower & StrengthAnd much more!I was so moved by Hailey's love for these women and for being part of God's redeeming story in their lives!

Who has God called you to share His love with lately?When she was only twenty-three years old, Rachelle Starr started going to strip clubs to share Christ's love with the dancers. Having founded a Christian ministry to people in the adult entertainment industry, she demonstrates the key to shining Christ's light into the darkness–love people one at a time and continue to love them no matter what.In this episode, Rachelle will share how:Loving others as Jesus did has to be more than social media shares and likesHow God used “Scarlett Hope” in Mary's incredible story of redemption The hope we can share with people of God's redemption in our communityIf you are willing, share your answer to my question, leave a comment or email me at Cheri@cherifletcher.com.I love hearing your stories and knowing how I can pray for you.

When was the last time you felt a strong desire for revenge when you were wronged?Our human nature is to want an ear for an ear and an eye for an eye. God says vengeance belongs to Him because He comes to redeem what has been taken.  As this is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, I can safely say that it both hurts and angers God to see His children hurt each other.In this episode, I will be sharing:A sneak peek into the guests I will be having during human trafficking month The horrible trafficking statistics that are right in our backyard God's game plan to redeem what is takenWe are commissioned, in the Bible, to defend the weak and oppressed.  I pray that you are inspired to look for ways that you can help those in your community that need to see Jesus.If you are willing, share your answer to my question, leave a comment or email me at Cheri@cherifletcher.com.I love hearing your stories and knowing how I can pray for you.

When was a time in your life when God seemed to have vanished?The end of one year and the start of another can leave us wondering where God even is and what will happen next.Some of us make resolutions, hoping for certainty and something to fall back on when everything is spinning out of control.My goal next year is to join forces with Queen Esther in seeing our invisible God amid uncertainty.In this episode, I will talk with Amy Carroll and Lynn Cowell about their new Bible study, Esther: Seeing Our Invisible God in an Uncertain World.Amy and Lynn walk us through a three-step Bible study method for seeking answers in uncertain times.Like Esther, we too can:Listen to wise people who fill our gaps in understandingSpeak up with confidence, knowing that God has a place for your voice in His storyEmbracing your feelings as a God-given catalyst for connection with HimIn the Bible, Esther is a book many people don't explore deeply. However, if we look at Esther's hardships, we realize that she faces some trials that we can relate to, even today.Let me know:How can you remind yourself that He is still with you and for you?

Can you recall the last time you decided not to spend time with God just because you didn't "have enough time ”?It's so easy to feel the pull to draw closer to God even while feeling like a failure because you can't do “enough” or figure out a way to deepen your relationship.In this episode I'm chatting with Candice Reyes to get her tips on building a Spiritual Game Plan that doesn't take hours of time but allows you to read more...

If you're one of my regular listeners, you've heard me say that “God has a plan”, and “the enemy has a plot against that plan”.This not only applies to our everyday lives, but I believe during the holiday season, the enemy works over time.This is supposed to be the season of joy when we celebrate the gift of Jesus. But — as you know from experience — it can also be filled with extra pressures, angst, and even grief. As a result, the enemy increases read more...

When was the last time you were misunderstood?  How did you correct the misperceptions? Or did you? Being misunderstood is a problem that we all face.  Women have faced being misunderstood since Adam blamed Eve for taking the fruit in the garden.I know what it is like to be misheard, mischaracterized, and even dismissed by friends, family, and strangers.In this episode, Mary DeMuth shares the story of 10 women in the Bible who were and still are read more...

Think about a time in your life when you were in a period of waiting. Maybe you find yourself in this transition period right now… There are times when it can be difficult to see the good and beautiful aspects of a situation when we are awaiting big announcements, awaiting the outcome, awaiting what God has in mind for us.Melinda Patrick, knows all too well about the struggles found in the waiting periods of life. Her mission is to encourage women to find the joy God has for us, even during times of waiting.   In this episode, we talk about how to find peace during read more...

How often do you find yourself playing the 'I should have' game in your head?It's so easy to succumb to the comparison trap encouraged by social media, looking at all the other moms and feeling like  ‘I should' be doing x, y, z to be better.  That only adds to our anxiety.  When anxiety runs deep, it can be crippling for some people.In this episode, Caris Snider and I discuss the physical and emotional aspects related to anxiety and a few ways to help in the journey of read more...

In which relationships do you feel God is encouraging you to build a bridge of forgiveness?To fully experience the wonder of God's love, we must completely accept God's plan for forgiving others in our lives.  When we hold on to unforgiveness, even in areas where we might be unaware, we actually imprison ourselves and encourage restlessness in our hearts.My friend, Rhonda Abellera, joins me in this episode, and we get into a deep conversation about read more...

In your life, what means has God used to free you from the stronghold of the enemy?God is faithful to draw us to Himself and will use many different means to pull us closer. Sometimes we need a drastic jolt to lift us out of our daily rut and remind us that He is what matters.  From the ghetto of Brooklyn to success in Hollywood to a stunning restoration in Jesus, My guest Jeannie Ortega Law fought read more...

According to you, what is the significance of your role in other people's lives?There are many challenges that women face when it comes to feeling significant.Our mundane, day-to-day tasks can easily be dismissed as unimportant, but God cares about all things, no matter how small.In this episode, I discuss with Rachael Adams some of the "small things" that seem read more...

What areas in your life do you struggle with feeling like you have to be a good Christian for God to fully love you?It's easy to fall into a trap of legalism, believing you need to do x, y, and z in order to receive God's love.  The list contains many good things, but the requirements make it problematic.During this episode, Barb Roose and I discuss the TRUTH about read more...

Today I'm looking back on 100 episodes of podcasting.Mistakes made, lessons learned, and best of all, great friendships gained!I asked you, my faithful listeners, what areas you would want a Spiritual Game Plan for.In this episode, I will be sharing ideas on read more...

Do you remember something you've eaten at a friend's house, and even though you've eaten it elsewhere, it just tastes so much better?Did you ask for the recipe only to find out it was as simple as using a different spice?As we read the Bible, we can sometimes become read more...

How do you finish this sentence: “I am…”Maybe what comes to mind first is negative self-talk that others would never use to describe you. This is especially true if you've experienced a traumatic situation or if you're currently in a season of suffering. But the beautiful thing about God's love is that it is all-embracing regardless of our circumstances. His desire is for you to know and say, "I am LOVED!"In this episode, I'm joined by Wendy Blight to discuss the power of God's... read more

How would you describe your hue?Probably not a question you've pondered before, is it? Discussions of race are often centered around descriptive terms that are not accurate, like “black” and “white”. In this episode, I sit down with Lucretia Berry to unpack how we can reframe our conversations about race in a way that removes the negative connotations often associated with this topic. Lucretia explains how adults often ... read more

Have you ever wondered, “What is God's will for my life?” or “What is God calling me to do?”As Christians, we know God has a unique plan for each of our lives. After all, Ephesians 2:10 tells us, “For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”But it isn't always easy to know what God may be read more...

What was one piece of marriage advice you were given that you questioned?   Most of the time, our friends and family have the best intentions with their well wishes and words of wisdom after we tie the knot. But it's important to carefully consider the suggestions we receive and evaluate how they stack up against scripture before we adopt them in our marriage.    In this episode, I talk with Chris & Jamie Bailey about differentiating between solid marriage advice and that which misses the mark. We discuss some major read more...

What happens when you and your spouse spend a lot of time together?  (Perhaps even *too much*  time ...) The reality is that sometimes, too much time together can start to feel like too much of a good thing. However, in no way does that suggest we don't love our spouse enough nor point to some significant weakness in our marriage.  Being in each other's presence all the time can put a bit of strain on read more...

What is one preconceived notion you had before getting married?    Or, for my single listeners, what kind of assumptions do you currently have about marriage?   Maybe that “you won't turn out like your parents” or “we will never have serious conflict”...   Marriage can be a profoundly sanctifying experience. Not only does God use it to bless us, but also to read more...

How would you say your current relationship with your mother-in-law or daughter-in-law is going?    The mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law are notorious for tension and strife. But, this bond can be a special blessing from the Lord.     Today, I talk with MiL/DiL pair Barb Reaoch and Stacy Reaoch about their experience in their respective roles. As I prepare to gain the title of mother-in-law in just a couple of short weeks, Barb and Stacy share valuable advice on read more...

What's the most recent new role you've added to your life? How did you feel about it — Apprehensive? Excited? Perhaps a little bit of both? Well, I'll be stepping into my new role as a mother-in-law in just 19 short days!  Although the role is new, it's one I've been eagerly anticipating for the last year! As I prepare for this change, I've been reflecting on the path God has taken our family to get here. So today's episode is a discussion of: The crucial role parents play in laying a foundation of faith in their children How to make our homes an environment of faith for our children Why surrounding our children with a godly community of people is so important  I'm also joined by special guest and dear friend, Jennifer Woody. We explore these topics in-depth, and she shares her unique perspective as read more...

Have you ever found yourself wondering, “God, are you with me — REALLY with me?” Maybe it was a season of grief, a time of uncertainty, or during a search for your purpose.  On today's episode, I got to talk with Lori Mango about her concept of “Tracking God.” She shares how taking purposeful pauses to document the little ways God works in your everyday life can train us to focus on Him and help us avoid read more...

What is one “God dare” you've accepted in your life? My husband and I accepted the dare and moved across the U.S. Walking away from everything familiar (like Abraham) is one of the most difficult God Dares but, ultimately, one of the most rewarding. When we step out of our comfort zone and accept the dare to go where He's leading, we also get to be read more...

When was the last time God grabbed your attention in an unexpected way? Using a donkey to turn one of His children back toward home may seem strange, but God often fulfills His plan in unexpected ways.  In this episode, I talk with my friend Susy Flory. We discuss how she connected with a man named Patrick to share his story of redemption through read more...

When was the last time you added a bitterness block to your wall? These “bitterness blocks” consist of the three R's: Resentment Righteous anger Retaliation I bet we've all felt emotions like this at one point or another. Left unaddressed, they can quickly build a mental or emotional wall that hinders our walk with the Lord and hurts read more...

When was the last time you skimmed past various verses in scripture because they are hard to digest or you don't quite know how to grapple with them?    I know I've been guilty of that at one time or another.    It's easy to read and share the parts of the Bible you find agreeable and align well with your understanding of Jesus.  But what happens when you come across verses that are perplexing or potentially challenging to your pre-existing beliefs?   In this episode, I will be talking to Dr. Amy Jill Levine. We discuss why... read more