Podcast appearances and mentions of jennifer eikenhorst

Driving is a privilege, not a right. Yet many underestimate the life-altering consequences of one split-second distraction behind the wheel. In this deeply moving episode, Catherine speaks with Jennifer Eikenhorst—author of Left Turn Life Unimagined and host of the Accidental Hope podcast—about the devastating impact of inattentive driving. Jennifer shares her powerful testimony of being involved in a fatal accident, a tragedy that forever altered many lives. This conversation goes beyond statistics and safety tips. It’s a wake-up call to view our vehicles not just as tools for convenience, but as potential weapons—two tons of steel that we command every day, often with casual disregard. Imagine this: You're walking around a room filled with your loved ones—your children, your spouse, your friends—holding a loaded gun in one hand and a bag of chips in the other. You wouldn’t dream of it. Yet, many of us do the equivalent every day when we drive distracted—texting, daydreaming, eating—all while operating a vehicle capable of immense harm. As followers of Christ, we are called to love our neighbor. That includes every pedestrian, cyclist, and fellow driver we encounter. Our driving is more than just a habit—it’s a spiritual responsibility. Every time we take the wheel, we must choose mindfulness, vigilance, and compassion over convenience and distraction. In this eye-opening episode, you’ll learn: Why distractions like voice texting, daydreaming, or even snacking can be deadly. What Jennifer faced legally and emotionally after her accident—and how it reshaped her understanding of accountability and grace. How we can raise the next generation of responsible drivers who see driving not as a right, but as a sacred duty to protect life. One of the most unforgettable moments in the episode is when Jennifer compares driving to handling a loaded weapon. Her story will challenge you to reflect on your own driving habits—and what message you're sending to your children. Call to Action: As Christian parents, let’s redefine driving as an act of love. Let’s teach our children to steward the responsibility of driving with reverence and caution. Let’s model what it means to value every life on the road. Reflect: What small changes can you make to drive more intentionally? Could those changes save a life? Tune in now and join a conversation that could change how you—and your family—approach the road forever. About the Guest: Jennifer Eikenhorst is a mother of four, teacher, and faith-driven speaker whose life was forever changed by a tragic accident. In the aftermath, she found purpose in sharing hope and healing with others facing accidental loss. As the author of Left Turn: Life Unimagined and host of the Accidental Hope podcast, Jen offers a compassionate space for those navigating grief and guilt. She also serves on the advisory council for the Hyacinth Fellowship, supporting those who have unintentionally caused harm. Her journey is a powerful testament to God’s grace, redemption, and the resilience of faith. EPISODE RESOURCES: Other Episodes in this Series: #143 “The Shame We Bury: Finding God in Our Darkest Moments" #142 "When Life Shatters: Finding God in Our Darkest Moments" Jen’s Website & Podcast Jen’s Book: Left Turn: Life Unimagined The Hyacinth Fellowship Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Sometimes, the most powerful conversations aren’t the ones we plan. In this unexpected episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, host Catherine dives into a deeply moving discussion with Jennifer Eikenhorst, author of Left Turn, Life Unimagined and host of Accidental Hope. What was originally intended to be a conversation about driving safety took a profound turn when Jen encountered a heartbreaking situation just before recording—a tragic reminder of what happens when shame festers in silence. That moment shifted everything, revealing God’s orchestration in real-time. This episode explores:

When life shatters in unimaginable ways, how do we hold on to hope and grace? How do we move forward when we are the ones who made the mistake? In this profoundly moving episode, Catherine explores a story that speaks to the heart of every parent and believer. Jennifer Eikenhorst—a devoted mother, teacher, and woman of faith—shares the day that changed her life forever. A simple left turn resulted in a tragic accident, taking the life of an innocent man. As she faced the crushing weight of grief, guilt, and endless "whys," Jen discovered a truth that is essential for all of us: God will meet us in our deepest shame, but we must choose Him. Mistakes are inevitable. Some are small, and others change lives forever. No one escapes the reality of human error. But in these moments, we face a choice: to live in condemnation or receive the grace that God freely gives. Through raw honesty, Jen shares her journey of surrender—how she learned to accept God's mercy, extend grace to herself, and become a vessel of healing for others. As the host of the Accidental Hope podcast and an advisor in the Hyacinth Fellowship, Jen now ministers those affected by accidental injury and death find restoration and faith. Universal Takeaways for Parents & Believers

Summary: Personal Experience and Faith: Leah shares her personal journey through multiple hardships, including the loss of her house, her son's addiction, and her mother's cancer. She emphasizes how these experiences have deepened her intimacy with God and strengthened her faith. Permission to Feel and Wrestle with God: The discussion touches on the importance of embracing emotions and being transparent with God. Leah explains that acknowledging and wrestling with feelings of grief and suffering can lead to experiencing God's peace and presence more profoundly. Community and Support: Leah highlights the significance of community support during times of grief. She shares examples from her own life where friends and community members provided crucial support, reinforcing the idea that healing often involves others helping to "unravel our grave clothes." Message of Hope and Redemption**: Throughout the conversation, Leah and Speaker 1 underscore the message of hope in Christ. They stress that while grief and suffering are inevitable, turning towards God and trusting in His plan of redemption can lead to healing and transformation. Podcast Intro: My guest is Lea Turner, a wife, a mom to 5 children, she's an author and a grief coach. When you hear just a little bit of her story today, you'll see how much experience she's had in the area of grief and it will explain why she's the perfect one to come alongside grieving hearts and help them navigate the seasons of life when we live with loss and uncertainty. A quick overview of her grief journeys (with an S - plural)…within a very short time period of 3 years it included death, cancer, a house fire where she and her family lost absolutely everything include the family dog), her son battling addiction, shattered dreams, heart surgery…and just recently her mom's cancer journey has shifted and is adding yet more uncertainty for the days ahead. Our conversation focuses on Lea's book, The Freedom to Feel: Finding God in Grief and Trauma, Her book goes into greater depth with regard to what we discussed plus additional topics that we didn't have time to discuss. I really picked around in Lea's pain and she was gracious enough to answer every question. She explains how her relationship with God has evolved through each season of loss, emphasizing the importance of building a foundation with God to weather difficult times. She shares a story about a pastor's advice that spending time with God is preparation for future hardships. Lea highlights the importance of embracing feelings of grief and suffering rather than running from them and she explains that acknowledging and feeling pain allows the Holy Spirit to provide comfort, contrasting this with numbing behaviors like alcohol or excessive activities. She also discusses the importance of not becoming a victim of grief, suggesting that continually dwelling on hard stories can trap a person in their suffering. Instead, she recommends balancing necessary daily responsibilities with the need to process emotions and seek God's guidance. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did as we discussed the hope and transformation that comes from a relationship with God. All that she shared is very encouraging but I especially loved the reminder when she said that as believers we lament, meaning we grieve with hope. I'd say that Leah's over all message and I whole heartedly agree with it….is the importance of continually turning towards God. Even in the midst of grief and heartache we can count on God's character and presence to remain constant through every crashing wave of any storm we endure. Let's listen in for encouragement and a reminder that God has a plan of redemption for every form of suffering they endure. Live Loved and Thrive! @alifeofthrive.com Podcasts Related to this Topic: Widows, Grief and Finding Hope with Anne-Marie Lockmyer: https://alifeofthrive.com/2024/02/14/widows-grief-and-finding-hope-with-anne-marie-lockmyer/ Life and Hope After an Accidental Death, with Jennifer Eikenhorst: https://alifeofthrive.com/2023/07/18/life-and-hope-after-an-accidental-death-with-jennifer-eikenhorst/ Hope Deferred with Lainie Stubblefield - Marriage and Children - https://alifeofthrive.com/2022/10/26/hope-deferred/   Connect with Lea: Website: leaturner.com IG: @leagjturner FB: facebook.com/aheartatrest Newest book: The Freedom to Feel: Finding God in Grief and Trauma Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Freedom-Feel-Finding-Midst-Trauma/dp/B0D2PGK11T/ref=monarch_sidesheet   Bio:  Lea Turner is a heartfelt, empathetic writer and speaker who longs to meet and encourage us in our pain. Joyfully broken through three years of her family struggling with trauma and loss, including death, cancer, losing everything to a house fire, drug addiction, loss of a dream, and heart surgery has made her a reluctant expert on grief. Lea is a soulful listener and wisdom seeker, passionate about walking with grieving people through trauma, pain, and loss. She lives in Mississippi with her husband and five kids making her a northern girl stuck in a southern world.   

Contact Amy Contact Jennifer The raw emotion of heartbreak and the quest for healing takes center stage as Jennifer Eikenhorst joins me on 'Wednesdays with the Watson.' Jennifer's story is a tapestry of pain and faith, woven together on an ordinary day that escalated into a life-altering tragedy. As she recounts the accident that took the life of David, a beloved veteran, and father, we are reminded of the overwhelming weight of grief and the responsibility one carries after such an event. Through tears and courage, she shares how this experience became the fulcrum of her faith, testing its strength and resilience. Struggle and spirituality collide in our intimate conversation about the role of faith through life's most trying moments. As we navigate the tumultuous emotions that come with feeling forsaken, from anger to surrender, we acknowledge that faith is not immune to questions and doubts. Yet, it is also in these moments that we find the potential for profound growth as we learn to differentiate between our humanity and our purpose. This episode is more than just a recounting of sorrow; it's a journey toward understanding and compassion. Jennifer's creation of 'Accidental Hope' and the process behind her memoir is a testament to the redemptive power of sharing one's story. To all listeners bearing the heavy mantle of tragedy, know this is a space of support and love. As we close, I extend an invitation to embrace the greater narrative of your life, with faith as the guide, offering solace and transformation in the wake of life's storms                                                                                                     You ARE:SEEN KNOWN HEARD LOVED VALUED

Trigger Warning: loss, suicidal ideation   Jennifer is a wife, mother of four, and an educator who is passionate about helping struggling students. One evening on a routine run to pick up her child, she collides with a motorcyclist. Despite her desperate prayers and efforts made, he passes away. Everything begins to unravel and life as she knew it was falling apart, her identity, faith and mental health. She battles the voices of guilt and whispers of shame and countless questions without hope of answers on this side of heaven.    In this episode Jennifer shares: A bit of her faith walk The night of the accident and praying for a miracle The unimaginable loss, shock and facing the possibility of prison Her rock solid faith being shaken for the first time How God moved through people and circumstances  A vision in a church service God gave her of David in heaven and a word from God Fully surrendering her fate and trusting it to God before her court decision Learning about "cities of refuge" found in the Bible Being called to share her testimony for the first time and its effect Being led to serve in a ministry to help others who are seeking hope after causing accidental death or injury   "I will tell you, in those darkest, scariest places, have hope for the day because God has a plan. The work done on the cross was meant for you too. That there is nothing, absolutely nothing, that can separate you from the love of God that he is in complete control.  He will give you perfect peace and if you trust him, he will make those things work out for good." -Jen Eikenhorst   In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:26-28 NIV   Jennifer's ministry, podcast, resources, and contact info on the Accidental Hope website: https://accidentalhope.com/   Jennifer's book Left Turn, Life Unimagined: https://a.co/d/i14VIaj   Support Group and safe place for anyone who has caused accidental death or injury: https://hyacinthfellowship.org/   Jennifer's episode on Red Table Talk:  https://www.facebook.com/redtabletalk/videos/481244670021721/   New Yorker Article referenced in this episode:  https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2017/09/18/the-sorrow-and-the-shame-of-the-accidental-killer   I found this on cities of refuge in the Bible: https://www.christianity.com/wiki/bible/what-were-the-cities-of-refuge-in-the-bible.html

Scott Slaughter co-host and producer of The Only One In The Room has a short and casual, yet deep conversation with our guest Jennifer Eikenhorst right after the show. Join our Only One In The Room Facebook Group if you'd like to ask a question of any of our upcoming guests for this series. Also visit the website www.theonlyonepod.com for the latest from our host Laura Cathcart Robbins like featured articles and more. We love hearing from you in the comments on iTunes and while you're there don't forget to rate us, subscribe and share the show! Join our Patreon: Become an Only One In The Room patron by joining us on Patreon! Starting at only $5.00 per month, you'll get bonus content, access to outtakes that the general public will NEVER see, extremely cool merch, and depending on what tier you get, monthly hang time with Scott and Laura. Join our Patreon today at https://www.patreon.com/theonlyonepodcast Don't wait until the new year, start building healthier eating habits this fall with Green Chef. Go to greenchef.com/60onlyone and use the code 60onlyone to get 60% off plus free shipping. Upgrade your closet this summer with Quince. Right now go to https://www.quince.com/our-core-collection/?utm_campaign=oneroom&utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=veritone to get free shipping and 365-day returns on your next order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine driving home, your daughters in the backseat, and suddenly a flash of light on the driver's side warns you that there's a vehicle approaching and you and your girls brace for impact. Jennifer Eikenhorst, teacher, wife, mother of four, and a woman of strong faith was almost home when she'd realized that vehicle she'd collided with was a motorcycle and that somehow, she had caused a devastating accident. So what would you do if the man on the bike died a few days later in the hospital? Would you lose hope and question your faith? Or would you force yourself to keep going and start a podcast that gives hope to others who have killed someone by accident? More From Jennifer Eikenhorst: Listen to Accidental Hope Visit: https://accidentalhope.com Finding Jennifer Eikenhorst: Instagram: @jenneikenhorst, @accidentalhope Facebook: @accidentalhope Join our Only One In The Room Facebook Group if you'd like to ask a question of any of our upcoming guests for this series. Also visit the website www.theonlyonepod.com for the latest from our host Laura Cathcart Robbins like featured articles and more. We love hearing from you in the comments on iTunes and while you're there don't forget to rate us, subscribe and share the show! Join our Patreon: Become an Only One In The Room patron by joining us on Patreon! Starting at only $5.00 per month, you'll get bonus content, access to outtakes that the general public will NEVER see, extremely cool merch, and depending on what tier you get, monthly hang time with Scott and Laura. Join our Patreon today at https://www.patreon.com/theonlyonepodcast Don't wait until the new year, start building healthier eating habits this fall with Green Chef. Go to greenchef.com/60onlyone and use the code 60onlyone to get 60% off plus free shipping. Upgrade your closet this summer with Quince. Right now go to https://www.quince.com/our-core-collection/?utm_campaign=oneroom&utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=veritone to get free shipping and 365-day returns on your next order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guest, author Jennifer Eikenhorst knows a depth of sorrow, I pray I never know. She knows the reality of causing someone's accidental death. She's been on a healing journey ever since that fateful day in October of 2014. A journey that has spanned the full gamut of human suffering as she struggled and grappled with trying to make sense of what she used to know and who she used to be tangled with the reality of what she's forced to know in every area of her existence. She's recently published a book about her journey titled, Left Turn: Life Unimagined. Unimagined indeed. The scope of all that this tragedy seeps into is nothing shy of every facet of her life and the lives of others. Her heart and the hearts of everyone affected have been shattered in countless ways. Jennifer takes full responsibility for the accidental death of David, a motorcyclist that she did not see after stopping at the stop sign. She has an incredibly humble posture in the position of having taken the life of another human being. Additionally, she has great compassion for those who find themselves in the same exact position as her, having accidentally caused the death of another person. I'm not quite sure why I find the topic of forgiveness so intriguing but when Jennifer and I were able to get our schedules together for this conversation I knew that she would provide us with an incredible glimpse into the heart of God and His forgiveness. And in her case, not only God's forgiveness but the hope for forgiveness from David's family, her children's forgiveness because they were in the car at the time of the accident, her husband's forgiveness whom she withdrew from him feeling unloveable and unworthy, forgiveness from her community, her church, her job not to mention having to forgive herself and that's just the tip of the iceberg. We ran out of time before we had a chance to talk about the legal process that Texas has in place and the way it added to the devastation. As we talked, the layers that were affected by David's death, boggled my mind. From the moment of impact the repercussions would be felt in both her life as well as David's life. They didn't know each other prior to that moment in the intersection and despite the fact that David did not survive the tragic accident, Jennifer will never forget him or his family and nor does she want to. I'm going to keep this intro short. I'm finding it difficult to put into words the beauty and wisdom that Jennifer has to offer because of what God has walked her through. You're going to have to hear it yourself so that you can absorb this life changing information about the heart of God. As hard as it was for Jennifer to come to grips with what had happened, she knew that this situation had to pass through God's hands and receive approval. So she had to face the fact that God in His sovereignty had allowed it. In an effort to trust Him with His purpose behind allowing it, she asked God to show her how He had prepared her for this moment and she shares the various ways that He confirmed for her that He had prepared her and that He would see her through. Part of God's redemption for Jennifer was to connect her with Jada Pinkett Smith as a guest on her show, Red Table Talk. The Red Table Talk website describes the show "where we tackle current social and cultural issues with an inter-generational perspective." (redtabletalk.com) Jennifer's time on the show gave her the opportunity to share the tragedy she was experiencing and how the God of the Holy Bible made all the difference. Jennifer mentions that the Red Table Talk show has approximately 5 million viewers and I do see where they have 11 million followers on Facebook. I can't help but think about how amazing God is in the redemption process. God has also put Jennifer in the path of people whom she randomly passes and she's able to give an encouraging word for healing as well as provide resources that can help. We talked about so many things and that's why this audio ran over my preferred 1 hour max but you will not be disappointed with the message that Jennifer has to share. As we closed I asked her the final question, was there any ONE thing she'd want to share with our listeners today. Her response echoed her compassion and empathy that you'll hear throughout the entire conversation. She didn't plead her case, you'll never hear her side step or avoid taking responsibility for the accidental death of David. Instead, she takes the posture of a surrogate of sorts and offers an apology to anyone who needs to hear, "I'm sorry" from someone like her. This conversation will give your heart courage to trust God especially when life makes no sense and ending it all sounds more appealing. Let's listen in to find out what beautiful things God spoke to Jennifer in her very dark valley. Live Loved and Thrive! @alifeofthrive.com    Connect with Jennifer: You can connect with Jennifer at accidentalhope.com  Her Podcast: Accidental Hope Podcast  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AccidentalHope Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/accidentalhope/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HopeAccidental   Resource: Accidental Impacts under the Hyacinth Fellowship - a support group for those who have unintentionally caused harm to another person: https://hyacinthfellowship.org/   Bio: Jennifer Eikenhorst loves Jesus which she feels is essential in her healing and therefore she shares her beliefs freely. Her faith is the cornerstone of content for her blog and podcast. She's the wife of a multi-sport coach, Chris (who stole her heart in her senior year of high school), mom to 4 amazing kids, math teacher, blogger, podcast host (Accidental Hope), grad student, hope-seeker, and notorious over-sharer! She's also an advocate for CADIs (Causing Accidental Death or Injury). Besides Jesus and her family, she loves their golden-doodle Coda, dance fitness, making recipes her own, and Bible journaling.   Transcript: https://www.happyscribe.com/transcriptions/227d72c9f31e45efb44c8d4ba5126b08/edit  

This week's episode with Jennifer Eikenhorst is one about a sensitive subject.  It may be difficult for some people to handle, but it is definitely a needed conversation. She talk about how a single moment can change everything about your life and the lives of other people.  About how she came face to face with a struggle that no one wants and that even more don't want to talk about. I met her through the Spark Network that we are both members of and knew her story needed to be told on this podcast. It is a story about finding God, grace and freedom after devastation. I am so honored to be a part of telling her story and for calling her a new friend. Bio: Jennifer is a wife to Chris, mom to 4 amazing kids, Instructional Coach for Middle School teachers, blogger, podcast host of Accidental Hope, graduate student, and recently author. In May of 2022 her book Left Turn, life unimagined, was published sharing her journey of healing after causing a fatal accident. Sharing her passion for Jesus and advocating for CADIs (Causing Accidental Death or Injury), is now her ministry.  Anchor Verses: Proverbs 3:5-6 Romans 5:3-5 Connect with Jennifer: Website:  https://accidentalhope.com/. Left Turn: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09VYT15S5 FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/AccidentalHope/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/accidentalhope/ Red Table Talk Episode: https://fb.watch/i5N6WaWG5J/ ****This podcast is a proud member of the Spark Network! It is a network of Christian podcasts that cover so many different topics!  Head over to: https://www.sparkmedia.ventures/spark-network#/ to find more amazing podcasts!!****

Jennifer Eikenhorst is a wife of more than 20 years to her highschool sweetheart, mom to 4 children, Instructional Coach for teachers, author of Left Turn, life unimagined and podcast host for Accidental Hope. She is passionate about accident prevention, hope in healing from trauma and outreach. Be sure and listen to this episode to hear how Jenn was able to forgive herself only with God's help after causing a fatal accident. She is helping others who have experienced trauma to see hope and healing is available for them in Christ no matter what has happened. Accidental Hope – seeking and sharing hope after accidental death Jenn Eikenhorst (@jenneikenhorst) • Instagram photos and videos MICHELE BOWMAN (@confidentchristianwomen) • Instagram photos and videos

Jennifer Eikenhorst and her husband Chris have been married almost 21 years this September and have four children ages 10-19. Jennifer is a Middle School Instructional Coach, graduate student, host of Accidental Hope Podcast and now author of her first book Left Turn, life unimagined. Her passion is to share the love of Jesus with the hurting and grieved after she was involved in a tragic accident in 2016. To learn more about her ministry and advocacy please visit www.accidentalhope.com.Follow: Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/AccidentalHopeInstagram:@accidentalhopeYou can order her book, “Left Turn: life unimagined” https://amzn.to/3RBeUuWShe was a guest on “Red Table Talk” as well as other podcasts and articles:“What Was That Like” Podcast:https://whatwasthatlike.com/2018/07/10/jennifer-caused-a-fatal-accident/“New Yorker” Magazine:https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2017/09/18/the-sorrow-and-the-shame-of-the-accidental-killer?gclid=Cj0KCQjwmdGYBhDRARIsABmSEePJIxUlxeSHJgsPkC3lYN0o9JgbU1d4ojY8YP3cuQImgkAIqAxzjVIaAouuEALw_wcB“Carrie Robaina | She Walks In Truth” Podcast: https://bit.ly/3BixT8kInterview with Alice Gregory who wrote the article from the New Yorker:https://bloominginspirednetwork.com/accidental-hope-season1-episode-17-soul-care-journaling-art-copy/“Red Table Talk” with Jada Pinkett Smithhttps://fb.watch/flF9KDdoX9/

Jennifer Eikenhorst and Amber discuss the accident that caused an accidental death, her healing journey and how she is helping other CADi's. Questions discussed in Hope After Causing Accidental Death: (5:03) Tell us a little about your faith journey with Jesus. (12:38) You are a part of a group no one aspires to become a part of, but you serve this community, raise awareness for this community, and love this group of people God has placed you in.  What is CADi? (16:47) Take us back and share the story of your accident? (23:10) In the months following the accident, what was day to day life like for you emotionally, physically, spiritually, and even legally? (44::07) Tell me a little bit of the impact your girls experienced.I (48:19) Would you say that  your journey of emotional healing began after the legal process was over? (57:16) Alec Baldwin's accident has recently brought CADi's conversation front and center.  You had the opportunity to speak about your experience on Red Table Talk with Jada Pinkett Smith.  As you did in that space, if you were speaking directly to someone who is a CADi what would you say to them? SHOW NOTES continued. Resources Mentioned: Accidental Impacts Accidental Hope Red Table Talk: What Happens When You Accidentally Take Someone's Life? TED Talk: It Hurts To Hurt Someone by Maryann Gray Sponsor: Dwell Differently  Dwell helps you memorize one verse every month by taking the first letter of every word in a verse stringing them together in a cool design. Check out Dwell's shop and membership today and use CODE: GRACEENOUGH to recieve 25% off your first month individual or family membership (through 3/31/22) ------------------------------------------------------ Follow Grace Enough Podcast on IG and FB and www.graceenoughpodcast.com ----------------------------------------------------------

Jennifer Eikenhorst BioHi friend! Welcome! My name is Jennifer. My ministry is meant to offer hope, healing, encouragement and never intended to harm!I love Jesus which I feel is essential in my healing and therefore I share my beliefs freely. My faith is cornerstone of content for this blog and podcast!I am a wife of a multi-sport coach, Chris, he stole my heart Senior yr of high school, mom to 4 amazing kids, MS math teacher, blogger, podcast host (Accidental Hope), grad student, hope seeker and notorious over-sharer! I openly talk about it all from the view of lessons of faith and gratitude. I am also an advocate for CADIs (Causing Accidental Death or Injury), this is my journey I hope it resonates in some ways with you.Things I love first and foremost, Jesus and family include our golden-doodle Coda, dance fitness, making recipes my own and bible journaling.

Accidents happen every day and for some, it can be a matter of life or death. Even in the darkest times, there is hope and in this episode we're talking about finding hope after causing accidental death or injury. My guest today is Jennifer Eikenhorst and she knows this all too well because she's lived it. I could tell you more but I'd rather you hear her tell her story and how God has given her a mission to spread hope after devastation. Jennifer's story made an impact on me and I know what she has to share will encourage, inspire, and challenge you so listen in while I have a chat with Jennifer Eikenhorst. Fierce Calling is on the Spark Network and the Edifi App Fierce Calling is now part of the Edifi app! To listen to this podcast and other amazing Christian podcasts, go to the Apple or Google Play stores and download the app! Favorite Quotes from the show... "Lord, if you can use this mess to help one person, send me, I'll do it...""We can either be better or bitter...""My fear of being out of God's will was greater than persecution from the world." --Jennifer Eikenhorst Connect with Jennifer! You can connect with Jennifer at accidentalhope.com and check out the Accidental Hope Podcast mentioned in the show. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AccidentalHope Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/accidentalhope/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HopeAccidental Resource Jennifer mentions in the show: accidentalimpacts.org More about Jennifer... Jennifer Eikenhorst Jennifer Eikenhorst loves Jesus which she feels is essential in her healing and therefore she shares her beliefs freely. Her faith is the cornerstone of content for her blog and podcast. She's the wife of a multi-sport coach, Chris (who stole her heart in her senior year of high school), mom to 4 amazing kids, math teacher, blogger, podcast host (Accidental Hope), grad student, hope-seeker, and notorious over-sharer! She's also an advocate for CADIs (Causing Accidental Death or Injury). Besides Jesus and her family, she loves their golden-doodle Coda, dance fitness, making recipes her own, and Bible journaling. Accidental Hope Podcast Connect with me and if you love Fierce Calling, please leave a rating and review on Podchaser or wherever you are listening to this podcast. Thanks, friend! Following, rating, and leaving a review over at Podchaser helps others discover the show too! Do you have a podcast? I'd love to be a guest if it's the right fit for your audience. I'd also love to connect with you, so reach out to me here on my Contact Page! Check out my speaking page, grab my flyer, and let's talk about me speaking at your next women's event... I love speaking God's truth into the lives of women! Free Gifts for You... Grab one of my free downloads by scrolling down to the bottom of the page! Love & God's Perfect Peace to You! Doris

We shared Jennifer Eikenhorst's heart-wrenching/heartwarming story with you in season 10: The Only One Who Found Hope After A Deadly Accident (episode 96). I encourage you to go back and listen as she unravels the events that lead to the death of a motorcyclist named David. This year on the 5th anniversary of his death, Jennifer wrote this beautiful essay and I asked her if we could share it with you. Jennifer Eikenhorst is the host of Accidental Hope podcast. She is a mom of four, a wife, and a middle school math teacher. Her story changed when she caused an accident that killed someone. Today, Jennifer shares how her podcast gave her a place to share her story, help people like her, and create good out of a tragic situation. Jennifer's podcasting journey reminds us that we can do big things even when we are scared. Read the essay here: https://accidentalimpacts.org/blog/  Listen to Jennifers episode here: Jennifer Eikenhorst Is The Only One Who Found Hope After A Deadly Accident Episode 96 Find her podcast here: Accidental Hope Thank you to our Sponsors: Pitches With Bitches: Laura Cathcart Robbins and Stefanie Wilder Taylor are conducting a virtual pitching workshop on Oct 23rd from 11-1 pm (PT). We will tell you everything we know about getting your work published online to build up your resume. It will also include an up-to-date list of over 80 places to send your stuff! The class is filling up fast to hold your spot email StefanieWilderTaylor@gmail.com Special thanks to our sponsors: Mercato: Mercato is a grocery delivery service that supports local, independent merchants. Sign up for Mercato Green at https://www.mercato.com/ for unlimited free delivery and use the code THEONLYONE to get $20 off your first order!  Smile Brilliant: You could have a dentist make your trays for three, four hundred dollars, or you can head over to www.smilebrilliant.com and use their lab-direct mail process for a fraction of that.  Just head over to www.smilebrilliant.com and use the coupon code ROOM for an exclusive The Only One In The Room discount. Voyage et Cie: Voyage et Cie's curator Melanie Apple has cultivated a passion for notable moments using the sense of smell. Voyage et Cie is the ultimate luxury blend of travel, fragrance, and design. Each original fragrance is created by Melanie, 100% organic and natural which will transport you on a journey. Visit https://www.voyageetcie.com/ and enter the code: theonlyone to get your 10% off your purchase! Cute Booty Lounge: Cute Booty Lounge is made by women and for women. There's a cute booty style for everyone! Cute Booty Lounge has you covered...Embrace Your Body, Love Your Booty! Head to Cutebooty.com or click the link here to order yours, but don't forget to enter the code theonlybooty to get 15% off your first order! Be sure not to miss our weekly full episodes on Tuesdays, Scott Talks on Wednesdays & Sunday Edition every Sunday by subscribing to the show wherever you listen to podcasts.  We love hearing from you in the comments on iTunes and while you're there don't forget to rate us, subscribe and share the show! All of us at The Only One In The Room wish you safety and wellness during this challenging time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott Slaughter co-host and producer of The Only One In The Room has a short and casual, yet deep conversation with our guest Jennifer Eikenhorst right after the show. Special Thanks to our Sponsors: EveryPlate: One meal from EveryPlate is equal to the price of a cup of coffee! EveryPlate provides a super easy-to-prepare, delicious, fresh, inexpensive, meal for two to four people and it comes right to your door with everything you need. Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.99 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com and entering the code: theonlyone199. Voyage et Cie: Voyage et Cie's curator Melanie Apple has cultivated a passion for notable moments using the sense of smell. Voyage et Cie is the ultimate luxury blend of travel, fragrance, and design. Each original fragrance is created by Melanie, 100% organic and natural which will transport you on a journey. Visit https://www.voyageetcie.com/ and enter the code: theonlyone to get your 10% off your purchase! Don't miss our new Friday series On My Nightstand. Be sure to join our Facebook Group for the most up-to-date info on guests, episodes and more. You can also DM us on Instagram @theonlyoneintheroom or email us via the website at www.theonlyonepod.com Also visit the website for the latest from our host Laura Cathcart Robbins like live events, appearances, featured articles and more. We love hearing from you in the comments on iTunes and while you're there don't forget to rate us, subscribe and share the show! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine driving home, your daughters in the backseat, and suddenly a flash of light on the driver's side warns you that there's a vehicle approaching and you and your girls brace for impact. Jennifer Eikenhorst, teacher, wife, mother of four, and a woman of strong faith was almost home when she'd realized that vehicle she'd collided with was a motorcycle and that somehow, she had caused a devastating accident. So what would you do if the man on the bike died a few days later in the hospital? Would you lose hope and question your faith? Or would you force yourself to keep going and start a podcast that gives hope to others who have killed someone by accident? More From Jennifer Eikenhorst: Listen to Accidental Hope Visit: https://accidentalhope.com Finding Jennifer Eikenhorst: Instagram: @jenneikenhorst, @accidentalhope Facebook: @accidentalhope Special thanks to our sponsors: EveryPlate: One meal from EveryPlate is equal to the price of a cup of coffee! EveryPlate provides a super easy-to-prepare, delicious, fresh, inexpensive, meal for two to four people and it comes right to your door with everything you need. Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.99 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com and entering the code: theonlyone199. Voyage et Cie: Voyage et Cie's curator Melanie Apple has cultivated a passion for notable moments using the sense of smell. Voyage et Cie is the ultimate luxury blend of travel, fragrance, and design. Each original fragrance is created by Melanie, 100% organic and natural which will transport you on a journey. Visit https://www.voyageetcie.com/ and enter the code: theonlyone to get your 10% off your purchase! Be sure not to miss Scott Talks on Wednesdays, our Sunday release called Sunday Edition & our brand new series On My Nightstand releasing on Fridays by subscribing to the show wherever you listen to podcasts.  Join our Only One In The Room Facebook Group if you'd like to ask a question of any of our upcoming guests for this series.  Also visit the website www.theonlyonepod.com for the latest from our host Laura Cathcart Robbins like featured articles and more. We love hearing from you in the comments on iTunes and while you're there don't forget to rate us, subscribe and share the show! All of us at The Only One In The Room wish you safety and wellness during this challenging time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jennifer continues the conversation from last week with her friend, Heidi Easely, wife, mom, daughter, and owner of Texas Art & Soul. Listen as Heidi shares how the story of her dad's heart transplant and her own heart troubles helped her learn the value of God’s faithfulness along the way! Her story is heartfelt, inspiring and empowering as she continues to see His blessings in her faith-infused business Texas Art & Soul. Her testimony is like a cup of cold water on a hot day, refreshing, encouraging and filled with beautifully good news! About Heidi: Heidi Easely is a wife, mom, passionate woman of God, and an entrepreneur. She found her passion through a challenging season when her family faced the harsh reality that they were losing everything. From the outside looking in, it was devastating, but by faith, Heidi started a business that focuses on helping others tap into creativity through paint parties and teaching other women how to use their testimony and create their own businesses helping others connect to the creativity through paint parties. Connect with Heidi: Website: https://texasartandsoul.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/texasartandsoul/ To learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast please visit: https://facebook.com/accidentalhope This show airs on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. Learn more about this podcast and its network by visiting bloominginspirednetwork.com

Listen as Heidi shares how she surrendered fully to God, allowing Him to use this painful time in her life to unlocked her passion and purpose in a powerful way. Learn how she not only uses the gift of art to bring healing to others, but also how she empowers others to build their own businesses. Her testimony is like a cup of cold water on a hot day, refreshing, encouraging and filled with beautifully good news! About Heidi: Heidi Easely is a wife, mom, passionate woman of God, and an entrepreneur. She found her passion through a challenging season when her family faced the harsh reality that they were losing everything. From the outside looking in, it was devastating, but by faith, Heidi started a business that focuses on helping others tap into creativity through paint parties and teaching other women how to use their testimony and create their own businesses helping others connect to the creativity through paint parties. Connect with Heidi: Website: https://texasartandsoul.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/texasartandsoul/ To learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast please visit: https://facebook.com/accidentalhope This show airs on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. Learn more about this podcast and its network by visiting bloominginspirednetwork.com

This week Jennifer talks with David Mills, founder of The Kailee Mills Foundation, in Houston, Tx. He opens up with Jennifer about the calling he shares with his wife, Wendy, to let others know about Kailee’s story to help save lives! David and Wendy, took their deepest pain - the death of their daughter, Kailee, after an automobile accident - and in their grief sought to find meaning and purpose which led to an encounter with God that allowed them to forgive. Please join in as they share their bittersweet story of loss, grief, purpose, pain and the hope of forgiveness. Connect with The Mills & The Kailee Mills Foundation: Website: https://www.kaileemillsfoundation.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaileemillsfoundation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaileemillsfoundation/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/kmillscharity YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCuYQrf2Io_3slsaEyvZV6A More about the Mills story of finding meaning and purpose through the loss of their 16 Year Old Daughter, Kailee read here: https://tylerpaper.com/couple-relives-horror-of-daughters-death-to-get-others-to-wear-seat-belts/article_04e5d261-204e-5815-9b29-0536a100c9b4.html To learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast please visit: https://facebook.com/accidentalhope Https://instagram.com/accidentalhope This show airs on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. Learn more about this podcast and its network by visiting bloominginspirednetwork.com and clicking the podcast link at the top of the page.

On this week's episode we celebrate 50 episodes with a message that strikes at the heart of Accidental Hope: mental health issues and the stigma of seeing a professional therapist. Join Jennifer and her guest, Gary Wardlaw who works as a licensed Marriage and Family therapist, as they discuss the importance of relationships in the wake of trauma, practical steps to take and the hope found in Jesus.Gary Wardlaw is the founder and co-owner of The Relationship Clinic of Waco. He holds a dual license as a Marriage and Family Therapist and as a Professional Counselor in both Texas and Virginia. Gary's skill development has come from an array of clinical settings. Prior to relocating to Texas, Gary served in a Christian group practice where he primarily provided therapy to couples and families. He also has experience working in adolescent, adult, and geriatric psychiatric units where he provided emergency evaluations and independent mental health exams for court ordered patients. Additionally, he spent several years building mental health programming within the public school systems at elementary, middle, and high school levels. Gary graduated with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy. He also earned a bachelors of science in Mass Communication: Advertising & Public Relations with a minor in Psychology. He has recently developed a passion to combat racism through discussion and education, while helping those who have experienced racism outwardly or systemically through talk-therapy. And although challenging, Gary finds great fulfillment in helping couples and families reconcile current or past hurts that have negatively impact their relationship. He is the proud husband of super star, Brittney Wardlaw. They have 3 gorgeous daughters Anastacia (5), Justice (2), and Mercy (1). After 8 years of marriage, he still pinches himself to make sure he is not dreaming that he has the privilege of being married to his best friend.Learn More about Gary Wardlaw, LMFT, LPC, NCC, please check out the following links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Relationship-Clinic-of-Waco-213783486074477/The Relationship ClinicWebsite: https://www.trcwaco.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trcwaco/Learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast by visiting: Facebook.com/AccidentalHopeThis show airs on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. Learn more about this podcast and its network by visiting bloominginspirednetwork.com Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/accidentalhope)

On this week's episode we celebrate 50 episodes with a message that strikes at the heart of Accidental Hope: mental health issues and the stigma of seeing a professional therapist. Join Jennifer and her guest, Gary Wardlaw who works as a licensed Marriage and Family therapist, as they discuss the importance of relationships in the wake of trauma, practical steps to take and the hope found in Jesus. Gary Wardlaw is the founder and co-owner of The Relationship Clinic of Waco. He holds a dual license as a Marriage and Family Therapist and as a Professional Counselor in both Texas and Virginia. Gary’s skill development has come from an array of clinical settings. Prior to relocating to Texas, Gary served in a Christian group practice where he primarily provided therapy to couples and families. He also has experience working in adolescent, adult, and geriatric psychiatric units where he provided emergency evaluations and independent mental health exams for court ordered patients. Additionally, he spent several years building mental health programming within the public school systems at elementary, middle, and high school levels. Gary graduated with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. He also earned a bachelors of science in Mass Communication: Advertising & Public Relations with a minor in Psychology. He has recently developed a passion to combat racism through discussion and education, while helping those who have experienced racism outwardly or systemically through talk-therapy. And although challenging, Gary finds great fulfillment in helping couples and families reconcile current or past hurts that have negatively impact their relationship. He is the proud husband of super star, Brittney Wardlaw. They have 3 gorgeous daughters Anastacia (5), Justice (2), and Mercy (1). After 8 years of marriage, he still pinches himself to make sure he is not dreaming that he has the privilege of being married to his best friend. Learn More about Gary Wardlaw, LMFT, LPC, NCC, please check out the following links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Relationship-Clinic-of-Waco-213783486074477/ The Relationship ClinicWebsite: https://www.trcwaco.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trcwaco/ Learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast by visiting: Facebook.com/AccidentalHope This show airs on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. Learn more about this podcast and its network by visiting bloominginspirednetwork.com

On this week's episode we celebrate 50 episodes with a message that strikes at the heart of Accidental Hope: mental health issues and the stigma of seeing a professional therapist. Join Jennifer and her guest, Gary Wardlaw who works as a licensed Marriage and Family therapist, as they discuss the importance of relationships in the wake of trauma, practical steps to take and the hope found in Jesus. Gary Wardlaw is the founder and co-owner of The Relationship Clinic of Waco. He holds a dual license as a Marriage and Family Therapist and as a Professional Counselor in both Texas and Virginia. Gary’s skill development has come from an array of clinical settings. Prior to relocating to Texas, Gary served in a Christian group practice where he primarily provided therapy to couples and families. He also has experience working in adolescent, adult, and geriatric psychiatric units where he provided emergency evaluations and independent mental health exams for court ordered patients. Additionally, he spent several years building mental health programming within the public school systems at elementary, middle, and high school levels. Gary graduated with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. He also earned a bachelors of science in Mass Communication: Advertising & Public Relations with a minor in Psychology. He has recently developed a passion to combat racism through discussion and education, while helping those who have experienced racism outwardly or systemically through talk-therapy. And although challenging, Gary finds great fulfillment in helping couples and families reconcile current or past hurts that have negatively impact their relationship. He is the proud husband of super star, Brittney Wardlaw. They have 3 gorgeous daughters Anastacia (5), Justice (2), and Mercy (1). After 8 years of marriage, he still pinches himself to make sure he is not dreaming that he has the privilege of being married to his best friend. Learn More about Gary Wardlaw, LMFT, LPC, NCC, please check out the following links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Relationship-Clinic-of-Waco-213783486074477/ The Relationship ClinicWebsite: https://www.trcwaco.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trcwaco/ Learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast by visiting: Facebook.com/AccidentalHope This show airs on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. Learn more about this podcast and its network by visiting bloominginspirednetwork.com

On this week's episode Jennifer continues the conversation about how trauma doesn't have the last word with her friend Lavinia Masters. **Trigger Warning:** Lavinia discusses how her sexual assault as a young girl drew her closer to her Lord and Savior. She shares how God transformed her pain and revealed His glory. She is an advocate for Sexual Assault Survivors through her ministry Hope S.A.V.E.S. Lavinia B. Masters is a wife, mother, grandmother, author, speaker, and advocate for sexual assault victims. Lavinia has made history with her fight to end the rape kit backlog beginning in 2004, when she sought closure to her case. It was then she discovered her kit was sitting on a shelf for over 20 years. Determined to end this travesty gave birth to H.B. 8 "The Lavinia Masters Act", that was signed into law by Govonor Greg Abbott in 2019. She speaks up for victims and empowers them to use their voice. Her ministry touches thousands of lives each year. Learn More about Lavinia B. Masters and Hope S.A.V.E.S. Minstry: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopesavesministry/ Lavinia's Website: https://laviniamasters.com/ Ministry Website: https://hopesavesministry.org/ Amazon Book: https://amzn.to/3ccNaZ3 To learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast please visit: https://facebook.com/accidentalhope Learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast by visiting: Facebook.com/AccidentalHope This show airs on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. Learn more about this podcast and its network by visiting bloominginspirednetwork.com

On this week's episode Jennifer continues the conversation about how trauma doesn't have the last word with her friend Lavinia Masters. **Trigger Warning:** Lavinia discusses how her sexual assault as a young girl drew her closer to her Lord and Savior. She shares how God transformed her pain and revealed His glory. She is an advocate for Sexual Assault Survivors through her ministry Hope S.A.V.E.S. Lavinia B. Masters is a wife, mother, grandmother, author, speaker, and advocate for sexual assault victims. Lavinia has made history with her fight to end the rape kit backlog beginning in 2004, when she sought closure to her case. It was then she discovered her kit was sitting on a shelf for over 20 years. Determined to end this travesty gave birth to H.B. 8 "The Lavinia Masters Act", that was signed into law by Govonor Greg Abbott in 2019. She speaks up for victims and empowers them to use their voice. Her ministry touches thousands of lives each year. Learn More about Lavinia B. Masters and Hope S.A.V.E.S. Minstry: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopesavesministry/ Lavinia's Website: https://laviniamasters.com/ Ministry Website: https://hopesavesministry.org/ Amazon Book: https://amzn.to/3ccNaZ3 To learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast please visit: https://facebook.com/accidentalhope Learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast by visiting: Facebook.com/AccidentalHope This show airs on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. Learn more about this podcast and its network by visiting bloominginspirednetwork.com

On this week's episode Jennifer discusses how trauma doesn't have the last word with her friend Lavinia Masters. **Trigger Warning:** Lavinia discusses how her sexual assault as a young girl drew her closer to her Lord and Savior. She shares how God transformed her pain and revealed His glory. She is an advocate for Sexual Assault Survivors through her ministry Hope S.A.V.E.S. Lavinia B. Masters is a wife, mother, grandmother, author, speaker, and advocate for sexual assault victims. Lavinia has made history with her fight to end the rape kit backlog beginning in 2004, when she sought closure to her case. It was then she discovered her kit was sitting on a shelf for over 20 years. Determined to end this travesty gave birth to H.B. 8 "The Lavinia Masters Act", that was signed into law by Govonor Greg Abbott in 2019. She speaks up for victims and empowers them to use their voice. Her ministry touches thousands of lives each year. Learn More about Lavinia B. Masters and Hope S.A.V.E.S. Minstry: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopesavesministry/ Lavinia's Website: https://laviniamasters.com/ Ministry Website: https://hopesavesministry.org/ Amazon Book: https://amzn.to/3ccNaZ3 To learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast please visit: https://facebook.com/accidentalhope Learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast by visiting: Facebook.com/AccidentalHope This show airs on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. Learn more about this podcast and its network by visiting bloominginspirednetwork.com

On this week's episode Jennifer discusses how trauma doesn't have the last word with her friend Lavinia Masters. **Trigger Warning:** Lavinia discusses how her sexual assault as a young girl drew her closer to her Lord and Savior. She shares how God transformed her pain and revealed His glory. She is an advocate for Sexual Assault Survivors through her ministry Hope S.A.V.E.S. Lavinia B. Masters is a wife, mother, grandmother, author, speaker, and advocate for sexual assault victims. Lavinia has made history with her fight to end the rape kit backlog beginning in 2004, when she sought closure to her case. It was then she discovered her kit was sitting on a shelf for over 20 years. Determined to end this travesty gave birth to H.B. 8 "The Lavinia Masters Act", that was signed into law by Govonor Greg Abbott in 2019. She speaks up for victims and empowers them to use their voice. Her ministry touches thousands of lives each year. Learn More about Lavinia B. Masters and Hope S.A.V.E.S. Minstry: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopesavesministry/ Lavinia's Website: https://laviniamasters.com/ Ministry Website: https://hopesavesministry.org/ Amazon Book: https://amzn.to/3ccNaZ3 To learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast please visit: https://facebook.com/accidentalhope Learn more about Jennifer Eikenhorst and Accidental Hope Podcast by visiting: Facebook.com/AccidentalHope This show airs on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. Learn more about this podcast and its network by visiting bloominginspirednetwork.com

Jennifer Eikenhorst is an aspiring author and podcaster who started a ministry called Accidental Hope, whose mission is to educate, research, and offer relief from serious accidents involving fatality. Today, Jennifer shares her stories of being  drawn to the Lord as a child, getting out of an abusive relationship, and the car accident that changed her life. Jennifer shares the moment she decided to fight her depression and the tool that helped most. Jennifer's story reminds us that being honest about your pain is the only true path to healing. Listen to Jennifer's story now! Stories Jennifer shared: Teaching middle school math Growing up in an agnostic home in a great family The hunger for the Lord as a young girl The uncle who prayed for her when she was six months old Cobbling together a philosophy from school, church, and home Discovering a gift of intercession Being manipulated into a relationship that changed her The accident that killed a motorcyclist and changed her life How close she felt to the Lord as she navigated the aftermath Dealing with PTSD and suicidal ideation after the accident Making a list of God's attributes vs. Satan's Great quotes from Jennifer: When I couldn't keep the facade up anymore, then some real healing happened. It is really, truly about a relationship in your heart with him. I knew he was real and that made me more angry. Again, I was hiding truth to not disappoint people. Resources we mentioned: Jennifer's website Accidental H0pe on Facebook AccidentalImpacts.org Related episodes: Jim Barnard Finds Hope in Suffering through Community Shari Malott is Fighting for Hope Mark Waltz and Radical Acceptance in Relationship The post Jennifer Eikenhorst and An Accidental Hope appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Jennifer Eikenhorst is an aspiring author and podcaster who started a ministry called Accidental Hope, whose mission is to educate, research, and offer relief from serious accidents involving fatality. Today, Jennifer shares her stories of being drawn to the Lord as a child, getting out of an abusive relationship, and the car accident that changed […] The post Jennifer Eikenhorst and An Accidental Hope appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Join us as we talk to Jennifer Eikenhorst, about her tragic story! Resources: www.accidentalimpacts.org www.mybeautifullybroken.com Check out Jennifer’s Podcast “Accidental Hope” wherever you listen to podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/accidental-hope/id1466326911

Jennifer was just taking he kids home, like any other day. It turned out to be one of the worst days of her life. Her action cost another persons life. With listen in as she shares some of the ramifications it has had on her life. Join us as we walk in her shoes.Website: Social Media:Facebook: Instagram  Remember when you walk in Other People's shoes you get a different perspective!Other People's Shoes is a non-profit tax-deductible organization. If you feel lead to give click hereHave questions or want to give feedback call or text: 203-548-SHOEIf you enjoy the show you can subscribe to us on your favorite podcast platforms, so you don't miss an episode. We would also love it if you could leave us a review on iTunes!To hear other episodes go to:www.opspodcast.comYouTube.comSocial Media:**Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: ** If you have questions or comments email us at: opspodcastshow@gmail.com

My guest today is my friend, Jennifer Eikenhorst, host of Accidental Hope podcast, a teacher by trade and blogger/host by calling. She is a wife, mom, math teacher, and a CADI (Causing Accidental Death or Injury) from Waco, TX. She and her husband, Chris, have four amazing children, ages 7-16. She loves expressing herself through art and long walks with their Doodle, Coda. Jennifer and her husband Chris, have faced and overcome many trials, some involving life-altering experiences, even death, but God has remained faithful. With each season of difficulty, she sees the work of the Lord and her faith refined by the fire. Jennifer’s life turned upside down in 2016 after having an accident involving a fatality. She is now passionate about finding hope after tragic circumstances. Her hope is in and comes from her relationship with Jesus! Connect with Jennifer: Facebook Accidental Hope Podcast: https://business.facebook.com/AccidentalHope/?ref=your_pages Blog: www.mybeautifullybroken.com IG: accidental_hope

Imagine you make a mistake that costs someone their life. It's not just their life that is impacted but all the lives around both people. What do you do? Where was God? What do you do now...Jennifer Eikenhorst comes to the table to talk about her story and the accident that changed so many people’s lives. Love in action is listening to understand, not to react. You can find us on different mediums to listen and subscribe such as iTunes, Spotify, Google Play Music, TuneIn,  iHeart Radio, PodBean, Cast Box and more by clicking here. We are very anxious to hear YOUR feedback at our first jump into this and want to hear the good and bad so we can keep doing the right things correctly and correct the things we are not. Please contact us at sean@thecometothetablepodcast.com for any and all feedback, comments, show suggestions and the like.  You can also like our Facebook Page  as well as follow us on Instagram & Twitter  A special thanks to the musical talent of our friend and guest of the show David HaLevy for writing and performing the sound to our intro and outgoing music.  Check out the Ruach Guitar Facebook Page he makes by hand and plays as well as on Instagram.   We are very humbled and grateful for this personal touch to the show and cherish it greatly.   תודה David!

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 169-176 in the Passion Translation. Today, we'll look at the question: “Who or What am I following after?” As our hearts search our soul for the answer, we will look at the Key of Worship as our life’s pursuit Show Transcript: You are listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. We exist to empower the voices of women who live their lives #BloomingAlive through Podcast Community. Now, here is your host. Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives Blooming Alive. Introduction Good Morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. I want to take a moment to encourage you. I don’t know if you’ve been in the thick of spiritual warfare lately, but around the lake here in Granbury it has been amped up. Last week my prayer group and I took the time to stand and pray with other prayer groups around our nation and in other countries. We have been praying together a few years and asking God to move in our personal lives, our families, our city, county, region, state and nation as well as throughout the entire world. As we did, things began to happen and even though we experienced resistance in the spiritual realms there was breakthrough. My friend, Deb DeArmand just released a new quick-read devotional packed with humor and practical wisdom called Bumper Sticker Be-Attitudes over at Amazon.com. And even though this sounds like some kind of shameless promotion, I wanted to share something she posted on Facebook: “It’s never too late to finish, and it’s always too early to quit.” This happens to be a chapter title in her book. As I think about this encouragement I’m drawn to a particular Scripture. Galatians 6:9 in The Passion Translation reads this way: “And don’t allow yourselves to be weary or disheartened in planting good seeds, for the season of reaping the wonderful harvest you’ve planted is coming!” Don’t give up! Yes, the battle in this season may be hard, but victory and breakthrough are on the other side. Just like the tiny seed that is birthed beneath the hard earth. It take a lot of stick to it and determination to breakthrough - but once you do there is light and life -- especially opportunities to grow in abundance and bear much fruit. So stay at it, friends. The other side of the story - the harvest is worth the price you pay. And be sure to pick up Deb’s book over at Amazon.com and leave a review once you’ve read it. You can click the link in this post for more information about her book! Now--- For our final reading in Psalm 119 in “The Revival Series.” I have to say I am grateful to be at the end of this journey with you today. WHY? You may be asking. Well, remember at the beginning way back in May - 28 Episodes ago, I began reading in Psalm 119:1… I told you that I felt God has encouraged me to read Psalm 119 back in 2014 but each time I tried I couldn’t get past the first 20 verses? Yes. Well, that struggle WAS VERY REAL. Amen? I didn’t see myself as the person who was happy to keep God’s commands, and His Word. Not that I ddin’t try to be obedient, and remain in His word daily. Not that at all… But, because I didn’t see myself as a person of integrity. I know. This may be news to you… But, friends. I”ve lived most of my life with an impoverished spirit hanging on me like an old coat. Anytime success or a move in God’s direction got me excited, there the enemy would be trying to discourage me by reminding me of not only the horrible past I had lived, but also the struggle with strongholds and temptation to sin I face daily. I believed deep in my heart I’d never change completely until I got to Heaven and saw Jesus. In truth, I was trying to change myself not trusting God to do it… So in 2016 when in prayer I felt the Holy Spirit nudge me and ask me why I had not read Psalm 119 as the Lord had put on my heart to do… I responded, “Because I cannot find myself in it.” Then is when I felt like Jesus pulled my face up in His hands and said, “Beloved, you aren’t supposed to read Scripture to find yourself… Your supposed to read Scripture to find Me.” That’s a life-changing truth right there, my friends. A life changing truth. Maybe you need to hear that for yourself today. God’s Word - the fullest expression of Himself to us - is Jesus. The primary way He reveals Himself to us in this season is through the Scriptures, but Holy Spirit is the great Revelator. He guides us into all truth. And He will teach us to hear and respond to the Shepherd’s voice if we will only give ourselves to the process. Surrender is a position of obedience and victory in God’s Kingdom. Let’s surrender one more time to read our last 8 verses of Psalm 119. This week we are going to be reading from Psalm 119:169-176 in the Passion Translation - so grab your favorite Bible translation to read from and let’s get ready to read by reviewing what we covered last time. Review In our last episode, we read verses 161-168 as we continued to discover keys to revival. As we read, we considered the question: “What Do I Have My Heart Set On?" And as we walked through each verse we picked up another Revival Key that comes from remaining devoted to God’s Word. That key is a longing and a hunger for more of Him through His Word. That desire to go deep into God’s Word leads us to discover both His love and His power in a way that compels us to change and live only for Him. As we read through verses 169-176 today, I want you to ask yourself, “Who or What am I following after?” As our hearts search our soul for the answer, we will look at the Key of Worship as our life’s pursuit This Week’s Reading So Now Let’s Pray, Father God, I ask that you would give each person within the sound of my voice an encounter with You, Your Son and the Holy Spirit this morning as we read Your words of life together. Impart the truth of who You are to our hearts, minds, souls and bodies today - we ask for Holy Spirit revelation to open our eyes to the way You see, open our ears to hear Your majestic voice, and open our hearts to know Your heart in intimacy and truth. I thank you that when we believe in Christ, we are hidden in Him and His blessings. Let our heart’s rend themselves before you today in a sacrifice of praise as we give our lives to worship you - the only one who is worthy of all praise! Remind us of these truths as we read today and make them real for us! I ask these things in Jesus’ Holy Name, AMEN. The heading for today’s reading is, “I Want To Follow You” Verse 169: Lord, listen to my prayer. It’s like a sacrifice I bring to you; I must have more revelation of your word! Do you hear that? Our prayers and longing for God are a sacrifice that praises and glorifies Him as God. It keeps us dependent upon the Holy Spirit’s revelation as we seek to know Him through His Word. My heart is tender to the glory of God in this hour. My morning has been full of distractions - people requesting time with me for coaching, sharing and declaring His truth in our lives. I’ve also been praying with my prayer sisters and receiving revelation for a loved one as I’ve reviewed what God has taught us through the last six months of our lives together. And then, the posts about the horrible massacre of the families from LeBaron, Mexico. I’ve seen the reports, and I personally know family members here in the states who broke away from their lifestyle. But, if in our religious piety as Christians we can have no compassion for people who were murdered for the simple fact that they existed. If we cannot pray for the people of Mexico in this hour who are tormented, tortured and terrorized by the drug-lords and cartels. Then who is the God we are serving? I don’t have to agree with their lifestyle to grieve for their loss. I don’t have to know them to love them from His perspective. Jesus died on the cross for both those murdered in Mexico yesterday and for the drug-lords and cartel members, and the corrupt government who has allowed this to go on unabated for decades. God’s arm is not too short to save, but His people seem to have hardened hearts when it comes to their desire for justice. May His mercy endure and His goodness be made known to those who grieve today. May He put His protective hand on the citizens of Mexico in this hour and all who make their home there. May His loving-kindness and tender mercy bring repentance and deliverance for both the people and the oppressors and may those who pray for peace and safety find it in Him today. In Jesus’ name, amen. Verse 170: Take my words to heart when I ask you, Lord; rescue me, just like you promised! Micah 6:8 commends us that God has shown us how to live our lives in surrender to Him. My memory reflects it this way, “Do justice (in our own hearts), love mercy (toward other people) and walk in humility with oug God.” So often, our heart cry to God is for mercy for ourselves, we do love mercy for ourselves. And we also cry out for justice toward those we deem wrong, hurtful or criminal. And in so doing, I believe we grieve the heart of God as He was so willing to lay His life down for us to be free, but we cannot cross that line of sacrifice and give up our own rights and prideful judgments to minister His love and mercy to those who offend us the most. It’s no wonder we find Him absent in the midst of tragedy when our hearts will not bend to sacrifice for Him in our praise. Verse 171: I offer you my joyous praise for all that you’ve taught me. When the worship music plays at church, when the circumstances are overwhelming your heart, when people are hurting you and fear consumes you - Where Do You Find Your Heart Focused? The only way to live in joyous praise for all He has taught you is to make every moment of your life an act of worship. If the music at church, the actions of others, the circumstances or pain of your life and fear are consuming your focus - if you aren’t focused on who God is, what He has promised you and the way He has delivered you over and over again - then you will not be able to offer Him your joyous praise. Joy is a gift from God - happiness, is fleeting and temporary, but the state of being the blessed of God defies all circumstances determined only by the condition of our heart before Him. Will we bow and bend to His will or be driven by the wanton fear that compels us to forsake His perfect love? Verse 172:Your wonderful words will become my song of worship, for everything you’ve commanded is perfect and true. My favorite worship song right now might surprise you… It’s Kanye West’s title song from the album “Jesus is King.” This song is the exclamation point on a beautiful, resounding chorus of words that tells the story of one who was lost and became found by God. Of The Son who is worthy of celebrating, and the way a surrendered life to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords brings life to even those that society calls crazy, vain and unworthy. I know Scripture, and the words of worship I hear on the lips of Kanye West are the highest praise for a worthy King. Verse 173: Place your hands of strength and favor upon me, for I’ve made my choice to follow your ways. When God’s strength comes to you, His favor rests upon you - the key is to choose. God has given us the ability to choose who and what we worship and pursue in life. When we make Him our life’s pursuit, His strength empowers us and His favor carries us into places that would never be open to us without Him. The most obvious gates that open to us, the gates of Heaven and living in His eternal presence beyond our life on earth. And that favor alone is worth everything - He is worthy of surrender, worship and the highest praise. Verse 174: I wait for your deliverance, O Lord, for your words thrill me like nothing else! A heart focused on the promises of God, having experienced His life-giving presence and the fulfillment of His promises will wait patiently for His deliverance and timing as we remain steadfast in our worship of Him. Verse 175: Invigorate my life so that I can praise you even more, and may your truth be my strength! A heart bent on worshipping God seeks revival for one purpose - To praise God even more. To seek truth at all costs. To be strengthened and enraptured by the joy of the Lord which is our strength. Verse 176: I’ll never forget what you’ve taught me, Lord, but when I wander off and lose my way, come after me, for I am your beloved! Knowing God shouldn’t just change the way we think or act, it should change the way we worship. We will rest in His unfailing love when we remember that the final Key to Revival is a life surrendered in daily worship to the most high and majestic God of the Universe who is our only source of life, hope and redemption. Amen? I’m about to read you the keys we’ve discovered through Psalm 119 these last six months. If you’d like a PDF copy of the Keys to Revival from Psalm 119 please email michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com and put “Subscribe” in the subject line! Everyone who subscribes to Blooming Inspired Network this week will receive a printable PDF of the promises of God and Keys to Revival found in Psalm 119. Let’s take a look back… In Episode 122, we read Psalm 119:1-8! The subtitle for this passage was “The Way to Happiness” where we found the KEY TO REVIVAL: Obedience. This key leads to a life of joy and integrity that is found in God through focusing on His Scriptures and His Son, Jesus, who is His Word. Key Verse: I will give my thanks to you from a heart of love and truth. And every time I learn more of your righteous judgments,I will be faithful to all that your word reveals—so don’t ever give up on me! - Psalm 119:7-8 TPT In Episode 123, we read Psalm 119:9-16! The subtitle for this passage was “True Joy” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Meditation. Focusing our hearts and minds on Scripture which leads us to treasure God’s Word, leading us to experience more of God’s true joy and purity in our hearts. Key Verse:I consider your prophecies to be my greatest treasure,and I memorize them and write them on my heart to keep me from committing sin’s treason against you.- Psalm 119:11 TPT In Episode 124, we read Psalm 119:17-24! The subtitle for this passage was “The Abundant Life” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: A Humble & Teachable Heart. When we remain humble and teachable, focusing our hearts and minds on Scripture, it leads us to treasure God’s Word in our hearts. Key Verse: Your commandments are my counselors; your word is my light and delight! - Psalm 119:24 TPT In Episode 125, we read Psalm 119:25-32! The subtitle for this passage was “Revived By The Word” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Relying on God’s Strength. When we grow weary and are overcome with discouragement or fatigue, God’s Word brings strength to our hearts, mind and physical being - reviving us to press up and into who God is to discover who we are. Key Verse: I will run after you with delight in my heart, for you will make me obedient to your instructions. - Psalm 119:32 TPT In Episode 126, we read Psalm 119:33-40! The subtitle for this passage was “Understanding God’s Word” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Revelation Wisdom. Focusing our hearts and minds on the revelation wisdom of God through His Word is a key that leads us to passionate obedience as God transforms our hearts and minds to obey His command. As we pursue passionate obedience, His Word delights and protects our hearts from idolatry and deception. Key Verse: See how I long with cravings for more of your ways? Let your righteousness revive my spirit! - Psalm 119:40 TPT In Episode 130, we read Psalm 119:41-48! The subtitle for this passage was “Trusting the Lord” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Trusting God. As we lean into who God is revealed to be in Scripture, we learn to trust Him as we receive His grace, love and comfort, affirming His promises as truth that is safe to obey. Our longings turn to His righteousness that revives our spirit! Key Verse: I long for more revelation of your truth, for I love the light of your word as I meditate on your decrees.- Psalm 119:48 TPT In Episode 131, we read Psalm 119:49-56! The subtitle for this passage was “My Comfort” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: God’s Comfort. Experiencing God’s comfort leads us to treasure the promises of His Word and gives us a desire to know Him with a devoted heart. Key Verse: Your revelation-light is eternal; I’m encouraged every time I think about your truth! - Psalm 119:52 TPT In Episode 132, we read Psalm 119:57-64! The subtitle for this passage was “My Heart’s Devotion” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Devotion to God. As we realize God’s comfort and set our hearts on Him through His Word and obedience, we realize our utter dependence on Him to live our lives according to His will as He cares for us. Key Verse: Give me more revelation of your ways, for I see your love and tender care everywhere.- Psalm 119:64 TPT In Episode 133, we read Psalm 119:65-72! The subtitle for this passage was “My True Treasure” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: God’s Goodness & Kindness. As we rest our hearts in God’s goodness and loving kindness it leads us to understand God is our safe place and refuge as we experience the power and beauty of His Word. Key Verse: Everything you do is beautiful, flowing from your goodness; teach me the power of your wonderful words!- Psalm 119:68 TPT In Episode 134, we read Psalm 119:73-80! The subtitle for this passage was “Growing Through God’s Word” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Maturing In Scripture. As we come to understand God’s character, nature and promises through His Word, alongside walking in obedience to all of who He is, we are delivered of both pride and shame. With pride and shame defeated in our lives - God restores honor that unlocks passion and purpose in every area of our lives. Out of His Abundance and Truth our wholehearted pursuit become to fulfill God’s every desire. Key Verse: Make me passionate and wholehearted to fulfill your every wish, so that I’ll never have to be ashamed of myself.- Psalm 119:80 TPT In Episode 135, we read Psalm 119:81-88! The subtitle for this passage was “Deliver Me” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Deliverance As we mature by growth in God’s Word, we become delivered by that same word as our hearts are renewed by His tender love which leads us to an obedience from our hearts in gratitude and love toward a God who proves Himself worthy. Key Verse: Revive me with your tender love and spare my life by your kindness, and I will continue to obey you.- Psalm 119:88 TPT In Episode 136, we read Psalm 119:89-96! The subtitle for this passage was “Faith In God’s Word” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Revelation Truth As we realize God’s revelation truth in our life, our faith in Him grows, rooting His words deeply in our hearts. These roots displace the lies of the enemy that keep us from realizing His Freedom. Key Verse: I’ve learned that there is nothing perfect in this imperfect world except your words, for they bring such fantastic freedom into my life!- Psalm 119:96 TPT In Episode 137, we read Psalm 119:97-104! The subtitle for this passage was “I Love God’s Word” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: God’s Wisdom As we fall in love with God’s Word, through the revelation of Scripture, we are filled with His Wisdom. As we discover His Wisdom in our hearts, we begin to see not only ourselves, but others and the world around us by His revelation-light. His wisdom is the revelation-light by which our spiritual eyes see, our spiritual ears hear and our spiritual hearts understand. Key Verse: I refuse to turn away from difficult truths, for you yourself have taught me to love your words.- Psalm 119:102 TPT In Episode 138, we read Psalm 119:105-112! The subtitle for this passage was “Truth’s Shining Light” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Gratitude As God’s revelation-light informs our understanding with His Wisdom,our hearts turn to Him in gratitude and joy, His Spirit’s refreshing becomes our standard which leads us to continually partner with God in obedience to His Word and Commands - realizing freedom that leads us to our life’s rest and righteousness found only in Jesus Christ. Key Verse: Everything you speak to me is like joyous treasure, filling my life with gladness. - Psalm 119:111 TPT In Episode 139, we read Psalm 119:113-120! The subtitle for this passage was “Trust & Obey” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Living From His Presence As we learn to live in the freedom of gratitude that produces joy, refreshing and leads us to rest and righteousness in Christ, we find our obedience comes continually from a heart that obeys and trust God completely. This heartfelt obedience and humility it requires bows us low in reverence for God’s holiness and righteousness when we live from his presence. The New Testament reveals that Jesus has clothed us in a robe of His Righteousness - His wrap-around presence keeps our hearts obedient to His Word. Key Verse: You’re my place of quiet retreat, and your wrap-around presence becomes my shield as I wrap myself in your word! - Psalm 119:114 TPT In Episode 142, we read Psalm 119:121-128! The subtitle for this passage was “I Will Follow You” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Intimacy As we come into this place of living from His presence, in obedience to all that Scripture reveals Him to be, realizing we are His gives our hearts the desire to experience and encounter His tender love more and more. As we encounter His presence and His love we grow in revelation understanding our hearts long to follow Him in all His wonderful ways. Key Verse: Let me feel your tender love, for I am yours. Give me more understanding of your wonderful ways.. - Psalm 119:124 TPT In Episode 143, we read Psalm 119:129-136! The subtitle for this passage was “I Long To Obey You” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Sin’s Grief As we come into this place of living from His presence, in obedience to all that Scripture reveals Him to be, we begin to look around and see the state of our fellow man and the decaying world culture that surrounds us giving us a grief from God’s heart over sin and its consequences. We understand His justice comes through loving-kindness and tender mercy - offering salvation to those who most grievously offend. Our grief compels us to follow God’s heart to intercede for God’s breakthrough, salvation and mercy in the world and lives around us. We desire for His Kingdom to Come and Will Be Done on Earth as it is in Heaven. Key Verse: When I witness the rebellious breaking your laws, it makes me weep uncontrollably! - Psalm 119:136 TPT In Episode 144, we read Psalm 119:137-143! The subtitle for this passage was “God’s Word is Truth” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Freedom As we discover the freedom that comes from God’s word that burns like fire in our bones, a furious passion for His truth and His freedom rises in us. Just like the disciples who encountered the resurrected Christ on the Damascus road, we recognize His presence and His power when our hearts burn within us as His words are spoken over us, through us and from the Scriptures. Key Verse: All your promises glow with fire; that’s why I’m a lover of your word. - Psalm 119:140 TPT In Episode 145, we read Psalm 119:144-151! The subtitle for this passage was “Save Me, O God” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Surrender As God’s words burn like fire in our bones, stirring a passionate fire within our hearts for His presence and His word, we realize our utter dependence on God as our source - our source of life, our source of existence, our source of salvation and our source of victorious eternal life. Only He can save us and redeem us which leads us to surrender to His lordship and His love, asking Him to weave Himself into the very fiber of our being as we find ourselves in Him. Key Verse: Before the day dawns, I’ll be crying out for help and wrapping your words into my life.- Psalm 119:147 TPT In Episode 146, we read Psalm 119:152-160! The subtitle for this passage was “Breathe Life Into Me Again” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Heart Cry As God’s words blaze themselves into the very fiber of our being, revival comes to our hearts. We cry out to Him in trial and affliction, and perseverance, strength and power reinforce us as Holy Spirit breathes life into our soul and spirit once again. This is a key to personal and corporate revival. Key Verse: Lord, see how much I truly love your instructions. So in your tender kindness, breathe life into me again. 119:159 TPT In Episode 147, we read Psalm 119:161-168! The subtitle for this passage was “Devoted to God’s Word” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Hunger For More As we realize His strength and the power of revival in our life, we long for more of Him - His presence, His salvation, His deliverance, His truth, His righteousness, His victory - in our lives. This causes us to hunger and thirst for His righteousness. A hunger and thirst that is most fulfilled when we give ourselves wholeheartedly to His Word. Key Verse: My love for your ways is indescribable; in my innermost being I want to follow them perfectly! - Psalm 119:167 TPT Closing Remarks That's all the time that I have today! Thank you for tuning in with us. I want to ask you if this podcast has been a blessing to you: would you consider subscribing to it and share it with your friends and family? We’d love to partner with you in sharing messages that encourage and inspire. If you’d like to be a guest on this show or get more information about hosting your own podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network - please reach out to michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com. I’d love the opportunity to connect with you and figure out how we can share your voice with the world around us. BIBLE STUDY SEASON IS UPON US! We began our The Gospels: Verse-By-Verse Bible Study in October. We will resume this Saturday, in person (Granbury, TX) and on Facebook Live at 10 am (Central Time). That’s right - This season our study is found in the book of Luke. We’ll pick up with Chapter 3 on Saturday morning at 10am (CT). You can learn more and catch up on last week’s study by visiting facebook.com/bloominginspired. If you’d like to get this podcast delivered to your smart device, we're available on Apple and on Google Podcasts. Again, I would like to ask you partner with us. We would love for you to share about our podcast on social media -- share it with your friends your family -- the people within your influence let them know what we're doing at Blooming Inspired Network! Be sure to TUNE IN! BIPN’s Accidental Hope Podcast airs on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. central time. Each week Jennifer Eikenhorst brings hope-filled messages and interviews related to overcoming accidents and traumas we face in life. You don’t want to miss her inspiring podcast this week. And now, I want to remind you as I always do: Blooming where you're planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams, so live your lives blooming alive! Thank you for listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. This show airs on Tuesdays at 11 am central time. Please take a moment to like, share and subscribe to this podcast. To learn more about this podcast and it’s network, or the ministries of Blooming Inspired Network please visit BloomingInspiredNetwork.com and click the podcast link at the top of the page. Psalm 119:169-176 The Passion Translation (TPT) I Want to Follow You 169 Lord, listen to my prayer. It’s like a sacrifice I bring to you; I must have more revelation of your word! 170 Take my words to heart when I ask you, Lord; rescue me, just like you promised! 171 I offer you my joyous praise for all that you’ve taught me. 172 Your wonderful words will become my song of worship, for everything you’ve commanded is perfect and true. 173 Place your hands of strength and favor upon me, for I’ve made my choice to follow your ways. 174 I wait for your deliverance, O Lord, for your words thrill me like nothing else! 175 Invigorate my life so that I can praise you even more, and may your truth be my strength! 176 I’ll never forget what you’ve taught me, Lord, but when I wander off and lose my way, come after me, for I am your beloved! The Passion Translation (TPT) The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017 by BroadStreet Publishing® Group, LLC. Used by permission. All rights reserved. thePassionTranslation.com

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 169-176 in the Passion Translation. Today, we'll look at the question: “Who or What am I following after?” As our hearts search our soul for the answer, we will look at the Key of Worship as our life’s pursuit Show Transcript: You are listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. We exist to empower the voices of women who live their lives #BloomingAlive through Podcast Community. Now, here is your host. Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives Blooming Alive. Introduction Good Morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. I want to take a moment to encourage you. I don’t know if you’ve been in the thick of spiritual warfare lately, but around the lake here in Granbury it has been amped up. Last week my prayer group and I took the time to stand and pray with other prayer groups around our nation and in other countries. We have been praying together a few years and asking God to move in our personal lives, our families, our city, county, region, state and nation as well as throughout the entire world. As we did, things began to happen and even though we experienced resistance in the spiritual realms there was breakthrough. My friend, Deb DeArmand just released a new quick-read devotional packed with humor and practical wisdom called Bumper Sticker Be-Attitudes over at Amazon.com. And even though this sounds like some kind of shameless promotion, I wanted to share something she posted on Facebook: “It’s never too late to finish, and it’s always too early to quit.” This happens to be a chapter title in her book. As I think about this encouragement I’m drawn to a particular Scripture. Galatians 6:9 in The Passion Translation reads this way: “And don’t allow yourselves to be weary or disheartened in planting good seeds, for the season of reaping the wonderful harvest you’ve planted is coming!” Don’t give up! Yes, the battle in this season may be hard, but victory and breakthrough are on the other side. Just like the tiny seed that is birthed beneath the hard earth. It take a lot of stick to it and determination to breakthrough - but once you do there is light and life -- especially opportunities to grow in abundance and bear much fruit. So stay at it, friends. The other side of the story - the harvest is worth the price you pay. And be sure to pick up Deb’s book over at Amazon.com and leave a review once you’ve read it. You can click the link in this post for more information about her book! Now--- For our final reading in Psalm 119 in “The Revival Series.” I have to say I am grateful to be at the end of this journey with you today. WHY? You may be asking. Well, remember at the beginning way back in May - 28 Episodes ago, I began reading in Psalm 119:1… I told you that I felt God has encouraged me to read Psalm 119 back in 2014 but each time I tried I couldn’t get past the first 20 verses? Yes. Well, that struggle WAS VERY REAL. Amen? I didn’t see myself as the person who was happy to keep God’s commands, and His Word. Not that I ddin’t try to be obedient, and remain in His word daily. Not that at all… But, because I didn’t see myself as a person of integrity. I know. This may be news to you… But, friends. I”ve lived most of my life with an impoverished spirit hanging on me like an old coat. Anytime success or a move in God’s direction got me excited, there the enemy would be trying to discourage me by reminding me of not only the horrible past I had lived, but also the struggle with strongholds and temptation to sin I face daily. I believed deep in my heart I’d never change completely until I got to Heaven and saw Jesus. In truth, I was trying to change myself not trusting God to do it… So in 2016 when in prayer I felt the Holy Spirit nudge me and ask me why I had not read Psalm 119 as the Lord had put on my heart to do… I responded, “Because I cannot find myself in it.” Then is when I felt like Jesus pulled my face up in His hands and said, “Beloved, you aren’t supposed to read Scripture to find yourself… Your supposed to read Scripture to find Me.” That’s a life-changing truth right there, my friends. A life changing truth. Maybe you need to hear that for yourself today. God’s Word - the fullest expression of Himself to us - is Jesus. The primary way He reveals Himself to us in this season is through the Scriptures, but Holy Spirit is the great Revelator. He guides us into all truth. And He will teach us to hear and respond to the Shepherd’s voice if we will only give ourselves to the process. Surrender is a position of obedience and victory in God’s Kingdom. Let’s surrender one more time to read our last 8 verses of Psalm 119. This week we are going to be reading from Psalm 119:169-176 in the Passion Translation - so grab your favorite Bible translation to read from and let’s get ready to read by reviewing what we covered last time. Review In our last episode, we read verses 161-168 as we continued to discover keys to revival. As we read, we considered the question: “What Do I Have My Heart Set On?" And as we walked through each verse we picked up another Revival Key that comes from remaining devoted to God’s Word. That key is a longing and a hunger for more of Him through His Word. That desire to go deep into God’s Word leads us to discover both His love and His power in a way that compels us to change and live only for Him. As we read through verses 169-176 today, I want you to ask yourself, “Who or What am I following after?” As our hearts search our soul for the answer, we will look at the Key of Worship as our life’s pursuit This Week’s Reading So Now Let’s Pray, Father God, I ask that you would give each person within the sound of my voice an encounter with You, Your Son and the Holy Spirit this morning as we read Your words of life together. Impart the truth of who You are to our hearts, minds, souls and bodies today - we ask for Holy Spirit revelation to open our eyes to the way You see, open our ears to hear Your majestic voice, and open our hearts to know Your heart in intimacy and truth. I thank you that when we believe in Christ, we are hidden in Him and His blessings. Let our heart’s rend themselves before you today in a sacrifice of praise as we give our lives to worship you - the only one who is worthy of all praise! Remind us of these truths as we read today and make them real for us! I ask these things in Jesus’ Holy Name, AMEN. The heading for today’s reading is, “I Want To Follow You” Verse 169: Lord, listen to my prayer. It’s like a sacrifice I bring to you; I must have more revelation of your word! Do you hear that? Our prayers and longing for God are a sacrifice that praises and glorifies Him as God. It keeps us dependent upon the Holy Spirit’s revelation as we seek to know Him through His Word. My heart is tender to the glory of God in this hour. My morning has been full of distractions - people requesting time with me for coaching, sharing and declaring His truth in our lives. I’ve also been praying with my prayer sisters and receiving revelation for a loved one as I’ve reviewed what God has taught us through the last six months of our lives together. And then, the posts about the horrible massacre of the families from LeBaron, Mexico. I’ve seen the reports, and I personally know family members here in the states who broke away from their lifestyle. But, if in our religious piety as Christians we can have no compassion for people who were murdered for the simple fact that they existed. If we cannot pray for the people of Mexico in this hour who are tormented, tortured and terrorized by the drug-lords and cartels. Then who is the God we are serving? I don’t have to agree with their lifestyle to grieve for their loss. I don’t have to know them to love them from His perspective. Jesus died on the cross for both those murdered in Mexico yesterday and for the drug-lords and cartel members, and the corrupt government who has allowed this to go on unabated for decades. God’s arm is not too short to save, but His people seem to have hardened hearts when it comes to their desire for justice. May His mercy endure and His goodness be made known to those who grieve today. May He put His protective hand on the citizens of Mexico in this hour and all who make their home there. May His loving-kindness and tender mercy bring repentance and deliverance for both the people and the oppressors and may those who pray for peace and safety find it in Him today. In Jesus’ name, amen. Verse 170: Take my words to heart when I ask you, Lord; rescue me, just like you promised! Micah 6:8 commends us that God has shown us how to live our lives in surrender to Him. My memory reflects it this way, “Do justice (in our own hearts), love mercy (toward other people) and walk in humility with oug God.” So often, our heart cry to God is for mercy for ourselves, we do love mercy for ourselves. And we also cry out for justice toward those we deem wrong, hurtful or criminal. And in so doing, I believe we grieve the heart of God as He was so willing to lay His life down for us to be free, but we cannot cross that line of sacrifice and give up our own rights and prideful judgments to minister His love and mercy to those who offend us the most. It’s no wonder we find Him absent in the midst of tragedy when our hearts will not bend to sacrifice for Him in our praise. Verse 171: I offer you my joyous praise for all that you’ve taught me. When the worship music plays at church, when the circumstances are overwhelming your heart, when people are hurting you and fear consumes you - Where Do You Find Your Heart Focused? The only way to live in joyous praise for all He has taught you is to make every moment of your life an act of worship. If the music at church, the actions of others, the circumstances or pain of your life and fear are consuming your focus - if you aren’t focused on who God is, what He has promised you and the way He has delivered you over and over again - then you will not be able to offer Him your joyous praise. Joy is a gift from God - happiness, is fleeting and temporary, but the state of being the blessed of God defies all circumstances determined only by the condition of our heart before Him. Will we bow and bend to His will or be driven by the wanton fear that compels us to forsake His perfect love? Verse 172:Your wonderful words will become my song of worship, for everything you’ve commanded is perfect and true. My favorite worship song right now might surprise you… It’s Kanye West’s title song from the album “Jesus is King.” This song is the exclamation point on a beautiful, resounding chorus of words that tells the story of one who was lost and became found by God. Of The Son who is worthy of celebrating, and the way a surrendered life to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords brings life to even those that society calls crazy, vain and unworthy. I know Scripture, and the words of worship I hear on the lips of Kanye West are the highest praise for a worthy King. Verse 173: Place your hands of strength and favor upon me, for I’ve made my choice to follow your ways. When God’s strength comes to you, His favor rests upon you - the key is to choose. God has given us the ability to choose who and what we worship and pursue in life. When we make Him our life’s pursuit, His strength empowers us and His favor carries us into places that would never be open to us without Him. The most obvious gates that open to us, the gates of Heaven and living in His eternal presence beyond our life on earth. And that favor alone is worth everything - He is worthy of surrender, worship and the highest praise. Verse 174: I wait for your deliverance, O Lord, for your words thrill me like nothing else! A heart focused on the promises of God, having experienced His life-giving presence and the fulfillment of His promises will wait patiently for His deliverance and timing as we remain steadfast in our worship of Him. Verse 175: Invigorate my life so that I can praise you even more, and may your truth be my strength! A heart bent on worshipping God seeks revival for one purpose - To praise God even more. To seek truth at all costs. To be strengthened and enraptured by the joy of the Lord which is our strength. Verse 176: I’ll never forget what you’ve taught me, Lord, but when I wander off and lose my way, come after me, for I am your beloved! Knowing God shouldn’t just change the way we think or act, it should change the way we worship. We will rest in His unfailing love when we remember that the final Key to Revival is a life surrendered in daily worship to the most high and majestic God of the Universe who is our only source of life, hope and redemption. Amen? I’m about to read you the keys we’ve discovered through Psalm 119 these last six months. If you’d like a PDF copy of the Keys to Revival from Psalm 119 please email michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com and put “Subscribe” in the subject line! Everyone who subscribes to Blooming Inspired Network this week will receive a printable PDF of the promises of God and Keys to Revival found in Psalm 119. Let’s take a look back… In Episode 122, we read Psalm 119:1-8! The subtitle for this passage was “The Way to Happiness” where we found the KEY TO REVIVAL: Obedience. This key leads to a life of joy and integrity that is found in God through focusing on His Scriptures and His Son, Jesus, who is His Word. Key Verse: I will give my thanks to you from a heart of love and truth. And every time I learn more of your righteous judgments,I will be faithful to all that your word reveals—so don’t ever give up on me! - Psalm 119:7-8 TPT In Episode 123, we read Psalm 119:9-16! The subtitle for this passage was “True Joy” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Meditation. Focusing our hearts and minds on Scripture which leads us to treasure God’s Word, leading us to experience more of God’s true joy and purity in our hearts. Key Verse:I consider your prophecies to be my greatest treasure,and I memorize them and write them on my heart to keep me from committing sin’s treason against you.- Psalm 119:11 TPT In Episode 124, we read Psalm 119:17-24! The subtitle for this passage was “The Abundant Life” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: A Humble & Teachable Heart. When we remain humble and teachable, focusing our hearts and minds on Scripture, it leads us to treasure God’s Word in our hearts. Key Verse: Your commandments are my counselors; your word is my light and delight! - Psalm 119:24 TPT In Episode 125, we read Psalm 119:25-32! The subtitle for this passage was “Revived By The Word” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Relying on God’s Strength. When we grow weary and are overcome with discouragement or fatigue, God’s Word brings strength to our hearts, mind and physical being - reviving us to press up and into who God is to discover who we are. Key Verse: I will run after you with delight in my heart, for you will make me obedient to your instructions. - Psalm 119:32 TPT In Episode 126, we read Psalm 119:33-40! The subtitle for this passage was “Understanding God’s Word” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Revelation Wisdom. Focusing our hearts and minds on the revelation wisdom of God through His Word is a key that leads us to passionate obedience as God transforms our hearts and minds to obey His command. As we pursue passionate obedience, His Word delights and protects our hearts from idolatry and deception. Key Verse: See how I long with cravings for more of your ways? Let your righteousness revive my spirit! - Psalm 119:40 TPT In Episode 130, we read Psalm 119:41-48! The subtitle for this passage was “Trusting the Lord” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Trusting God. As we lean into who God is revealed to be in Scripture, we learn to trust Him as we receive His grace, love and comfort, affirming His promises as truth that is safe to obey. Our longings turn to His righteousness that revives our spirit! Key Verse: I long for more revelation of your truth, for I love the light of your word as I meditate on your decrees.- Psalm 119:48 TPT In Episode 131, we read Psalm 119:49-56! The subtitle for this passage was “My Comfort” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: God’s Comfort. Experiencing God’s comfort leads us to treasure the promises of His Word and gives us a desire to know Him with a devoted heart. Key Verse: Your revelation-light is eternal; I’m encouraged every time I think about your truth! - Psalm 119:52 TPT In Episode 132, we read Psalm 119:57-64! The subtitle for this passage was “My Heart’s Devotion” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Devotion to God. As we realize God’s comfort and set our hearts on Him through His Word and obedience, we realize our utter dependence on Him to live our lives according to His will as He cares for us. Key Verse: Give me more revelation of your ways, for I see your love and tender care everywhere.- Psalm 119:64 TPT In Episode 133, we read Psalm 119:65-72! The subtitle for this passage was “My True Treasure” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: God’s Goodness & Kindness. As we rest our hearts in God’s goodness and loving kindness it leads us to understand God is our safe place and refuge as we experience the power and beauty of His Word. Key Verse: Everything you do is beautiful, flowing from your goodness; teach me the power of your wonderful words!- Psalm 119:68 TPT In Episode 134, we read Psalm 119:73-80! The subtitle for this passage was “Growing Through God’s Word” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Maturing In Scripture. As we come to understand God’s character, nature and promises through His Word, alongside walking in obedience to all of who He is, we are delivered of both pride and shame. With pride and shame defeated in our lives - God restores honor that unlocks passion and purpose in every area of our lives. Out of His Abundance and Truth our wholehearted pursuit become to fulfill God’s every desire. Key Verse: Make me passionate and wholehearted to fulfill your every wish, so that I’ll never have to be ashamed of myself.- Psalm 119:80 TPT In Episode 135, we read Psalm 119:81-88! The subtitle for this passage was “Deliver Me” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Deliverance As we mature by growth in God’s Word, we become delivered by that same word as our hearts are renewed by His tender love which leads us to an obedience from our hearts in gratitude and love toward a God who proves Himself worthy. Key Verse: Revive me with your tender love and spare my life by your kindness, and I will continue to obey you.- Psalm 119:88 TPT In Episode 136, we read Psalm 119:89-96! The subtitle for this passage was “Faith In God’s Word” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Revelation Truth As we realize God’s revelation truth in our life, our faith in Him grows, rooting His words deeply in our hearts. These roots displace the lies of the enemy that keep us from realizing His Freedom. Key Verse: I’ve learned that there is nothing perfect in this imperfect world except your words, for they bring such fantastic freedom into my life!- Psalm 119:96 TPT In Episode 137, we read Psalm 119:97-104! The subtitle for this passage was “I Love God’s Word” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: God’s Wisdom As we fall in love with God’s Word, through the revelation of Scripture, we are filled with His Wisdom. As we discover His Wisdom in our hearts, we begin to see not only ourselves, but others and the world around us by His revelation-light. His wisdom is the revelation-light by which our spiritual eyes see, our spiritual ears hear and our spiritual hearts understand. Key Verse: I refuse to turn away from difficult truths, for you yourself have taught me to love your words.- Psalm 119:102 TPT In Episode 138, we read Psalm 119:105-112! The subtitle for this passage was “Truth’s Shining Light” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Gratitude As God’s revelation-light informs our understanding with His Wisdom,our hearts turn to Him in gratitude and joy, His Spirit’s refreshing becomes our standard which leads us to continually partner with God in obedience to His Word and Commands - realizing freedom that leads us to our life’s rest and righteousness found only in Jesus Christ. Key Verse: Everything you speak to me is like joyous treasure, filling my life with gladness. - Psalm 119:111 TPT In Episode 139, we read Psalm 119:113-120! The subtitle for this passage was “Trust & Obey” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Living From His Presence As we learn to live in the freedom of gratitude that produces joy, refreshing and leads us to rest and righteousness in Christ, we find our obedience comes continually from a heart that obeys and trust God completely. This heartfelt obedience and humility it requires bows us low in reverence for God’s holiness and righteousness when we live from his presence. The New Testament reveals that Jesus has clothed us in a robe of His Righteousness - His wrap-around presence keeps our hearts obedient to His Word. Key Verse: You’re my place of quiet retreat, and your wrap-around presence becomes my shield as I wrap myself in your word! - Psalm 119:114 TPT In Episode 142, we read Psalm 119:121-128! The subtitle for this passage was “I Will Follow You” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Intimacy As we come into this place of living from His presence, in obedience to all that Scripture reveals Him to be, realizing we are His gives our hearts the desire to experience and encounter His tender love more and more. As we encounter His presence and His love we grow in revelation understanding our hearts long to follow Him in all His wonderful ways. Key Verse: Let me feel your tender love, for I am yours. Give me more understanding of your wonderful ways.. - Psalm 119:124 TPT In Episode 143, we read Psalm 119:129-136! The subtitle for this passage was “I Long To Obey You” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Sin’s Grief As we come into this place of living from His presence, in obedience to all that Scripture reveals Him to be, we begin to look around and see the state of our fellow man and the decaying world culture that surrounds us giving us a grief from God’s heart over sin and its consequences. We understand His justice comes through loving-kindness and tender mercy - offering salvation to those who most grievously offend. Our grief compels us to follow God’s heart to intercede for God’s breakthrough, salvation and mercy in the world and lives around us. We desire for His Kingdom to Come and Will Be Done on Earth as it is in Heaven. Key Verse: When I witness the rebellious breaking your laws, it makes me weep uncontrollably! - Psalm 119:136 TPT In Episode 144, we read Psalm 119:137-143! The subtitle for this passage was “God’s Word is Truth” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Freedom As we discover the freedom that comes from God’s word that burns like fire in our bones, a furious passion for His truth and His freedom rises in us. Just like the disciples who encountered the resurrected Christ on the Damascus road, we recognize His presence and His power when our hearts burn within us as His words are spoken over us, through us and from the Scriptures. Key Verse: All your promises glow with fire; that’s why I’m a lover of your word. - Psalm 119:140 TPT In Episode 145, we read Psalm 119:144-151! The subtitle for this passage was “Save Me, O God” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Surrender As God’s words burn like fire in our bones, stirring a passionate fire within our hearts for His presence and His word, we realize our utter dependence on God as our source - our source of life, our source of existence, our source of salvation and our source of victorious eternal life. Only He can save us and redeem us which leads us to surrender to His lordship and His love, asking Him to weave Himself into the very fiber of our being as we find ourselves in Him. Key Verse: Before the day dawns, I’ll be crying out for help and wrapping your words into my life.- Psalm 119:147 TPT In Episode 146, we read Psalm 119:152-160! The subtitle for this passage was “Breathe Life Into Me Again” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Heart Cry As God’s words blaze themselves into the very fiber of our being, revival comes to our hearts. We cry out to Him in trial and affliction, and perseverance, strength and power reinforce us as Holy Spirit breathes life into our soul and spirit once again. This is a key to personal and corporate revival. Key Verse: Lord, see how much I truly love your instructions. So in your tender kindness, breathe life into me again. 119:159 TPT In Episode 147, we read Psalm 119:161-168! The subtitle for this passage was “Devoted to God’s Word” and we discovered the KEY TO REVIVAL: Hunger For More As we realize His strength and the power of revival in our life, we long for more of Him - His presence, His salvation, His deliverance, His truth, His righteousness, His victory - in our lives. This causes us to hunger and thirst for His righteousness. A hunger and thirst that is most fulfilled when we give ourselves wholeheartedly to His Word. Key Verse: My love for your ways is indescribable; in my innermost being I want to follow them perfectly! - Psalm 119:167 TPT Closing Remarks That's all the time that I have today! Thank you for tuning in with us. I want to ask you if this podcast has been a blessing to you: would you consider subscribing to it and share it with your friends and family? We’d love to partner with you in sharing messages that encourage and inspire. If you’d like to be a guest on this show or get more information about hosting your own podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network - please reach out to michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com. I’d love the opportunity to connect with you and figure out how we can share your voice with the world around us. BIBLE STUDY SEASON IS UPON US! We began our The Gospels: Verse-By-Verse Bible Study in October. We will resume this Saturday, in person (Granbury, TX) and on Facebook Live at 10 am (Central Time). That’s right - This season our study is found in the book of Luke. We’ll pick up with Chapter 3 on Saturday morning at 10am (CT). You can learn more and catch up on last week’s study by visiting facebook.com/bloominginspired. If you’d like to get this podcast delivered to your smart device, we're available on Apple and on Google Podcasts. Again, I would like to ask you partner with us. We would love for you to share about our podcast on social media -- share it with your friends your family -- the people within your influence let them know what we're doing at Blooming Inspired Network! Be sure to TUNE IN! BIPN’s Accidental Hope Podcast airs on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. central time. Each week Jennifer Eikenhorst brings hope-filled messages and interviews related to overcoming accidents and traumas we face in life. You don’t want to miss her inspiring podcast this week. And now, I want to remind you as I always do: Blooming where you're planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams, so live your lives blooming alive! Thank you for listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. This show airs on Tuesdays at 11 am central time. Please take a moment to like, share and subscribe to this podcast. To learn more about this podcast and it’s network, or the ministries of Blooming Inspired Network please visit BloomingInspiredNetwork.com and click the podcast link at the top of the page. Psalm 119:169-176 The Passion Translation (TPT) I Want to Follow You 169 Lord, listen to my prayer. It’s like a sacrifice I bring to you; I must have more revelation of your word! 170 Take my words to heart when I ask you, Lord; rescue me, just like you promised! 171 I offer you my joyous praise for all that you’ve taught me. 172 Your wonderful words will become my song of worship, for everything you’ve commanded is perfect and true. 173 Place your hands of strength and favor upon me, for I’ve made my choice to follow your ways. 174 I wait for your deliverance, O Lord, for your words thrill me like nothing else! 175 Invigorate my life so that I can praise you even more, and may your truth be my strength! 176 I’ll never forget what you’ve taught me, Lord, but when I wander off and lose my way, come after me, for I am your beloved! The Passion Translation (TPT) The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017 by BroadStreet Publishing® Group, LLC. Used by permission. All rights reserved. thePassionTranslation.com

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 161-68 in the Passion Translation. Today, we'll look at the question: “What Do I Have My Heart Set On?" As we read, we'll discover the key of longing or hunger for more. A longing or hunger and desire to go deep into God’s Word leads us to discover both His love and His power in a way that compels you to change and live only for Him. Show Transcript: You are listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. We exist to empower the voices of women who live their lives #BloomingAlive through Podcast Community. Now, here is your host. Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives Blooming Alive. Introduction Good Morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. It’s been a while since I’ve shared a new episode in our Revival Series. God has been impressing upon me that next year is going to require stewardship of rest and the health of my body. I’ve taken a few weeks to get my mind and heart in a place of rest, and now I’m working on getting health to my bones. I’ll be wrapping up our Revival Series as we conclude our reading of Psalm 119 next week. I have a few things stirring in my heart around recent events related to women in ministry that I will be bringing to you in the coming weeks. I also plan to feature some of my favorite podcasters’ shows in November and December, including an interview I did with Jayme Hull, an author and speaker who is passionate about face to face mentoring with Millenials. Be looking for that show to air in two weeks. This week we are going to be reading from Psalm 119:161-168 in the Passion Translation - so go ahead and grab your Bible and let’s get ready to read by reviewing what we covered last time. Review In our last episode, we read verses 153-160 as we continued to discover keys to revival. In our last reading, we discovered the Key of God’s Loving-Kindness, that when we cry out to Him in our weariness and the difficulties we face as we serve Him, that He will breathe life into us again! Isn’t that the heart of revival? As we read through verses 161-168 today, I want you to ask yourself, “What Do I Have My Heart Set On?” Are you devoted to God’s Word, meaning you read the Scriptures and try to do what they say… Or, Are you devoted to God’s Son, trusting His promises as revealed to you in the Scriptures and living out of your relationship with Him. Jesus is the final and fullest expression of who God is to us. When we say God’s Word these days we often think of a book, but when Scripture refers to God’s Word… It is often talking about Jesus. This Week’s Reading So Now Let’s Pray, Father God, I ask that you would give each person within the sound of my voice an encounter with You, Your Son and the Holy Spirit this morning as we read Your words of life together. Impart the truth of who You are to our hearts, minds, souls and bodies today - we ask for Holy Spirit revelation to open our eyes to the way You see, open our ears to hear Your majestic voice, and open our hearts to know Your heart in intimacy and truth. I thank you that when we believe in Christ, we are hidden in Him and His blessings. Remind us of these truths as we read today and make them real for us! I ask these things in Jesus’ Holy Name, AMEN. The heading for today’s reading is, “Devoted to God’s Word” Verse 161: The powerful elite have persecuted me without a cause, but my heart trembles in awe because of your miracle-words. When you read the Scriptures seeking God’s heart… Does your heart tremble in awe at the miraculous way God’s Spirit and His Truth speak to you? When the persecution of a friend or spiritual leader in your church comes how do you respond? You see, the powerful elite are not God, whether they are of the government in a legal sense or of the governing body of your church. Scripture commends us to submit to godly leadership based in Biblical principles, but spiritual abuse comes from the person - not from God. It has become a slippery slope in recent years, all this painful reality being exposed in #MeToo and #ChurchToo, I have my own #MeToo story that has nothing to do with the church, but that doesn’t mean I’ve not been spiritually abused. You see for women in, especially evangelical, church settings,it is considered Biblical to introduce a woman to “her place” while giving a man a title and paycheck worthy of a pastor and giving a woman the title of director and a paycheck that is only a small percentage of what they offer the man. Not to mention what happens to a pastor’s wife if he should die while in the pastorate. Many times it means not only a loss of love and comfort, but a loss of income, insurance and even the home if the pastor’s family was afforded a parsonage. And the church leaders, often men, will come and say we can help you a few months but then - figure it out. You may not see this as persecution, oh, but it is. It is spiritual abuse and spiritual abuse is a form of persecution without cause. Yet, as we see the Psalmist in this passage, crying out to God in the season of persecution we see his heart turn to God’s miracle words which cause his heart to tremble in awe before the Lord. I think of the end of the book of Luke when the two disciples realize they are talking to Jesus they reflect, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as He talked with us along the road…” I want to ask you when life closes in and the season is dark, do you turn to the Scriptures and find Jesus speaking to you, causing the awe and tremble of a heart burning within you to devote yourself to Him no matter what you face? Verse 162: Your promises are the source of my bubbling joy; the revelation of your word thrills me When was the last time you reflected on the promises of God in Scripture and they gave you JOY? Scripture tells us joy is the promised reward for those who suffer grief and loss, and even in persecution there is a loss of expectation and a grief over missed opportunities or lost relationships. But, God’s promises bring us bubbling over joy - joy that becomes strength as we immerse ourselves in His word and allow it to thrill and delight us - even when we face devastating circumstances. Verse 163: I despise every lie and hate every falsehood, for I am passionate about keeping your precepts. Jesus said that Satan is the Father of Lies. Meaning all falsehood and deception comes from Satan, himself, and if you believe and live by lies then you are agreeing and aligning yourself with the enemy of God. An enemy that God says over and over again that He hates. He hates lies and falsehood because they damage relationships and hurt people. He hates lies because He, Himself, is Truth - all truth comes from him. Committing ourselves to His precepts breaks any alignment with lies and deception, and removes the enemy’s power to work in our lives and destroy us. Paul writes in the book of Romans that Satan veils the eyes of those who are perishing so they may not see the truth. And, yet the good news is that the Truth of God, the Scriptures and who He is, will uproot and destroy the lies of Satan if we focus on it. Replacing the lies life has taught me - whether by persecution, experience, the enemy’s whispers to me in my weakness, or that I’ve told so myself - with God’s eternal and unchanging truth sets me free from not only the enemy’s hold on my life, but also sets me free to be fully who He designed and paid a price for me to be. When His truth becomes my passion I can say like the traditional hymn, “Though none go with me. Still, I will follow. No turning back.” Verse 164: I stop to praise you seven times a day, all because your ways are perfect! This verse just makes me giddy… The Psalmist mentions praising God seven times a day - every time I eat something, when I wake and when I lay down to sleep - my heart rejoices in the Lord. But also, because it says all God’s ways are perfect. Did you know that? All God’s ways are perfect! And that number 7, it is the perfect number of creative completion as the Lord created the earth in 6 days and rested on the 7th. When my heart rests perfectly in Him, my life is full of peace and full of praise for the one who made it so. Verse 165: There is such a great peace and well-being that comes to the lovers of your word, and they will never be offended. A few years ago, I heard a teacher talking about living life “UNOFFENDED.” I hit pause on that word as he explained he lived by the law of love and grace and chose not to get offended by people and circumstances. And here is this word - 1) that affirms my conclusion from the last verse and 2) affirms this word about living unoffended. You see, if the Bible truly is God’s mind revealed to man, and we become transformed by taking on the mind of Christ in our lives - then the result loving God’s Word (Jesus) by reading the Scriptures will not only allow us to realize God’s peace, which passes our ability to understand, but also to overcome offense and the wounds that life offers us along the path home. Jesus withstood great persecution, accusation and pain -- They killed Him. And yet He forgave, He laid His life down for the very ones who called for the government leaders to end it. This is the life unoffended, this the life of a transformed heart - and it comes first from loving Jesus and then by living according to His words. Verse 166: Lord, I’m longing for more of your salvation, for I want to do what pleases you. As one whose lived a lot of my life squandering my resources and my time in wild living, then in just really unhealthy relationships, thought and behavior patterns I realize that the Lord’s salvation is my only hope - ever - and His salvation sanctifies, purifies and transforms me from the inside out so that my life becomes a pleasing sacrifice laid out before Him, one drawn up in wells of obedience born of faith and trust in the One who saved me. Verse167: My love for your ways is indescribable; in my innermost being I want to follow them perfectly! Once again the Psalmist confirms my conclusion from the last verse we read. That when I long for more of God’s salvation in my life it stirs a love and passion for me that is beyond description. Have you ever had an encounter with God you found hard to put into words? I have. I can’t explain exactly what happened but all I know is that after the encounter I WAS COMPLETELY DIFFERENT. It felt like some part of the old me had been removed and a new part had been given in its place. A fresh new part. This is what I believe it means to have a new heart and a new mind. When the innermost part of your being wants to follow God perfectly. This is a Key to Revival - a longing or hunger for more. A desire to go deep into God’s Word, and know both His love and His power in a way that compels you to change and live only for Him. Verse 168: I will keep your instructions and follow your counsel; all my ways are an open book before you. I remember a time in my life when I first began to pursue Scripture and God’s will in my life. I had been saved at age 12, meaning I knew my destination after life on earth was Heaven because Jesus was my savior who paid the price for my sins, but I did not know Him as Lord quite yet. I believe this is what Paul means when he says that people are saved as ones escaping flames. They get the benefit of heaven, but no transformation in life on earth. I would study Scripture for hours.. I would wrestle with His words and my actions. I would lay in the floor weeping in repentance. I would cry out for more, longing to know Him in intimacy and friendship. But, there was that whole life between salvation and when I began to pursue Him… Some 18 years… Where I had locked up my skeletons in a padlocked closet in my mind and didn’t want to expose them to anyone, even God. Have you ever thought you were keeping something from God by not confessing it to Him? Honey, He already knows. I had to lay my life out like an open book before Him and trust Him with all the bad choices I made alongside the good ones. And the truth is… He redeems it all for His glory. Both my human good (filthy rags) and my human bad (sin) - God redeems them and exchanges them for a crown of life that bring Him glory. Let’s do as Psalm 5 exhorts us, lay our lives out before Him every single morning and let His fire fall on our hearts, consuming what doesn’t look like Him and refining the parts that do. Closing Remarks That's all the time that I have today! Thank you for tuning in with us. I want to ask you if this podcast has been a blessing to you: would you consider subscribing to it and share it with your friends and family? We’d love to partner with you in sharing messages that encourage and inspire. If you’d like to be a guest on this show or get more information about hosting your own podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network - please reach out to michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com. I’d love the opportunity to connect with you and figure out how we can share your voice with the world around us. BIBLE STUDY SEASON IS UPON US! We began our The Gospels: Verse-By-Verse Bible Study in October. We will resume this Saturday, in person (Granbury, TX) and on Facebook Live at 10 am (Central Time). That’s right - This season our study is found in the book of Luke. We read the first 80 verses in October and will pick up in Chapter Two next week. You can learn more and catch up on last week’s study by visiting facebook.com/bloominginspired. If you’d like to get this podcast delivered to your smart device, we're available on Apple and on Google Podcasts. Again, I would like to ask you partner with us. We would love for you to share about our podcast on social media -- share it with your friends your family -- the people within your influence let them know what we're doing at Blooming Inspired Network! And don’t Tune In Wednesdays! Accidental Hope Podcast airs on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. central time. Each week Jennifer Eikenhorst brings hope-filled messages and interviews related to overcoming accidents and traumas we face in life. You don’t want to miss her inspiring podcast this week. And now, I want to remind you as I always do: Blooming where you're planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams, so live your lives blooming alive! Thank you for listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. This show airs on Tuesdays at 11 am central time. Please take a moment to like, share and subscribe to this podcast. To learn more about this podcast and it’s network, or the ministries of Blooming Inspired Network please visit BloomingInspiredNetwork.com and click the podcast link at the top of the page. Psalm 119:161-168 The Passion Translation (TPT) Devoted to God’s Word 161 The powerful elite have persecuted me without a cause, but my heart trembles in awe because of your miracle-words. 162 Your promises are the source of my bubbling joy; the revelation of your word thrills me like one who has discovered hidden treasure. 163 I despise every lie and hate every falsehood, for I am passionate about keeping your precepts. 164 I stop to praise you seven times a day, all because your ways are perfect! 165 There is such a great peace and well-being that comes to the lovers of your word, and they will never be offended. 166 Lord, I’m longing for more of your salvation, for I want to do what pleases you. 167 My love for your ways is indescribable; in my innermost being I want to follow them perfectly! 168 I will keep your instructions and follow your counsel; all my ways are an open book before you. The Passion Translation (TPT) The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017 by BroadStreet Publishing® Group, LLC. Used by permission. All rights reserved. thePassionTranslation.com

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 161-68 in the Passion Translation. Today, we'll look at the question: “What Do I Have My Heart Set On?" As we read, we'll discover the key of longing or hunger for more. A longing or hunger and desire to go deep into God’s Word leads us to discover both His love and His power in a way that compels you to change and live only for Him. Show Transcript: You are listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. We exist to empower the voices of women who live their lives #BloomingAlive through Podcast Community. Now, here is your host. Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives Blooming Alive. Introduction Good Morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. It’s been a while since I’ve shared a new episode in our Revival Series. God has been impressing upon me that next year is going to require stewardship of rest and the health of my body. I’ve taken a few weeks to get my mind and heart in a place of rest, and now I’m working on getting health to my bones. I’ll be wrapping up our Revival Series as we conclude our reading of Psalm 119 next week. I have a few things stirring in my heart around recent events related to women in ministry that I will be bringing to you in the coming weeks. I also plan to feature some of my favorite podcasters’ shows in November and December, including an interview I did with Jayme Hull, an author and speaker who is passionate about face to face mentoring with Millenials. Be looking for that show to air in two weeks. This week we are going to be reading from Psalm 119:161-168 in the Passion Translation - so go ahead and grab your Bible and let’s get ready to read by reviewing what we covered last time. Review In our last episode, we read verses 153-160 as we continued to discover keys to revival. In our last reading, we discovered the Key of God’s Loving-Kindness, that when we cry out to Him in our weariness and the difficulties we face as we serve Him, that He will breathe life into us again! Isn’t that the heart of revival? As we read through verses 161-168 today, I want you to ask yourself, “What Do I Have My Heart Set On?” Are you devoted to God’s Word, meaning you read the Scriptures and try to do what they say… Or, Are you devoted to God’s Son, trusting His promises as revealed to you in the Scriptures and living out of your relationship with Him. Jesus is the final and fullest expression of who God is to us. When we say God’s Word these days we often think of a book, but when Scripture refers to God’s Word… It is often talking about Jesus. This Week’s Reading So Now Let’s Pray, Father God, I ask that you would give each person within the sound of my voice an encounter with You, Your Son and the Holy Spirit this morning as we read Your words of life together. Impart the truth of who You are to our hearts, minds, souls and bodies today - we ask for Holy Spirit revelation to open our eyes to the way You see, open our ears to hear Your majestic voice, and open our hearts to know Your heart in intimacy and truth. I thank you that when we believe in Christ, we are hidden in Him and His blessings. Remind us of these truths as we read today and make them real for us! I ask these things in Jesus’ Holy Name, AMEN. The heading for today’s reading is, “Devoted to God’s Word” Verse 161: The powerful elite have persecuted me without a cause, but my heart trembles in awe because of your miracle-words. When you read the Scriptures seeking God’s heart… Does your heart tremble in awe at the miraculous way God’s Spirit and His Truth speak to you? When the persecution of a friend or spiritual leader in your church comes how do you respond? You see, the powerful elite are not God, whether they are of the government in a legal sense or of the governing body of your church. Scripture commends us to submit to godly leadership based in Biblical principles, but spiritual abuse comes from the person - not from God. It has become a slippery slope in recent years, all this painful reality being exposed in #MeToo and #ChurchToo, I have my own #MeToo story that has nothing to do with the church, but that doesn’t mean I’ve not been spiritually abused. You see for women in, especially evangelical, church settings,it is considered Biblical to introduce a woman to “her place” while giving a man a title and paycheck worthy of a pastor and giving a woman the title of director and a paycheck that is only a small percentage of what they offer the man. Not to mention what happens to a pastor’s wife if he should die while in the pastorate. Many times it means not only a loss of love and comfort, but a loss of income, insurance and even the home if the pastor’s family was afforded a parsonage. And the church leaders, often men, will come and say we can help you a few months but then - figure it out. You may not see this as persecution, oh, but it is. It is spiritual abuse and spiritual abuse is a form of persecution without cause. Yet, as we see the Psalmist in this passage, crying out to God in the season of persecution we see his heart turn to God’s miracle words which cause his heart to tremble in awe before the Lord. I think of the end of the book of Luke when the two disciples realize they are talking to Jesus they reflect, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as He talked with us along the road…” I want to ask you when life closes in and the season is dark, do you turn to the Scriptures and find Jesus speaking to you, causing the awe and tremble of a heart burning within you to devote yourself to Him no matter what you face? Verse 162: Your promises are the source of my bubbling joy; the revelation of your word thrills me When was the last time you reflected on the promises of God in Scripture and they gave you JOY? Scripture tells us joy is the promised reward for those who suffer grief and loss, and even in persecution there is a loss of expectation and a grief over missed opportunities or lost relationships. But, God’s promises bring us bubbling over joy - joy that becomes strength as we immerse ourselves in His word and allow it to thrill and delight us - even when we face devastating circumstances. Verse 163: I despise every lie and hate every falsehood, for I am passionate about keeping your precepts. Jesus said that Satan is the Father of Lies. Meaning all falsehood and deception comes from Satan, himself, and if you believe and live by lies then you are agreeing and aligning yourself with the enemy of God. An enemy that God says over and over again that He hates. He hates lies and falsehood because they damage relationships and hurt people. He hates lies because He, Himself, is Truth - all truth comes from him. Committing ourselves to His precepts breaks any alignment with lies and deception, and removes the enemy’s power to work in our lives and destroy us. Paul writes in the book of Romans that Satan veils the eyes of those who are perishing so they may not see the truth. And, yet the good news is that the Truth of God, the Scriptures and who He is, will uproot and destroy the lies of Satan if we focus on it. Replacing the lies life has taught me - whether by persecution, experience, the enemy’s whispers to me in my weakness, or that I’ve told so myself - with God’s eternal and unchanging truth sets me free from not only the enemy’s hold on my life, but also sets me free to be fully who He designed and paid a price for me to be. When His truth becomes my passion I can say like the traditional hymn, “Though none go with me. Still, I will follow. No turning back.” Verse 164: I stop to praise you seven times a day, all because your ways are perfect! This verse just makes me giddy… The Psalmist mentions praising God seven times a day - every time I eat something, when I wake and when I lay down to sleep - my heart rejoices in the Lord. But also, because it says all God’s ways are perfect. Did you know that? All God’s ways are perfect! And that number 7, it is the perfect number of creative completion as the Lord created the earth in 6 days and rested on the 7th. When my heart rests perfectly in Him, my life is full of peace and full of praise for the one who made it so. Verse 165: There is such a great peace and well-being that comes to the lovers of your word, and they will never be offended. A few years ago, I heard a teacher talking about living life “UNOFFENDED.” I hit pause on that word as he explained he lived by the law of love and grace and chose not to get offended by people and circumstances. And here is this word - 1) that affirms my conclusion from the last verse and 2) affirms this word about living unoffended. You see, if the Bible truly is God’s mind revealed to man, and we become transformed by taking on the mind of Christ in our lives - then the result loving God’s Word (Jesus) by reading the Scriptures will not only allow us to realize God’s peace, which passes our ability to understand, but also to overcome offense and the wounds that life offers us along the path home. Jesus withstood great persecution, accusation and pain -- They killed Him. And yet He forgave, He laid His life down for the very ones who called for the government leaders to end it. This is the life unoffended, this the life of a transformed heart - and it comes first from loving Jesus and then by living according to His words. Verse 166: Lord, I’m longing for more of your salvation, for I want to do what pleases you. As one whose lived a lot of my life squandering my resources and my time in wild living, then in just really unhealthy relationships, thought and behavior patterns I realize that the Lord’s salvation is my only hope - ever - and His salvation sanctifies, purifies and transforms me from the inside out so that my life becomes a pleasing sacrifice laid out before Him, one drawn up in wells of obedience born of faith and trust in the One who saved me. Verse167: My love for your ways is indescribable; in my innermost being I want to follow them perfectly! Once again the Psalmist confirms my conclusion from the last verse we read. That when I long for more of God’s salvation in my life it stirs a love and passion for me that is beyond description. Have you ever had an encounter with God you found hard to put into words? I have. I can’t explain exactly what happened but all I know is that after the encounter I WAS COMPLETELY DIFFERENT. It felt like some part of the old me had been removed and a new part had been given in its place. A fresh new part. This is what I believe it means to have a new heart and a new mind. When the innermost part of your being wants to follow God perfectly. This is a Key to Revival - a longing or hunger for more. A desire to go deep into God’s Word, and know both His love and His power in a way that compels you to change and live only for Him. Verse 168: I will keep your instructions and follow your counsel; all my ways are an open book before you. I remember a time in my life when I first began to pursue Scripture and God’s will in my life. I had been saved at age 12, meaning I knew my destination after life on earth was Heaven because Jesus was my savior who paid the price for my sins, but I did not know Him as Lord quite yet. I believe this is what Paul means when he says that people are saved as ones escaping flames. They get the benefit of heaven, but no transformation in life on earth. I would study Scripture for hours.. I would wrestle with His words and my actions. I would lay in the floor weeping in repentance. I would cry out for more, longing to know Him in intimacy and friendship. But, there was that whole life between salvation and when I began to pursue Him… Some 18 years… Where I had locked up my skeletons in a padlocked closet in my mind and didn’t want to expose them to anyone, even God. Have you ever thought you were keeping something from God by not confessing it to Him? Honey, He already knows. I had to lay my life out like an open book before Him and trust Him with all the bad choices I made alongside the good ones. And the truth is… He redeems it all for His glory. Both my human good (filthy rags) and my human bad (sin) - God redeems them and exchanges them for a crown of life that bring Him glory. Let’s do as Psalm 5 exhorts us, lay our lives out before Him every single morning and let His fire fall on our hearts, consuming what doesn’t look like Him and refining the parts that do. Closing Remarks That's all the time that I have today! Thank you for tuning in with us. I want to ask you if this podcast has been a blessing to you: would you consider subscribing to it and share it with your friends and family? We’d love to partner with you in sharing messages that encourage and inspire. If you’d like to be a guest on this show or get more information about hosting your own podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network - please reach out to michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com. I’d love the opportunity to connect with you and figure out how we can share your voice with the world around us. BIBLE STUDY SEASON IS UPON US! We began our The Gospels: Verse-By-Verse Bible Study in October. We will resume this Saturday, in person (Granbury, TX) and on Facebook Live at 10 am (Central Time). That’s right - This season our study is found in the book of Luke. We read the first 80 verses in October and will pick up in Chapter Two next week. You can learn more and catch up on last week’s study by visiting facebook.com/bloominginspired. If you’d like to get this podcast delivered to your smart device, we're available on Apple and on Google Podcasts. Again, I would like to ask you partner with us. We would love for you to share about our podcast on social media -- share it with your friends your family -- the people within your influence let them know what we're doing at Blooming Inspired Network! And don’t Tune In Wednesdays! Accidental Hope Podcast airs on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. central time. Each week Jennifer Eikenhorst brings hope-filled messages and interviews related to overcoming accidents and traumas we face in life. You don’t want to miss her inspiring podcast this week. And now, I want to remind you as I always do: Blooming where you're planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams, so live your lives blooming alive! Thank you for listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. This show airs on Tuesdays at 11 am central time. Please take a moment to like, share and subscribe to this podcast. To learn more about this podcast and it’s network, or the ministries of Blooming Inspired Network please visit BloomingInspiredNetwork.com and click the podcast link at the top of the page. Psalm 119:161-168 The Passion Translation (TPT) Devoted to God’s Word 161 The powerful elite have persecuted me without a cause, but my heart trembles in awe because of your miracle-words. 162 Your promises are the source of my bubbling joy; the revelation of your word thrills me like one who has discovered hidden treasure. 163 I despise every lie and hate every falsehood, for I am passionate about keeping your precepts. 164 I stop to praise you seven times a day, all because your ways are perfect! 165 There is such a great peace and well-being that comes to the lovers of your word, and they will never be offended. 166 Lord, I’m longing for more of your salvation, for I want to do what pleases you. 167 My love for your ways is indescribable; in my innermost being I want to follow them perfectly! 168 I will keep your instructions and follow your counsel; all my ways are an open book before you. The Passion Translation (TPT) The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017 by BroadStreet Publishing® Group, LLC. Used by permission. All rights reserved. thePassionTranslation.com

Sound Recording Copyright ℗ 2019 Michelle Bentham, Blooming Inspired Podcast. All Rights Reserved. Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 153-160 in the Passion Translation. Today, we'll look at the question: "When I feel weary, persecution is consuming me and I think that life is escaping me… Do I ask God to breathe His life into me again?' As we do we'll discover the key of crying out to God in seasons of trial and persecution asking Him to breath life into us again. Show Transcript: You are listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. We exist to empower the voices of women who live their their lives #BloomingAlive through Podcast Community. Now, here is your host. Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives Blooming Alive. Introduction Good Morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. I have been encountering the Lord’s goodness in my reality these last few days - to say I am overwhelmed by His presence is an understatement. As we read about those keys of utter dependence and surrender last week - I had no idea God would give me a tangible experience of this reality in my own life just a few days later. It reminds me that we are called to live by faith, with a full expectancy that the God who promised is faithful to fulfill and complete His promises to us, through us and for us -- and make us the fulfillment of His promises to the world around us. Amen? This week we are going to be reading from Psalm 119:153-160 in the Passion Translation - so go ahead and grab your Bible and let’s get ready to read by reviewing what we covered last week. Review In our last episode, we read verses 145-152 as we continued to discover keys to revival. As we read, we saw God as our refuge and rescue, crying out to Him to save us. In it we found two primary keys of walking in Utter Dependence - dependence on hearing God’s voice spoken to us through both the Scriptures and by revelation of His Holy Spirit being critical to experiencing revival. In the same way we also discovered the Key of Surrender, in this case, it means to surrender our right to be right and my need to justify myself is also a key to surrender. Learning that when we sacrifice our need to be right on behalf of others we look like Jesus. As we concluded we acknowledged that the truths of God are established forever - His revelation, His promises and His Kingdom are all established forever. Every plan of God is revealed and established by His Son Jesus Christ. This Week’s Reading So Now Let’s Pray, Father God, I ask that you would give each person within the sound of my voice an encounter with You, Your Son and the Holy Spirit this morning as we read Your word together. Impart truth to our hearts, minds, souls and bodies today - we ask for Holy Spirit revelation to open our eyes to the way You see, open our ears to hear Your majestic voice, and open our hearts to know Your heart in intimacy and truth. I thank you that when we believe in Christ, we are hidden in Him and His blessings. Remind us of these truths as we read today and make them real for us! I ask these things in Jesus’ Holy Name, AMEN. The heading for today’s reading is, “Breathe Life Into Me Again” As we work our way through scripture today, I want you to consider this question: When I feel weary, persecution is consuming me and I think that life is escaping me… Do I ask God to breathe His life into me again? Verse 153: Look upon all my misery and come be my hero to rescue me, for I will never forget what you’ve revealed to me. As I consider this verse, I am reminded of this weekend. I had a powerful encounter with God at a writing retreat I attended this weekend. During worship He invaded my heart and wrecked me in the best way. My heart was tender, the tears were flowing and my pen was writing a psalm of praise and surrender to God. An hour or so later, I was hurrying to gather my things and get on the road to go home. I made a few stops for lunch and gas. As I was filling my car with I remembered my front floorboard was littered with trash and decided to open the door to throw it out. As I opened the door, I locked the door back with the key remote thinking I didn’t want anyone entering from the other side to take my purse or phone. As I gathered the items I wanted to discard, my hands got full and I dropped my keys in the seat so as not to drop them in the trash. When I stepped away from the door - it closed. YEP! And just like that I locked my keys in the car. My husband is 40 minutes away at home. I’ve not got my phone or my keys, no insurance information or Onstar number (though Onstar would hardly work since I haven’t turned it on since I bought the car). I was stuck. I panicked for a moment before thinking, I’ll just use the phone in the store to call my husband - easy peasy. As I waited in line to talk to the clerk behind the counter, I looked to the door and there stood one of my Writing Sisters from the retreat. She had missed her turn and stopped in at the gas station to get a drink before getting back on course again. I used her phone to call my husband and he was on his way. I bought water and a pack of gum and realized… I have my phone on my arm. An Apple Watch. So I sent my husband a text telling him to text or call me when he got there because I could use my watch. However, to use my watch, I needed to be close to my phone so I stepped out and stood by the car. When my husband arrived I thanked him for rescuing me. Our relationship with God can be a lot like that moment when I realized I locked my keys in the car. For a minute I felt helpless and uncertain of how to even ask for help. But, then… God sent my sister to help me reach my husband and then I realized I could’ve called him myself if I’d only remembered that I had a way to communicate with him directly. When times of trouble come, it can be hard to remember that God is our ultimate hero and rescuer. That we need only cry out to Him, surrender our hearts to Him in our circumstances and watch Him send miracles to rescue us as we have need. I was so profoundly reminded of how much God loves me as he sent people who love me to my rescue on Sunday. Verse 154: Take my side and defend me in these sufferings; redeem me and revive me, just like you promised you would. Seasons of trial and suffering can do one of two things. Either we will press into God, as the psalmist is doing, resting in His promises and trusting God to defend and redeem us and our circumstances, bringing life to us again and again as He revives us in the trying seasons. OR, we can let our hearts questions God in the suffering, feeling every bit a victim of our circumstances and feel hopeless to change them. God sent His Son to die for us, and His Holy Spirit to empower us so that we don’t have to be victimized by our circumstances and the godless cultures we live in - rather, we can stand on His promises and seek His help to overcome the difficulties and trials we suffer in our lives. Verse 155: The wicked are so far from salvation, for they could not care less about your message of truth. Here the psalmist contrasts his own careful consideration of God’s word and promises with the attitude of those who don’t know or believe in God. They do not care about God’s word, or being obedient to Him. They don’t know how to claim and stand on God’s promises of truth when trouble comes. We must remember to be set apart from the world we live in, and cry out as the psalmist will demonstrate rather than resign ourselves to the hurtful season of injustice that swirl all around us. Verse 156: Your tender mercies are what I need, O God; give me back my life again through the revelation of your judgments. When trouble comes, even troubles I have earned, God’s mercies are what I need. I need His mercies when I offend Him, and when others offend me -- I need His mercies all the more so I can offer them to others. Only through God does my soul and my spirit find the life it needs. Only through the revelation of His truth and justice does my suffering find meaning. He is all I need. Verse 157: I have so many enemies who persecute me, yet I won’t swerve from following your ways. Sometimes when the persecutors come, and the assaults are many -- it can feel confusing and become a distraction. It can make me afraid to pursue God because it feels more real than He is to me. It can even make me doubt His goodness and His promises unless, I commit myself to stay the course with Him no matter what comes at me to throw me off track. No matter how many times the adversary seeks to destroy me or discourage me -- I will not forget to follow after Jesus. Being His disciple is the only way for me… Verse 158: I grieve when I see how the faithless ones live, for they just walk away from your promises. 14 years ago my son passed away. I ended up attending a support group for bereaved parents offered through a local church. A few of the parents attending did not believe in God. They found it difficult to find hope after such a devastating loss and continually expressed a need for justice for the child who had passed away. They expressed a difficulty to forgive the people they felt responsible for the loss they had suffered and they often found a way to blame God in their misery. It hurt my heart deeply to see their pain and hopelessness on full display. The futile ways they worked to ensure that the person paid and so their child’s life could have meaning. They tried to assuage their grief by raising funds for research or campaigning for legislative changes, only to return after the events feeling more empty, more angry and hurt than before. Nothing filled the void for them. They had no hope. (As an aside, I’m not saying that non-profit formations, fundraisers for such causes and legislative advocacy are in themselves meaningless. I’m saying without God they will not fill the void left in the grief of a loss and love so deep.) It creates an exhausting cycle of trying to redeem the loss yourself and feeling hopeless when nothing takes the pain away. But, God promises that if we turn to Him - even if we don’t know Him when our circumstances change… That His promises are true for all who will call upon His name. Cry out to Him today. Verse159: God, you are near me always, so close to me; every one of your commands reveals truth. In those moments of utter despair, when you feel defeated and beat down. Remember God is near you, draw near to Him, He is so close - waiting for you to cry out to Him in your need. Remember His words, the ones He’s written on your heart, the promises of Scripture that will carry you through to the place of truth and freedom - life in abundance once again. Verse 160: Lord, see how much I truly love your instructions. So in your tender kindness, breathe life into me again. Here, we see a key - that when we love God’s instructions, expressed to us through His Holy Spirit and the Scriptures, we will realize His tender heart for us - the loving-kindness of a good father and a merciful and gracious Savior who brings life to us again and again until we enter into our Heavenly home. Cry out to Him in your need and watch Him revive you with His life giving Spirit in every sort of need. Closing Remarks That's all the time that I have today! Thank you for tuning in with us. I want to ask you if this podcast has been a blessing to you: would you consider subscribing to it and share it with your friends and family? We’d love to partner with you in sharing messages that encourage and inspire. If you’d like to be a guest on this show or get more information about hosting your own podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network - please reach out to michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com. I’d love the opportunity to connect with you and figure out how we can share your voice with the world around us. BIBLE STUDY SEASON IS UPON US! We began our The Gospels: Verse-By-Verse Bible Study this past Saturday. We will resume on October 12th in person (Granbury, TX) and on Facebook Live at 10 am (Central Time). That’s right - This season our study is found in the book of Luke. We read the first 80 verses last weekend and will pick up in Chapter Two next week. You can learn more and catch up on last week’s study by visiting facebook.com/bloominginspired and checking out the events listed on our page! If you’d like to get this podcast delivered to your smart device, we're available on Apple and on Google Podcasts. Again, I would like to ask you partner with us. We would love for you to share about our podcast on social media -- share it with your friends your family -- the people within your influence let them know what we're doing at Blooming Inspired Network! Tune In Wednesdays! Accidental Hope Podcast airs on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. central time. Each week Jennifer Eikenhorst brings hope-filled messages and interviews related to overcoming accidents and traumas we face in life. You don’t want to miss her inspiring podcast this week. And now, I want to remind you as I always do: Blooming where you're planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams, so live your lives blooming alive! Thank you for listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. This show airs on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am central time. Please take a moment to like, share and subscribe to this podcast. To learn more about this podcast and it’s network, or the ministries of Blooming Inspired Network please visit BloomingInspiredNetwork.com and click the podcast link at the top of the page. Psalm 119:153-160 The Passion Translation (TPT) Breathe Life into Me Again 153 Look upon all my misery and come be my hero to rescue me, for I will never forget what you’ve revealed to me. 154 Take my side and defend me in these sufferings; redeem me and revive me, just like you promised you would. 155 The wicked are so far from salvation, for they could not care less about your message of truth. 156 Your tender mercies are what I need, O God; give me back my life again through the revelation of your judgments. 157 I have so many enemies who persecute me, yet I won’t swerve from following your ways. 158 I grieve when I see how the faithless ones live, for they just walk away from your promises. 159 Lord, see how much I truly love your instructions. So in your tender kindness, breathe life into me again. 160 The sum total of all your words adds up to absolute truth, and every one of your righteous decrees is everlasting. The Passion Translation (TPT) The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017 by BroadStreet Publishing® Group, LLC. Used by permission. All rights reserved. thePassionTranslation.com

Sound Recording Copyright ℗ 2019 Michelle Bentham, Blooming Inspired Podcast. All Rights Reserved. Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 153-160 in the Passion Translation. Today, we'll look at the question: "When I feel weary, persecution is consuming me and I think that life is escaping me… Do I ask God to breathe His life into me again?' As we do we'll discover the key of crying out to God in seasons of trial and persecution asking Him to breath life into us again. Show Transcript: You are listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. We exist to empower the voices of women who live their their lives #BloomingAlive through Podcast Community. Now, here is your host. Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives Blooming Alive. Introduction Good Morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. I have been encountering the Lord’s goodness in my reality these last few days - to say I am overwhelmed by His presence is an understatement. As we read about those keys of utter dependence and surrender last week - I had no idea God would give me a tangible experience of this reality in my own life just a few days later. It reminds me that we are called to live by faith, with a full expectancy that the God who promised is faithful to fulfill and complete His promises to us, through us and for us -- and make us the fulfillment of His promises to the world around us. Amen? This week we are going to be reading from Psalm 119:153-160 in the Passion Translation - so go ahead and grab your Bible and let’s get ready to read by reviewing what we covered last week. Review In our last episode, we read verses 145-152 as we continued to discover keys to revival. As we read, we saw God as our refuge and rescue, crying out to Him to save us. In it we found two primary keys of walking in Utter Dependence - dependence on hearing God’s voice spoken to us through both the Scriptures and by revelation of His Holy Spirit being critical to experiencing revival. In the same way we also discovered the Key of Surrender, in this case, it means to surrender our right to be right and my need to justify myself is also a key to surrender. Learning that when we sacrifice our need to be right on behalf of others we look like Jesus. As we concluded we acknowledged that the truths of God are established forever - His revelation, His promises and His Kingdom are all established forever. Every plan of God is revealed and established by His Son Jesus Christ. This Week’s Reading So Now Let’s Pray, Father God, I ask that you would give each person within the sound of my voice an encounter with You, Your Son and the Holy Spirit this morning as we read Your word together. Impart truth to our hearts, minds, souls and bodies today - we ask for Holy Spirit revelation to open our eyes to the way You see, open our ears to hear Your majestic voice, and open our hearts to know Your heart in intimacy and truth. I thank you that when we believe in Christ, we are hidden in Him and His blessings. Remind us of these truths as we read today and make them real for us! I ask these things in Jesus’ Holy Name, AMEN. The heading for today’s reading is, “Breathe Life Into Me Again” As we work our way through scripture today, I want you to consider this question: When I feel weary, persecution is consuming me and I think that life is escaping me… Do I ask God to breathe His life into me again? Verse 153: Look upon all my misery and come be my hero to rescue me, for I will never forget what you’ve revealed to me. As I consider this verse, I am reminded of this weekend. I had a powerful encounter with God at a writing retreat I attended this weekend. During worship He invaded my heart and wrecked me in the best way. My heart was tender, the tears were flowing and my pen was writing a psalm of praise and surrender to God. An hour or so later, I was hurrying to gather my things and get on the road to go home. I made a few stops for lunch and gas. As I was filling my car with I remembered my front floorboard was littered with trash and decided to open the door to throw it out. As I opened the door, I locked the door back with the key remote thinking I didn’t want anyone entering from the other side to take my purse or phone. As I gathered the items I wanted to discard, my hands got full and I dropped my keys in the seat so as not to drop them in the trash. When I stepped away from the door - it closed. YEP! And just like that I locked my keys in the car. My husband is 40 minutes away at home. I’ve not got my phone or my keys, no insurance information or Onstar number (though Onstar would hardly work since I haven’t turned it on since I bought the car). I was stuck. I panicked for a moment before thinking, I’ll just use the phone in the store to call my husband - easy peasy. As I waited in line to talk to the clerk behind the counter, I looked to the door and there stood one of my Writing Sisters from the retreat. She had missed her turn and stopped in at the gas station to get a drink before getting back on course again. I used her phone to call my husband and he was on his way. I bought water and a pack of gum and realized… I have my phone on my arm. An Apple Watch. So I sent my husband a text telling him to text or call me when he got there because I could use my watch. However, to use my watch, I needed to be close to my phone so I stepped out and stood by the car. When my husband arrived I thanked him for rescuing me. Our relationship with God can be a lot like that moment when I realized I locked my keys in the car. For a minute I felt helpless and uncertain of how to even ask for help. But, then… God sent my sister to help me reach my husband and then I realized I could’ve called him myself if I’d only remembered that I had a way to communicate with him directly. When times of trouble come, it can be hard to remember that God is our ultimate hero and rescuer. That we need only cry out to Him, surrender our hearts to Him in our circumstances and watch Him send miracles to rescue us as we have need. I was so profoundly reminded of how much God loves me as he sent people who love me to my rescue on Sunday. Verse 154: Take my side and defend me in these sufferings; redeem me and revive me, just like you promised you would. Seasons of trial and suffering can do one of two things. Either we will press into God, as the psalmist is doing, resting in His promises and trusting God to defend and redeem us and our circumstances, bringing life to us again and again as He revives us in the trying seasons. OR, we can let our hearts questions God in the suffering, feeling every bit a victim of our circumstances and feel hopeless to change them. God sent His Son to die for us, and His Holy Spirit to empower us so that we don’t have to be victimized by our circumstances and the godless cultures we live in - rather, we can stand on His promises and seek His help to overcome the difficulties and trials we suffer in our lives. Verse 155: The wicked are so far from salvation, for they could not care less about your message of truth. Here the psalmist contrasts his own careful consideration of God’s word and promises with the attitude of those who don’t know or believe in God. They do not care about God’s word, or being obedient to Him. They don’t know how to claim and stand on God’s promises of truth when trouble comes. We must remember to be set apart from the world we live in, and cry out as the psalmist will demonstrate rather than resign ourselves to the hurtful season of injustice that swirl all around us. Verse 156: Your tender mercies are what I need, O God; give me back my life again through the revelation of your judgments. When trouble comes, even troubles I have earned, God’s mercies are what I need. I need His mercies when I offend Him, and when others offend me -- I need His mercies all the more so I can offer them to others. Only through God does my soul and my spirit find the life it needs. Only through the revelation of His truth and justice does my suffering find meaning. He is all I need. Verse 157: I have so many enemies who persecute me, yet I won’t swerve from following your ways. Sometimes when the persecutors come, and the assaults are many -- it can feel confusing and become a distraction. It can make me afraid to pursue God because it feels more real than He is to me. It can even make me doubt His goodness and His promises unless, I commit myself to stay the course with Him no matter what comes at me to throw me off track. No matter how many times the adversary seeks to destroy me or discourage me -- I will not forget to follow after Jesus. Being His disciple is the only way for me… Verse 158: I grieve when I see how the faithless ones live, for they just walk away from your promises. 14 years ago my son passed away. I ended up attending a support group for bereaved parents offered through a local church. A few of the parents attending did not believe in God. They found it difficult to find hope after such a devastating loss and continually expressed a need for justice for the child who had passed away. They expressed a difficulty to forgive the people they felt responsible for the loss they had suffered and they often found a way to blame God in their misery. It hurt my heart deeply to see their pain and hopelessness on full display. The futile ways they worked to ensure that the person paid and so their child’s life could have meaning. They tried to assuage their grief by raising funds for research or campaigning for legislative changes, only to return after the events feeling more empty, more angry and hurt than before. Nothing filled the void for them. They had no hope. (As an aside, I’m not saying that non-profit formations, fundraisers for such causes and legislative advocacy are in themselves meaningless. I’m saying without God they will not fill the void left in the grief of a loss and love so deep.) It creates an exhausting cycle of trying to redeem the loss yourself and feeling hopeless when nothing takes the pain away. But, God promises that if we turn to Him - even if we don’t know Him when our circumstances change… That His promises are true for all who will call upon His name. Cry out to Him today. Verse159: God, you are near me always, so close to me; every one of your commands reveals truth. In those moments of utter despair, when you feel defeated and beat down. Remember God is near you, draw near to Him, He is so close - waiting for you to cry out to Him in your need. Remember His words, the ones He’s written on your heart, the promises of Scripture that will carry you through to the place of truth and freedom - life in abundance once again. Verse 160: Lord, see how much I truly love your instructions. So in your tender kindness, breathe life into me again. Here, we see a key - that when we love God’s instructions, expressed to us through His Holy Spirit and the Scriptures, we will realize His tender heart for us - the loving-kindness of a good father and a merciful and gracious Savior who brings life to us again and again until we enter into our Heavenly home. Cry out to Him in your need and watch Him revive you with His life giving Spirit in every sort of need. Closing Remarks That's all the time that I have today! Thank you for tuning in with us. I want to ask you if this podcast has been a blessing to you: would you consider subscribing to it and share it with your friends and family? We’d love to partner with you in sharing messages that encourage and inspire. If you’d like to be a guest on this show or get more information about hosting your own podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network - please reach out to michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com. I’d love the opportunity to connect with you and figure out how we can share your voice with the world around us. BIBLE STUDY SEASON IS UPON US! We began our The Gospels: Verse-By-Verse Bible Study this past Saturday. We will resume on October 12th in person (Granbury, TX) and on Facebook Live at 10 am (Central Time). That’s right - This season our study is found in the book of Luke. We read the first 80 verses last weekend and will pick up in Chapter Two next week. You can learn more and catch up on last week’s study by visiting facebook.com/bloominginspired and checking out the events listed on our page! If you’d like to get this podcast delivered to your smart device, we're available on Apple and on Google Podcasts. Again, I would like to ask you partner with us. We would love for you to share about our podcast on social media -- share it with your friends your family -- the people within your influence let them know what we're doing at Blooming Inspired Network! Tune In Wednesdays! Accidental Hope Podcast airs on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. central time. Each week Jennifer Eikenhorst brings hope-filled messages and interviews related to overcoming accidents and traumas we face in life. You don’t want to miss her inspiring podcast this week. And now, I want to remind you as I always do: Blooming where you're planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams, so live your lives blooming alive! Thank you for listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. This show airs on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am central time. Please take a moment to like, share and subscribe to this podcast. To learn more about this podcast and it’s network, or the ministries of Blooming Inspired Network please visit BloomingInspiredNetwork.com and click the podcast link at the top of the page. Psalm 119:153-160 The Passion Translation (TPT) Breathe Life into Me Again 153 Look upon all my misery and come be my hero to rescue me, for I will never forget what you’ve revealed to me. 154 Take my side and defend me in these sufferings; redeem me and revive me, just like you promised you would. 155 The wicked are so far from salvation, for they could not care less about your message of truth. 156 Your tender mercies are what I need, O God; give me back my life again through the revelation of your judgments. 157 I have so many enemies who persecute me, yet I won’t swerve from following your ways. 158 I grieve when I see how the faithless ones live, for they just walk away from your promises. 159 Lord, see how much I truly love your instructions. So in your tender kindness, breathe life into me again. 160 The sum total of all your words adds up to absolute truth, and every one of your righteous decrees is everlasting. The Passion Translation (TPT) The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017 by BroadStreet Publishing® Group, LLC. Used by permission. All rights reserved. thePassionTranslation.com

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 145-152 in the Passion Translation. Today, we'll look at the question: "Who or What do I turn to in difficult circumstances?" As we read, we'll discover the key of utter dependence on God and surrender to Him as our source in every moment of our lives as a key to revival, not only for us - but as we engage with the world around us as well! Show Transcript: You are listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. We exist to empower the voices of women who live their their lives #BloomingAlive through Podcast Community. Now, here is your host. Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives Blooming Alive. Introduction Good Morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. We announced last week on our Facebook Page that we would begin sharing this podcast once a week on Tuesdays at 11 am (CT). We’ll replay the episode on Thursday mornings in case you didn’t catch it on Tuesday - AND, we also have Bible study airing on Facebook Live each week at 10 am (CT) at facebook.com/bloominginpsired. So you will still have the opportunity to #GetBloomingInspired each week through the podcast and Bible study. Our next session of Bible study will be on Saturday, October 12th --- If you haven’t already liked the Blooming Inspired FB page go ahead and do so today! That way you’ll get notified and see our posts in your regular feed. I had an early appointment this morning that ran longer than I intended and so we’re running a bit late getting online today. We’ll be reading from the Passion Translation in Psalm 119. So go ahead and grab your favorite translation of the Bible and turn to Psalm 119: 145-152 as I recap what we read last time. Review In our last episode, we read verses 137-144 as we continued to discover keys to revival. As we read, we acknowledged the truth of God's Word, and how it leads our hearts to burn with furious passion for the Lord. When we understand His word, we understand not only His righteousness but the faithfulness of His promises. These promises are TRUTH to set us free. This Week’s Reading So Now Let’s Pray, Father God, I ask that you would impart truth to our heart, mind and soul today - would you open our eyes to see your revelation, open our ears to hear your voice, and open our hearts to know you more? I thank you that when we believe in Christ, we are hidden in Him and His blessings. Remind us of these truths as we read today! I ask these things in Jesus’ Name, AMEN. The heading for today’s reading is, “Save Me, God” As we work our way through scripture today, I want you to consider this question: To who or what do I turn when troubles come? Verse 145: Answer my passionate prayer, O Lord, and I’ll obey everything you say. The psalmist almost seems to be bargaining with God - “if You’ll answer my prayer, I’ll obey you…” But, that is not what they write. Instead we see two connected statements… Answer my passionate prayer, O Lord, and I’ll obey everything you say. The psalmist is asking for God to answer his prayer so he’ll know what to do… Dependent upon God speaking to him for his next step. Do we live this way? Utterly dependent on our relationship with God -- what we read in Scripture AND the way we sense Him responding to our prayers. Are we committed to cry out to Him in every circumstance and obey what we sense He is leading us to do? It is powerful to consider how the psalmist is reaffirming his commitment to obey God over and over again throughout this lengthy psalm - which leads me to a conclusion. The key to revival is both walking in dependence on God’s words given to us in Scripture and by revelation of the Holy Spirit. That to awaken our hearts to His truth we must know the Scriptures and then receive revelation from the Holy Spirit about how to live, and move, and find our being in Him. He alone can protect, guide and reveal Himself to us in every circumstance we face. We must be willing to cry out to Him, wait for His response and respond as He directs us. Utter dependence is a key to revival. Verse 146: Save me, God, and I’ll follow your every instruction. Again, we see the psalmist in utter need. Dependent upon the salvation of God -- his heart cry is if you will show me your salvation I will do it. I will do what you instruct me to do. As we approach God through the Scriptures and prayer, I’m reminded that my heart must remain teachable. When my spiritual eyes and ears are tuned to the voice of God and His instructions - only then will I know the true depth of His redemption and salvation in my life. I cannot rely only on what I’ve known about God - but rather come to Him crying out each day, in every situation and receive His instruction as both truth and necessity in every moment of my life. Verse 147:Before the day dawns, I’ll be crying out for help and wrapping your words into my life. What a beautiful picture of dependency on God. Early in the morning, before the sun even comes up -- I’ll be crying out for your assistance as I wrap your words into my life. The deepest desire of our heart should not only be to depend on God and be saved by Him, but to have a heart to Know Him the way we are Known By Him. To have His words that express not only His will, but His very being to us - to be woven into the fiber of who we are. To be written upon our hearts as only He can write them. Wrapping our lives in His words, and His truth. Hiding ourselves in Him. Verse 148: I lie awake every night pondering your promises to me. Letting His promises resonate deep within our hearts. That His word would resound so loudly that it would rob us of our sleep the way a young maiden rehearses the words of her lover as she lies on her pillow at night. Pondering, meditating on and dreaming of the promises of God and His truth in my life. Verse 149: Lord, listen to my heart’s cry, for I know your love is real for me; breathe life into me again by the revelation of your justice. When we know the reality of God who is LOVE for us, then we begin to understand that His justice is not that of vengeance - taking recompense for what has offended Him. But rather, His justice, born of love, lays down its life to save those who offend Him. What would our heart’s cry sound like if we knew the love of God for those who offend us? If our justice sacrificed itself on behalf of others… What would that look like? I believe sacrificing my right to be right, and surrendering my need to be justified is a key to revival. It changes my heart to see from God’s perspective those that would offend me the most and step forth in truth to reveal His heart for them. Verse 150: Here they come—these lawless rebels are coming near, but they are all so far away from your laws. Honestly, we can recognize the lawlessness in others, we can also avoid meeting them and ministering to them because they seem like a lost cause. But, Jesus didn’t render them lost causes. He came to save them, to correct them, to free them from the bondage of both sin and religious piety that was empty and valueless in the eyes of God. Can I pray for the sinner, the lawless ones, the way I pray for the saints I live my life with day in and day out? Can I dig for the gold of God’s treasure in them rather than call them out for who they are being or what they have done? How will we reach them if we do not love them as we find them - in their lawlessness. It’s not saying that evil is good, but saying I believe God placed His goodness inside of every life He created and it is my job to lead them out of darkness and into the light of His truth so they may discover it for themselves. Isn’t this what love looks like? Verse151: God, you are near me always, so close to me; every one of your commands reveals truth. If God is always near me, so close to me that His truth is continually revealed to me, then what do I have to fear? If Christ lives within me, if the powerful Spirit of God lives inside of me and has baptized me in His Power and His Truth - then why do I fear when the world around me rages and people seem to seek to harm me? Why don’t we, as the Body, believe and walk in His authority and live as if the victory is ours for the taking, that people’s lives will change when they encounter the God whom we profess? Why do we try to manufacture gimmicks and device schemes to get people to church when the Holy Spirit Himself wins people to Jesus Christ when He is lifted up? What if our next marketing plan for the local church was to be like Jesus everywhere we go, and make disciples in the streets and the marketplaces because the word dwells so richly in us that God’s goodness splashes out on everyone we mee? His goodness and His promises do not come to me for my benefit alone - they come so I may be a benefit to others. Verse 152: I’ve known all along how true and unchanging is every word you speak, established forever! The truths of God are established forever - His revelation, His promises and His Kingdom are all established forever. Every plan of God is revealed and established by His Son Jesus Christ. So why wouldn’t we cry out to Him in our need expecting Him to respond with favor, goodness and blessing toward His beloved Children? Closing Remarks That's all the time that I have for today! Thank you for tuning in with us. I want to ask you if this podcast has been a blessing to you: would you subscribe to it and share it with your friends and family? We’d love to partner with you in sharing messages that encourage and inspire. If you’d like to be a guest on this show or get more information about hosting your own podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network - please reach out to michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com. I’d love the opportunity to connect with you and figure out how we can share your voice with the world around us. BIBLE STUDY SEASON IS UPON US! We began our The Gospels: Verse-By-Verse Bible Study this past Saturday. We will resume on October 12th in person (Granbury, TX) and on Facebook Live at 10 am (Central Time). That’s right - This season our study is found in the book of Luke. We read the first 80 verses last weekend and will pick up in Chapter Two next week. You can learn more and catch up on last week’s study by visiting facebook.com/bloominginspired and checking out the events listed on our page! If you’d like to get this podcast delivered to your smart device, we're available on Apple and on Google Podcasts.  Would you partner with us? We would love for you to share about our podcast on social media -- share it with your friends your family -- the people within your influence let them know what we're doing at Blooming Inspired Network! Tune In Wednesdays! Accidental Hope Podcast airs on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. central time. Each week Jennifer Eikenhorst brings hope-filled messages and interviews related to overcoming accidents and traumas we face in life. You don’t want to miss her final of a three part interview series with Tina Boyd as they talk about how Faith Moves You Forward this week! And now, I want to remind you as I always do: Blooming where you're planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams, so live your lives blooming alive! Thank you for listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. This show airs on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am central time. Please take a moment to like, share and subscribe to this podcast. To learn more about this podcast and its network, or the ministries of Blooming Inspired Network please visit BloomingInspiredNetwork.com and click the podcast link at the top of the page.

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 145-152 in the Passion Translation. Today, we'll look at the question: "Who or What do I turn to in difficult circumstances?" As we read, we'll discover the key of utter dependence on God and surrender to Him as our source in every moment of our lives as a key to revival, not only for us - but as we engage with the world around us as well! Show Transcript: You are listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. We exist to empower the voices of women who live their their lives #BloomingAlive through Podcast Community. Now, here is your host. Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives Blooming Alive. Introduction Good Morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. We announced last week on our Facebook Page that we would begin sharing this podcast once a week on Tuesdays at 11 am (CT). We’ll replay the episode on Thursday mornings in case you didn’t catch it on Tuesday - AND, we also have Bible study airing on Facebook Live each week at 10 am (CT) at facebook.com/bloominginpsired. So you will still have the opportunity to #GetBloomingInspired each week through the podcast and Bible study. Our next session of Bible study will be on Saturday, October 12th --- If you haven’t already liked the Blooming Inspired FB page go ahead and do so today! That way you’ll get notified and see our posts in your regular feed. I had an early appointment this morning that ran longer than I intended and so we’re running a bit late getting online today. We’ll be reading from the Passion Translation in Psalm 119. So go ahead and grab your favorite translation of the Bible and turn to Psalm 119: 145-152 as I recap what we read last time. Review In our last episode, we read verses 137-144 as we continued to discover keys to revival. As we read, we acknowledged the truth of God's Word, and how it leads our hearts to burn with furious passion for the Lord. When we understand His word, we understand not only His righteousness but the faithfulness of His promises. These promises are TRUTH to set us free. This Week’s Reading So Now Let’s Pray, Father God, I ask that you would impart truth to our heart, mind and soul today - would you open our eyes to see your revelation, open our ears to hear your voice, and open our hearts to know you more? I thank you that when we believe in Christ, we are hidden in Him and His blessings. Remind us of these truths as we read today! I ask these things in Jesus’ Name, AMEN. The heading for today’s reading is, “Save Me, God” As we work our way through scripture today, I want you to consider this question: To who or what do I turn when troubles come? Verse 145: Answer my passionate prayer, O Lord, and I’ll obey everything you say. The psalmist almost seems to be bargaining with God - “if You’ll answer my prayer, I’ll obey you…” But, that is not what they write. Instead we see two connected statements… Answer my passionate prayer, O Lord, and I’ll obey everything you say. The psalmist is asking for God to answer his prayer so he’ll know what to do… Dependent upon God speaking to him for his next step. Do we live this way? Utterly dependent on our relationship with God -- what we read in Scripture AND the way we sense Him responding to our prayers. Are we committed to cry out to Him in every circumstance and obey what we sense He is leading us to do? It is powerful to consider how the psalmist is reaffirming his commitment to obey God over and over again throughout this lengthy psalm - which leads me to a conclusion. The key to revival is both walking in dependence on God’s words given to us in Scripture and by revelation of the Holy Spirit. That to awaken our hearts to His truth we must know the Scriptures and then receive revelation from the Holy Spirit about how to live, and move, and find our being in Him. He alone can protect, guide and reveal Himself to us in every circumstance we face. We must be willing to cry out to Him, wait for His response and respond as He directs us. Utter dependence is a key to revival. Verse 146: Save me, God, and I’ll follow your every instruction. Again, we see the psalmist in utter need. Dependent upon the salvation of God -- his heart cry is if you will show me your salvation I will do it. I will do what you instruct me to do. As we approach God through the Scriptures and prayer, I’m reminded that my heart must remain teachable. When my spiritual eyes and ears are tuned to the voice of God and His instructions - only then will I know the true depth of His redemption and salvation in my life. I cannot rely only on what I’ve known about God - but rather come to Him crying out each day, in every situation and receive His instruction as both truth and necessity in every moment of my life. Verse 147:Before the day dawns, I’ll be crying out for help and wrapping your words into my life. What a beautiful picture of dependency on God. Early in the morning, before the sun even comes up -- I’ll be crying out for your assistance as I wrap your words into my life. The deepest desire of our heart should not only be to depend on God and be saved by Him, but to have a heart to Know Him the way we are Known By Him. To have His words that express not only His will, but His very being to us - to be woven into the fiber of who we are. To be written upon our hearts as only He can write them. Wrapping our lives in His words, and His truth. Hiding ourselves in Him. Verse 148: I lie awake every night pondering your promises to me. Letting His promises resonate deep within our hearts. That His word would resound so loudly that it would rob us of our sleep the way a young maiden rehearses the words of her lover as she lies on her pillow at night. Pondering, meditating on and dreaming of the promises of God and His truth in my life. Verse 149: Lord, listen to my heart’s cry, for I know your love is real for me; breathe life into me again by the revelation of your justice. When we know the reality of God who is LOVE for us, then we begin to understand that His justice is not that of vengeance - taking recompense for what has offended Him. But rather, His justice, born of love, lays down its life to save those who offend Him. What would our heart’s cry sound like if we knew the love of God for those who offend us? If our justice sacrificed itself on behalf of others… What would that look like? I believe sacrificing my right to be right, and surrendering my need to be justified is a key to revival. It changes my heart to see from God’s perspective those that would offend me the most and step forth in truth to reveal His heart for them. Verse 150: Here they come—these lawless rebels are coming near, but they are all so far away from your laws. Honestly, we can recognize the lawlessness in others, we can also avoid meeting them and ministering to them because they seem like a lost cause. But, Jesus didn’t render them lost causes. He came to save them, to correct them, to free them from the bondage of both sin and religious piety that was empty and valueless in the eyes of God. Can I pray for the sinner, the lawless ones, the way I pray for the saints I live my life with day in and day out? Can I dig for the gold of God’s treasure in them rather than call them out for who they are being or what they have done? How will we reach them if we do not love them as we find them - in their lawlessness. It’s not saying that evil is good, but saying I believe God placed His goodness inside of every life He created and it is my job to lead them out of darkness and into the light of His truth so they may discover it for themselves. Isn’t this what love looks like? Verse151: God, you are near me always, so close to me; every one of your commands reveals truth. If God is always near me, so close to me that His truth is continually revealed to me, then what do I have to fear? If Christ lives within me, if the powerful Spirit of God lives inside of me and has baptized me in His Power and His Truth - then why do I fear when the world around me rages and people seem to seek to harm me? Why don’t we, as the Body, believe and walk in His authority and live as if the victory is ours for the taking, that people’s lives will change when they encounter the God whom we profess? Why do we try to manufacture gimmicks and device schemes to get people to church when the Holy Spirit Himself wins people to Jesus Christ when He is lifted up? What if our next marketing plan for the local church was to be like Jesus everywhere we go, and make disciples in the streets and the marketplaces because the word dwells so richly in us that God’s goodness splashes out on everyone we mee? His goodness and His promises do not come to me for my benefit alone - they come so I may be a benefit to others. Verse 152: I’ve known all along how true and unchanging is every word you speak, established forever! The truths of God are established forever - His revelation, His promises and His Kingdom are all established forever. Every plan of God is revealed and established by His Son Jesus Christ. So why wouldn’t we cry out to Him in our need expecting Him to respond with favor, goodness and blessing toward His beloved Children? Closing Remarks That's all the time that I have for today! Thank you for tuning in with us. I want to ask you if this podcast has been a blessing to you: would you subscribe to it and share it with your friends and family? We’d love to partner with you in sharing messages that encourage and inspire. If you’d like to be a guest on this show or get more information about hosting your own podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network - please reach out to michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com. I’d love the opportunity to connect with you and figure out how we can share your voice with the world around us. BIBLE STUDY SEASON IS UPON US! We began our The Gospels: Verse-By-Verse Bible Study this past Saturday. We will resume on October 12th in person (Granbury, TX) and on Facebook Live at 10 am (Central Time). That’s right - This season our study is found in the book of Luke. We read the first 80 verses last weekend and will pick up in Chapter Two next week. You can learn more and catch up on last week’s study by visiting facebook.com/bloominginspired and checking out the events listed on our page! If you’d like to get this podcast delivered to your smart device, we're available on Apple and on Google Podcasts.  Would you partner with us? We would love for you to share about our podcast on social media -- share it with your friends your family -- the people within your influence let them know what we're doing at Blooming Inspired Network! Tune In Wednesdays! Accidental Hope Podcast airs on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. central time. Each week Jennifer Eikenhorst brings hope-filled messages and interviews related to overcoming accidents and traumas we face in life. You don’t want to miss her final of a three part interview series with Tina Boyd as they talk about how Faith Moves You Forward this week! And now, I want to remind you as I always do: Blooming where you're planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams, so live your lives blooming alive! Thank you for listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. This show airs on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am central time. Please take a moment to like, share and subscribe to this podcast. To learn more about this podcast and its network, or the ministries of Blooming Inspired Network please visit BloomingInspiredNetwork.com and click the podcast link at the top of the page.

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 129-136 in the Passion Translation. Today, as we continue to discover how the keys of living from intimacy and following God in obedience as our passionate pursuit and souls longing leads us to crave His presence and grieve over sin. When we come into a right understanding of Who God is as we pursue Him through His Word – the keys of presence and obedience bring us into understanding the justice of His heart toward a lost and dying world. Show Transcript: Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives Blooming Alive. Introduction Good Morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. I’m always excited to jump on the podcast with you each week. I’ve been on a social media and podcast break for the last month while traveling and am ready to get back in touch and into Psalm 119. Before I do, I wanted to share a little about the last few weeks of my life and a few changes that will be coming soon to Blooming Inspired Network.. First, I want to say as I’ve spent time away I’ve missed “seeing you” on Facebook and interacting with you there. Still, part of the reason I’m needing to make changes centers on the book God has been stirring in my heart for 14 years now. In August I attended the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association Conference in Nashville, TN. This event inspired me to get serious about my book project and developed some definite goals for the next few months. I was able to spend time with my writing friends from North Texas while making new friends the few days we were there. It’s been an amazing time in my life and encourages me to take steps of faith like never before. If you don’t know, writing a book is labor intensive and time consuming. So, I may not be able to interact with you as often on Facebook, but I’ll be bringing you content that will still encourage and inspire you to go deeper with God in your life. After I returned home from the writer’s conference, I w laundry and headed out again. This time for a retreat for ministry leaders in Telluride, CO. The theme of the Retreat was rest and and… BOY, Did I Need It. The scenic beauty surrounded us on every side. I was incredibly blessed. I took my calendar and my laptop hoping to do some planning and writing while away. But, instead… I heard the Lord whisper, “Just enjoy my creation with me.” I laid in bed late at night and looked up at the diamond-like stars glistening in a black sky just beyond the windows of my bedroom. I fell asleep to the peaceful sound of a creek running behind the house where we stayed. I woke up early and took in the first rays of light coming over the mountains to our east without ever leaving my bed. I marvelled at those mountainous landscapes that surrounded us. And, I enjoyed the 100s of birds, most of them Hummingbirds, that lived in the Douglas Fir Trees around the retreat house. Until… The third day. The plumbing backed up in the electrical closet downstairs. We were moved up the mountain from Telluride to the Mountain Village Lodge where we spent our last two nights in an even more beautiful setting with less oxygen. I just have to say I’m grateful for the Gondolas and shuttles in that area that helped us get around. Several other women journeyed with us on the retreat that week and we quickly became heart friends. I miss them already, but they reminded me why Blooming Inspired Network exists - we’re here for you! Now… Here’s the fun part - we’re going to allow you to submit content for the page! Did you read a Scripture or quote that really moves you? Do you have a word from God that you want to share? GREAT! Simply DM the content to the Blooming Inspired Page, and we’ll look for an opportunity to get it posted. Here are a few guidelines: Our content is by women for women, looking forward to empowering your voice and pen! Not that doesn’t mean we don’t value the voices and offerings of men - we do! But this is a place for wildflowers to bloom. So bring on the women who are wildflowers waiting to sing! [Please note: Not every quote that gets submitted will fit our scope and needs at Blooming Inspired Network - but we’ll be sure to let you know if your content is selected and when it will post.] Content for Quote or Scripture Graphics: Must include the original author or Scripture Reference AND Translation in the message. We’ll ask for it if it is not included. TIP: Ask yourself, “How will this equip and empower women to walk in their role and reign in God’s Kingdom?” Then send us your thoughts along with the quote. We’ll include your note and tag you in the post. :) Other Content: 1) It must be encouraging. 2) It must inspire action. 3) It must be biblically sound. 4) Be sure to respond to the comments if your content is posted. We’ll tag you in the post… :) Do you have a testimony or Podcast idea? Listen for an opportunity to join the fun at the end of today’s show! If you want to go deeper with the Wildflowers at Blooming Inspired Network be sure to join our Wildflower Women Relaunch on Facebook! We’d love to connect and enjoy the encouragement of community with each of you. Are you a writer? Be sure to DM or fill out the contact page at the website. We’d love to get a sample from you as we’re starting a blog soon! We need writers! :) With that said, in addition to our weekly podcasts - Blooming Inspired Network will post on Facebook 2-3 times a week. Looking at a Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The more you engage with our content the more we’ll bring to you there. We’ll also be posting to Instagram, Twitter and A NEW! Pinterest account we’ll be opening this week. We’d love to pin your work. Be sure to connect with us and let us know what you’re up to. But enough about this social stuff… Let’s get to our show. Review In our last episode of the Revival Series we read verses 121-127 and saw the way God’s tender love leads us into not only His righteousness but, when we choose to submit to God in obedience, it also leads us to beautiful intimacy with Him. Today we continue that theme as we look at what it means when our longings are to obey God. This Week’s Reading This week we’re returning to our reading in verses 128-136. We’re reading from the Passion Translation, but go ahead and grab your Bible and turn to the Psalm so you can follow along, I’ll pray to open our discussion today. Father God, I ask that you would open our eyes to see your revelation, open our ears to hear your voice, and open our hearts to know you more. Protect us from the plans of your adversary and keep us from harm. I ask these things in Jesus’ Name, AMEN. The heading for today’s reading is, “I Long to Obey You.” As we read today, I want you to consider this question: “Do I Long To OBEY God?” Let’s begin: Verse 129: Your marvelous words are living miracles; no wonder I long to obey everything you say. Did you catch that? There is a link to seeing God’s living miracles and obedience. Not just obedience for the sake of obedience… But, there is a sense of an obedience that HANGS on every word God has spoken to us. How does God speak personally to us: Through His Word - Jesus, through the Scriptures, and through the revelation that the Holy Spirit brings to us when we walk closely with Him. When you read the Scriptures or sense God speaking to you through the Holy Spirit, do you feel compelled to respond in some way? This is where I think obedience becomes a key. My friend, Tracy, says often - Obedience is the Love Language of the Holy Spirit. And, I agree. If we never do what we read about in Scripture how will we ever know the Greater Works that Jesus said we who come after would do? Obedience is more than doing the right thing because God said so, obedience is an expression of both faith and love toward God. An expectant faith, that knows God will respond - keeping the promises of His Word - when we obey Him. Verse 130: Break open your word within me until revelation-light shines out! Those with open hearts are given insight into your plans. Before you ever experience a breakthrough in your circumstances, God’s word - the Scriptures must break open within you - flooding your being with the revelation light of Christ. Only then will we see and understand the plans God speaks of in Jeremiah 29:11, plans that the NKJV calls THOUGHTS. I recently heard Jesse Beebe speak at a conference and she said, “Did you know God has one destiny for your life, but many plans?” That’s right. God doesn’t just have 1 PLAN for your life - He has many plans that all lead to the one destiny He created and designed you to fulfill in your lifetime. It is through His Scriptures that these plans first break open to us, and as we follow Him through each revelation in obedience to His call… We find our hearts open and we discover the insights and wisdom of His truth in every area of our lives. Verse 131: I open my mouth and inhale the word of God because I crave the revelation of your commands. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17 we read that the Scriptures are “God-Breathed.” Picture the words of God being inhaled into your body like life-giving oxygen, bringing both light and life to the thoughts and intentions of your heart, soul and body. What would our lives look like if we craved God’s Word like our bodies crave oxygen to breathe. The other evening I was working with my husband cleaning out closets and rooms in our house. My allergies have been bothering me lately and I’ve had a little trouble breathing at times. As I bent over to pick something up I found myself unable to catch my breath. I tried to find my inhaler but couldn’t seem to get it. Without oxygen, all I could do was sit on the side of my bed - feeling my lungs burn with their need for oxygen and pray that my husband would realize I needed his help. Eventually he came along and found my inhaler. I took a couple of puffs and began to feel my airway open and my lungs fill with the oxygen my body needs to live. This is the picture this scripture paints - that our souls hunger for God’s word and crave the revelation of His truth. Our lives depend on it… Verse 132: Turn your heart to me, Lord, and show me your grace like you do to every one of your godly lovers. Have you ever been reading scripture and your heart became convicted about something in your life that perhaps you’d never considered sin before that moment? In Isaiah 6, we see the prophet standing before God’s throne as God displayed His glory to Isaiah. The Lord was looking for a man to send as a prophet to Israel, and in the presence of God’s glory all Isaiah could say was “Woe to me, I am undone because I am a sinful man of unclean lips.” (Isaiah 6:5 my paraprase) This picture of our human hearts, and its inclination toward evil, being undone before a Holy God is what it means to truly FEAR the Lord. To revere Him, and His majesty. To humble and prostrate ourselves before Him as we behold the beauty of His splendor beyond our ability to conceive. A revelation of God’s glory creates a desire for His heart be turned to us as He extends His grace in our lives. As He does, as we behold His glory and His grace in our lives, our souls respond in obedience to Him because we love Him recognizing it was He Who first loved us. This is the relationship that God desires for us - that our obedience would lead us to the deeper revelations of intimacy with His heart. Verse 133: Prepare before me a path filled with your promises, and don’t allow even one sin to have dominion over me. We see now how God’s Word, intimacy and obedience lead to purpose. If we are going to fulfill our God-given purpose in life we must know God intimately through His word and respond to it in obedience as the Holy Spirit prompts us to move. If Jesus is God’s Word, and all of God’s promises are Yes And Amen in Jesus - then knowing scripture- being deeply connected to Him through it will lead us down a path filled with His promises. And the more we focus on Him through the Scriptures the more we will realize that transformation that we are called to as we renew our minds in His Word. Verse 134: Rescue me from the oppression of ungodly men so that I can keep all your precepts. As we behold God through His Word, and seek to obey Him - the natural inclination of our hearts will be to experience His protection as we seek to keep His word. God longs for us to ask for His protection - that we would not be oppressed by the ungodly or be distracted from His will in our lives by the ever-darkening world around us. The key is to cry out to Him both in repentance and seeking His refuge in our lives. Verse135: Smile on me, your loving servant.[a] Instruct me on what is right in your eyes. (Footnotes form TPT: Psalm 119:135 [a] Or “Cause your face to shine on me.”) That phrase “Smile on me” here is more literally translated, “Cause Your Face To Shine On Me…” What does that mean… Cause Your face to shine on me? As I asked the Lord about that this morning I felt like He reminded me of Moses. When Moses went up on the mountain and encountered the Lord his face blazed with the Glory of God. So much so that the people of Israel covered his face with a veil because they could not bear to look upon it. I’m reminded that we become like what we behold - God told Moses He spoke to him as a friend. I believe when the Face of God shines on us - we are face to face with Him. Beholding Him and His glory gets on us. We are marked by His presence and people cannot help but see it on us. And because of this, our deep desire is to do what is right in His sight. Not only are we marked by Him when His face shines on us, but we begin to look and act like Him as a result. Verse 136: When I witness the rebellious breaking your laws, it makes me weep uncontrollably! A number of years ago I joined a governmental prayer group during election season. I found myself praying Joel 2 during that season. As I did I received a revelation about what it means to weep between the altar and the door. Before that time, I would glance past that moment to the part where the Lord restores what had been lost and stolen from us in a double portion way. But, as I prayed these scriptures over the election I found myself seeing a different picture. A picture of the priests of God (in Christ, we are believer-priests) walking to the door and seeing the plight of the world around them. The condition of their fellow man, and returning to the altar weeping in their prayers for His redemption. Those days of prayer and that election marked me in immeasurable ways. I like to tell people I’m the grace girl. I sincerely do not believe there is any circumstance, any person, beyond the redemption of God. His arm is not too short… But, sometimes my faith to believe is woefully limited. Limited by what I can see, taste, touch, feel and smell. Seriously… Don’t tell me I’m the only one. Recently I attended a large church who has security teams in place to help keep both the congregants and the staff at the church safe. In the world we live in, this is not an unreasonable position. During the service the leaders make time for the congregants to interact with and greet one another before the weekly message begins. A young man was going around and greeting people, speaking to them. He must have been loud or disturbing to some because a few minutes later the security team came in and took him out. He did not return to the service. Now, I do not know the exact circumstances of what took place, but when the church is an unwelcoming place for people then it becomes a problem. Rather than shut people out - we should create places for them to connect that facilitate the safety of others but also take into consideration the needs of the individual who may be seen as “unacceptable.” The church cannot be a police state - if it becomes such we will look more like the pharisees than Jesus in every way. I’ve worked on staff in churches, and written position papers on marriage as well as run background checks on folks who desired to serve in ministry. I’ve had to report sex offenders and watched pastors lovingly and discerningly develop ministry plans that allowed the offenders to attend church while caring for those around them and creating safe parameters to allow for interaction. When I think of the way the rebellious around me make me grieve these days. It’s not the world - the ones outside God’s house and family - that bring me to tears but those who have seemingly forgotten who we are and Who we represent to the lost and dying world around us. Father God, as I read today, my heart grieves at a church that protests sinners rather than loving them, that exiles the unlovely and the broken rather than embraces them and I grieve that after all these years of knowing you - at times - even my heart still does not look like yours. Change our hearts God, make us crave the breakthrough of your revelation and truth in our hearts and minds like air to breathe, give me more faith in your Spirit’s ability to transform sinners into saints, than in the human spirit’s ability to wreak havoc and devise evil. Make my heart like yours. I desire your words like the air I breathe and I desire to obey you more than anything else in my life. Bring me to your heart by your Word, O God. And bring the world to yourself as you do. IN Jesus’ Name, Amen. Closing Remarks That's all the time that I have for today! Thank you for tuning in with us. I want to ask you if this podcast has been a blessing to you: would you subscribe to it and share it with your friends and family? We’d love to partner with you in sharing messages that encourage and inspire. As you may know, our Redeemed Rebel Podcast aired its last show for this season yesterday. While Michele will still be popping in from time to time as a guest host on this show or showing up as a guest on our other shows -- she will not be regularly featured through the Redeemed Rebel Podcast for the foreseeable future. Be sure to catch her last episode and connect with her this week at facebook.com/redeemedrebelunveiled. If you’d like to be a guest on this show or get more information about hosting your own podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network - please reach out to michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com. I’d love the opportunity to connect with you and figure out how we can share your voice with the world around us. BIBLE STUDY SEASON IS UPON US! Since I’ve been off social media the last few weeks I’ve failed to get the word out… BUT, events are going up this week and we’ll begin in person (Granbury, TX) and on Facebook Live THIS SATURDAY, September 21st at 10:00 am. That’s right - we’re going to be starting our show a little earlier in the morning, but we’ll be bringing you an hour of Bible study each week as we read through THE GOSPELS - Verse By Verse. This season our study will be the 24 chapters of the book of Luke. You can learn more by visiting facebook.com/bloominginspired and checking out the events or by visiting bloominginspirednetwork.com If you’d like to get this podcast delivered to your smart device, we're available on Apple and on Google Podcasts. We are also available on the Podcoin App. By The Way, Podcoin is a great app! They pay you “podcoins” for listening to any podcast that's listed on their app. All of the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network’s podcasts are listed there. We’re working on keeping our shows as “Bonus Shows” on the app. That means if you download the app and create your account with our referral code, “Blooming” you’ll get 300 “podcoins” just for signing up, AND when we’re a bonus app you get extra podcoins just for listening!! You can use your podcoins to buy gift cards or make donations to charitable organizations. That’s a WIN-WIN, don’t you think? So if you're interested in subscribing Podcoin is a great way to get our podcast and you get the extra benefit of earning gifts while you're listening. Would you partner with us? We would love for you to share about our podcast on social media -- share it with your friends your family -- the people within your influence let them know what we're doing at Blooming Inspired Network! Tune In Wednesdays! Accidental Hope Podcast airs on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. central time. Each week Jennifer Eikenhorst brings hope-filled messages and interviews related to overcoming accidents and traumas we face in life. You don’t want to miss her final of a three part interview series with Tina Boyd as they talk about how Faith Moves You Forward this week! And now, I want to remind you as I always do: Blooming where you're planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams, so live your lives blooming alive! Thank you for listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. This show airs on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am central time. Please take a moment to like, share and subscribe to this podcast. To learn more about this podcast and it’s network, or the ministries of Blooming Inspired Network please visit BloomingInspiredNetwork.com and click the podcast link at the top of the page.

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 129-136 in the Passion Translation. Today, as we continue to discover how the keys of living from intimacy and following God in obedience as our passionate pursuit and souls longing leads us to crave His presence and grieve over sin. When we come into a right understanding of Who God is as we pursue Him through His Word – the keys of presence and obedience bring us into understanding the justice of His heart toward a lost and dying world. Show Transcript: Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives Blooming Alive. Introduction Good Morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. I’m always excited to jump on the podcast with you each week. I’ve been on a social media and podcast break for the last month while traveling and am ready to get back in touch and into Psalm 119. Before I do, I wanted to share a little about the last few weeks of my life and a few changes that will be coming soon to Blooming Inspired Network.. First, I want to say as I’ve spent time away I’ve missed “seeing you” on Facebook and interacting with you there. Still, part of the reason I’m needing to make changes centers on the book God has been stirring in my heart for 14 years now. In August I attended the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association Conference in Nashville, TN. This event inspired me to get serious about my book project and developed some definite goals for the next few months. I was able to spend time with my writing friends from North Texas while making new friends the few days we were there. It’s been an amazing time in my life and encourages me to take steps of faith like never before. If you don’t know, writing a book is labor intensive and time consuming. So, I may not be able to interact with you as often on Facebook, but I’ll be bringing you content that will still encourage and inspire you to go deeper with God in your life. After I returned home from the writer’s conference, I w laundry and headed out again. This time for a retreat for ministry leaders in Telluride, CO. The theme of the Retreat was rest and and… BOY, Did I Need It. The scenic beauty surrounded us on every side. I was incredibly blessed. I took my calendar and my laptop hoping to do some planning and writing while away. But, instead… I heard the Lord whisper, “Just enjoy my creation with me.” I laid in bed late at night and looked up at the diamond-like stars glistening in a black sky just beyond the windows of my bedroom. I fell asleep to the peaceful sound of a creek running behind the house where we stayed. I woke up early and took in the first rays of light coming over the mountains to our east without ever leaving my bed. I marvelled at those mountainous landscapes that surrounded us. And, I enjoyed the 100s of birds, most of them Hummingbirds, that lived in the Douglas Fir Trees around the retreat house. Until… The third day. The plumbing backed up in the electrical closet downstairs. We were moved up the mountain from Telluride to the Mountain Village Lodge where we spent our last two nights in an even more beautiful setting with less oxygen. I just have to say I’m grateful for the Gondolas and shuttles in that area that helped us get around. Several other women journeyed with us on the retreat that week and we quickly became heart friends. I miss them already, but they reminded me why Blooming Inspired Network exists - we’re here for you! Now… Here’s the fun part - we’re going to allow you to submit content for the page! Did you read a Scripture or quote that really moves you? Do you have a word from God that you want to share? GREAT! Simply DM the content to the Blooming Inspired Page, and we’ll look for an opportunity to get it posted. Here are a few guidelines: Our content is by women for women, looking forward to empowering your voice and pen! Not that doesn’t mean we don’t value the voices and offerings of men - we do! But this is a place for wildflowers to bloom. So bring on the women who are wildflowers waiting to sing! [Please note: Not every quote that gets submitted will fit our scope and needs at Blooming Inspired Network - but we’ll be sure to let you know if your content is selected and when it will post.] Content for Quote or Scripture Graphics: Must include the original author or Scripture Reference AND Translation in the message. We’ll ask for it if it is not included. TIP: Ask yourself, “How will this equip and empower women to walk in their role and reign in God’s Kingdom?” Then send us your thoughts along with the quote. We’ll include your note and tag you in the post. :) Other Content: 1) It must be encouraging. 2) It must inspire action. 3) It must be biblically sound. 4) Be sure to respond to the comments if your content is posted. We’ll tag you in the post… :) Do you have a testimony or Podcast idea? Listen for an opportunity to join the fun at the end of today’s show! If you want to go deeper with the Wildflowers at Blooming Inspired Network be sure to join our Wildflower Women Relaunch on Facebook! We’d love to connect and enjoy the encouragement of community with each of you. Are you a writer? Be sure to DM or fill out the contact page at the website. We’d love to get a sample from you as we’re starting a blog soon! We need writers! :) With that said, in addition to our weekly podcasts - Blooming Inspired Network will post on Facebook 2-3 times a week. Looking at a Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The more you engage with our content the more we’ll bring to you there. We’ll also be posting to Instagram, Twitter and A NEW! Pinterest account we’ll be opening this week. We’d love to pin your work. Be sure to connect with us and let us know what you’re up to. But enough about this social stuff… Let’s get to our show. Review In our last episode of the Revival Series we read verses 121-127 and saw the way God’s tender love leads us into not only His righteousness but, when we choose to submit to God in obedience, it also leads us to beautiful intimacy with Him. Today we continue that theme as we look at what it means when our longings are to obey God. This Week’s Reading This week we’re returning to our reading in verses 128-136. We’re reading from the Passion Translation, but go ahead and grab your Bible and turn to the Psalm so you can follow along, I’ll pray to open our discussion today. Father God, I ask that you would open our eyes to see your revelation, open our ears to hear your voice, and open our hearts to know you more. Protect us from the plans of your adversary and keep us from harm. I ask these things in Jesus’ Name, AMEN. The heading for today’s reading is, “I Long to Obey You.” As we read today, I want you to consider this question: “Do I Long To OBEY God?” Let’s begin: Verse 129: Your marvelous words are living miracles; no wonder I long to obey everything you say. Did you catch that? There is a link to seeing God’s living miracles and obedience. Not just obedience for the sake of obedience… But, there is a sense of an obedience that HANGS on every word God has spoken to us. How does God speak personally to us: Through His Word - Jesus, through the Scriptures, and through the revelation that the Holy Spirit brings to us when we walk closely with Him. When you read the Scriptures or sense God speaking to you through the Holy Spirit, do you feel compelled to respond in some way? This is where I think obedience becomes a key. My friend, Tracy, says often - Obedience is the Love Language of the Holy Spirit. And, I agree. If we never do what we read about in Scripture how will we ever know the Greater Works that Jesus said we who come after would do? Obedience is more than doing the right thing because God said so, obedience is an expression of both faith and love toward God. An expectant faith, that knows God will respond - keeping the promises of His Word - when we obey Him. Verse 130: Break open your word within me until revelation-light shines out! Those with open hearts are given insight into your plans. Before you ever experience a breakthrough in your circumstances, God’s word - the Scriptures must break open within you - flooding your being with the revelation light of Christ. Only then will we see and understand the plans God speaks of in Jeremiah 29:11, plans that the NKJV calls THOUGHTS. I recently heard Jesse Beebe speak at a conference and she said, “Did you know God has one destiny for your life, but many plans?” That’s right. God doesn’t just have 1 PLAN for your life - He has many plans that all lead to the one destiny He created and designed you to fulfill in your lifetime. It is through His Scriptures that these plans first break open to us, and as we follow Him through each revelation in obedience to His call… We find our hearts open and we discover the insights and wisdom of His truth in every area of our lives. Verse 131: I open my mouth and inhale the word of God because I crave the revelation of your commands. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17 we read that the Scriptures are “God-Breathed.” Picture the words of God being inhaled into your body like life-giving oxygen, bringing both light and life to the thoughts and intentions of your heart, soul and body. What would our lives look like if we craved God’s Word like our bodies crave oxygen to breathe. The other evening I was working with my husband cleaning out closets and rooms in our house. My allergies have been bothering me lately and I’ve had a little trouble breathing at times. As I bent over to pick something up I found myself unable to catch my breath. I tried to find my inhaler but couldn’t seem to get it. Without oxygen, all I could do was sit on the side of my bed - feeling my lungs burn with their need for oxygen and pray that my husband would realize I needed his help. Eventually he came along and found my inhaler. I took a couple of puffs and began to feel my airway open and my lungs fill with the oxygen my body needs to live. This is the picture this scripture paints - that our souls hunger for God’s word and crave the revelation of His truth. Our lives depend on it… Verse 132: Turn your heart to me, Lord, and show me your grace like you do to every one of your godly lovers. Have you ever been reading scripture and your heart became convicted about something in your life that perhaps you’d never considered sin before that moment? In Isaiah 6, we see the prophet standing before God’s throne as God displayed His glory to Isaiah. The Lord was looking for a man to send as a prophet to Israel, and in the presence of God’s glory all Isaiah could say was “Woe to me, I am undone because I am a sinful man of unclean lips.” (Isaiah 6:5 my paraprase) This picture of our human hearts, and its inclination toward evil, being undone before a Holy God is what it means to truly FEAR the Lord. To revere Him, and His majesty. To humble and prostrate ourselves before Him as we behold the beauty of His splendor beyond our ability to conceive. A revelation of God’s glory creates a desire for His heart be turned to us as He extends His grace in our lives. As He does, as we behold His glory and His grace in our lives, our souls respond in obedience to Him because we love Him recognizing it was He Who first loved us. This is the relationship that God desires for us - that our obedience would lead us to the deeper revelations of intimacy with His heart. Verse 133: Prepare before me a path filled with your promises, and don’t allow even one sin to have dominion over me. We see now how God’s Word, intimacy and obedience lead to purpose. If we are going to fulfill our God-given purpose in life we must know God intimately through His word and respond to it in obedience as the Holy Spirit prompts us to move. If Jesus is God’s Word, and all of God’s promises are Yes And Amen in Jesus - then knowing scripture- being deeply connected to Him through it will lead us down a path filled with His promises. And the more we focus on Him through the Scriptures the more we will realize that transformation that we are called to as we renew our minds in His Word. Verse 134: Rescue me from the oppression of ungodly men so that I can keep all your precepts. As we behold God through His Word, and seek to obey Him - the natural inclination of our hearts will be to experience His protection as we seek to keep His word. God longs for us to ask for His protection - that we would not be oppressed by the ungodly or be distracted from His will in our lives by the ever-darkening world around us. The key is to cry out to Him both in repentance and seeking His refuge in our lives. Verse135: Smile on me, your loving servant.[a] Instruct me on what is right in your eyes. (Footnotes form TPT: Psalm 119:135 [a] Or “Cause your face to shine on me.”) That phrase “Smile on me” here is more literally translated, “Cause Your Face To Shine On Me…” What does that mean… Cause Your face to shine on me? As I asked the Lord about that this morning I felt like He reminded me of Moses. When Moses went up on the mountain and encountered the Lord his face blazed with the Glory of God. So much so that the people of Israel covered his face with a veil because they could not bear to look upon it. I’m reminded that we become like what we behold - God told Moses He spoke to him as a friend. I believe when the Face of God shines on us - we are face to face with Him. Beholding Him and His glory gets on us. We are marked by His presence and people cannot help but see it on us. And because of this, our deep desire is to do what is right in His sight. Not only are we marked by Him when His face shines on us, but we begin to look and act like Him as a result. Verse 136: When I witness the rebellious breaking your laws, it makes me weep uncontrollably! A number of years ago I joined a governmental prayer group during election season. I found myself praying Joel 2 during that season. As I did I received a revelation about what it means to weep between the altar and the door. Before that time, I would glance past that moment to the part where the Lord restores what had been lost and stolen from us in a double portion way. But, as I prayed these scriptures over the election I found myself seeing a different picture. A picture of the priests of God (in Christ, we are believer-priests) walking to the door and seeing the plight of the world around them. The condition of their fellow man, and returning to the altar weeping in their prayers for His redemption. Those days of prayer and that election marked me in immeasurable ways. I like to tell people I’m the grace girl. I sincerely do not believe there is any circumstance, any person, beyond the redemption of God. His arm is not too short… But, sometimes my faith to believe is woefully limited. Limited by what I can see, taste, touch, feel and smell. Seriously… Don’t tell me I’m the only one. Recently I attended a large church who has security teams in place to help keep both the congregants and the staff at the church safe. In the world we live in, this is not an unreasonable position. During the service the leaders make time for the congregants to interact with and greet one another before the weekly message begins. A young man was going around and greeting people, speaking to them. He must have been loud or disturbing to some because a few minutes later the security team came in and took him out. He did not return to the service. Now, I do not know the exact circumstances of what took place, but when the church is an unwelcoming place for people then it becomes a problem. Rather than shut people out - we should create places for them to connect that facilitate the safety of others but also take into consideration the needs of the individual who may be seen as “unacceptable.” The church cannot be a police state - if it becomes such we will look more like the pharisees than Jesus in every way. I’ve worked on staff in churches, and written position papers on marriage as well as run background checks on folks who desired to serve in ministry. I’ve had to report sex offenders and watched pastors lovingly and discerningly develop ministry plans that allowed the offenders to attend church while caring for those around them and creating safe parameters to allow for interaction. When I think of the way the rebellious around me make me grieve these days. It’s not the world - the ones outside God’s house and family - that bring me to tears but those who have seemingly forgotten who we are and Who we represent to the lost and dying world around us. Father God, as I read today, my heart grieves at a church that protests sinners rather than loving them, that exiles the unlovely and the broken rather than embraces them and I grieve that after all these years of knowing you - at times - even my heart still does not look like yours. Change our hearts God, make us crave the breakthrough of your revelation and truth in our hearts and minds like air to breathe, give me more faith in your Spirit’s ability to transform sinners into saints, than in the human spirit’s ability to wreak havoc and devise evil. Make my heart like yours. I desire your words like the air I breathe and I desire to obey you more than anything else in my life. Bring me to your heart by your Word, O God. And bring the world to yourself as you do. IN Jesus’ Name, Amen. Closing Remarks That's all the time that I have for today! Thank you for tuning in with us. I want to ask you if this podcast has been a blessing to you: would you subscribe to it and share it with your friends and family? We’d love to partner with you in sharing messages that encourage and inspire. As you may know, our Redeemed Rebel Podcast aired its last show for this season yesterday. While Michele will still be popping in from time to time as a guest host on this show or showing up as a guest on our other shows -- she will not be regularly featured through the Redeemed Rebel Podcast for the foreseeable future. Be sure to catch her last episode and connect with her this week at facebook.com/redeemedrebelunveiled. If you’d like to be a guest on this show or get more information about hosting your own podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network - please reach out to michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com. I’d love the opportunity to connect with you and figure out how we can share your voice with the world around us. BIBLE STUDY SEASON IS UPON US! Since I’ve been off social media the last few weeks I’ve failed to get the word out… BUT, events are going up this week and we’ll begin in person (Granbury, TX) and on Facebook Live THIS SATURDAY, September 21st at 10:00 am. That’s right - we’re going to be starting our show a little earlier in the morning, but we’ll be bringing you an hour of Bible study each week as we read through THE GOSPELS - Verse By Verse. This season our study will be the 24 chapters of the book of Luke. You can learn more by visiting facebook.com/bloominginspired and checking out the events or by visiting bloominginspirednetwork.com If you’d like to get this podcast delivered to your smart device, we're available on Apple and on Google Podcasts. We are also available on the Podcoin App. By The Way, Podcoin is a great app! They pay you “podcoins” for listening to any podcast that's listed on their app. All of the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network’s podcasts are listed there. We’re working on keeping our shows as “Bonus Shows” on the app. That means if you download the app and create your account with our referral code, “Blooming” you’ll get 300 “podcoins” just for signing up, AND when we’re a bonus app you get extra podcoins just for listening!! You can use your podcoins to buy gift cards or make donations to charitable organizations. That’s a WIN-WIN, don’t you think? So if you're interested in subscribing Podcoin is a great way to get our podcast and you get the extra benefit of earning gifts while you're listening. Would you partner with us? We would love for you to share about our podcast on social media -- share it with your friends your family -- the people within your influence let them know what we're doing at Blooming Inspired Network! Tune In Wednesdays! Accidental Hope Podcast airs on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. central time. Each week Jennifer Eikenhorst brings hope-filled messages and interviews related to overcoming accidents and traumas we face in life. You don’t want to miss her final of a three part interview series with Tina Boyd as they talk about how Faith Moves You Forward this week! And now, I want to remind you as I always do: Blooming where you're planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams, so live your lives blooming alive! Thank you for listening to the Blooming Inspired Podcast on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. This show airs on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am central time. Please take a moment to like, share and subscribe to this podcast. To learn more about this podcast and it’s network, or the ministries of Blooming Inspired Network please visit BloomingInspiredNetwork.com and click the podcast link at the top of the page.

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 121-128  in the Passion Translation. Today, as we discover the keys of living from intimacy and following God in obedience as our passionate pursuit and souls longing.  When we come into a right understanding of Who God is as we pursue Him through His Word - the keys of presence and bring us into an obedience that is born of love and intimacy rather than obligation.  Show Transcript: Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives Blooming Alive.  Introduction Good Morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. I’m always excited to be jumping on the podcast with you each week. This week we’re returning to our Revival Series and Psalm 119 beginning in verse 121. Go ahead and grab your Bible and turn to the Psalm as I pray to open our discussion today.  Father God, I ask that you would open our eyes to see your revelation, open our ears to hear your voice, and open our hearts to know you more. Protect us from the plans of your adversary and keep us from harm. I ask these things in Jesus’ Name, AMEN.  Psalm 119:121-128 The Passion Translation (TPT) The heading over this passage is I Will Follow Your Ways You know the image I chose for today’s podcast is an image of a man and woman dancing. That’s right, a man and a woman dancing. Because when a woman or a bride even chooses to dance with her groom she chooses to follow Him. This is exactly what we see a picture of - this beautiful submission that is reflected in the dance of a woman giving herself in obedience to her husband. A Bride giving herself to her Bridegroom. We, the church, surrendering ourselves to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the Sovereignty of Father God in obedience.  Today’s Reading Verse 121: Don’t leave me to the mercies of those who hate me, for I live to do what is just and fair. How many of us pray for God to let us get away with SIN? Not many? But, don’t we often find ourselves sinning anyway, making a mess of things and go back to God trying to bargain our way out of the consequences.  “God, if you’ll just get me out of this mess, I’ll never do this again.”   I believe, especially after salvation many of us desire in heartsto do what is right before God. So, why don’t we always do what is right before God, and end up crying out in desperation for His rescue? Sin Brings Consequences This reminds me of something that my daddy used to tell me as a kid. He would say, “Sugar, if you screw up and do something wrong just come and talk to me about it. I’ll go easier on you if you just tell me what happened than if you go around and hide it hoping I won’t find out.”  God’s Grace & Mercy Cleanses Us From Sin and Unrighteousness I feel like God says this to us in 1 John 1:9 - if you belong to me you won’t go on sinning, but instead you’ll confess your sins and know I’m faithful and just to forgive them and cleanse you from all unrighteousness. If your sins involve consequences in the real world, you bet you’ll have to deal with them. But God in His grace and mercy will give you the help you need to get through it if you will take it to Him and trust Him to help you work through the mess. Yes, even when you’ve earned it. That’s called mercy. God’s Promises Also Free Us From Oppression  Verse 122: Let me hear your promise of blessing over my life, breaking me free from the proud oppressors. When we feel oppressed by people and the world around us all we have to do is look to God. Reminding ourselves, focusing on His promises will help us to overcome - breaking free from - the way the world around us seeks to bind us up. You notice he wants to be broken free from the proud oppressors but a lot of times that oppression is happening in our mind. Our actions are a result of what is happening in our mind - the way we think. So in order for our response to change, our thinking has to change. And God’s promises should always change the way we think.  A Lovesick Lover Verse 123: As a lovesick lover, I yearn for more of your salvation and for your virtuous promises. As we’ve walked through the previous verses of Psalm 119, we see this progression from seeking God, to knowing God, to walking in intimacy with God. That is what I see in this verse - as a lovesick lover, I yearn for more of your salvation and your virtuous promises.- Think about it! Does your heart yearn for more of God’s salvation and the virtues of His promises to become a reality in your life? When we belong to God, walking in a depth of intimacy with Him, we not only want to please Him, we want to understand and receive from Him as well.  Tender Love & Understanding Verse 124: Let me feel your tender love, for I am yours. Give me more understanding of your wonderful ways. His tender love will lead us into understanding. We will marvel at the wonder of who He is as well as what He does. Have you ever stopped and considered all the wonderful things about God. If we flip over to Psalm 139, the Psalmist enumerates them this way, “How wonderful are your ways? I know that full well.”  Are you full up on the wonder of who God is, not just what He does for us? How Wonderful Are You God… Help us to know that full well!  Known By Revelation Verse 125: I need more revelation from your word to know more about you, for I’m in love with you! It is in this place of intimacy, birthed from revelation through the Word of God (Jesus) and the scriptures that cause us to pour ourselves out in love for Him, the way He has poured out His tender love upon us. There is this idea in knowing that can mean to either know by experience or to know by information. We must never settled in the place of simply knowing about God - information, but rather we should seek to KNOW God personally by a first person experience of who He is.  Breakthrough is My Heart Cry!  Verse 126: Lord, the time has come for you to break through, for evil men keep breaking your laws. Do you hear the heart crying out for breakthrough? Weary of the fight and the pain that comes with a broken world... Meet us in the midst of this chaos God and deliver us -- all of us -- all those you long to call by your Name, and bring us to your goodness and your heart. We’re longing for, waiting on your breakthrough to come.  Truth is Our Treasure Verse 127: Truly, your message of truth means more to me than a vault filled with the purest gold. When we value God, His truth and His presence in our lives more than we value anything else, even gold and earthly treasures, we will find ourselves positioned for more of who He is.  His Truth is Right & Beautiful Verse 128: Every word you speak, every truth revealed, is always right and beautiful to me, for I hate what is phony or false. As we conclude today we see this love journey with God leads us not only to intimacy but a deep longing in our hearts to be obedient to God, His Word & Truth and to the promptings of His Holy Spirit which brings power and revelation to our lives.  That’s all the time I have for today. As we close I’d like to tell you about my new adventure as a member of The John Maxwell Team. I’ve recently enrolled in their certification program and I’m walking through the process of getting certified as a Speaker, Teacher, Trainer and Coach through their platform. In July I completed their Maxwell Method Certification for the DISC personality/behavioral Assessment. If you contact me during the month of August to purchase the DISC assessment and book a follow up coaching session to review the report, I’ll give you a $50 discount off the recommended price. That’s RIGHT! I’ll help you walk through your report and plan next steps, the report is $50 with a session fee of $197.00. IF YOU CONTACT ME BEFORE AUGUST 31, 2019 to order your report and schedule your session you can get both the report and the session for $197.00. To take advantage of this offer, just email michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com and put Maxwell Method DISC Report in the Subject Line. Let me know you want to take advantage of my August Special and we’ll get you started.  Be sure to tune in tomorrow for the Accidental Hope Podcast with Jennifer Eikenhorst. She is our Hope Ambassador around this wildflower garden, passionate about helping others seek hope and build community after experiencing an accidental loss or trauma. Check her out right here at the bloominginspirednetwork.com or on Facebook @accidentalhope, again that’s facebook.com/accidentalhope And now I want to remind you as I always do, Blooming where you’re planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams so live your lives blooming alive.

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 121-128  in the Passion Translation. Today, as we discover the keys of living from intimacy and following God in obedience as our passionate pursuit and souls longing.  When we come into a right understanding of Who God is as we pursue Him through His Word - the keys of presence and bring us into an obedience that is born of love and intimacy rather than obligation.  Show Transcript: Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives Blooming Alive.  Introduction Good Morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. I’m always excited to be jumping on the podcast with you each week. This week we’re returning to our Revival Series and Psalm 119 beginning in verse 121. Go ahead and grab your Bible and turn to the Psalm as I pray to open our discussion today.  Father God, I ask that you would open our eyes to see your revelation, open our ears to hear your voice, and open our hearts to know you more. Protect us from the plans of your adversary and keep us from harm. I ask these things in Jesus’ Name, AMEN.  Psalm 119:121-128 The Passion Translation (TPT) The heading over this passage is I Will Follow Your Ways You know the image I chose for today’s podcast is an image of a man and woman dancing. That’s right, a man and a woman dancing. Because when a woman or a bride even chooses to dance with her groom she chooses to follow Him. This is exactly what we see a picture of - this beautiful submission that is reflected in the dance of a woman giving herself in obedience to her husband. A Bride giving herself to her Bridegroom. We, the church, surrendering ourselves to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the Sovereignty of Father God in obedience.  Today’s Reading Verse 121: Don’t leave me to the mercies of those who hate me, for I live to do what is just and fair. How many of us pray for God to let us get away with SIN? Not many? But, don’t we often find ourselves sinning anyway, making a mess of things and go back to God trying to bargain our way out of the consequences.  “God, if you’ll just get me out of this mess, I’ll never do this again.”   I believe, especially after salvation many of us desire in heartsto do what is right before God. So, why don’t we always do what is right before God, and end up crying out in desperation for His rescue? Sin Brings Consequences This reminds me of something that my daddy used to tell me as a kid. He would say, “Sugar, if you screw up and do something wrong just come and talk to me about it. I’ll go easier on you if you just tell me what happened than if you go around and hide it hoping I won’t find out.”  God’s Grace & Mercy Cleanses Us From Sin and Unrighteousness I feel like God says this to us in 1 John 1:9 - if you belong to me you won’t go on sinning, but instead you’ll confess your sins and know I’m faithful and just to forgive them and cleanse you from all unrighteousness. If your sins involve consequences in the real world, you bet you’ll have to deal with them. But God in His grace and mercy will give you the help you need to get through it if you will take it to Him and trust Him to help you work through the mess. Yes, even when you’ve earned it. That’s called mercy. God’s Promises Also Free Us From Oppression  Verse 122: Let me hear your promise of blessing over my life, breaking me free from the proud oppressors. When we feel oppressed by people and the world around us all we have to do is look to God. Reminding ourselves, focusing on His promises will help us to overcome - breaking free from - the way the world around us seeks to bind us up. You notice he wants to be broken free from the proud oppressors but a lot of times that oppression is happening in our mind. Our actions are a result of what is happening in our mind - the way we think. So in order for our response to change, our thinking has to change. And God’s promises should always change the way we think.  A Lovesick Lover Verse 123: As a lovesick lover, I yearn for more of your salvation and for your virtuous promises. As we’ve walked through the previous verses of Psalm 119, we see this progression from seeking God, to knowing God, to walking in intimacy with God. That is what I see in this verse - as a lovesick lover, I yearn for more of your salvation and your virtuous promises.- Think about it! Does your heart yearn for more of God’s salvation and the virtues of His promises to become a reality in your life? When we belong to God, walking in a depth of intimacy with Him, we not only want to please Him, we want to understand and receive from Him as well.  Tender Love & Understanding Verse 124: Let me feel your tender love, for I am yours. Give me more understanding of your wonderful ways. His tender love will lead us into understanding. We will marvel at the wonder of who He is as well as what He does. Have you ever stopped and considered all the wonderful things about God. If we flip over to Psalm 139, the Psalmist enumerates them this way, “How wonderful are your ways? I know that full well.”  Are you full up on the wonder of who God is, not just what He does for us? How Wonderful Are You God… Help us to know that full well!  Known By Revelation Verse 125: I need more revelation from your word to know more about you, for I’m in love with you! It is in this place of intimacy, birthed from revelation through the Word of God (Jesus) and the scriptures that cause us to pour ourselves out in love for Him, the way He has poured out His tender love upon us. There is this idea in knowing that can mean to either know by experience or to know by information. We must never settled in the place of simply knowing about God - information, but rather we should seek to KNOW God personally by a first person experience of who He is.  Breakthrough is My Heart Cry!  Verse 126: Lord, the time has come for you to break through, for evil men keep breaking your laws. Do you hear the heart crying out for breakthrough? Weary of the fight and the pain that comes with a broken world... Meet us in the midst of this chaos God and deliver us -- all of us -- all those you long to call by your Name, and bring us to your goodness and your heart. We’re longing for, waiting on your breakthrough to come.  Truth is Our Treasure Verse 127: Truly, your message of truth means more to me than a vault filled with the purest gold. When we value God, His truth and His presence in our lives more than we value anything else, even gold and earthly treasures, we will find ourselves positioned for more of who He is.  His Truth is Right & Beautiful Verse 128: Every word you speak, every truth revealed, is always right and beautiful to me, for I hate what is phony or false. As we conclude today we see this love journey with God leads us not only to intimacy but a deep longing in our hearts to be obedient to God, His Word & Truth and to the promptings of His Holy Spirit which brings power and revelation to our lives.  That’s all the time I have for today. As we close I’d like to tell you about my new adventure as a member of The John Maxwell Team. I’ve recently enrolled in their certification program and I’m walking through the process of getting certified as a Speaker, Teacher, Trainer and Coach through their platform. In July I completed their Maxwell Method Certification for the DISC personality/behavioral Assessment. If you contact me during the month of August to purchase the DISC assessment and book a follow up coaching session to review the report, I’ll give you a $50 discount off the recommended price. That’s RIGHT! I’ll help you walk through your report and plan next steps, the report is $50 with a session fee of $197.00. IF YOU CONTACT ME BEFORE AUGUST 31, 2019 to order your report and schedule your session you can get both the report and the session for $197.00. To take advantage of this offer, just email michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com and put Maxwell Method DISC Report in the Subject Line. Let me know you want to take advantage of my August Special and we’ll get you started.  Be sure to tune in tomorrow for the Accidental Hope Podcast with Jennifer Eikenhorst. She is our Hope Ambassador around this wildflower garden, passionate about helping others seek hope and build community after experiencing an accidental loss or trauma. Check her out right here at the bloominginspirednetwork.com or on Facebook @accidentalhope, again that’s facebook.com/accidentalhope And now I want to remind you as I always do, Blooming where you’re planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams so live your lives blooming alive.

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 113-120  in the Passion Translation. Today, as we discover the keys of living from presence and trusting God in our passionate pursuit toward obedience from the heart.  When we come into a right understanding of Who God is as we pursue Him through His Word - the keys of trust and living from His presence bring us into a place of reverence for His Holiness and Righteousness.  Show Transcript: Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives blooming alive. Good morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. Introduction We're continuing to read from Psalm 119 with our Revival Series. We are reading in The Passion Translation today, beginning in verse 113. Let’s take a moment to go back and review what we talked about last Thursday. Review First, we uncovered the keys of gratitude, joy and being refreshed, we also began to see how obedience brings us to a place of freedom in Christ. Then we learned that stepping out by faith, trusting God’s revelation-light, helps us to walk a path that will lead to obedience, joy, rest and righteousness which brings us right into today’s topic. Today’s Reading Before I get to that, I want to share a brief story from last week with you. My husband is an anytime-anykind of sports fan and more than two decades ago he spent time working with a sheet metal company that helped with the building of what is now Globe Life Park in Arlington, TX. If that sounds familiar to you, it should because it is where our home team, The Texas Rangers, have played major league baseball, since the early 90s. My husband remembers fondly working on a portion of the center field Coca-Cola visual screen board and watching the first games played in the stadium from that lofty perch. A couple of weeks ago I called into a radio station and won tickets to last Wednesday night’s game. There are only 29 home games left in the regular season and that 29th game will be the last at Globe Life Park if the Rangers don’t make the playoffs. Though the Rangers were handily defeated by the Arizona Diamondbacks last week, we enjoyed the atmosphere and the cool breeze blowing through the stadium even on a very hot Texas summer day. As the night wore on and each time Elvis Andrus, veteran Short Stop, came to the plate to bat they played his intro song… “The Baby Shark Song” If you have kids or grandkids you may be familiar with this song. Elvis picked it actually to honor his own child each time he comes up to bat… You may recognize it… Little kids singing, Baby Shark! Doot-Doo-Ta-Doo-Doo-Doo… Baby Shark… And off to our right in a neighboring section is a middle aged man standing up and doing the Baby Shark dance. Every. Single. Time. The next day, I was moving through my day and found myself singing, “Baby Shark!...” Yep. It was a catchy little tune of very few words. Which brings me to today’s reading. The heading over this Psalm 119:113-120 is “Trust & Obey!” I don’t know about you, but as soon as I read those words my mind began to sing the chorus of an old hymnal standard: [Singing] “Trust and Obey, for there’s no other way to be happy in Jesus than to trust and obey.” Anybody else have that response to hearing those words. I even looked up the lyrics to read through them and there is no doubt in my mind that though those words do not officially appear in the text of this reading… They totally apply and that song must have been inspired by Psalm 119. As I sang the song and considered the lyrics, I began to consider that word Trust in the Hebrew. The definitions I’m about to share came from The Complete Word Study Dictionary (OT) (Copyright © 2003 by AMG Publishers. Database © 2007 WORDsearch Corp.) I found that in the KJV of the Bible, the word trust appears 163 times (134 OT, 29 NT). So let’s take a look at a few Hebrew words and their context to better understand this idea of trust from a Biblical perspective. Taking a Detour Put a marker in your Bible at Psalm 119 and turn over to Judges 11:20: Judges 11:20 (NKJV) “But Sihon did not trust Israel to pass through his territory. So Sihon gathered all his people together, encamped in Jahaz, and fought against Israel.” In this verse, the Hebrew word translated TRUST is Strong’s H539ʾāman which is defined as “be firm, to build up, to support, to nurture, to establish.” It carries the idea of “providing stability and confidence.” This same word is translated BELIEVE in Deuteronomy 9:23: Deuteronomy 9:23: (NKJV) “Likewise, when the Lord sent you from Kadesh Barnea, saying, ‘Go up and possess the land which I have given you,’ then you rebelled against the commandment of the Lord your God, and you did not believe Him nor obey His voice.” In the Hebrew, there is this intrinsic connection between belief and trust, without belief we will not trust God, and if we don’t trust God our obedience will not please Him. I want to establish this up front today because I believe God is going to highlight these truths for us in detail as we complete our reading today. The next Hebrew Word that is translated trust can be found in Psalm 2:12: Psalm 2:12 NKJV “Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and you perish in the way, when His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.” In this verse the Hebrew word is H2620 ḥāsāh. This word is defined as, “take refuge, literally seeking a tree’s shade… Of Yahweh (God), He is a shield providing refuge, and refuge is sought under His wings.” A safe place, a place of refuge and shelter where one can be secure and certain they will not be harmed. God is your safe place, a hiding place of refuge for you when the enemy and the world presses in. To trust Him is to seek shelter from Him, and find our residence in His presence. The next Hebrew Word that is translated trust can be found in Psalm 4:5: Psalm 4:5 NKJV “Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the Lord.” This word is the Hebrew word H982 bāṭaḥ. It is defined as “to trust, to be confident in, expressed as feelings of safety and security that is felt when one can rely on someone or something. Also to be confident, secure and without fear.” Love Casts Out Fear In the book of 1 John, we read that God is Love. It is not just a feeling, it’s who He is. Not just a character trait, but in fact, you cannot know God unless you first know His Love. And in Chapter 4 we read that His perfect love casts out fear. God is perfect love, agapeo, in the Greek. A love that moves beyond mere expression and lives within us, becomes our being. When we trust in Him, believe in Him - we must also know Him as love. And in that love - there is no fear. Let’s look at a couple of other verses that carry special meaning to me where trust is translated from the Hebrew word, bāṭaḥ: Proverbs 3:5 NKJV “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;” This verse resonates so loudly with me, especially in light of the definition which is to be confident in, with feelings of safety and security when one can rely on someone or something. If you listened to this podcast for any length of time you’ve heard me talk about losing my oldest child. As the 14th anniversary of his passing will be upon us in the next month, I feel it is an appropriate time to share how God used this verse to comfort my son in a dark season of his life, just a few months before his death, and then turned my heart to it again and again as I grieved His passing. Trusting the Lord Trusting God took on a whole new meaning when I began to walk out the days following my worst confessed fear: The death of my child. I had to trust Him for my next breath, that He would take care of my family when I wasn’t even able to think or feel anything but the most unimaginable pain. I had to trust God’s goodness and love, choosing to lean not to my own understanding because there was no way I could reconcile that a Good God would allow my family to suffer such a painful reality apart from faith in His truth and His promises. A few months before Justin passed away, he became angry as we had grown used to in our house. He often expressed his anger in a fit of rage that would come to blows with my husband or I, or he would destroy our property. That day he went outside, bent a golf club into a pretzel and then kicked a huge dent into the side of my car. My husband, his step-father, called the police as we’d been advised to do by our leaders at church. My son was handcuffed in my front yard and hauled off to the county jail. And, the one thing Scott and I had agreed on when they left was that we would not provide the bail to get him out of jail. A Promise To Keep We’d been thwarting consequences as things escalated in his life that year before and it was time for Justin to face the reality of his choices. He spent seven days in jail before striking a plea deal with the county prosecutor to come home on probation. While in jail, Justin met with the chaplain who gave him a Bible. The day he returned home he came in and thanked me for sending him letters with Scripture in them and encouraging him to seek spiritual counsel from the chaplain when we spoke on the phone. He asked me for my Bible. I handed him my favorite book and sat across the room. I watched as my son who struggled to read turned easily to the passage. Used his finger to find the exact scripture on the page and then read it aloud to me without missing a word. Proverbs 3:5-6 became his life verse. I had no idea, in that moment, how it would minister to me and carry me in the days following his death. A Birthday Blessing A few years later, I gave each member of our family a special gift. A framed birthday blessing with a Scripture that contained their birthday month and year. I also included their name meaning and a personal note of encouragement based on the information in the scripture and name definition. As the year closed, I thought to myself, I probably should do one of those for Justin. I began to look up verses of Scripture with the verse reference 3:11 since his birthday was March 11th. As I did, I didn’t really find anything that resonated until one day I sat praying as I usually did when the girls were at school and Scott was at work. I stood to clean house and a small card I had framed with Proverbs 3:5-6 printed on it caught my eye. I walked over and read the familiar words. Tears filled my eye and it was like my eyes were drawn to the numbers in the reference. It felt as if God whispered a sweet word in my ear, Justin already had a birthday blessing - God gave it to Him. Proverbs 3:5+6 is 11. In that moment, I could feel my Poppa God holding me as I wept bittersweet tears of both grief and joy mingled in the same moment. Each time God brought me to a place of revelation in that season. A small piece of healing took root in my heart as I learned to trust Him more. Which leads me to this next verse: Psalm 52:8 HCSB “But I am like a flourishing olive tree in the house the Lord;I trust in God’s faithful love forever and ever.” (My memory) This verse became life to me the year following the Birthday Blessings. My husband and I went into a rough season in our marriage. It was truly a storm of life that could have destroyed us. But, God. We were walking out our healing in marriage when Scott took an opportunity to work out of town. I was completely uncertain about the idea of him working several states away from home while we were overcoming trust issues in our relationship. I agreed to him going out of town on one condition, if I needed him to return home that he would - no questions asked. He agreed and left on a warm fall day to work out of town for several months. You Don’t Trust Me That weekend I was preparing to go to church when I felt like God tapped me on the shoulder and said, “You don’t trust Me.” By this time in my life, I knew a prompting from the Lord when it landed on me. I stopped what I was doing and argued a bit. “Of course I trust you. I know almost every verse in the Bible about trusting you.” And as quickly as I quipped those words out loud to Him in response, I heard. “No you don’t. If you trusted Me, you wouldn’t worry about people.” Those next few months were filled with index cards covered in Scriptures about trusting God. Psalm 52:8 became a life verse for me. I wanted to know how to trust God in a certain sort of way. Not just from my head - knowing His promises and believing the were true. But, from my heart even when my circumstances couldn’t see Him --- that my heart would know and trust Him. Today, I can boldly say I am like a flourishing olive tree in the house of MY GOD; I trust in His unfailing love forever and ever! Psalm 119 Now let’s get to today’s reading, why don’t we, and see how all this comes together? Turn back to Psalm 119:113 and let’s begin. Verse 113: I despise those who can’t keep commitments, for I passionately love your revelation-light! Have you ever found yourself in a place where you didn’t feel like you could trust anyone around you? Brokenness brought on by betrayal can be a very lonely place. A time when we have to passionately pursue God and His Light of Truth, Jesus, as our safe place of refuge. Verse 114-115:You’re my place of quiet retreat, and your wrap-around presence becomes my shield as I wrap myself in your word! Go away! Leave me, all you workers of wickedness, for you can’t stop me from following every command of my God. Unless we are willing to seek refuge in God during those seasons when people wound or betray us - we will find ourselves like a ship lost in a sea of wickedness. But, when we trust in God, and obey His commands. Seeking Him as our hiding place and living from His very presence in our daily lives. The world will not seem so tempting a place and we will not be snared by the enemy’s schemes. Nothing will be able to stop us from obeying God’s Word - not even the reality of pain could stop us from offering mercy and grace to those who hurt us. Verse 116-117: Lord, strengthen my inner being by the promises of your word so that I may live faithful and unashamed for you. Lift me up and I will be safe. (do you hear that trust?) Empower me to live every moment in the light of your ways. Do you see how the Keys of Trusting in Who God is, and Living from His Presence will bring us to a place of confident obedience as we walk in trust, living from beneath the shelter of His wings? When we live from confidence and belief in God’s Word, trusting His presence we will walk empowered by His grace and love to live every moment of our lives in obedience to who He is. His perfect love will not only cast out fear, but it will cover all shame as we live faithfully before Him. From Foolishness to Holy Fear… Verse 118-119: Lord, you reject those who reject your laws, for they fool no one but themselves! The wicked are thrown away, discarded and valueless.That’s why I will keep loving all of your laws! These two verses feel like the psalmist is reminding himself that he would be foolish to choose to disobey God - no matter how significant the temporary gain or pleasure might seem. He is committing himself to walk in God’s ways and to find the true value of life - that is only found in a deeply intimate relationship with God. He finds that loving God through His Word keeps Him from straying into foolish disobedience to God. In coaching one of the things we focus on is helping our clients seek self-awareness. Not self-focus, but self-awareness. To be aware of what they are doing, who they are being. and what they may need to learn in order to move forward in their lives. I feel like this is what God is highlighting for me in this passage of verses. That a key to understanding, growing and living from His presence is this idea of understanding exactly what is at stake when I do and when I don’t -- that this key is Awareness. The more we become aware of how we are showing up in our lives and the lives of others alongside, awareness of His presence in our lives and how we respond to His Presence becomes a pathway to not only freedom, but living from the awareness of His holiness… That righteousness of God we could never hope to attain - no matter how moral or right we feel - unless, we come into intimacy and revelation of the person of Jesus who takes away our sin and offers us His robe of righteousness in exchange. Obedience Pursues Holiness Verse 120: My body trembles in holy awe of you, leaving me speechless,for I’m frightened of your righteous judgments. As we conclude today, I am reminded of the awe-inspiring moment Isaiah had before the throne of God when he cried out, “Woe to me for I am a man of unclean lips…” And God’s generous response was to purify Isaiah from that unrighteousness so that He could be a prophet to the nation of Israel and foretell the coming Messiah who would indeed put an end to our sin and suffering apart from God. (See Isaiah 6) I don’t know about you--- But I want to live this way! When we come into the revelation-light of God’s truth and His Word. When the person of Jesus Christ, His Father in Heaven and the Holy Spirit who dwells inside of us become more real to us than the world around us - we cannot help but want to live from their presence in our lives. To pursue their holiness, their truth and their transforming power in our lives. We will begin to abide in their presence and holiness and the imputed righteousness of Christ! His righteousness will empower us to walk in victory through obedience every step of the way. When Revelation brings Revival, it will transform us with Righteousness and that should RE-FORM the way the think, live, act and respond to both God and the world around us. It’s a lofty challenge but a promising one, when we walk in light, truth and victory we find the words of Christ are true, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they shall be filled.” (See Matthew 5) What is it you are hungering and thirsting for today? And, by extension how is God filling you in this season? Lord, God, we ask you to empower us to live our lives aware of Your presence and Your Holiness in our lives. That as we seek You, we would hunger and thirst after righteousness, trusting and believing that Your promise is that we will be filled by You as we do. I pray these things in Jesus’ Name, Amen. I’d love to hear from you. Visit us on Facebook: @bloominginspired and drop a comment on this podcast post or send us a direct message. You can also visit our website BloomingInspiredNetwork.com and learn more about how we equip and empower women to walk in their role and reign in God’s Kingdom. You can fill out our contact form there on the website and let us know what’s resonating, or share any questions we might be able to answer for you about the podcast or ministry of Blooming Inspired Network. A few weeks ago I shared about an upcoming online Prophetic Conference I would be doing in August with Michele Turman, and wanted to let you know that we have had to postpone that event due to scheduling conflicts that have arisen, but we are looking for a new date and will let you know when we reschedule and how you can register and join us in seeking to hear God’s voice through the prophetic gift of the Holy Spirit. Be sure to tune in tomorrow for our next episode of Accidental Hope Podcast with Jennifer Eikenhorst. She is our Ambassador of Hope who continually seeks hope and builds community from a faith perspective with those who have suffered loss through accidents or trauma. Her show airs right here on the Blooming Inspired Podcast network at 2pm (CT). You can find more about Jennifer and her show at facebook.com/accidentalhope Close Again, we’d love to connect with you through our website and social media. Be sure to like, share and subscribe to our website and social media posts. You can find us at facebook.com/bloominginspired, on instagram @bloominginspired and on Twitter @bloominspirenet as well as by subscribing to our website: BloomingInspiredNetowrk.com. That’s all the time we have for today, please join us for Accidental Hope tomorrow and our next episode of Blooming Inspired Podcast each Tuesday and Thursday at 11am (CT)! And remember, Blooming Where You’re Planted Is The First Step To Living Your Wildest Dreams, So Live Your Life Blooming Alive!

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 113-120  in the Passion Translation. Today, as we discover the keys of living from presence and trusting God in our passionate pursuit toward obedience from the heart.  When we come into a right understanding of Who God is as we pursue Him through His Word - the keys of trust and living from His presence bring us into a place of reverence for His Holiness and Righteousness.  Show Transcript: Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives blooming alive. Good morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. Introduction We're continuing to read from Psalm 119 with our Revival Series. We are reading in The Passion Translation today, beginning in verse 113. Let’s take a moment to go back and review what we talked about last Thursday. Review First, we uncovered the keys of gratitude, joy and being refreshed, we also began to see how obedience brings us to a place of freedom in Christ. Then we learned that stepping out by faith, trusting God’s revelation-light, helps us to walk a path that will lead to obedience, joy, rest and righteousness which brings us right into today’s topic. Today’s Reading Before I get to that, I want to share a brief story from last week with you. My husband is an anytime-anykind of sports fan and more than two decades ago he spent time working with a sheet metal company that helped with the building of what is now Globe Life Park in Arlington, TX. If that sounds familiar to you, it should because it is where our home team, The Texas Rangers, have played major league baseball, since the early 90s. My husband remembers fondly working on a portion of the center field Coca-Cola visual screen board and watching the first games played in the stadium from that lofty perch. A couple of weeks ago I called into a radio station and won tickets to last Wednesday night’s game. There are only 29 home games left in the regular season and that 29th game will be the last at Globe Life Park if the Rangers don’t make the playoffs. Though the Rangers were handily defeated by the Arizona Diamondbacks last week, we enjoyed the atmosphere and the cool breeze blowing through the stadium even on a very hot Texas summer day. As the night wore on and each time Elvis Andrus, veteran Short Stop, came to the plate to bat they played his intro song… “The Baby Shark Song” If you have kids or grandkids you may be familiar with this song. Elvis picked it actually to honor his own child each time he comes up to bat… You may recognize it… Little kids singing, Baby Shark! Doot-Doo-Ta-Doo-Doo-Doo… Baby Shark… And off to our right in a neighboring section is a middle aged man standing up and doing the Baby Shark dance. Every. Single. Time. The next day, I was moving through my day and found myself singing, “Baby Shark!...” Yep. It was a catchy little tune of very few words. Which brings me to today’s reading. The heading over this Psalm 119:113-120 is “Trust & Obey!” I don’t know about you, but as soon as I read those words my mind began to sing the chorus of an old hymnal standard: [Singing] “Trust and Obey, for there’s no other way to be happy in Jesus than to trust and obey.” Anybody else have that response to hearing those words. I even looked up the lyrics to read through them and there is no doubt in my mind that though those words do not officially appear in the text of this reading… They totally apply and that song must have been inspired by Psalm 119. As I sang the song and considered the lyrics, I began to consider that word Trust in the Hebrew. The definitions I’m about to share came from The Complete Word Study Dictionary (OT) (Copyright © 2003 by AMG Publishers. Database © 2007 WORDsearch Corp.) I found that in the KJV of the Bible, the word trust appears 163 times (134 OT, 29 NT). So let’s take a look at a few Hebrew words and their context to better understand this idea of trust from a Biblical perspective. Taking a Detour Put a marker in your Bible at Psalm 119 and turn over to Judges 11:20: Judges 11:20 (NKJV) “But Sihon did not trust Israel to pass through his territory. So Sihon gathered all his people together, encamped in Jahaz, and fought against Israel.” In this verse, the Hebrew word translated TRUST is Strong’s H539ʾāman which is defined as “be firm, to build up, to support, to nurture, to establish.” It carries the idea of “providing stability and confidence.” This same word is translated BELIEVE in Deuteronomy 9:23: Deuteronomy 9:23: (NKJV) “Likewise, when the Lord sent you from Kadesh Barnea, saying, ‘Go up and possess the land which I have given you,’ then you rebelled against the commandment of the Lord your God, and you did not believe Him nor obey His voice.” In the Hebrew, there is this intrinsic connection between belief and trust, without belief we will not trust God, and if we don’t trust God our obedience will not please Him. I want to establish this up front today because I believe God is going to highlight these truths for us in detail as we complete our reading today. The next Hebrew Word that is translated trust can be found in Psalm 2:12: Psalm 2:12 NKJV “Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and you perish in the way, when His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.” In this verse the Hebrew word is H2620 ḥāsāh. This word is defined as, “take refuge, literally seeking a tree’s shade… Of Yahweh (God), He is a shield providing refuge, and refuge is sought under His wings.” A safe place, a place of refuge and shelter where one can be secure and certain they will not be harmed. God is your safe place, a hiding place of refuge for you when the enemy and the world presses in. To trust Him is to seek shelter from Him, and find our residence in His presence. The next Hebrew Word that is translated trust can be found in Psalm 4:5: Psalm 4:5 NKJV “Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the Lord.” This word is the Hebrew word H982 bāṭaḥ. It is defined as “to trust, to be confident in, expressed as feelings of safety and security that is felt when one can rely on someone or something. Also to be confident, secure and without fear.” Love Casts Out Fear In the book of 1 John, we read that God is Love. It is not just a feeling, it’s who He is. Not just a character trait, but in fact, you cannot know God unless you first know His Love. And in Chapter 4 we read that His perfect love casts out fear. God is perfect love, agapeo, in the Greek. A love that moves beyond mere expression and lives within us, becomes our being. When we trust in Him, believe in Him - we must also know Him as love. And in that love - there is no fear. Let’s look at a couple of other verses that carry special meaning to me where trust is translated from the Hebrew word, bāṭaḥ: Proverbs 3:5 NKJV “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;” This verse resonates so loudly with me, especially in light of the definition which is to be confident in, with feelings of safety and security when one can rely on someone or something. If you listened to this podcast for any length of time you’ve heard me talk about losing my oldest child. As the 14th anniversary of his passing will be upon us in the next month, I feel it is an appropriate time to share how God used this verse to comfort my son in a dark season of his life, just a few months before his death, and then turned my heart to it again and again as I grieved His passing. Trusting the Lord Trusting God took on a whole new meaning when I began to walk out the days following my worst confessed fear: The death of my child. I had to trust Him for my next breath, that He would take care of my family when I wasn’t even able to think or feel anything but the most unimaginable pain. I had to trust God’s goodness and love, choosing to lean not to my own understanding because there was no way I could reconcile that a Good God would allow my family to suffer such a painful reality apart from faith in His truth and His promises. A few months before Justin passed away, he became angry as we had grown used to in our house. He often expressed his anger in a fit of rage that would come to blows with my husband or I, or he would destroy our property. That day he went outside, bent a golf club into a pretzel and then kicked a huge dent into the side of my car. My husband, his step-father, called the police as we’d been advised to do by our leaders at church. My son was handcuffed in my front yard and hauled off to the county jail. And, the one thing Scott and I had agreed on when they left was that we would not provide the bail to get him out of jail. A Promise To Keep We’d been thwarting consequences as things escalated in his life that year before and it was time for Justin to face the reality of his choices. He spent seven days in jail before striking a plea deal with the county prosecutor to come home on probation. While in jail, Justin met with the chaplain who gave him a Bible. The day he returned home he came in and thanked me for sending him letters with Scripture in them and encouraging him to seek spiritual counsel from the chaplain when we spoke on the phone. He asked me for my Bible. I handed him my favorite book and sat across the room. I watched as my son who struggled to read turned easily to the passage. Used his finger to find the exact scripture on the page and then read it aloud to me without missing a word. Proverbs 3:5-6 became his life verse. I had no idea, in that moment, how it would minister to me and carry me in the days following his death. A Birthday Blessing A few years later, I gave each member of our family a special gift. A framed birthday blessing with a Scripture that contained their birthday month and year. I also included their name meaning and a personal note of encouragement based on the information in the scripture and name definition. As the year closed, I thought to myself, I probably should do one of those for Justin. I began to look up verses of Scripture with the verse reference 3:11 since his birthday was March 11th. As I did, I didn’t really find anything that resonated until one day I sat praying as I usually did when the girls were at school and Scott was at work. I stood to clean house and a small card I had framed with Proverbs 3:5-6 printed on it caught my eye. I walked over and read the familiar words. Tears filled my eye and it was like my eyes were drawn to the numbers in the reference. It felt as if God whispered a sweet word in my ear, Justin already had a birthday blessing - God gave it to Him. Proverbs 3:5+6 is 11. In that moment, I could feel my Poppa God holding me as I wept bittersweet tears of both grief and joy mingled in the same moment. Each time God brought me to a place of revelation in that season. A small piece of healing took root in my heart as I learned to trust Him more. Which leads me to this next verse: Psalm 52:8 HCSB “But I am like a flourishing olive tree in the house the Lord;I trust in God’s faithful love forever and ever.” (My memory) This verse became life to me the year following the Birthday Blessings. My husband and I went into a rough season in our marriage. It was truly a storm of life that could have destroyed us. But, God. We were walking out our healing in marriage when Scott took an opportunity to work out of town. I was completely uncertain about the idea of him working several states away from home while we were overcoming trust issues in our relationship. I agreed to him going out of town on one condition, if I needed him to return home that he would - no questions asked. He agreed and left on a warm fall day to work out of town for several months. You Don’t Trust Me That weekend I was preparing to go to church when I felt like God tapped me on the shoulder and said, “You don’t trust Me.” By this time in my life, I knew a prompting from the Lord when it landed on me. I stopped what I was doing and argued a bit. “Of course I trust you. I know almost every verse in the Bible about trusting you.” And as quickly as I quipped those words out loud to Him in response, I heard. “No you don’t. If you trusted Me, you wouldn’t worry about people.” Those next few months were filled with index cards covered in Scriptures about trusting God. Psalm 52:8 became a life verse for me. I wanted to know how to trust God in a certain sort of way. Not just from my head - knowing His promises and believing the were true. But, from my heart even when my circumstances couldn’t see Him --- that my heart would know and trust Him. Today, I can boldly say I am like a flourishing olive tree in the house of MY GOD; I trust in His unfailing love forever and ever! Psalm 119 Now let’s get to today’s reading, why don’t we, and see how all this comes together? Turn back to Psalm 119:113 and let’s begin. Verse 113: I despise those who can’t keep commitments, for I passionately love your revelation-light! Have you ever found yourself in a place where you didn’t feel like you could trust anyone around you? Brokenness brought on by betrayal can be a very lonely place. A time when we have to passionately pursue God and His Light of Truth, Jesus, as our safe place of refuge. Verse 114-115:You’re my place of quiet retreat, and your wrap-around presence becomes my shield as I wrap myself in your word! Go away! Leave me, all you workers of wickedness, for you can’t stop me from following every command of my God. Unless we are willing to seek refuge in God during those seasons when people wound or betray us - we will find ourselves like a ship lost in a sea of wickedness. But, when we trust in God, and obey His commands. Seeking Him as our hiding place and living from His very presence in our daily lives. The world will not seem so tempting a place and we will not be snared by the enemy’s schemes. Nothing will be able to stop us from obeying God’s Word - not even the reality of pain could stop us from offering mercy and grace to those who hurt us. Verse 116-117: Lord, strengthen my inner being by the promises of your word so that I may live faithful and unashamed for you. Lift me up and I will be safe. (do you hear that trust?) Empower me to live every moment in the light of your ways. Do you see how the Keys of Trusting in Who God is, and Living from His Presence will bring us to a place of confident obedience as we walk in trust, living from beneath the shelter of His wings? When we live from confidence and belief in God’s Word, trusting His presence we will walk empowered by His grace and love to live every moment of our lives in obedience to who He is. His perfect love will not only cast out fear, but it will cover all shame as we live faithfully before Him. From Foolishness to Holy Fear… Verse 118-119: Lord, you reject those who reject your laws, for they fool no one but themselves! The wicked are thrown away, discarded and valueless.That’s why I will keep loving all of your laws! These two verses feel like the psalmist is reminding himself that he would be foolish to choose to disobey God - no matter how significant the temporary gain or pleasure might seem. He is committing himself to walk in God’s ways and to find the true value of life - that is only found in a deeply intimate relationship with God. He finds that loving God through His Word keeps Him from straying into foolish disobedience to God. In coaching one of the things we focus on is helping our clients seek self-awareness. Not self-focus, but self-awareness. To be aware of what they are doing, who they are being. and what they may need to learn in order to move forward in their lives. I feel like this is what God is highlighting for me in this passage of verses. That a key to understanding, growing and living from His presence is this idea of understanding exactly what is at stake when I do and when I don’t -- that this key is Awareness. The more we become aware of how we are showing up in our lives and the lives of others alongside, awareness of His presence in our lives and how we respond to His Presence becomes a pathway to not only freedom, but living from the awareness of His holiness… That righteousness of God we could never hope to attain - no matter how moral or right we feel - unless, we come into intimacy and revelation of the person of Jesus who takes away our sin and offers us His robe of righteousness in exchange. Obedience Pursues Holiness Verse 120: My body trembles in holy awe of you, leaving me speechless,for I’m frightened of your righteous judgments. As we conclude today, I am reminded of the awe-inspiring moment Isaiah had before the throne of God when he cried out, “Woe to me for I am a man of unclean lips…” And God’s generous response was to purify Isaiah from that unrighteousness so that He could be a prophet to the nation of Israel and foretell the coming Messiah who would indeed put an end to our sin and suffering apart from God. (See Isaiah 6) I don’t know about you--- But I want to live this way! When we come into the revelation-light of God’s truth and His Word. When the person of Jesus Christ, His Father in Heaven and the Holy Spirit who dwells inside of us become more real to us than the world around us - we cannot help but want to live from their presence in our lives. To pursue their holiness, their truth and their transforming power in our lives. We will begin to abide in their presence and holiness and the imputed righteousness of Christ! His righteousness will empower us to walk in victory through obedience every step of the way. When Revelation brings Revival, it will transform us with Righteousness and that should RE-FORM the way the think, live, act and respond to both God and the world around us. It’s a lofty challenge but a promising one, when we walk in light, truth and victory we find the words of Christ are true, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they shall be filled.” (See Matthew 5) What is it you are hungering and thirsting for today? And, by extension how is God filling you in this season? Lord, God, we ask you to empower us to live our lives aware of Your presence and Your Holiness in our lives. That as we seek You, we would hunger and thirst after righteousness, trusting and believing that Your promise is that we will be filled by You as we do. I pray these things in Jesus’ Name, Amen. I’d love to hear from you. Visit us on Facebook: @bloominginspired and drop a comment on this podcast post or send us a direct message. You can also visit our website BloomingInspiredNetwork.com and learn more about how we equip and empower women to walk in their role and reign in God’s Kingdom. You can fill out our contact form there on the website and let us know what’s resonating, or share any questions we might be able to answer for you about the podcast or ministry of Blooming Inspired Network. A few weeks ago I shared about an upcoming online Prophetic Conference I would be doing in August with Michele Turman, and wanted to let you know that we have had to postpone that event due to scheduling conflicts that have arisen, but we are looking for a new date and will let you know when we reschedule and how you can register and join us in seeking to hear God’s voice through the prophetic gift of the Holy Spirit. Be sure to tune in tomorrow for our next episode of Accidental Hope Podcast with Jennifer Eikenhorst. She is our Ambassador of Hope who continually seeks hope and builds community from a faith perspective with those who have suffered loss through accidents or trauma. Her show airs right here on the Blooming Inspired Podcast network at 2pm (CT). You can find more about Jennifer and her show at facebook.com/accidentalhope Close Again, we’d love to connect with you through our website and social media. Be sure to like, share and subscribe to our website and social media posts. You can find us at facebook.com/bloominginspired, on instagram @bloominginspired and on Twitter @bloominspirenet as well as by subscribing to our website: BloomingInspiredNetowrk.com. That’s all the time we have for today, please join us for Accidental Hope tomorrow and our next episode of Blooming Inspired Podcast each Tuesday and Thursday at 11am (CT)! And remember, Blooming Where You’re Planted Is The First Step To Living Your Wildest Dreams, So Live Your Life Blooming Alive!

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 105-112 in the Passion Translation. Today, as we discover the keys of gratitude, joy and being refreshed, we also see how they partner with obedience to bring about freedom. As we step out by faith, trusting God’s revelation-light, we find ourselves walking a path that will lead into obedience, joy, rest and righteousness. Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives blooming alive. Greeting Good morning this is Michelle Bentham. I’m the host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. I took a break on Tuesday this week and offered you a special encore presentation of last Thursday’s podcast. But today we are diving right back where we left off last week. We’ve been reading through Psalms 119 looking for keys to revival as we work through the verses. Before we get started, let’s pray: “Lord God, we come humbly today and ask you to give us eyes to see, ears to hear and a heart to know you more. Lord, we ask you to speak now as your servants are listening - send Holy Spirit to give us revelation truth and light to mark the path ahead of us today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” Review Last week we focused on placing our faith in God’s word and finding that our hearts love and treasure His Word.That faith in God leads to freedom, and loving His Word leads us to an uncompromising desire to be both obedient to His Word and to face the difficult truths in His word. Our keys from the last reading are wisdom and understanding that come from God’s Word. Today’s Reading Today we are going to be reading Psalm 119:105-112. Grab your Bible, a pen and if you desire - your favorite journal to take some notes as we get ready to jump into this section of scripture. I’m reading from the Passion Translation today. The heading over this section is “Truth’s Shining Light.” We’ve read in the previous verses that God’s revelation-light brings us to walk in His ways, to face difficult truths, and find obedience to His Word. Let’s see what God wants to share with us today. Something Familiar Before I get to today’s reading, I want to acknowledge the familiar words that can be found in many of the other translations of Psalm 119:105-106, from the NIV. “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. I have taken an oath and confirmed it, that I will follow your righteous laws.” Catch this… God’s word is a lamp for my feet and a light to my path. The key to following God, being obedient to Him, and as the psalmist confesses, keeping His righteous laws -- is the shining light of His Truth - His Word. Remember this from John 14:6, Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except by me.” He also said, “You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.” (See John 8:32) Freedom & Obedience How many of us in our lives would say that freedom and obedience walk hand in hand.Today’s key of truth partnered with the key of obedience will lead us to freedom. Not the kind of freedom that casts off restraint, but the kind of freedom that compels us to bow low, follow closely and seek to Know Him - Jesus, the Truth of God, His Living Word. Personal Testimony I remember being a teenager, convinced I knew it all, and especially knew better than my parents who were old-fashioned and simply did not understand this modern world we lived in. Unlike James Dean, I was a Rebel With A Cause. I wanted to be free. In my mind, freedom was the ability to choose WHATEVER I wanted to do. I could not wait to be out from under their authority so I could find my own way, choose what I wanted and cast off the restraint of their rules in my life. Can I tell you that led me to some very difficult years in a prodigal season that led me to be an unwed mother, following that up with marrying a very broken and abusive man? We had two more children by the time I was 21 and then I divorced him. After my divorce we lived in poverty on welfare assistance from the state. I gave myself to wild living (mostly by way of alcohol and honky tonks) and some of my choices landed me in jail - not once, but a few times. All I can say is that the mercy of God met me in the middle of my mess -- and many of the messes I created learning to walk out of the broken patterns of my past. In my late 20s I began to seek God, to hunger for a relationship with Him again the way I had when I was saved at age 12. His Truth Changed My Life By the time I was 30 I was searching the Scriptures doing regular Bible study and seeking truth. It would be several more years before I would sincerely begin to walk out that truth and discover God’s unending love and powerful truth as a reality in my life. It’s been a long road from their to here. But, in that journey I have found the more I allow the Holy Spirit to guide and restrain me through God’s Word, the more obedient my heart becomes and the more I realize obedience to God’s Word in my heart and my life --- the more free I become. Truth’s Shining Light Now, let’s read from the Passion Translation and see what additional insights we can gather from this passage of Scripture: Verse 105-106: “Truth’s Shining light guides me in my choices and decisions; the revelation of your word makes my path clear. To live my life by your righteous commitment.” Just Enough Light The Hebrew language often paints a picture for the reader or hearer. I feel like the picture for this passage is that picture we find in the NIV: a picture of God’s light, like a lamp in our hand… or, if you will, our hearts... shining the light of truth into a dark world around you. A lamp shines in darkness, illuminating the immediate area surrounding us. The picture from Psalm 119:105 is just enough light to take the next step. It doesn’t show us all the things that could be seen in the darkness. It lights the path that God wants us to take. Giving us a clear direction. If we are willing to follow God through the truth of His revelation-light in our lives, our choices and decisions will honor that light as we choose to live our lives by His righteous commitment. Take the Next Step Often times I think we get off track because we do not feel God is guiding or directing us - when in fact, our hearts are not obedient because we do not see the bigger picture. It’s like standing in the mall and looking at their map to find a store. You have to get your bearings to find that STAR with the words, You Are Here emblazoned in red. I’m a big picture kind of kid, the details often don’t matter to me as much as knowing where we’re going and plotting the best way to get there. I’ve often mused that life would be so much easier if God would just give us the road map so I know where we’re headed. Not Just A Road Trip As I am sharing this with you, a picture of the television show “The Amazing Race” pops into my head. If you aren’t familiar with it, coupled contestants from various place are selected to run the amazing race. At the beginning of each episode the audience is given a preview of what the contestants must do to get to the next Pit Stop for that leg of the race. The contestants have no clue where they are going - they are just following the instructions, completing the task outlined in the series of clues they receive, and then trying to run the best race to arrive at the Pit Stop first. We’ll be back in a minute or two as we share something exciting with you! [Podcoin Promo - information included in the close] Not Exactly Your Average Road Trip It’s not like a road trip where you ask Siri or Google to get you directions and then you follow their directions to get to where you are going. The contestants are compelled to not only find the clues, but follow them precisely - even in countries where they do not speak or understand the language. They are dependent on the information provided at each detour, roadblock and clue that is provided or else they won’t complete that leg of the journey and finish the race. They also are provided resources to get the transportation needed to make the journey, and sometimes have to do unpleasant and difficult assignments to complete the race. But, you know… Many of us use our map apps to help us get where we are going the fastest route with the fewest delays, detours or obstacles to overcome. As a matter of fact, we’ll set our map and then in the midst of driving realize a better way and turn off the directed path - then our maps start recalculating and giving us instructions to get us back on track and headed to our destination. But, the thing is --- we pick the route we want to take and then deviate from that path. Requiring the system to update and reroute us to get us to our destination in a timely manner. Finish Your Race The truth is, many of us are off track simply because we thought we knew a better way and went our own direction instead of following God. Walking closely with God through His Word is where you will find Him best. As you incline your heart to His Word - His Holy Spirit will Shine the Light of Jesus and give you clear direction and the assignments needed to run your race well. The question is… Will you partner with Him through the Key of Obedience? Trusting Him to give you just the light you need for the next step, or are you asking for a bigger picture? Overwhelmed Verse 107: “I’m bruised and broken, overwhelmed by it all; breath life into me again by your living word.” Life really has a way of beating us down. I often get pacing and run hard after following Jesus. But, the drawback is I get weary, and need to rest. One of the keys for today’s reading is to be refreshed when you are weary. A Yoke of Rest In Matthew 11, Jesus tells His followers that when they feel weighted down by life and are wearied by its burdens, to come and exchange these heavy burdens for his yoke of rest - which is easy and light. Jesus wants to carry your load for you. You don’t have to go it alone. But, in order to make the exchange you have to learn to pause, surrender and receive His gift of rest. Offering Thanks Verse108-109: “Lord, receive my grateful thanks and teach me more of how to please you. Even though my life hangs in the balance, I’ll keep following what you’ve taught me, no matter what.” The next key we find is thanksgiving - a heart turned in gratitude before God, expressing thanks, seeks to please Him. It takes faith to thank God in a hard season. When my son passed away nearly 14 years ago - I read that sweet verse in Thessalonians where it says to “Give thanks in every circumstance.” Thankful In… Not Thankful For Learning to thank God in unpleasant or painful circumstances will lead us to depend on Him in those seasons. It will tune our hearts to see Him moving in our lives and answering our prayers as we pray them -- because we are relying on Him, looking for His goodness in the midst of our pain and trevail, we have the opportunity to find Him faithful and respond by faith to Him, which pleases Him. And when we find His goodness, and the faith to follow Him no matter what we experience the depths of His love for us as we continually seek to follow Him. A response of obedience that is born of love, is an act of worship. Freedom Comes Through Obedience Verse 110: “The ungodly have done their best to throw me off track, but I’ll not deviate from what you’ve told me to do.” When I submit to God allowing Him to guide my path as I follow in obedience. Even when the distractions and assignments from the enemy come at me - I’ll not be sent off course. I’ll be steadfast in my determination to follow God, and do what He has told me to do. Freedom comes through obedience, and when freedom comes so does JOY in the obedience! Joy In Obedience Verse 111-112: Everything you speak to me is like joyous treasure, filling my life with gladness. I have determined in my heart to obey whatever you say, fully and forever!” When we begin to realize the freedom of obedience in our lives, His words become joyous treasure that we receive in gladness. It sets our hearts in determination to realize FULLY His plan and purpose for our lives as we seek to do whatever He says - to live fully until we reach eternity. Father God, we thank you for Jesus, your revelation-light, in a dark and dying world. We thank you for Holy Spirit who guides, reminds, and convicts us of your word and your truth. We ask Lord to make our hearts and our steps true to you, to increase our faith and to walk boldly knowing your word gives us the strength, rest and refreshing we need to do everything you have said over our lives! In Jesus’ Name, Amen. What’s Your Take? What are you thinking as we close out the message today? I’d love for you to share your insights with me. You can find me at facebook.com/bloominginspired and share your thoughts in the comments or send me a direct message. We’ve also got a contact form on the website: bloominginspirednetwork.com just click the Let’s Connect link at the top of the page. Ways to Listen Want more of Blooming Inspired Podcast - or maybe you’d like to learn more about Blooming Inspired Network - be sure to like us on Facebook. We’re also on Twitter: @bloominspirenet and Instagram: @bloominginspired. We’d love to see you on our pages - if you stop by be sure to leave us a comment and let us know you’re tuning in. I want to remind you that our podcast is available through your favorite subscription services like Apple Podcasts (Formerly iTunes) or Google Play. You can also find us on the Podcoin App as we shared in this podcast. Podcoin is the app that pays you to listen to our podcasts - and really any podcast you find on their app. You can use your podcoins to purchase gift cards or make donations to charitable organizations. It’s a win-win if you ask me… So check out the Podcoin App today and use our referral code: BLOOMING to get 300 podcoins when you create your account! Closing Thank you for tuning in to today’s podcast. Don’t forget to tune in on Mondays at 4pm (CT) to catch Michele Turman, our resident Redeemed Rebel, Gold Digger and Hope Dealer, as she shares The Redeemed Rebel Podcast each week. You’ll also not want to miss next week’s Accidental Hope Podcast at 2pm (CT) right here on Blooming Inspired Network. I will be the featured guest joining Jennifer Eikenhorst, our Hope Ambassador, talking about Bible Journaling and Creative Journaling as a way to find hope and healing in difficult circumstances. You don’t want to miss it! Be sure to take a moment to like us on social media. If you love our show and it’s been a blessing to you would you help us get the word out by sharing it with your friends and family on social media. We’re praying for you often and want you to know you are important to our show and our ministry - we could not do this without you! And now… I want to remind you as I always do. Blooming where you’re planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams, so live your lives blooming alive!

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 105-112 in the Passion Translation. Today, as we discover the keys of gratitude, joy and being refreshed, we also see how they partner with obedience to bring about freedom. As we step out by faith, trusting God’s revelation-light, we find ourselves walking a path that will lead into obedience, joy, rest and righteousness. Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives blooming alive. Greeting Good morning this is Michelle Bentham. I’m the host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. I took a break on Tuesday this week and offered you a special encore presentation of last Thursday’s podcast. But today we are diving right back where we left off last week. We’ve been reading through Psalms 119 looking for keys to revival as we work through the verses. Before we get started, let’s pray: “Lord God, we come humbly today and ask you to give us eyes to see, ears to hear and a heart to know you more. Lord, we ask you to speak now as your servants are listening - send Holy Spirit to give us revelation truth and light to mark the path ahead of us today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” Review Last week we focused on placing our faith in God’s word and finding that our hearts love and treasure His Word.That faith in God leads to freedom, and loving His Word leads us to an uncompromising desire to be both obedient to His Word and to face the difficult truths in His word. Our keys from the last reading are wisdom and understanding that come from God’s Word. Today’s Reading Today we are going to be reading Psalm 119:105-112. Grab your Bible, a pen and if you desire - your favorite journal to take some notes as we get ready to jump into this section of scripture. I’m reading from the Passion Translation today. The heading over this section is “Truth’s Shining Light.” We’ve read in the previous verses that God’s revelation-light brings us to walk in His ways, to face difficult truths, and find obedience to His Word. Let’s see what God wants to share with us today. Something Familiar Before I get to today’s reading, I want to acknowledge the familiar words that can be found in many of the other translations of Psalm 119:105-106, from the NIV. “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. I have taken an oath and confirmed it, that I will follow your righteous laws.” Catch this… God’s word is a lamp for my feet and a light to my path. The key to following God, being obedient to Him, and as the psalmist confesses, keeping His righteous laws -- is the shining light of His Truth - His Word. Remember this from John 14:6, Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except by me.” He also said, “You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.” (See John 8:32) Freedom & Obedience How many of us in our lives would say that freedom and obedience walk hand in hand.Today’s key of truth partnered with the key of obedience will lead us to freedom. Not the kind of freedom that casts off restraint, but the kind of freedom that compels us to bow low, follow closely and seek to Know Him - Jesus, the Truth of God, His Living Word. Personal Testimony I remember being a teenager, convinced I knew it all, and especially knew better than my parents who were old-fashioned and simply did not understand this modern world we lived in. Unlike James Dean, I was a Rebel With A Cause. I wanted to be free. In my mind, freedom was the ability to choose WHATEVER I wanted to do. I could not wait to be out from under their authority so I could find my own way, choose what I wanted and cast off the restraint of their rules in my life. Can I tell you that led me to some very difficult years in a prodigal season that led me to be an unwed mother, following that up with marrying a very broken and abusive man? We had two more children by the time I was 21 and then I divorced him. After my divorce we lived in poverty on welfare assistance from the state. I gave myself to wild living (mostly by way of alcohol and honky tonks) and some of my choices landed me in jail - not once, but a few times. All I can say is that the mercy of God met me in the middle of my mess -- and many of the messes I created learning to walk out of the broken patterns of my past. In my late 20s I began to seek God, to hunger for a relationship with Him again the way I had when I was saved at age 12. His Truth Changed My Life By the time I was 30 I was searching the Scriptures doing regular Bible study and seeking truth. It would be several more years before I would sincerely begin to walk out that truth and discover God’s unending love and powerful truth as a reality in my life. It’s been a long road from their to here. But, in that journey I have found the more I allow the Holy Spirit to guide and restrain me through God’s Word, the more obedient my heart becomes and the more I realize obedience to God’s Word in my heart and my life --- the more free I become. Truth’s Shining Light Now, let’s read from the Passion Translation and see what additional insights we can gather from this passage of Scripture: Verse 105-106: “Truth’s Shining light guides me in my choices and decisions; the revelation of your word makes my path clear. To live my life by your righteous commitment.” Just Enough Light The Hebrew language often paints a picture for the reader or hearer. I feel like the picture for this passage is that picture we find in the NIV: a picture of God’s light, like a lamp in our hand… or, if you will, our hearts... shining the light of truth into a dark world around you. A lamp shines in darkness, illuminating the immediate area surrounding us. The picture from Psalm 119:105 is just enough light to take the next step. It doesn’t show us all the things that could be seen in the darkness. It lights the path that God wants us to take. Giving us a clear direction. If we are willing to follow God through the truth of His revelation-light in our lives, our choices and decisions will honor that light as we choose to live our lives by His righteous commitment. Take the Next Step Often times I think we get off track because we do not feel God is guiding or directing us - when in fact, our hearts are not obedient because we do not see the bigger picture. It’s like standing in the mall and looking at their map to find a store. You have to get your bearings to find that STAR with the words, You Are Here emblazoned in red. I’m a big picture kind of kid, the details often don’t matter to me as much as knowing where we’re going and plotting the best way to get there. I’ve often mused that life would be so much easier if God would just give us the road map so I know where we’re headed. Not Just A Road Trip As I am sharing this with you, a picture of the television show “The Amazing Race” pops into my head. If you aren’t familiar with it, coupled contestants from various place are selected to run the amazing race. At the beginning of each episode the audience is given a preview of what the contestants must do to get to the next Pit Stop for that leg of the race. The contestants have no clue where they are going - they are just following the instructions, completing the task outlined in the series of clues they receive, and then trying to run the best race to arrive at the Pit Stop first. We’ll be back in a minute or two as we share something exciting with you! [Podcoin Promo - information included in the close] Not Exactly Your Average Road Trip It’s not like a road trip where you ask Siri or Google to get you directions and then you follow their directions to get to where you are going. The contestants are compelled to not only find the clues, but follow them precisely - even in countries where they do not speak or understand the language. They are dependent on the information provided at each detour, roadblock and clue that is provided or else they won’t complete that leg of the journey and finish the race. They also are provided resources to get the transportation needed to make the journey, and sometimes have to do unpleasant and difficult assignments to complete the race. But, you know… Many of us use our map apps to help us get where we are going the fastest route with the fewest delays, detours or obstacles to overcome. As a matter of fact, we’ll set our map and then in the midst of driving realize a better way and turn off the directed path - then our maps start recalculating and giving us instructions to get us back on track and headed to our destination. But, the thing is --- we pick the route we want to take and then deviate from that path. Requiring the system to update and reroute us to get us to our destination in a timely manner. Finish Your Race The truth is, many of us are off track simply because we thought we knew a better way and went our own direction instead of following God. Walking closely with God through His Word is where you will find Him best. As you incline your heart to His Word - His Holy Spirit will Shine the Light of Jesus and give you clear direction and the assignments needed to run your race well. The question is… Will you partner with Him through the Key of Obedience? Trusting Him to give you just the light you need for the next step, or are you asking for a bigger picture? Overwhelmed Verse 107: “I’m bruised and broken, overwhelmed by it all; breath life into me again by your living word.” Life really has a way of beating us down. I often get pacing and run hard after following Jesus. But, the drawback is I get weary, and need to rest. One of the keys for today’s reading is to be refreshed when you are weary. A Yoke of Rest In Matthew 11, Jesus tells His followers that when they feel weighted down by life and are wearied by its burdens, to come and exchange these heavy burdens for his yoke of rest - which is easy and light. Jesus wants to carry your load for you. You don’t have to go it alone. But, in order to make the exchange you have to learn to pause, surrender and receive His gift of rest. Offering Thanks Verse108-109: “Lord, receive my grateful thanks and teach me more of how to please you. Even though my life hangs in the balance, I’ll keep following what you’ve taught me, no matter what.” The next key we find is thanksgiving - a heart turned in gratitude before God, expressing thanks, seeks to please Him. It takes faith to thank God in a hard season. When my son passed away nearly 14 years ago - I read that sweet verse in Thessalonians where it says to “Give thanks in every circumstance.” Thankful In… Not Thankful For Learning to thank God in unpleasant or painful circumstances will lead us to depend on Him in those seasons. It will tune our hearts to see Him moving in our lives and answering our prayers as we pray them -- because we are relying on Him, looking for His goodness in the midst of our pain and trevail, we have the opportunity to find Him faithful and respond by faith to Him, which pleases Him. And when we find His goodness, and the faith to follow Him no matter what we experience the depths of His love for us as we continually seek to follow Him. A response of obedience that is born of love, is an act of worship. Freedom Comes Through Obedience Verse 110: “The ungodly have done their best to throw me off track, but I’ll not deviate from what you’ve told me to do.” When I submit to God allowing Him to guide my path as I follow in obedience. Even when the distractions and assignments from the enemy come at me - I’ll not be sent off course. I’ll be steadfast in my determination to follow God, and do what He has told me to do. Freedom comes through obedience, and when freedom comes so does JOY in the obedience! Joy In Obedience Verse 111-112: Everything you speak to me is like joyous treasure, filling my life with gladness. I have determined in my heart to obey whatever you say, fully and forever!” When we begin to realize the freedom of obedience in our lives, His words become joyous treasure that we receive in gladness. It sets our hearts in determination to realize FULLY His plan and purpose for our lives as we seek to do whatever He says - to live fully until we reach eternity. Father God, we thank you for Jesus, your revelation-light, in a dark and dying world. We thank you for Holy Spirit who guides, reminds, and convicts us of your word and your truth. We ask Lord to make our hearts and our steps true to you, to increase our faith and to walk boldly knowing your word gives us the strength, rest and refreshing we need to do everything you have said over our lives! In Jesus’ Name, Amen. What’s Your Take? What are you thinking as we close out the message today? I’d love for you to share your insights with me. You can find me at facebook.com/bloominginspired and share your thoughts in the comments or send me a direct message. We’ve also got a contact form on the website: bloominginspirednetwork.com just click the Let’s Connect link at the top of the page. Ways to Listen Want more of Blooming Inspired Podcast - or maybe you’d like to learn more about Blooming Inspired Network - be sure to like us on Facebook. We’re also on Twitter: @bloominspirenet and Instagram: @bloominginspired. We’d love to see you on our pages - if you stop by be sure to leave us a comment and let us know you’re tuning in. I want to remind you that our podcast is available through your favorite subscription services like Apple Podcasts (Formerly iTunes) or Google Play. You can also find us on the Podcoin App as we shared in this podcast. Podcoin is the app that pays you to listen to our podcasts - and really any podcast you find on their app. You can use your podcoins to purchase gift cards or make donations to charitable organizations. It’s a win-win if you ask me… So check out the Podcoin App today and use our referral code: BLOOMING to get 300 podcoins when you create your account! Closing Thank you for tuning in to today’s podcast. Don’t forget to tune in on Mondays at 4pm (CT) to catch Michele Turman, our resident Redeemed Rebel, Gold Digger and Hope Dealer, as she shares The Redeemed Rebel Podcast each week. You’ll also not want to miss next week’s Accidental Hope Podcast at 2pm (CT) right here on Blooming Inspired Network. I will be the featured guest joining Jennifer Eikenhorst, our Hope Ambassador, talking about Bible Journaling and Creative Journaling as a way to find hope and healing in difficult circumstances. You don’t want to miss it! Be sure to take a moment to like us on social media. If you love our show and it’s been a blessing to you would you help us get the word out by sharing it with your friends and family on social media. We’re praying for you often and want you to know you are important to our show and our ministry - we could not do this without you! And now… I want to remind you as I always do. Blooming where you’re planted is the first step to living your wildest dreams, so live your lives blooming alive!

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 89-96 in the Passion Translation. Today, we discover the keys of faith and revelation. Seeking to place our faith in God, through His Word - both the Holy Scriptures and Jesus Christ--the expressed person of God, leads us to surrender to His truth and revelation. As His truth and revelation penetrates our hearts, faith is rooted deep within us.    Show Transcript: Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives blooming alive. Good morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. Introduction This week we are digging back into Psalm 119. We're going to be reading from Psalm 119 beginning in verse 89 today, but before we do that I want to go back and review what we talked about last week. Review We focused on allowing our hearts to be planted deep in God's word and being delivered by it. Remember we're looking for keys to revival… Keys To Revival… and so I want to remind you that allowing our hearts to grow in the deep in the things of God and allowing those things that are being penetrated in our heart by God's word to deliver us from our afflictions, and the persecutions in this life, as well as the choices and the consequences for those choices we make that results in sin. We also discovered humility as a key, and we've discovered specifically that humility is a key that opposes pride. In like manner honor comes as a key to overcome shame. Today’s Reading Today, we'll examine how faith in God's word will help us stand firm in his truth in our relationship with him as we seek to live the overcoming life. You see, I believe that the overcoming life is a part of the truth and the promise of Revival. Before we get started I'd like to just pray: Lord God I just ask that you would invade our hearts with not only Your Word, but with the Holy Spirit. That Holy Spirit would activate and penetrate our hearts with the Living Word of God and bring forth revelation truth to us today. I asked Lord for eyes to see, ears to hear and a heart to know You more. In Jesus’ name, amen. Faith in God’s Word Today, the heading over the eight verses we’re going to read is “Faith In God's Word.” Beginning in verse 89: “Standing firm in the heavens and fastened to eternity is the word of God…” I want you to hear that because in John 1, and throughout the New Testament we see this picture of the manifestation of the word of God being fully made known through Jesus Christ, Himself. That when the Word became flesh, we saw then exactly who Jesus is, and it says here that that Word of God Is standing firm in the heavens fastened to eternity. You see, our faith is not in -- just in -- the words that are written in the book we call the Bible, but our faith is in the One Who is the full manifestation of God himself, Jesus Christ. Creation Testifies that God Exists Verse 90: “Your faithfulness flows from one generation to the next; all that you created sits firmly in place to testify of you.” Did you know that our creation -- that this atmosphere -- this created world that we are living in, our very beings, testify that God exists? They testify to who He is. They testify to who Jesus is, who the Father is, who the Holy Spirit is! That if we would tune our hearts to know Him, every created thing on this earth would testify of Him. Everything God Created Serves Him Verse 91: “By Your decree everything stands at attention, for all that You have made serves you.” Do you understand this that everything that is made by God serves God? Now, look around you --what in our world is not made by God? You can say, well God didn't build my house or God didn't make my car. God didn't put the furniture together that’s in my house. I want to point you to the books of the New Testament in Hebrews and Colossians, we can read the everything on this earth was created and sustained by the power of His Word. There's an interesting development in science that rather affirms this to be true. They have found that one of the smallest parts of matter is what they call a quark. Tiny Vibrating Sound Waves A quark is simply a tiny vibrating sound wave. Just think about this -- when you speak the reason we can understand what you're saying is because we can hear it with our ears. Our ears take those sound waves and process them into language and music and things we can understand by hearing. Correct? In the same manner thousands and thousands and thousands of little vibrating quarks actually are put together and they create matter. This is exciting! That means that the chair that I'm sitting on is nothing more than thousands and thousands and thousands, maybe even millions, of small vibrating sound waves that becomes something that I can sit on. That I can grab hold of... I can see with my eyes and feel with my hands and my body. If we go back to Genesis Chapter One, it says that when God created all of the things on the earth He did one simple thing: He spoke and it came into existence. Maybe God didn't physically build your furniture, your house, or your car or the many things that we we use today in our daily life. Yet, He created the human being that developed the idea that actually completed the work that built your house, built your car, built the furniture and created the things that we use on a daily basis. All of this creation all of this intelligent design, as it has come to be called, it simply declares that God exists. It's a good word! And, if it is created by God, therefore it serves God. Power to Overcome Verse 92: “Because your words are my deepest delight, I didn't give up when all else was lost.” Do you get this? When God's word is our deepest delight, it gives us persevering, enduring power to not give up even when we can't see the victory even when everything feels lost. God’s Transforming Revelations Verse 93: “I can never forget the profound Revelations you've taught me, for they have kept me alive more than once.” Now here's that word revelation and I prayed for that, right? I prayed for revelations as we read today, but I want to highlight to you: revelation is different than information. Revelation is different than information. In Romans 12 we read, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind and then you will be able to test and approve what God's good, pleasing and perfect will is.” (vv.1-2, my paraphrase) Revelation is different than information. More than mere human knowledge, revelation is divine spiritual wisdom and knowledge that comes to us with transforming power through the impartation of the Holy Spirit. Revelation is when the Word of God comes alive to us whether through prayer, through our experiences with people or through our encounters with Scripture -- the one thing that will create the encounter is the power and presence of God’s Holy Spirit in us. Revelation is the key to transformation, and transformation - the key to overcoming through God’s Word. Revelation leads us to Surrender Verse 94: “Lord, I’m all yours, and you are my Savior; I have sought to live my life pleasing to you.” When God's revelation comes to us we realize the power of His work in our lives. Not just that work unto salvation, meaning out of hell and into heaven. But rather, if we go back to that very first verse we read today, where it says that “Standing firm in the heavens and fastened to Eternity, is the word of God…” If we go back to that, then we realize, the more we get a revelation of who Jesus is as the Word of God through the scriptures, through the impartation of the Holy Spirit - the more we surrender to Him as our Lord. The more we desire to be obedient to him, not because we're obligated to Him, but because the profound reality of His love has taken root in our lives. Then, all we want to do is respond in obedience to Him seeking to live our lives to please Him. Hebrews chapter 11 tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God. That is why it is key that we understand that revelation is part of building faith in our lives. You see, Paul also writes that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God (see Romans 10:17). Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God Revelation is integral to us realizing the impartation of faith from the Holy Spirit. It's the Holy Spirit that draws us to Christ. It's the Holy Spirit that testifies to us of Christ. It's the Holy Spirit that teaches us about Christ. It's the Holy Spirit that reminds us. It's the Holy Spirit that empowers us to minister according to His will. Do you understand what I'm saying? Faith is a key that unlocks revival because it creates disciples that look like Jesus, that live lives pleasing to him This brings us to our conclusion, verses 95-96:”Even though evil men wait in ambush to kill me, I will set my heart before you to understand more of your ways. I’ve learned that there is nothing perfect in this imperfect world expect your words, for they bring such fantastic freedom into my life!” We place our faith in God, through His Word - both the Holy Scriptures and Jesus Christ - the expressed person of God. we learn to surrender to His truth and revelation as it penetrates our hearts, allowing faith to take root deeply in our hearts. When our lives are vitally empowered by the revelation and presence of the Holy Spirit - even when our circumstances are anything but hopeful. When others persecute and seek to destroy us, we will live with our hearts set on Him, set before Him, understanding that the imperfections of this world will not consume us if we live in the perfection of His Living Word. This key brings us to Freedom and victory in our lives! Conclusion Well, that is all the time we have for today. Be sure to download the Podcoin app and subscribe to this podcast there. They pay you one podcoin every 10 minutes you listen, and more if you catch us as a bonus podcast (one week left for that)! You can redeem podcoins for gift cards to your favorite businesses or you can make donations to charities. It’s a win-win for us all! So download the app and subscribe to Blooming Inspired Podcast today! Our Wildflower Women ReLaunch is also well under way with 11 women joining our group in the last week! That’s very exciting! We’re beginning to build relationships and explore the reason God calls us wildflowers as He has brought us together to dot the surrounding landscapes with His Beautiful Glory! If you’d like to join us for Wildflower Women & the Relaunch, then hop over to our Facebook Page, facebook.com/groups/wildflowerwomenrelaunch and request to join the group! Be sure to also take some time to like us on facebook.com/bloominginspired to stay up to date and in the know about all things @BloomingInspired. Don’t Forget! Don’t forget to check out these shows also airing on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network: Redeemed Rebel Podcast featuring our very own redeemed rebel, hope dealer and gold digger: Michele Turman each Monday at 4pm (CT) and Accidental Hope Podcast featuring our ambassador of hope, Jennifer Eikenhorst each Wednesday at 2pm (CT)! All of our shows are available on iTunes, Google Play and the Podcoin App - so subscribe and listen today! Closing Remarks As I close the show today, I want to share a little about my coaching business and opportunities with you. This is Michelle Bentham, and in case you didn’t know, in addition to being an ordained minister and the founder of Blooming Inspired Network, I am also a Certified Executive Coach. This week, I have a huge praise as a friend of mine has helped me become a part of The John Maxwell Team. I’m very excited about this opportunity and what it will add to my Executive Coaching practice that has been in full swing for the last year. If you are looking for personal or professional development in any area of your life, including areas of ministry, I’d love to offer you a free coaching consultation to sit down and share what coaching is, and explore the values it might add to your life. Monthly coaching packages that fit any lifestyle and budget are currently available. To set up your free consultation please email: michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com I also offer a unique opportunity for Podcast development through coaching where I will walk you through the steps of developing your show concept, how to produce your podcast from recording to editing and airing your show on our Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. We will then work together to promote your show and expand the place of your influence. I’d love to partner with you as you seek to live your life Blooming Inspired! For more information about the podcast network and podcasting opportunities visit bloominginspirednetwork.com and click the podcast link at the top of the page. Remember: Blooming Where You’re Planted is the First Step to Living Your Wildest Dreams, So Live Your Lives Blooming Alive!

Michelle continues her quest to discover keys to Revival in Psalm 119 reading verses 89-96 in the Passion Translation. Today, we discover the keys of faith and revelation. Seeking to place our faith in God, through His Word - both the Holy Scriptures and Jesus Christ--the expressed person of God, leads us to surrender to His truth and revelation. As His truth and revelation penetrates our hearts, faith is rooted deep within us.    Show Transcript: Blooming Inspired Podcast equipping and empowering the voices of women who live their lives blooming alive. Good morning! This is Michelle Bentham, host of Blooming Inspired Podcast. Introduction This week we are digging back into Psalm 119. We're going to be reading from Psalm 119 beginning in verse 89 today, but before we do that I want to go back and review what we talked about last week. Review We focused on allowing our hearts to be planted deep in God's word and being delivered by it. Remember we're looking for keys to revival… Keys To Revival… and so I want to remind you that allowing our hearts to grow in the deep in the things of God and allowing those things that are being penetrated in our heart by God's word to deliver us from our afflictions, and the persecutions in this life, as well as the choices and the consequences for those choices we make that results in sin. We also discovered humility as a key, and we've discovered specifically that humility is a key that opposes pride. In like manner honor comes as a key to overcome shame. Today’s Reading Today, we'll examine how faith in God's word will help us stand firm in his truth in our relationship with him as we seek to live the overcoming life. You see, I believe that the overcoming life is a part of the truth and the promise of Revival. Before we get started I'd like to just pray: Lord God I just ask that you would invade our hearts with not only Your Word, but with the Holy Spirit. That Holy Spirit would activate and penetrate our hearts with the Living Word of God and bring forth revelation truth to us today. I asked Lord for eyes to see, ears to hear and a heart to know You more. In Jesus’ name, amen. Faith in God’s Word Today, the heading over the eight verses we’re going to read is “Faith In God's Word.” Beginning in verse 89: “Standing firm in the heavens and fastened to eternity is the word of God…” I want you to hear that because in John 1, and throughout the New Testament we see this picture of the manifestation of the word of God being fully made known through Jesus Christ, Himself. That when the Word became flesh, we saw then exactly who Jesus is, and it says here that that Word of God Is standing firm in the heavens fastened to eternity. You see, our faith is not in -- just in -- the words that are written in the book we call the Bible, but our faith is in the One Who is the full manifestation of God himself, Jesus Christ. Creation Testifies that God Exists Verse 90: “Your faithfulness flows from one generation to the next; all that you created sits firmly in place to testify of you.” Did you know that our creation -- that this atmosphere -- this created world that we are living in, our very beings, testify that God exists? They testify to who He is. They testify to who Jesus is, who the Father is, who the Holy Spirit is! That if we would tune our hearts to know Him, every created thing on this earth would testify of Him. Everything God Created Serves Him Verse 91: “By Your decree everything stands at attention, for all that You have made serves you.” Do you understand this that everything that is made by God serves God? Now, look around you --what in our world is not made by God? You can say, well God didn't build my house or God didn't make my car. God didn't put the furniture together that’s in my house. I want to point you to the books of the New Testament in Hebrews and Colossians, we can read the everything on this earth was created and sustained by the power of His Word. There's an interesting development in science that rather affirms this to be true. They have found that one of the smallest parts of matter is what they call a quark. Tiny Vibrating Sound Waves A quark is simply a tiny vibrating sound wave. Just think about this -- when you speak the reason we can understand what you're saying is because we can hear it with our ears. Our ears take those sound waves and process them into language and music and things we can understand by hearing. Correct? In the same manner thousands and thousands and thousands of little vibrating quarks actually are put together and they create matter. This is exciting! That means that the chair that I'm sitting on is nothing more than thousands and thousands and thousands, maybe even millions, of small vibrating sound waves that becomes something that I can sit on. That I can grab hold of... I can see with my eyes and feel with my hands and my body. If we go back to Genesis Chapter One, it says that when God created all of the things on the earth He did one simple thing: He spoke and it came into existence. Maybe God didn't physically build your furniture, your house, or your car or the many things that we we use today in our daily life. Yet, He created the human being that developed the idea that actually completed the work that built your house, built your car, built the furniture and created the things that we use on a daily basis. All of this creation all of this intelligent design, as it has come to be called, it simply declares that God exists. It's a good word! And, if it is created by God, therefore it serves God. Power to Overcome Verse 92: “Because your words are my deepest delight, I didn't give up when all else was lost.” Do you get this? When God's word is our deepest delight, it gives us persevering, enduring power to not give up even when we can't see the victory even when everything feels lost. God’s Transforming Revelations Verse 93: “I can never forget the profound Revelations you've taught me, for they have kept me alive more than once.” Now here's that word revelation and I prayed for that, right? I prayed for revelations as we read today, but I want to highlight to you: revelation is different than information. Revelation is different than information. In Romans 12 we read, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind and then you will be able to test and approve what God's good, pleasing and perfect will is.” (vv.1-2, my paraphrase) Revelation is different than information. More than mere human knowledge, revelation is divine spiritual wisdom and knowledge that comes to us with transforming power through the impartation of the Holy Spirit. Revelation is when the Word of God comes alive to us whether through prayer, through our experiences with people or through our encounters with Scripture -- the one thing that will create the encounter is the power and presence of God’s Holy Spirit in us. Revelation is the key to transformation, and transformation - the key to overcoming through God’s Word. Revelation leads us to Surrender Verse 94: “Lord, I’m all yours, and you are my Savior; I have sought to live my life pleasing to you.” When God's revelation comes to us we realize the power of His work in our lives. Not just that work unto salvation, meaning out of hell and into heaven. But rather, if we go back to that very first verse we read today, where it says that “Standing firm in the heavens and fastened to Eternity, is the word of God…” If we go back to that, then we realize, the more we get a revelation of who Jesus is as the Word of God through the scriptures, through the impartation of the Holy Spirit - the more we surrender to Him as our Lord. The more we desire to be obedient to him, not because we're obligated to Him, but because the profound reality of His love has taken root in our lives. Then, all we want to do is respond in obedience to Him seeking to live our lives to please Him. Hebrews chapter 11 tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God. That is why it is key that we understand that revelation is part of building faith in our lives. You see, Paul also writes that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God (see Romans 10:17). Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God Revelation is integral to us realizing the impartation of faith from the Holy Spirit. It's the Holy Spirit that draws us to Christ. It's the Holy Spirit that testifies to us of Christ. It's the Holy Spirit that teaches us about Christ. It's the Holy Spirit that reminds us. It's the Holy Spirit that empowers us to minister according to His will. Do you understand what I'm saying? Faith is a key that unlocks revival because it creates disciples that look like Jesus, that live lives pleasing to him This brings us to our conclusion, verses 95-96:”Even though evil men wait in ambush to kill me, I will set my heart before you to understand more of your ways. I’ve learned that there is nothing perfect in this imperfect world expect your words, for they bring such fantastic freedom into my life!” We place our faith in God, through His Word - both the Holy Scriptures and Jesus Christ - the expressed person of God. we learn to surrender to His truth and revelation as it penetrates our hearts, allowing faith to take root deeply in our hearts. When our lives are vitally empowered by the revelation and presence of the Holy Spirit - even when our circumstances are anything but hopeful. When others persecute and seek to destroy us, we will live with our hearts set on Him, set before Him, understanding that the imperfections of this world will not consume us if we live in the perfection of His Living Word. This key brings us to Freedom and victory in our lives! Conclusion Well, that is all the time we have for today. Be sure to download the Podcoin app and subscribe to this podcast there. They pay you one podcoin every 10 minutes you listen, and more if you catch us as a bonus podcast (one week left for that)! You can redeem podcoins for gift cards to your favorite businesses or you can make donations to charities. It’s a win-win for us all! So download the app and subscribe to Blooming Inspired Podcast today! Our Wildflower Women ReLaunch is also well under way with 11 women joining our group in the last week! That’s very exciting! We’re beginning to build relationships and explore the reason God calls us wildflowers as He has brought us together to dot the surrounding landscapes with His Beautiful Glory! If you’d like to join us for Wildflower Women & the Relaunch, then hop over to our Facebook Page, facebook.com/groups/wildflowerwomenrelaunch and request to join the group! Be sure to also take some time to like us on facebook.com/bloominginspired to stay up to date and in the know about all things @BloomingInspired. Don’t Forget! Don’t forget to check out these shows also airing on the Blooming Inspired Podcast Network: Redeemed Rebel Podcast featuring our very own redeemed rebel, hope dealer and gold digger: Michele Turman each Monday at 4pm (CT) and Accidental Hope Podcast featuring our ambassador of hope, Jennifer Eikenhorst each Wednesday at 2pm (CT)! All of our shows are available on iTunes, Google Play and the Podcoin App - so subscribe and listen today! Closing Remarks As I close the show today, I want to share a little about my coaching business and opportunities with you. This is Michelle Bentham, and in case you didn’t know, in addition to being an ordained minister and the founder of Blooming Inspired Network, I am also a Certified Executive Coach. This week, I have a huge praise as a friend of mine has helped me become a part of The John Maxwell Team. I’m very excited about this opportunity and what it will add to my Executive Coaching practice that has been in full swing for the last year. If you are looking for personal or professional development in any area of your life, including areas of ministry, I’d love to offer you a free coaching consultation to sit down and share what coaching is, and explore the values it might add to your life. Monthly coaching packages that fit any lifestyle and budget are currently available. To set up your free consultation please email: michelle.bentham@bloominginspirednetwork.com I also offer a unique opportunity for Podcast development through coaching where I will walk you through the steps of developing your show concept, how to produce your podcast from recording to editing and airing your show on our Blooming Inspired Podcast Network. We will then work together to promote your show and expand the place of your influence. I’d love to partner with you as you seek to live your life Blooming Inspired! For more information about the podcast network and podcasting opportunities visit bloominginspirednetwork.com and click the podcast link at the top of the page. Remember: Blooming Where You’re Planted is the First Step to Living Your Wildest Dreams, So Live Your Lives Blooming Alive!

Michelle talks shop with Blooming Inspired Podcast Network hosts Michele Turman and Jennifer Eikenhorst as they look back on the birth of Blooming Inspired Podcast and the BIPN network. Celebrating God's glory and grace in their collaboration and opportunity to share His love and truth with a lost and dying world through the podcast community.

Michelle talks shop with Blooming Inspired Podcast Network hosts Michele Turman and Jennifer Eikenhorst as they look back on the birth of Blooming Inspired Podcast and the BIPN network. Celebrating God's glory and grace in their collaboration and opportunity to share His love and truth with a lost and dying world through the podcast community.

Jennifer Eikenhorst continues her conversation about helping others in Crisis with Dr. John Knox, a pastor and chaplain, from Granbury, TX. Today they discuss what brings him hope, his inner circle and love for people, and his blog and journaling experiences. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/accidentalhope)

Jennifer Eikenhorst continues her conversation about helping others in Crisis with Dr. John Knox, a pastor and chaplain, from Granbury, TX. Today they discuss what brings him hope, his inner circle and love for people, and his blog and journaling experiences.

Jennifer Eikenhorst continues her conversation about helping others in Crisis with Dr. John Knox, a pastor and chaplain, from Granbury, TX. Today they discuss what brings him hope, his inner circle and love for people, and his blog and journaling experiences.

Jennifer Eikenhorst begins a two-part interview with Dr. John Knox a pastor and chaplain from Granbury, TX who walks with people through seasons of grief & trauma.

Jennifer Eikenhorst begins a two-part interview with Dr. John Knox a pastor and chaplain from Granbury, TX who walks with people through seasons of grief & trauma.

Jennifer Eikenhorst begins a two-part interview with Dr. John Knox a pastor and chaplain from Granbury, TX who walks with people through seasons of grief & trauma. He speaks of ministry of presence, invaluable for people that are deeply hurting. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/accidentalhope)

Michele continues the conversation with Jennifer Eikenhorst of Accidental Hope Podcast.

Michele continues the conversation with Jennifer Eikenhorst of Accidental Hope Podcast.

Jennifer Eikenhorst debuts her first episode of Accidental Hope sharing how she came to be an Ambassador of hope to people in devastating circumstances and the heart behind this show. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/accidentalhope)

Jennifer Eikenhorst debuts her first episode of Accidental Hope sharing how she came to be an Ambassador of hope to people in devastating circumstances and the heart behind this show.

Jennifer Eikenhorst debuts her first episode of Accidental Hope sharing how she came to be an Ambassador of hope to people in devastating circumstances and the heart behind this show.

Jennifer Eikenhorst debuts her first episode of Accidental Hope sharing how she came to be an Ambassador of hope to people in devastating circumstances and the heart behind this show.

Michele continues her interview with Accidental Hope host, Jennifer Eikenhorst. (Part 2)

Michele Turman interview Jennifer Eikenhorst, our up and coming podcast host with the Accidental Hope show.

Michelle concludes the conversation in part five of her interview with Jennifer Eikenhorst. Jennifer lives her life fully alive as a wife, mother and teacher, who loves Jesus. Two years ago, Jennifer found herself facing the unimaginable tragedy of causing someone else's death in an accident.

Michelle concludes the conversation in part five of her interview with Jennifer Eikenhorst. Jennifer lives her life fully alive as a wife, mother and teacher, who loves Jesus. Two years ago, Jennifer found herself facing the unimaginable tragedy of causing someone else's death in an accident.

Michelle continues the conversation in part four of her interview with Jennifer Eikenhorst. Jennifer lives her life fully alive as a wife, mother and teacher, who loves Jesus. Two years ago, Jennifer found herself facing the unimaginable tragedy of causing someone else's death in an accident.

Michelle continues the conversation in part four of her interview with Jennifer Eikenhorst. Jennifer lives her life fully alive as a wife, mother and teacher, who loves Jesus. Two years ago, Jennifer found herself facing the unimaginable tragedy of causing someone else's death in an accident.

Michelle continues with part three of her conversation with Jennifer Eikenhorst, a wife, mother and teacher, who loves Jesus. Two years ago, Jennifer found herself facing the unimaginable tragedy of causing someone else's death in an accident.

Michelle continues with part three of her conversation with Jennifer Eikenhorst, a wife, mother and teacher, who loves Jesus. Two years ago, Jennifer found herself facing the unimaginable tragedy of causing someone else's death in an accident.

Michelle continues the conversation with Jennifer Eikenhorst, a wife, mother and teacher, who loves Jesus. Two years ago, Jennifer found herself facing the unimaginable tragedy of causing someone else's death in an accident. Her story is one of how the trauma impacts those who survive an accident that causes the death of another, how she realized she was grieving the death she caused and how God continues to walk both she and her family to a place of redemption.

Michelle continues the conversation with Jennifer Eikenhorst, a wife, mother and teacher, who loves Jesus. Two years ago, Jennifer found herself facing the unimaginable tragedy of causing someone else's death in an accident. Her story is one of how the trauma impacts those who survive an accident that causes the death of another, how she realized she was grieving the death she caused and how God continues to walk both she and her family to a place of redemption.

Jennifer is a wife, mother, teacher, and Jesus lover. In October 2016 the unimaginable happened when she caused the accidental death of a motorcyclist. That day life changed forever, and Jennifer struggled to make sense of what had happened. God intervened in Jennifer's story as she learned to let go and let Him have what she could not have imagined or understood. (Part 1)

Jennifer is a wife, mother, teacher, and Jesus lover. In October 2016 the unimaginable happened when she caused the accidental death of a motorcyclist. That day life changed forever, and Jennifer struggled to make sense of what had happened. God intervened in Jennifer's story as she learned to let go and let Him have what she could not have imagined or understood. (Part 1)

On today's episode of She Walks In Truth we are tackling a very difficult and delicate subject. My guest Jennifer Eikenhorst shares her story of what's happened the past two years following a collision with a motorcyclist causing accidental death. She is brave for sharing the flip side of the story we don't often hear about. It's not a title Jennifer every wanted to have but she's not alone in the heartache as there are many others just like her who need support but are not without hope.