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Make Morality Mainstream Again The adultification of teen fiction has intentionally Frankensteined books for teens into cesspools of ideological normalization. A while ago, I met a mother and her daughter, the latter of whom I hadn't seen in several years. On the cusp of turning twelve, she'd obviously grown in the time since, and, her mother proudly informed me, had become quite the reader. Indeed, the girl held quite a thick book in her hand. Which was it? The girl showed me the cover. I turned to the mother. “Do you know what your daughter is reading?” She'd figured telling her eleven-year-old she could read whatever was marked 14+ was a safe enough guardrail for appropriate content. As reading is an experience between book and reader, the mother wouldn't have seen what her daughter was taking in. She couldn't either know that her daughter's book was familiar not because it was something I'd read but because it was something I wouldn't. Worse, she thought she could trust the institution. THE READING DILEMMA Parents want kids to read, but as most can't keep up with their reading habits, they don't fully realize what's being allowed, even promoted, in books for young readers. As with other once vaunted institutions, the publishing world has morphed in ways many aren't fully aware of. Over a decade ago, I signed my first contract for Young Adult (YA) fiction. Before and since, I've watched the genre boom through the stages of audience demographic to viable business. Throughout, YA has expanded from books for teens to a genre unto itself, attracting talented writers, lucrative contracts, and the golden goose of Hollywood adaptations. YA is officially for readers 14-18 years (and up). However, as it's after Middle Grade (8-12 years), tweens are frequent readers, plus many eleven-year-olds reading up. There is “lower” and “upper” YA, but they're unofficial categories for libraries or writers specific about their target audience. Most retailers and publishers categorize all teen books under the general YA umbrella. NA, New Adult, mainly written for college-aged readers into their early twenties, is often sheltered under the YA umbrella too. Alongside the wider publishing industry, YA has changed significantly over the years, reflecting broader shifts in society. What follows isn't an analysis on talent or quality but content, as something about words in a book makes what's written more real, valid, romantic, admirable, aspirational. Thus, the intent is to shed light on some of the many topic and imagery that are included in books for young readers. At risk that this won't earn me any friends in publishing (at best), here's some of what I've seen: DEVOLUTION OF YA FICTION Growth of the YA audience/genre is an objective benefit, logical as it is to increase methods for targeting potential customers. As YA has increased in business and position, its morphing into genre unto itself has attracted many adults readers. As a YA author, I read mainly within my market and see the appeal for adult readers considering how well the genre's developed. The migration of older readers to YA is certainly one of the many reasons it's been so adultified. Other factors include the poisonous stranglehold ideological tentacles have on many aspects of culture, entertainment, and education. The shifts adults have finally caught onto in adult fiction and film have infected literature for younger audiences, picture books through YA. A quick example, originally, romantic comedies centered on a man and woman who clashed at the outset, then eventually found their way to each other at the end. The story would build to some romantic declaration, then a kiss. Anyone who's been watching knows that there's now a whole lot of touching that happens before any romantic declaration occurs. Longer, more frequent kisses are only second to scenes of the pair sleeping together before deciding how they really feel about each other. All this is becoming commonplace in YA. What was once cutesy stories about a high school girl chasing a crush has now become stories featuring a whole lot of other firsts, even seconds, and then some. The devolution of YA is a result of purposeful normalization and reshaping of societal norms through manipulatively emotional appeals by writers, agents, and editors. On average, books from larger publishing houses take roughly eighteen months to two years to evolve from contract to product on the shelf. To say, story trends are set in motion well before their rise in popularity. Whatever the view on agents as gatekeepers to the larger houses, publishers only publish so many books in a year, an amount significantly less than all the people who want to be published. Hence, agents act as preliminary filters for editors, whittling down potential authors to relatively more manageable numbers. An agent must really believe in a writer and project to nab one of those few spots. Like most creative fields, writing is highly subjective, so in addition to general quality, each agent and editor has preferences for stories they want to work with. They're also usually pretty clear about what they're looking for, so part of the progression of change can be traced back to what's being requested. CHARACTER INCLUSION CHECKLISTS When I first entered the “querying trenches,” wish lists from agents mainly specified genres and their various offshoots. Although ideologies make a home in all genres, most were subtler, more akin to a light sprinkling than the deluge of today. Within a few short years, wish lists changed. Unofficial “checklists” appeared in the now familiar cancerous categories of equity, representation, marginalization, and other socialist pseudonyms. Nonfiction for teens is dominated by activism, coming out, and adaptations of left-wing figures' biographies. Rather than prioritize quality, potential, uniqueness, the new gatekeeping is often focused on the inclusion of certain ideologies. For the first while, emphasis was on strong female characters, an odd request considering the YA market is dominated by female writers and readers. Previous character portrayal thus had little to do with some imagined patriarchal oppression. Now, female characters are “fierce”, projections of feminist fantasies celebrating girl bosses who are objectively pushy, uncooperative, obnoxious, self-righteous, and/or highly unrealistic. Somehow, they capture the most desirable love interest, a magical combination of masculinity and emotional vulnerability, who is inexplicably un-neutered by support of her domineering principles. Frequently, the girl makes the first move. Worse than overbearing feminism is unrealistic portrayals of a girl's physical abilities accompanied by most unsavory rage and wrath and anger. Supposedly, these traits aren't anathema to the gorgeous guys (when it is a guy) these girls miraculously attract. Unless there's a moth to flame metaphor here, it's a lie to pretend wrath is a healthy attraction. This well reflects the move away from what's become so-last-century stories featuring underdogs who searched deep for courage and heart to overcome challenges, raising up others alongside themselves. A time when character development focused on, well, character. More wholesome stories have been replaced with a self-proclaimed oppressed burning with self-righteous rage and violence. Such characters have seeped into fantasy for adults as well, most notably in armies featuring female combat soldiers and warriors without special powers, who somehow go toe-to-toe if not best male counterparts. Often this sort of matchup is shown as some cunning of smallness, agility, and destruction of arrogant male condescension. Never mind that such fighting is highly unrealistic, and any male is rightly confident if paired against a woman in physical combat. No amount of small body darting or ingenuity will save a girl from the full force of one landed male punch. The unquestioned portrayal of women able to best men in physical combat is worrying considering the real possibility of a reader confusing fact with fiction. Besides, a country which sends its women to war will no longer exist, as it's a country with males but not men. The current not-so-secret of major houses is that a book doesn't have a high chance of getting published if it doesn't check certain markers, especially for midlist and debut authors, though A-listers are not immune. A Caucasian is hardly allowed to write a story featuring a so-called BIPOC, but a straight author must somehow include the ever-expanding gay-bcs, and it must be in a positive light. Some authors were always writing these characters, which at least reflects acting of their own volition. For the rest, many didn't start until required. Because of the careful wording around these ideologies, many don't speak out against these practices so as not to appear hateful and bigoted. The mandated appearance of so-called marginalized and under-represented in stories lest the author risk erasing…someone, somehow also operates along these lines. Although, apparently, only very specific groups are at risk of disappearing. These standards are ridiculous in their least damaging iterations. How many so-anointed BIPOC were consulted over their standard portrayals? How can every individual of every minority be consulted for approval, and who chooses which faction decides? How many Latinos, speakers of gendered language, agreed to Latinx and Latine? Christian characters in mainstream publishing are rarely portrayed as steadfast believers or even rebels rediscovering faith. Jewish stories usually feature a character who's “lived experience” is assimilation, so the character is of a religion but doesn't represent it. A real portrayal of the true beliefs these characters come from would not align with the world mainstream publishing wants to shape. Even more ludicrous is that “disabled” and “neurodivergent” are considered identities, as if a physical or medical condition is cause for new labeling. The approach used to be that you are still you, worthy of respect and consideration, despite these conditions. In the glorified world of the self-hyphenate, the world of we-are-our-self-declared-identity, it's the foremost feature mentioned, with accompanying expectation of praise and exaltation, regardless of an individual's character or behavior. Don't confuse the argument against the labeling with the individuals, because they are separable. Worse than the tokenism is the reduction of individuals to secondary characteristics. Is this really the first thing you have to say about yourself, the most essential thing to know? When did it become norm to turn skin color or medical condition or physical ability into a character trait, the very notion of which says that anyone in this group must be viewed primarily through this lens, as if each is exactly the same? How myopic. How belittling. Following the cue set by movies, books for teens also morphed from cutesy rom-coms to ideological showcases. Unsurprisingly, there's been the introduction of the stereotypical gay best friend. Then storylines focusing on coming out or discovering someone close was gay, with accompanying template for writing them. The one coming out is always the strong one, the resilient one, though much language must be banned lest they be offended or erased, so their strength is dependent upon a carefully constructed bubble. Not only is inclusion necessary but happiness is the only possible, deliberately portrayed reaction. Never mind if some or all of it runs counter to a writer's religious beliefs. Moreover, “I'm not sure how I feel about this, but I'll still treat you with respect” was never an acceptable response. And it is an acceptable response in all manner of situations, unless you exorcise it in efforts to forcibly shape a particular worldview. Additionally, the attitude is that since you can't tell me who to love, and loving this person makes me happy, you must not only ally but champion me. Why is it offensive to present different acceptable, respectful reactions to teens? Who exactly is erased if this character isn't presented at all? As before, don't confuse the argument against mandate with the individuals. The contention isn't about love, but about religion protecting the sanctity of romantic relationships and marriage, a religious practice since the dawn of time, as seen across centuries and civilizations. Marriage is described as sanctified and holy, because it's Divine in nature, and thereby under the domain of the religious. If it's just a contract, then of course any government can regulate it. It’s disingenuous to deny that such enforcement clashes with the very nature of what writing is about. It shuts down discussion, then subverts it entirely by pretending there's nothing to debate. That shouldn't be a source of pride for publishing, but deepest shame. In their efforts to supposedly widen the window of story matter, they've narrowed the frames and tinted the panes to exclude suddenly unacceptable voices entirely. PORNOGRAPHY AND CONSENT Compounded upon all this, most books are no longer relatively clean romances building to a single kiss, as every stage of the relationship has become more explicit. Some scenes are akin to manuals, containing the sort of imagery once the sole province of steamy romances. When efforts are rightly made to remove these books from shelves, screeches of censorship! erasure! representation! resound. We wouldn't, and shouldn't, tolerate any adult approaching a kid on the street and telling stories with such description, nor should we allow it from close friends or family. Authors do not hold special status in this, no matter what the screechers screech. Taking such books off shelves isn't an indication of bigotry, intolerance, hatred, or erasure, but moral obligation. The counterargument from writers, agents, and editors is that explicit detail is necessary because of something to do with “lived experiences” and consent. First, if kids are doing it anyway, then adults definitely needn't assist. Second, consent is not quite the magical word society would have us believe. Third, “everyone has different experiences” is not a reason for writing graphic content, and the replacement of “intimacy” with “experience” is largely responsible for why relationships are in the gutter and leaving people unfulfilled. Intimacy is something private between two individuals; experience is a vague euphemism to pass off what should matter as transitory, despite irrevocable effects. It's difficult to imagine in an age when phones, cameras, and microphones track a person everywhere, but there was once an ideal called privacy, and the intimate was part of it. Pushback also leads to defenses of “sexuality,” another way of saying adults want to teach kids all kinds of ways to pursue these “experiences”. Changing the wording doesn't alter the nature but does allow immoral actors to force celebration of their fantasies and fetishes. The wrongness is incontestable, though not surprising from those who promote polyamory for teens and romantic relationships between humans and demons or other ungodly creatures. The feeble argument for writing scenes of teens sleeping together is they must see what consent looks like. Again, authors do not hold special status or exemption. There is no strong enough argument for writing scenes for teens in which one character undresses another and verbally asks permission every step of the way. Especially because the new trend seems to be the girl not only “consenting”, but also a burning I want this. If she wants, this wording implies, then she must have, abandoning all reason and morality. Consent has become an excuse for all sorts of undesirable, immoral, even illegal behavior, but mutual agreement is supposed to make it okay. This isn't the behavior we should be promoting for teens; we should be giving them better things, bigger ideas to think about. Worst of all, why is any adult writing about two sixteen-year-olds sleeping together? A teenager, no matter how mature, is still developing and while smart and clever not really old enough to fully understand what she's “consenting” to, and is probably being taken advantage of. We treat eighteen with the same magical power as consent, as if any age should be sleeping around, even if legalese only extends so far. Teen pregnancy, abortion overall, would hardly be an issue if everyone stopped sleeping with people they shouldn't. Any adherent to morality knows this, though morality is just another thing scuttled from teen fiction. G-dless ideology is the new morality; immoral, manmade gods have replaced G-d; lust is the new love; sexuality excuse for pornography; perceived racism and misogyny validation for violence and rage. Many are we who did not consent to this. These scenes are in teen films as well, though how many parents know this in an age of individual devices? Adults pretending to be teens take each other's clothes off before a camera for real tweens, teens, and/or adults to watch. Please explain in clear and simple language why this is not a form of pornography. What absolutely vital role does this scene have in advancing the story? Consent is not enough. Wanting is not enough. We're encouraging teens to turn their bodies into used cars, dented, scraped, scarred, and baggage laden, for what? Why is this hollowing out of self and morality good? This serves no benefit for teens and the overall state of relationships. Consent has become an excuse for all sorts of undesirable, immoral, even illegal behavior, but we're supposed to think that everyone agreeing makes whatever they agree to okay. It's incredibly obvious that feminism and the sexual revolution didn't free women, but chain them in a prison of animalistic, unsatisfying desire, dooming them to jadedness, frustration, and loneliness. But they're so responsible! So mature! By such logic, a responsible sixteen-year-old should be able to buy guns, alcohol, and drugs. But identity! No, identity doesn't mandate a book with graphic imagery, nor is it “sexuality” or “feeling seen” or any other term you hide behind. Witness the tattered remains of social morality that writers do not balk at writing this for teens. They should balk at writing this for anyone. Once we recognized that betterment came through battling temptations. It is not difficult to see how the enforced normalization of all this was also an effective ridding of undesirable shame. Not only have we banished feeling bad, we've enforced celebration of what shame once kept in line. But they'll never be prepared! How did any of us get here if none of this existed for millennia? But look at the sales! Many people also bought rock pets. Deviants and defenders will attempt to claim that (a) this sort of stuff always existed, which isn't really a reason for its continuance, and (b) previous generations were undoubtedly stifled in their inability to express their true selves. Perhaps. And yet, previous generations built civilization, with significantly less medical prescriptions too. Previous generations were better at family and community, meaning and purpose. We have “experiences.” But this is what married people do! Some writers introduce a faux or rushed marriage into the plot, perhaps because their weakening moral compass prevents writing an explicit scene between unmarried characters. Marrying the characters and making them eighteen doesn't magically okay writing this for teens. Everyone does it—indeed there are many common bodily functions which shouldn't be demonstrated in public—isn't either reason enough. Pressures to include these scenes is evidenced by authors long regarded as “clean” storytellers, authors who won't swear or indulge in graphic or gratuitous content, authors who clearly express Christian beliefs in their acknowledgements, writing them too. Would they give this book to their priest? To a young church member? Would they read the scene aloud for family or friends or the very teens they write for? If even the professed religious authors do not have the fortitude to oppose this, if even they can be convinced of the supposed validity, then gone is the bulwark protecting children from the psychological and moral damage resulting from these scenes. But inclusivity! We must reflect the world around them! Considering what's in these books, all should pray teens aren't seeing this around them. Either way, that doesn't excuse writing about it. Moreover, cries for inclusivity from those shutting down differing opinions are inherently without substance. True inclusivity is achieved when stories focus on universal truths and laudatory values shared by all. The fundamental argument is that “could” is not “should”, and the only reliable arbiter between the two is Divinely-based morality. Current permissiveness is only possible in a society which worked for decades to expunge religion from its vital foundational position and influence. The demonization piled atop its degradation was simple insurance that the moral truths of religion wouldn't interfere with the newly established secular order. We can still be good people, they claimed. Witness the tattered remains. Allowing, championing, this sort of writing has not made us better, and instead of listening to concerns, activists and proponents double down. Need you any proof of the separation between ethics and morality and elitism and academia, scroll through an article or two in defense of these scenes. The more “educated” the individual, the twisted the pretzel of rationalization. Rational lies, all of them. These lies are prominently center of the new crusade against so-called “book banning,” although the books are still available at retailers and publishers. Fueled by self-righteous hysteria, activists take great pride in influencing state legislatures to enact decrees against book bans in protection of “lived experiences,” representation, and the like. If a teen doesn't see two boys or girls or more sleeping together, so the thinking goes, then they face imminent, unspecified harm, never mind that their sacred voice has been quashed. They claim BIPOC and queer authors are specifically targeted, failing to mention it's the content not the author rejected. Somehow the bigots are the ones who don't want kids reduced to “sexuality”, while the tolerant are the ones who do. Need anyone ask if these protections extend to writers who don't align or even disagree with their worldview? I'd say these books are better suited for adults, but adults are despairing of the unreadability of books in their categories too. And that aside from the targeted “decolonization” of books and authors that adults, especially men, enjoyed reading. From the myriad of books extant, no plot was ever turned, no story ever dependent upon an explicit scene, in the bedroom or elsewhere. Neither does such render the work art or literature, but rather indecent and abhorrent. Parents struggle to encourage their kids to read when such are the books available. ELIMINATING THE WEST For some time, agents have specifically requested non-western narratives, histories, and legends. Atop the deteriorating state of the current education system, teens aren't being presented with a fictionalized character in history, which may thereby spark interest and curiosity in real history. No wonder they know so little of the past when they're not offered history at all. What does make it in represents very select time periods. Other permitted historical fiction is alternative histories where the past is magicked or reimagined, almost always in some gender swapped way. While alternative histories can be creative, the lack of regular historical fiction seems to indicate the only permitted history is a remade one. Otherwise, most of western history isn't on shelves because no one wants to represent it. Which means no one's fighting for it to be published. Which means young readers aren't given glimpses into the past that made this present and will highly influence the future. And this from those who claim large swaths of the population don't properly teach history. The same who pushed the fabricated and widely debunked lie that slavery was unique to the west, the only culture who actively sought to end it. The same who have yet to consider the absolute necessity of mandating schools to teach the true horrors of communism done right. The same who have a monochrome view of colonization and chameleon approach to the faux oppressed-oppressor narrative. A rather high volume of Asian-based stories, histories, and mythologies fill the market instead. The proliferation of Asian and other eastern fiction isn't objectively concerning, but it's deliberate increase alongside western stories' deliberate decrease is. It's less an expansion of viewpoints and more a supplanting of anything west. I grew up reading historical fiction, but there's a dearth on shelves for teen readers, who must see where we come from through the eyes of characters resembling our ancestors. Instead of walking through time in their shoes and understanding their struggles in the context of when they lived, we project modern ideologies upon the one protagonist somehow vastly ahead of her time. It's deliberately false and disconnects readers from the world that created the one we live in. Whatever your opinion of our world, it was formed in those histories, and we cannot appreciate the present without understanding the world that made it. MENTAL HEALTH Another major trend in teen fiction is the focus on the broad category of mental health, its emergence unsurprising considering the uptick in modern society. Whatever the viewpoint on diagnoses, the truth is that the ones calling for greater awareness have much to do with having caused the issues. Teens living in the most prosperous, free society that ever was should not have such measures of mental health struggles, yet they do. Skim the messaging of the last several decades and it's no wonder why. Teens are raised on a bombardment of lies and damaging viewpoints resulting in a precarious Jenga structure at their foundation. For decades they've been told they can sleep around without lasting consequence, negating the need to build deep, lasting, exclusive relationships. Families, a fundamental source of meaning and grounding, have been shoved aside for the faux glory of sleeping with whomever, whenever, and the new solution of “found family”. Just because a pill supposedly prevents biological consequences doesn't mean a different sort of toll hasn't been exacted. And that follows the perpetual degradation of dress, reducing the entirety of an individual to a form as valued or devalued as any other physical object. Added to the disrespect of the body is the incessant, unfounded claim that “climate change” is going to destroy the planet by…well, soon. Never mind that we're doing better than before, and all predictions have been proven wrong. Imagine what continual doom and gloom does to the mental state of a teenager already grappling with ping-ponging hormones, who should be presented with optimism for the future they're about old enough to create. Well, we have a pill for that too. Teens have been told the American dream is gone by those who set out to destroy it, that American greatness isn't worth dreaming about by those who recolored it a nightmare. Hobbies and collected skills, the work of their own hands, have been shunted for social media trends and unfettered internet access. Phones are given to younger and younger kids, so they don't grow up in the tangible, real world but an algorithmic, digital one. Inevitably, the worst of that world affects them. They're told that they're hated, feared for the way they were born. They're told they're not even who they've been since birth, basic facts purposely turned into issues and doubts to shake the foundation of self. Those most adamant about the contrived need for teens to discover identity are the most diligent at axing their very roots. The response to the mental health crisis, the jadedness, the internal turmoil they've helped facilitate by destroying the enduring, reliable fabric of society is to encourage more of the same empty, hollowing behaviors. Atop all this is never-ending rage, rage, rage. At the base is the deliberate removal of religion. No matter an individual's choice of observance, religion undeniably provides what liberal society and decadence cannot; meaning. Eternal, enduring meaning. The knowing that you're more than a clump of cells passing through this timespan, because you are an integral link in a chain reaching back millennia. Your ancestors didn't endure hardships or fight to build civilization so you could be the end of the line, but so you could gratefully take your place in it. You and your actions matter. Not because you're a political vote or celebrated community, but because you were made in the image of G-d Who woke you today as there's something only you can do in His world. What effect would the proliferation of this messaging in literature have on the mental state of the youth? And for those pontificating about diversity and inclusion, who in truth only want different skin colors espousing the same beliefs, there is no greater unifier than religion. Belief in a higher power unites individuals of different backgrounds, colors, and, most valuably, opinions, in ways no mandate or ideology ever can. While lengthy, the above in no way encompasses all the changes, reasons, and effects pertaining to the devolution of teen fiction. And, as the focus is not on talent but content, it can be shifted as easily as it was before. You may disagree with everything I've written. You may accuse me of jealousy, hatred, bigotry, racism, misogyny, xenophobia, erasure, et al. I only encourage you to look for yourself. Peruse bookstore aisles; click through new releases; check who's getting awards. What do your eyes see?

The Divinely Uninspired Podcast's Hilarious Holiday Special: Jeremy's Fancy Pants & Turtle Talk!  Join us for a festive episode of the 'The Divinely Uninspired' podcast as we dive into holiday music, discuss our favorite Christmas movies, and get into the Christmas spirit with some unique and unexpected segments. We've got Jeremy in his fancy pants, a turtle named Timmy, a taste test of some questionable holiday treats, and a breakdown of memorable holiday traditions, from Madea Christmas movies to nostalgic memories of Christmas past. Tune in for an hour of laughter, holiday cheer, and a bit of chaos as we navigate the most wonderful time of the year! 00:00

Mark 14:53-72 (ESV)Andrew and Edwin discuss Jesus's own use of prayer to gain strength to overcome the temptation to walk away from the cross in contrast to Peter's lack of prayer keeping him weak in the face of temptation to deny Jesus.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=23714The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

When life feels bigger than your strength, God’s provision becomes your power. Ezra 5:5 reminds us that when God gives an assignment—whether rebuilding a life, leading a family, launching a ministry, or facing opposition—His hand stays on His people until the work is complete. The returning exiles discovered that divine calling comes with divine supply, even when challenges rise and fear tries to stall our obedience. Highlights God equips us fully for every assignment He places in our hands—strength, resources, and support. The exiles returned to devastation, yet God’s favor and miraculous provision met them on arrival. Opposition, intimidation, and discouragement threatened to halt their progress, but God’s presence stayed constant. His faithfulness guaranteed the completion of the rebuilding—He finishes what He begins. Following Jesus includes hardship, but we “take heart” because He has already overcome the world. Romans 8 reminds believers that nothing can separate us from Christ or stop His purposes. Through Him, we live not as survivors but as “more than conquerors,” empowered to persevere. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Divinely Empowered for Our Greatest ChallengesJennifer Slattery (host of Faith Over Fear) Bible Reading:But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, and they did not make them cease till the matter should come to Darius, and then answer should be returned by letter concerning it. (Ezra 5:5, ESV) Today’s verse and the historical context surrounding it assure us that when God assigns us a task, be that to raise children, complete a work project, lead a team, launch a ministry, or pursue a dream, He gives us everything we need to do all that He asks. And while we will likely always experience opposition, whenever we seek to live for Jesus, the events recorded in Ezra and Nehemiah also assure us that He is greater than any opposition we’ll face. In short, He finishes what He begins. The question is, how will we respond when difficulties come? Will we cower in fear, falter in fatigue, or trust in His provision, protection, and care? Presumably, this was a question with which Ezra, the religious leader introduced in the Bible book bearing his name, and the returning exiles wrestled as they labored, for decades, to rebuild what the Assyrians destroyed seventy years prior. Here’s the backstory. Despite centuries of prophetic warnings in which the Lord pleaded with His people to return to Him, they remained set in their rebellion and violent and oppressive ways. Therefore, God gave them the autonomy they wanted, removed His protective hand, and allowed their enemies to conquer them and cart them off to a pagan nation to live as exiles. Yet, faithful to His promise, 70 years later, the Lord mercifully and miraculously returned them to their beloved homeland. Their arrival was bittersweet, filled with celebration for their liberation and return and sorrow for the destruction they saw once back in their beloved capital city. They found Jerusalem’s wall broken down, the gates burned, and the temple destroyed. But they also arrived with an abundance of the Lord’s miraculous provision, given to them by Cyrus, a pagan king. Perhaps buoyed by this obvious display of God’s favor and hope in the restoration He’d previously promised through the prophet Isaiah, they immediately set to work, built an altar, and re-established worship. Not long after, however, their progress stalled due to opposition and their desire to build homes in which to live. The intimidation they experienced from the locals steadily increased and could’ve halted the restoration project indefinitely, leaving Jerusalem like the many other ancient cities that once thrived but are no more. That’s not what happened, however, because the eye of God, meaning His favor and hand, remained on His people until they completed everything He’d assigned and promised. Because again, when God assigns something, He gives us everything we need, be that resources, strength, and people to help, to do all that He’s asked. Intersecting Life & Faith: This story reveals two co-existing realities we all encounter in this life. As you probably know from experience, living for Jesus isn’t, and never will be, easy. Jesus told us to expect trouble: local, national, and global conflict, relational ruptures and betrayal, sickness and poverty, and pain. But He also told us to “take heart”; to sink our faith roots deep into Him, the One who overcame the world and conquered death and the grave that we, His beloved and empowered children, might also overcome. In Romans 8:31-37, Paul, a first-century evangelist who wrote much of the New Testament, phrased it this way: “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who spared not his own Son but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not also with him freely give us all things? … Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation or anguish or persecution or famine …” (ESV). And here’s one of my favorite parts—the last line: “in all these things” –and a thousand more besides— “we are more than conquerors” –as in, we’ve secured, in Christ, overwhelming victory— “through him that loved us” (ESV). Lord, remind us of this truth, your promises, and unchanging character the next time we feel timid, overwhelmed, and defeated that we may pursue Your will with perseverance and Spirit-ignited determination. Further Reading:Proverbs 19:21Proverbs 3:5-6Job 42:2 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today I share the magical, wild journey that led me to where I am now... Pregnant with my 4th child at 41 years old!  In this episode we cover: A journey of intuition, trust, spirit babies, & divine timing that led to this pregnancy My wild dream that changed everything this year The pros of having one more & expanding your family when your kids (and you) are older Letting go of societal programming about maternal age & having babies in your 40s The signs + synchronicities that led my husband and me to our decision My challenging IVF experience: Against all odds trusting my intuition, coaching myself through mindset, & leaning into spirituality to get through it *Link to the episode where I share all the miracles, signs, & synchronicities surrounding my 3rd child's pregnancy + birth:  https://youtu.be/9yG061fJIqU?si=7qI1ReT-0TmNZt7B --- If you are enjoying this podcast, please rate, review, and subscribe.

In the LORD's prayer Jesus taught the disciples to pray “on earth as it is in heaven” which in essence literally means a “divinely synchronized” life! This message is about the how and why of divinely synchronizing your life to God and Heaven.

Uncle Snoop, Dragon Ice, and The Complexities of Prayer In this lively episode of the Divinely Uninspired Podcast, the crew kicks off by discussing the backlash against the band Imagine Dragons, likening it to Nickelback's public treatment. The conversation, filled with playful banter and personal anecdotes, touches on various music artists and their evolving careers, including Machine Gun Kelly, Eminem, and Snoop Dogg. The hosts also delve into their favorite childhood snacks and taste-test some unusual modern treats, including 'Dragon Ice' Taquitos. Shifting gears, they explore deeper themes such as the nature and impact of prayer, our cultural attitudes toward death, and the historical evolution of religious teachings. It's a thoughtful mix of lighthearted fun and profound reflection, making for an entertaining and insightful listen. 00:00 Imagine Dragons: Unfair Criticism? 01:01 Welcome to the Divinely Uninspired Podcast 01:14 Music Talk: X Ambassadors and Machine Gun Kelly 02:42 Eminem and Snoop Dogg: Aging in the Music Industry 05:16 Christmas Songs and IPA Ideas 06:59 Spotify Wrapped: Embarrassing Top Songs 10:42 Stranger Things and AI in Movies 13:23 Snow Days and Iguanas in Florida 16:03 Weird Foods from Around the World 19:38 Snack Talk: Doritos and Cheetos 24:54 Mystery Taste Test: Golden Sriracha Doritos 27:04 Tasting the Blue Chips 27:22 Discussing the Taste and Ingredients 29:12 Energy Drinks and Weird Snacks 32:05 The China Cabinet Debate 38:28 Superman and Religious Analogies 48:01 The Complexity of Prayer 56:15 Reflections on Death and Faith 

This week I sit down with the ultimate baddie, stylist, and creative direction, Chantelle Thach! After experiencing an emergency life or death health scare, Chantelle shares her inspiring story where she was given a second chance at life. We discuss manifestation, prayer, and the power of your faith. It's really beautiful to witness Chantelle's light in person and through this episode. Her gratitude for life is overwhelming and her courage and passion are inspiring. I loved listening to her speak about her faith and in doing so, it's strengthened mine. I hope you love this episode

Monday Bible Study for November 24, 2025 at the Deeper Life Bible Church, Gbagada Lagos. by Pastor W.F Kumuyi

Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Book your FREE 30 Minute Clarity Call with Jody now! https://jody.as.me/womensmeditationnetworkclaritysession What is a Clarity Call? This is the first step to giving you the IMMEDIATE relief you crave and will help you to become "unstuck" as you walk the path towards a life of happiness, inner peace and fulfillment. During this call, we're going to explore your ideal life and vision for living the life that you desire. We'll talk about some of the challenges that are getting in your way, and I'll provide you with some practical tools to help you close the gap from where you are now, to your desired destination. Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player. Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Take a deep breath and allow yourself to settle into the warm embrace of these words: "I am divinely guided." PAUSE (5 SEC)... In this moment, there is nothing for you to do but simply be. Be present, Be open, And be receptive to the guidance that is all around you. This guidance comes from a source greater than yourself, A source of love, wisdom, and infinite possibility. It is the same source that created you and sustains you in every moment. PAUSE (10 SEC)... Feel the weight of your worries and fears lifting from your shoulders as you rest in the knowledge that you are not alone. You are held in the loving embrace of the universe, And it is guiding you every step of the way. Trust that everything is unfolding exactly as it should, even if you cannot see the bigger picture just yet. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,

Unmasking Halloween, Car Troubles, and Deconstructing the Gospels: An Informative Rollercoaster In this episode of the Divinely Uninspired podcast, the crew gathers to discuss post-Halloween stories, the true origins and writings of the Gospels, and childhood myths like quicksand and stop, drop, and roll. Special guest David shares his insights on volunteering and building projects, while the team dissects recent news about teams returning their championships and an unusual Taco Bell 50K run. Tune in for a blend of humorous anecdotes, fascinating historical insights, and a unique taste test experiment. 00:00 Welcome to the Divinely Uninspired Podcast  00:36 Meet the Team and Special Guest David 01:23 Halloween Recap and Costumes 03:27 Jeremy's Halloween Story 12:43 Traffic Signs and Legalities 18:47 Self-Driving Cars and Productivity 23:32 Taco Bell 50K Challenge 27:59 Soccer Championship and Sportsmanship 29:34 Controversial Game Ending 29:42 Debating Sports Ethics 30:04 Classical Christian Values 32:22 Childhood Fears and Myths 40:23 Taste Test Challenge 45:57 Understanding the Bible's Origins 01:02:05 Closing Thoughts and Farewell

Jesus's Divinely Directed and Divinely Protected Life

Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Book your FREE 30 Minute Clarity Call with Jody now!   https://jody.as.me/womensmeditationnetworkclaritysession What is a Clarity Call? This is the first step to giving you the IMMEDIATE relief you crave and will help you to become "unstuck" as you walk the path towards a life of happiness, inner peace and fulfillment. During this call, we're going to explore your ideal life and vision for living the life that you desire. We'll talk about some of the challenges that are getting in your way, and I'll provide you with some practical tools to help you close the gap from where you are now, to your desired destination. Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium You are not lost, nor are you wandering aimlessly.  Every step you take, every decision you make, Is leading you towards your destiny.  PAUSE (5 SEC)... Trust in the unfolding of your life, for it is not by chance that you are where you are today. PAUSE (10 SEC)... Take a deep breath and let the weight of the world melt away. Allow yourself to be cradled by the gentle knowing that your path is divinely planned for you. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen  Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

It's spooky season and Tracy's boyfriend Brodie Currie cleaned out the Home Depot Halloween department and turned the front lawn into a skeleton graveyard. Martina received a personal reading from Jon Angus's mother, April and Tracy had a SAW movie marathon with the kiddies! VIDEO VERSION: TPB+ for MERCH, TOUR DATES, and MORE, visit www.tracyandmartina.com

In this episode, we explore how life's messiness can become a doorway to growth, presence, and deeper meaning. Topics we discussed: Finding meaning Reframing negative experiences as opportunities or blessings A beautifully chaotic car ride through India Practices that help us shift from thinking to feeling What Happy Jack is currently exploring and teaching Letting life and experience teach us something new We'd love to hear from you!

Debunking Mormonism, Heist Fantasies, and $680 Coffee Cups: Deep Dive Discussions  In this lively episode of the Divinely Uninspired podcast, the hosts delve into a diverse array of topics from discussing the authenticity of Mormonism and Joseph Smith's claims to debating the necessity of award shows for Christian music. They also indulge in whimsical heist fantasies, talk about bizarrely expensive coffee, and highlight bizarre TikTok trends that have led to pediatric burns. With side conversations including childhood birthday parties, the legacy of AOL's dial-up internet, and celebrity controversies featuring LeBron James, this episode offers a mix of humor, cultural critique, and thoughtful discourse. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome  00:13 Billy Blanks' Christian Album 00:56 Uniforms and Wardrobe Talk 01:43 Jesus' Attire and Historical Clothing 03:27 Chuck E. Cheese and Birthday Parties 05:23 Nostalgia and Childhood Memories 12:01 Smoking and Vaping Trends 19:02 Heists and Robberies 26:09 Heist Movie Plot Discussion 26:40 Value of Luxurious Items 27:08 Cardi B's Album Release Controversy 27:47 Heist Motivations and Logistics 31:42 Expensive Coffee and Consumerism 35:29 Dangerous TikTok Trends 39:45 Mormonism and Its Origins 54:56 Christian Music Awards Debate 57:50 LeBron James and Celebrity Authenticity 59:07 Conclusion and Farewell

Has God been an absent parent in the lives of his children and Creation? Is this why most of our intimate relationships are so hurtful? Are our intimate relationships designed to facilitate self-individuation or self-actualization, as Jungian individuation suggests, which could potentially lead us back to divine individuation or integration with the source of all that is? 

Has God been an absent parent in the lives of his children and Creation? Is this why most of our intimate relationships are so hurtful? Are our intimate relationships designed to facilitate self-individuation or self-actualization, as Jungian individuation suggests, which could potentially lead us back to divine individuation or integration with the source of all that is?

Frank Otchere

What if your most awkward moments are actually divine appointments?In John 4, Jesus meets a Samaritan woman at a well — at noon — in one of the most uncomfortable, countercultural encounters in all of Scripture. She's got a past, a pattern, and a thirst she can't satisfy. But Jesus doesn't shame her. He meets her. He crosses the cultural, moral, and spiritual lines that divide her from truth — and He does the same for us.This episode explores how God uses awkward encounters to reveal His living water, heal hidden wounds, and invite us into new life. Through the lens of Scripture and history, we'll uncover: • The Power of Divine Awkwardness – How discomfort often signals a divine setup for transformation. • The Five Failed Covenants of Israel – What her five husbands symbolize about humanity's broken promises and God's relentless pursuit. • The Seventh Man — The True Bridegroom – How Jesus completes what history, religion, and relationships could never fulfill. • Repentance as Restoration – Why true repentance isn't about shame, but about turning from wells that run dry to the One who never does.If your soul feels thirsty — if you've been running to temporary wells that can't hold water — this message is your invitation to drop the jar and drink deeply of grace.It's time to stop hiding, stop performing, and stop pretending.Jesus is sitting at the well of your story, waiting to meet you there.

Faith, Fast Food Buffets, and Reimagining Church Membership: A Thought-Provoking Discussion In this episode, the three best friends start off playfully discussing their music preferences and humorous anecdotes related to faith. The conversation then shifts to more serious topics like the concept of faith, church membership, and their personal journeys. They delve into the differences in upbringing, how they handle questions about theology, and the implications of church structures. The episode also includes a fun debate on the best cereals, fast food buffets, and quirky apps on their phones. Finally, the hosts share some exciting announcements about upcoming church events. 00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties 00:07 Discussing George Michael and Music Preferences 01:26 Rapture Predictions and Cults 03:10 NFL Conspiracies and Icebreaker Questions 07:56 Fall Fest and Bug Fest 10:30 Music Festivals and Concert Experiences 16:14 Decluttering and Fat Bear Week 21:13 Fast Food Buffets and Nostalgia 26:27 The Buffet Challenge 26:42 Olive Bar Adventures 28:25 Diet Disasters and Successes 34:41 Cereal Showdown 38:28 Faith Journeys and Church Experiences 50:32 Church Membership and Belonging 01:03:45 Concluding Thoughts and Upcoming Events

Hey guys! I hope you enjoy this potentially Divinely timed pep talk about how to actually overcome your insecurities that are preventing you from not only making magic but actually sharing it magic with the world. (Whatever ‘it' is.)The topic of insecurities was placed on my heart to share with you because typically, when I'm experiencing a wave of something uncomfortable - usually it's coming up for a lot of us in the collective.So I hope you leave this episode feeling inspired and ready to do the thing. Whatever that thing is for you.Love you! XoFor upcoming events, private readings & more info on how you can have your questions answered in the podcast, go to: www.mediumnatashiamack.com Follow me on Instagram: @mediumnatashiamack

In this special interview series episode, we talk with Sara Sauer, caregiver & death doula. We dive deep into caregiving both children and the elderly, along with death doula work as a spiritual path. How caring for her mother unexpectedly led her to a path of caregiving as her Way of giving her giftsShe was Divinely directed to caregiving through intuitive guidance when no other doors opened to how she had previously given her giftsThe importance of accepting the "unwinding" process of death as those she serves prepare for their next adventureThe sound of joy & bliss that those dying can emanate upon transitioning out of their bodyCaregivers see and experience aspects of humanity that no one else does & the honor of thisCaregiving provides spiritual insights and awakeningSara shares her top tips for caregiving children and the elderly, as well as sharing powerful stories of her death doula work as part of her spiritual serviceThe importance of having a spiritual mentor in the physical for navigating a spirit-led lifeSara Sauer is a Love Territory Guide and Sacred Spirituality Coach serving as a senior caregiver and child caregiver/nanny. Assisting her Mom on her 2.5 year journey with cancer, including being her end of life caregiver set into motion her caregiver & death doula path. Sara loves being present for all those she serves, including the families that hire her as they are the decision makers for how to best honor the one(s) she's caring for. Sara loves each one she serves where they're at, as they are, finding out what they can do and then assisting in all other needed areas. You can receive a free Sacred Heart Meditation by Sara: https://youtu.be/iALcgPG0LE8?si=NmBk4AHulFPG-n6kor connect with her on IG @sara.sauer if you're seeking a caregiver for your loved one or are a caregiver seeking a mentor 

Divinely Rising with MeEach sunrise is an invitation to rise higher—in spirit, in purpose, and in truth. Divinely Rising with Me is your sacred space for morning affirmations, prayers, and soul nourishment to align your energy for the day ahead.Through powerful words, grounding rituals, and divine reflections, this podcast helps you release yesterday, center yourself in the present, and step into your highest self with clarity and confidence.Whether you're seeking peace, empowerment, or daily reminders of who you truly are, Divinely Rising with Me is here to lift your spirit and guide you into alignment. Start your mornings with intention, light, and divine power.

Idol or Angel? Scripture commands us not to make images of things in the earth or in the heavens to worship them. This means different things to different people, even within the Jewish community. It is one of those commandments that drives the reader to its multiple other mentions in Scripture to make full sense of it: “You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth." (Ex 20:4) Some may not possess any figured images, applying the mitzvah very strictly. Others may give their children dolls or have animal sculpture for decoration, applying additional context for the mitzvah, which is having an image for the purpose of worshiping it or acknowledging its power: You shall not make for yourselves idols, nor shall you set up for yourselves an image or a sacred pillar, nor shall you place a figured stone in your land to bow down to it; for I am the LORD your God. (Le 26:1) In this application, a person avoids images of known gods, demons, or symbols denoting such, but does not avoid having photographs, artwork, or objects in the shape of animals or heavenly bodies, etc. The Tabernacle and Temple were decorated with images of both heavenly and earthly objects according to a Divinely-prescribed pattern. The range of interpretations is not unusual, and it lends itself to investigation so that one can learn more about the mitzvah by tracking down every mention of images as idols. This week, we'll take a look at a song traditionally sung on Erev Shabbat to usher in the Divine Presence on Shabbat, for Shabbat is a moed, an appointed time when the Creator of the Universe promises to visit those who tend His Garden. Shir HaShirim (Song of Songs) 5:1 has been our working text for understanding the repopulation of the Garden when the Bride and Bridegroom join the Divine Presence at the wedding feast of resurrection: I have come into my garden, my sister, my bride; I have gathered my myrrh along with my balsam. I have eaten my honeycomb and my honey; I have drunk my wine and my milk. Eat, friends; drink and imbibe deeply, O lovers. This sumptuous wedding meal inaugurates the reign of Messiah Yeshua, for he will return to earth with his holy ones to rule and restore the earth to the purpose for which the Father created it. What we have learned the last few weeks is that earthly hospitality to the righteous brother or sister is the Torah's pattern of preparation for the restoration of all things. Following our lesson on Avraham and the angels last week, let's pick up this week with Yeshua's reiteration of hospitality. A righteous guest seeks a righteous home for hospitality, and he/she has the authority to bless that home with peace: “Do not acquire gold, or silver, or copper for your money belts, or a bag for your journey, or even two coats, or sandals, or a staff; for the worker is worthy of his support. And whatever city or village you enter, inquire who is worthy in it, and stay at his house until you leave that city. As you enter the house, give it your greeting. If the house is worthy, give it your blessing of peace. But if it is not worthy, take back your blessing of peace. Whoever does not receive you, nor heed your words, as you go out of that house or that city, shake the dust off your feet. Truly I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city.” (Mt 10:9-15) Yeshua sent out his disciples as his messengers. They were to practice what they'd seen Yeshua do: teach, preach, immerse, comfort, exhort, rebuke, heal, and so on. The disciples were messengers, sometimes called shliachim in Hebrew for "sent ones." Another word for messenger in Hebrew is malak: ???????? m?l?âk; to despatch as a deputy; a messenger; specifically, of God, i.e. an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher):—ambassador, angel, king, messenger

Living a Divinely Guided Life: From Navy Commander to Medium with Suzanne Giesemann & Kara LovehartIn episode 101 of the Mind Body Detox Podcast, Kara Lovehart — Mind Body Psychic Medium and Executive Intuitive Coach — welcomes internationally known spiritual teacher, Hay House author, and evidence-based medium Suzanne Giesemann.Suzanne shares her extraordinary journey from serving as a Navy Commander and aide to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to becoming a respected medium and spiritual teacher. Following the tragic loss of her stepdaughter, she discovered an awakened path of deep spiritual connection, leading her to write bestselling books including The Awakened Way and Messages of Hope, and to create the award-winning documentary Wolf's Message.

In this episode of VivaLife SPF ME, Dr. Kelly O. takes us deep into the sacred art of forgiveness, release, and divine alignment. Learn why losing people, places, and familiar routines isn't failure—it's preparation. Through the VivaLife 5 (Spiritual, Physical, Financial, Mental, Emotional), discover how to shift from tugging and begging for connections to attracting what is truly yours. With scripture, wisdom from successful leaders, actionable steps, and real talk, you'll leave empowered to embrace who and what remains, while blessing those who no longer align with your journey.Share, like, and follow this Vivalife SPF ME podcast on Spotify/Amazon,/Google platformsVivaLife SPF ME • A podcast on Spotify for PodcastersSubscribe to our YouTube: https://youtube.com/@vivalifehealthhub8261?si=zLFMLAZ126ss6qyOClick the link below to join our mailing list, events, and experienceshttps://vivalifespfme.com/dr-kelly-o-md-linktreeBook Dr. Kelly O., MD: https://vivalifespfme.com/speakerBuy your journal: https://vivalifespfme.myshopify.com/products/vivalife-spf-me-journal We can't be erased, T-shirt & Hat! https://vivalifespfme.myshopify.com/products/we-cant-be-erased-tshirt #Affirmation #365DaysofAffirmation #VivalifeSPFMEPodcast #VivalifeSPFME #VivalifeHealthHUB #DrKellyOMD

Third Round posts are short audio clips taken from Round 3 comments in the online Logopraxis Life Group meetings. The aim is to maintain focus on understanding the Text's application to the inner life while reinforcing key LP principles highlighted in the exchanges. Transcript of this 3 part Third Round series (PDF) The 3 Humans This Third Round is part of a 3 part series on the glorification of the Lord. The following passage is a good reference for this work: Doctrine of the Lord 35. vi. By successive steps the Lord put off the human taken from the mother, and put on a Human from the Divine within Him, which is the Divine Human, and is the Son of God. That in the Lord were the Divine and the human, the Divine from Jehovah the Father, and the human from the virgin Mary, is known. Hence He was God and Man, having a Divine essence and a human nature; a Divine essence from the Father, and a human nature from the mother; and therefore was equal to the Father as to the Divine, and less than the Father as to the human. It is also known that this human nature from the mother was not transmuted into the Divine essence, nor commingled with it, for this is taught in the Doctrine of Faith which is called the Athanasian Creed. For a human nature cannot be transmuted into the Divine essence, nor can it be commingled therewith. [2] In accordance with the same creed is also our doctrine, that the Divine assumed the Human, that is, united itself to it, as a soul to its body, so that they were not two, but one Person. From this it follows that the Lord put off the human from the mother, which in itself was like that of another man, and thus material, and put on a Human from the Father, which in itself was like His Divine, and thus substantial, so that the Human too became Divine. The holiness of the Word Arcana Coelestia 4922... anyone believing that the Word is holy can recognize that each has a specific meaning, and anyone believing that the Word is holy for the reason that it has been sent down from the Lord by way of heaven can recognize that the celestial and spiritual things belonging to His kingdom are meant. AC 10057...If people believe that the Word is holy and has been inspired by God in every single part, they must also believe that every single established practice in the sacrifices and burnt offerings embraces and contains such arcana within it. Yet what it is that those practices embrace and contain within them cannot by any means be known on earth unless it is known what is meant in heaven by such things. What is meant, however, the internal sense of the Word alone teaches, since this unfolds correspondences. For all things that exist in the natural world correspond to those which exist in the spiritual world, because the former comes into being from and is held in being by the latter. AC 5274(7)... all the details of the Word are holy; but the holiness therein is not apparent to the understanding, except that of one who knows its internal sense; nevertheless by influx from heaven it comes to the perception of him who believes the Word to be holy. This influx is effected through the internal sense in which the angels are; and although this sense is not understood by the man, still it affects him, because the affection of the angels who are in it is communicated. From this it is plain also that the Word has been given to man in order that he may have communication with heaven, and that the Divine truth which is in heaven may affect him by means of the influx. Doctrine of Sacred Scripture 18. iii. From the spiritual sense it is that the Word is Divinely inspired, and is holy in every word. It is said in the church that the Word is holy, and this because Jehovah God spoke it; but as its holiness is not apparent from the letter alone, he who on this account once doubts its holiness, afterwards confirms his doubt when reading the Word by many things in it, for he then thinks,

What if the key to clarity, confidence, and Divine alignment isn't about finding more answers—but about asking better questions?In this episode, I'll guide you into the powerful practice of coaching yourself with transformational questions—the kind of questions that move you out of fear and doubt and into presence, love, and empowerment.You'll learn:Why answers alone don't create transformation, but the right questions always doThe six types of transformational questions—and how to use them dailyHow questions shift you from shame and self-doubt into curiosity and self-trustPractical journaling, reflection, and embodiment techniques to anchor your truthWhy transformational questions are not just coaching tools but soul activatorsWhen you learn to coach yourself with the right questions, you stop outsourcing your power—and start living as the grounded, radiant, Divinely aligned person you were always meant to be.About the Host, Elaine Starling: (bio, personal links, resource links)Welcome to The Abundance Journey—where we don't just talk about abundance, we embody it.I'm Elaine Starling, The Abundance Ambassador™. After a spiritual near-death experience, I was called to help you align your energy, purpose, and voice with the Divine abundance already within you.Each week, you'll hear practical tools, spiritual insights, inspiring guests, and powerful Intention Activations to help you:Reconnect with your true selfReclaim your intrinsic worthTake aligned action toward your highest visionLet's spiral up into joy, purpose, and prosperity—together.www.TheAbundanceJourney.comBeaming you infinite love and blessings!Free Gift: Get a book excerpt from “5 Steps to Activate Your Abundance”How to Support: Please share this episode with everyone you love and admire. Let them know that they are receiving this lovely energy too!Elaine Starling Social Media Links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elaine.abundance Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elainestarling/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3eXgwdMYYzLicCEcB1DdrgTEDx Talk, “Abundance Is a Choice” https://youtu.be/tMQ0D4sfEysWebsite: www.TheAbundanceJourney.com5 Steps to Activate Your Abundance Book: https://amzn.to/3vjKjft Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe...

This podcast is brought to you by LifeChurch West Chester. We pray you are blessed, and we thank you for listening! For additional content and information, please visit www.lifechurchwestchester.com.

Pastor Mark Balmer preaches a message called "Divinely Unified" from 1 Corinthians 12:12-20.---Parkview Church exists to glorify God through the whole church forming whole disciples for the good of all people.Website: www.parkviewchurch.orgInstagram/Facebook: @parkviewchurchic

Lesson preached by Bob Harding on Sunday, 08/24/2025

Send us a textIn this episode of Queerly Beloved, I'm joined by the luminous and liberatory Rev. Karmen Michael Smith- a Black queer theologian, cultural strategist, and author of Holy Queer: The Coming Out of Christ. As the creator of Prophetic Intelligence™ and the founder of the inclusive digital faith community Poor Culture, Karmen's work lives at the sacred intersection of queerness, spirituality, and social transformation. He currently serves as the Director of Community Engagement and Social Justice at Union Theological Seminary.Together, we dive into the radiant, raw, and radically affirming terrain of queer divinity and spiritual expansion.Topics we explore include:Spiritual self-care as sacred ritual (yes, including solo dance parties!).What it means to minister beyond the walls of the church.Why disruption can be divine, and the gateway to liberation.The richness and freedom found in the margins.Queerness not as a curse but as a calling.The layered intersection of being Black, queer, and spiritual.How to court presence in a world full of distractions.✨ This is one of those conversations that opens hearts, shifts paradigms, and makes the sacred feel just a little more spacious. Take a breath, take your time, and let this one land in your spirit.

It's time for part 2 of Unceasing Summer Fun, getting acquainted with our new game through a Great Gacha World Tour! Local medium-level expert Kit is our fashion correspondent as we look around the streets of Florawish in Infinity Nikki. Keep an eye out for edgy ghost dresses, plastic bath cap fashion, river water boots, and the cutest overalls imaginable as we ponder a question that maybe only Kit can answer: Are all these dressup clothes... like... good? Follow along:  https://game8.co/games/Infinity-Nikki/archives/487909 https://game8.co/games/Infinity-Nikki/archives/487985  Support the show:  https://ko-fi.com/ivyfoxart Follow the show on Tumblr:  https://soul-mates-podcast.tumblr.com/ Follow the show on YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@Soul-Mates-Podcast Listen to Together We'll Shine: An Utena Rewatch Podcast:  https://bunnygirlbrainwave.substack.com/archive Art by Ryegarden:  https://www.instagram.com/ryegarden Music by Sueños Electrónicos:  https://suenoselectronicos.bandcamp.com/ Follow and support ash:  https://ko-fi.com/asherlark

Divinely Magnetic: Attract What's Already YoursIn this soul-aligned episode, Dr. Kelly O. shares what it means to be Divinely Magnetic—how to stop chasing and start attracting what's truly yours. She breaks down the energy of ease, boundaries rooted in self-worth, and how spiritual alignment creates natural opportunities.Learn practical steps to call in partnerships, platforms, peace, and prosperity without burnout.You were never meant to beg. You were born to draw in blessings by embodying wholeness.Share, like, and follow this Vivalife SPF ME podcast on Spotify/Amazon,/Google platformsVivaLife SPF ME • A podcast on Spotify for PodcastersSubscribe to our YouTube: https://youtube.com/@vivalifehealthhub8261?si=zLFMLAZ126ss6qyOClick the link below to join our mailing list, events, and experienceshttps://vivalifespfme.com/dr-kelly-o-md-linktreeBook Dr. Kelly O., MD: https://vivalifespfme.com/speakerBuy your journal: https://vivalifespfme.myshopify.com/products/vivalife-spf-me-journal We can't be erased, T-shirt & Hat! https://vivalifespfme.myshopify.com/products/we-cant-be-erased-tshirt #Affirmation #365DaysofAffirmation #VivalifeSPFMEPodcast #VivalifeSPFME #VivalifeHealthHUB #DrKellyOMD

Elder Gary E. Stevenson highlights the heavenly blessings we have received to help us with our divinely appointed responsibilities. Click here to view the full speech.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we're drawing on a total of more than 20 years of royal blogging to discuss royal fans! We'll be exploring the history of fandom from Charles II merch through the early Sussex era to AI fan art, bringing you some of our wildest fandom memories, and breaking down the major types of fans. LINKSFollow the podcast: onheirpodcast.tumblr.com/ or https://instagram.com/onheirpodcast Follow Grace: https://princesscatherinemiddleton.net/ and https://www.instagram.com/_kmiddy/ Follow Jessica: https://duchessofostergotlands.tumblr.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/howtodresslikeaprincess/Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/onheirpodcast

Open Forum: Pastor Amos led a powerful discussion centered on faith, calling, and provision. He shared inspiring testimonies, including how Wonders with Worship, a church in Atlanta, acquired a larger building by trusting God's guidance, and how a pastor delivered prophetic messages to President Trump through a divinely orchestrated encounter. Participants like Ark, Anya, and Arlene shared how God's direction has aligned with their personal and professional paths. Pastor Amos opened up about his own reluctant journey into ministry, eventually embracing the title of pastor after years of resistance. The group also discussed financial challenges, with heartfelt testimonies from Toya, Ark, and Jovanna that emphasized trusting God and the importance of community support. Pastor Amos updated the group on the evolving vision of Church for Entrepreneurs, transitioning into a global home church with a focus on spiritual growth, virtual outreach, and empowering local leaders. The forum ended with Pastor Amos praying for the church's growth and for each member to boldly walk in their God-given calling. Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com                  

In this episode, I share the intuitive messages that came through for the month of June.   Some of the themes and messages include:Smooth(ish) sailing and forward momentumIf the ‘waters' get choppy, have fun and enjoy the rideBlooming energy

CULTIVATING SAINTS, SAGES, AND STATESMEN THROUGH THE GREAT TRADITION OF CHRISTENDOMIn today's episode, we dive into St. Thomas Aquinas's "brief" case for the papacy. He makes four arguments, and responds to two objections (both of which are often made by protestants and other non-Catholics to this day!). These arguments come from his apologetic work, Summa Contra Gentiles (Book 4, Ch. 76).If you aren't Catholic, learn why the papacy makes sense from Scripture and reason. If you are Catholic, learn how to defend the papacy with these great arguments from St. Thomas.VISIT OUR WEBSITEhttps://eternalchristendom.com/BECOME A PATRON OF THE GREAT TRADITIONHelp us continue to dig into the Great Tradition; produce beautiful, substantive content; and gift these treasures to cultural orphans around the world for free:https://eternalchristendom.com/become-a-patron/EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS AT ETERNAL CHRISTENDOM BOOKSTOREhttps://eternalchristendom.com/bookstore/CONNECT ON SOCIAL MEDIAX: https://twitter.com/JoshuaTCharlesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/joshuatcharles/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshuatcharles/DIVE DEEPERCheck out Eternal Christendom's "Becoming Catholic," where you'll find hundreds of thousands of words of free content (as big as the Bible!) in the form of Articles, Quote Archives, and Study Banks to help you become, remain, and deepen your life as a Catholic:https://eternalchristendom.com/becoming-catholic/EPISODE CHAPTERS00:00 - Intro01:23 - Roadmap04:03 - Argument 1: Societies Have Heads06:28 - Argument 2: Resolving Disputes11:25 - Argument 3: Rule by One18:36 - Argument 4: Imitation of Heaven23:36 - Objection 1: Christ is the Shepherd27:35 - Objection 2: Peter Has No Successors29:56 - ConclusionLISTEN ON APPLEhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eternal-christendom-podcast/id1725000526LISTEN ON SPOTIFYhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3HoTTco6oJtApc21ggVevu

Hey friend, it's Jody Agard. I'm so excited to introduce this special Divine Timing series. In these meditations, we'll explore the power of trusting life's unfolding, surrendering control, and embracing the flow of everything that's meant for us. Each meditation will help you align with the natural rhythm of the universe, making peace with the timing of your life. Let's begin this journey with the first meditation: Meditation to Release Resistance and Embrace Ease. Because sometimes, we don't realize we resist and block what's Divinely meant for us. Xo, Jody Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Divinely Prosperous You | Sara Landon & Kyle Cease2What if the very act of chasing money is what blocks it from flowing into your life?In this powerful Journey of the Master podcast episode, join transformational teacher Sara Landon and bestselling author Kyle Cease for a free LIVE broadcast as they reveal how to align with true prosperity.Discover what it means to become The Divinely Prosperous You—and unlock a whole new way of living in abundance.✨ Two masterful teachers.✨ One transformational conversation.✨ A life-changing shift in how you experience money, worth, and wealth.It's more than a conversation—it's an opportunity to up-level your way of being.

What is the big picture of Holy Scripture? How may one make sense of world history? In this 4/27/25 sermon, Michael Gowens explores Psalm 2, a passage which distills and crystallizes the answer to these questions in summary form. This Psalm is a sort of meta-narrative, comprehending the message of the entire Bible in a dozen or so Divinely-inspired verses.

Unity with Christ has two directions.Identification - of Jesus with us, of ourselves with Him - is the key that unlocks all He obtained for us by His death and resurrection.Support the show

Cultural Catalysts with Ken Coleman || Discover What You're Divinely Wired To Do by Kris Vallotton

Jimmy Akin dives into big questions on Cain's fear of others in Genesis, Catholic tradition vs. Sola Scriptura and many more questions!…