Category: Woman to Woman

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Training the Conscience

“I am the vine, you are the branches: He that abides in Me, and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit: for without Me you can do nothing” John 15:5.

 

Today on Woman to Woman Sharon Hoskins and Janie Ratzlaff discuss how the conscience is trained by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit teaches and brings to our remembrance all that Jesus has said. When we spend time with God, we will learn His character, statutes, precepts, and His word will fill our heart. Staying connected to the vine will give us the strength to bear the pressures of trials we face and increase a good conscience.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Character Bullet Points

Integrity is living your convictions from the Word of God WITH DISCIPLINE.  Character is integrity applied in WISDOM.

We must in the Word to know the Word so we can apply the Word when facing any  challenges that bring us in  conflict with the mind of Christ and living in unity with one another.

As we have talked about friendship and the vital need for such relationships, we find some “bullet points” in Scripture that help us focus on our foundation of having a clean heart and conscience to guide us; keeping us from falling into the trap of the wiles of the enemy.

Today, we gain understanding about  relationships of friendships and see what is necessary for enjoying “friends of character.”

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Character Qualities

Friendships are extremely important to a healthy lifestyle.  If we have a desire to develop mutual enjoyment of our friendships, it is good to be comfortable with your friend knowing your strengths and weakness.  Being able to hear the expression “Celebrate their strengths and shore up their weakness” in your  relationships will assist with character development in a protected environment. Many times a negative response may be the misuse of an unrecognized  positive character.  Such as: Giving up needs to learn Endurance, Anxiety needs to exchange its thinking for Security.

When we see our friends struggling with certain negative thought patterns, searching the scriptures for the counter quality can strengthen relationships.

A true friend will not condemn but help hold you accountable for growing in your character development.  Friends can see our “blind” spots without pointing a blaming finger because we all have blind spots.  Hence, the need for character development according to the mind of Christ.

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Character in Relationships

Character: Within the spelling of this word is a smaller word, the word ACT.  Godly character is what we choose to develop as we build a life in Jesus Christ.  It is not a part of the benefits of salvation.  We are responsible as to what character traits we form and then those traits are made known by how we act, public and private.   A strong warning: the person you treat the worst in your life is the revealing of your true character. This is a matter of the heart.


 

As gold is purified by fire and the dross rises to the surface as the heat is applied and dross removed , so our lives will reflect how the heat of trials, testing, and tribulations reveal our true  character development.  Godly character is developed now, not in Heaven.  Crises reveal character.  One way we can know the quality and purity of the gold when refined is by its softness and pliability. Character is refined and developed over time and  a person’s character is what they habitually are.  Seeing the fruit of the Spirit in a person’s life is a sure sign quality character is being formed.  Our character will remain with us throughout this life and life to come.  Christ has given us His disposition so that we can develop Christ like character.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Foundation Of Building Character

Character is not a gift received at salvation.  It must be attained.  Some type of character is in all of us, good or bad.  However, for character that will influence your life now and future, we need to be sure we are building our character on the right foundation.

After salvation, one of the main issues God is after is character development.  True character is usually shown in time of crises, sometimes revealing the best in us and sometimes exposing the worst through our personality and temperament.

There is a little saying that says it all: “Sow a thought and you reap an act; sow an act and you reap a habit; sow a habit and you reap a character; sow a character and you reap a destiny.” Daily choices and decisions do make a difference.

Remember our Father will never put work or service about character. He is always looking at the heart in us, not just the eternal appearance.  Proverbs 4:23 remains true. “Guard your heart, for out of it proceeds all the issues of life.”

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Wounded or Broken

“The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear” Proverbs 18:14.

What is the difference between a wounded spirit and a broken spirit? How does each differ in the response that comes through our character? What evidences can we find to help us distinguish between the two?

Janie and Sharon discuss how the fire of trials can cause a wounded spirit or a broken one. Life is not fair at times and the sins of others can have a negative impact on our lives. Being a victim of these things doesn’t have to rule our life. There is nothing that we go through that God cannot heal. Remember Joseph.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Developing Christ-like Character

“The the trial of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it be tried with fire, might be found to praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ” 1 Peter 1:7


Developing Christ-like character comes through the fire of adversities and trials. It seems that it would be a sweeter life if we didn’t have to go through the fire of adversity and trials. However, without the fire, life would be filled with many little impurities. Some of them are so small that we don’t even know they exist until they rise to the top in the heat.

Janie and Sharon discuss how adversity and trials compares to the purifying of gold. How we handle the fire could determine if we end up with a wounded heart or a broken heart.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Character Building for the Bema

Pain in this life can blind and bind us to just keep going on, one day at a time.  Our focus during these struggles to keep an eternal perspective becomes next to impossible to the natural “man.” Whether originating from  neglect or cruelty of another, circumstances that harm which the sufferer has no control, some dark hour from the past re-surfaces with no relief in sight, or just the intense pain in physical consequences of living in this “earth suit”, we have been given the promise of.


 

I Corinthians 10:13: “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” That is through his strength, not ours. In our own abilities we can and will sink. The provision is from and through him.

At these times we need to remember that God dare not risk the loss of the person in pain, which has cost Him the blood of His son. There are reserves of grace and strength which are lying unrecognized within us.Testing or temptation will bring these attributes to the surface and sustain us.

There are general rewards as well as specific. To encourage us while living with pain, let’s start looking at the general blessings that await us and  what we can look forward to enjoying, forever.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Purpose of the Bema

Some say if you are too heavenly minded you are no earthly good.  The truth of the matter is that we must be heavenly minded if we want to be any earthly good.  Life needs purpose and if we drift or coast through life without purpose we will surely miss the goal Christ has called us to live.

Our Father has one purpose in all His is ways and that is to conform us to the image (character) of His Son,. This may explain our perplexities as to the past, it should control our behavior in the present, and be our guide for the future.

Many times we want Him to just explain the  reason for the trials we pass through and  give us all the details so we can understand what is happening and if He doesn’t we search for meaning and purpose.

Knowing the Father’s heart,  teaches us to be accountable to Him with eternity  values in view. “Every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall  confess to God. So then each of us shall give an account of himself to God”

Today we look at the absolutes in Scripture that let us understand the purpose of the BEMA (The Judgment Seat of Christ) so we will live with heavenly vision and purpose.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Sowing and Reaping

As we continue to review the need to live a resurrected life with eternity values in view, the incentive to make wise choices each day can be seen in the truth of Galatians 6:7-11.  The laws of farming applied to  sowing and reaping.

Many will use this passage in a negative application, meaning earthy and fleshly living will result in a loss of good works. However, there is another aspect that sowing unto the eternal and righteous living will reap a bountiful crop with great rewards, both here and when we go home to meet our  Lord.

Today, we look at the principles of sowing and reaping through the eyes of a farmer sowing his seed.

Many of our problems that we may be reaping today are the results of bad farming practices in our lives.  Learning these different “laws” can protect and correct from reaping any future “bad crops.”

Our goal is to make sure that we understand, so that our labor will not be in vain and we can look forward to seeing our Lord and Savior when He calls.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Resurrected Life

We are celebrating resurrection day this Sunday.  Arising from the grave and being seen by hundreds confirmed the validity of the spoken word regarding CHRIST IS ALIVE.  We are the only people who can claim our founder is alive and well, preparing us a place to be with Him forever-Heaven. With so much to look forward to we need to remember that a life lived for self may compromise one of our greatest promises of ruling and reigning with Him.

Janie and Sharon dig a little deeper and see what our purpose is in spending time here in preparation for eternity there.  They begin the unraveling of what is the purpose of the Judgment Seat of Christ, to many simply known as the Bema. What it is and what is the purpose.  What causes a Christian to look forward to this time and what may cause a Christian to be fearful of this event. How  can we insulate our lives so that we will be ready to meet Jesus and not be fearful of loss as mentioned in the Bible.

The resurrection has provided us the path to maturity and how to daily walk that path with love and confidence. Come explore the connection of the resurrection, sowing and reaping, and life with the Son, Jesus Christ.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Emotions in Dark Times

There are times in our lives when the Lord appears to pull back the comfort and grace that we all want and need each day.  We start to question His goodness and protective care.  When we do, we open ourselves up to another set of messy emotions.   If we do not bring our thoughts captive we can fall under the control of the enemy, unknowingly. The Lord’s silence may simply be His stretching us to grow in deeper faith and trust in Him.

However, if we fail to put on the full armor or God, be ignorant of Satan’s devices, fail to resist the enemy by steadfast faith, or have an unteachable spirit; we can easily open the door to enemy influence.   Pride can come out of our thinking, personality, and emotions in 100 different ways.  We are not to spend our time focusing on the enemy, taking our eyes off of the Lord, who is our strength, shield, and foundation for overcoming.  Nevertheless, we are to look into the Word of God and find out how the devil’s tactics are shown as examples from the scripture.

Thirty-One Kings by A. B. Simpson

The enemy  cannot read our minds, but he can plant thoughts from external sources and internal stored memories.  If we resort to listening, then our behavior will show that influence in our actions and the enemy will know how to further his cause in us.  Remember, he can hear what we say and do. He is an expert in deception and blindness.

Satan’s  downfall of defeat for eternity was in his prideful desire to be worshipped as god and he wants to take us down that same road of worship of self. We all must battle the spirit of pride in our lives; but can learn the mind of Christ to counter false thinking.

We  examine scripture today  that builds truth deep within our inner being to keep us from taking this destructive detour.

 

Thirty-One Kings by A. B. Simpson

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Emotions In Loss

“There hath no temptation (testing) overtaken you but such is common to man; but God is faithful who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able; but with the temptation also make a way of escape that you may be able to bear it” 1 Corinthians 10:13.

Emotions are Messy and sometimes it’s because we are suffering loss; grieving or mourning. Loss comes in many different ways; death, job, career, marriage, retirement, home, dreams, etc. Janie and Sharon discuss the 5 aspects of grief that we usually pass through in coming to terms with loss. They also discuss how stress can be a factor that makes for messy emotions.

Five Aspects of Grief

His Truth Transforms Ministries, a ministry we trust, has some books for “preventing emotional meltdowns” Anger, Anxieties, Depression, Fear, and Guilt.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Emotions Are Messy

“For you (Lucifer) have said in your heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the Most High” Isaiah 14:13-14.

This describes the first recorded “I WILL” and reveals the heart of Lucifer when he declared he would be greater than God. Self-will must be slain before love can reign.  There is only one throne in our hearts and either self will sit as king or Jesus Christ will occupy His rightful place.

SELF is subtle and will fight to hold and maintain control of our thoughts and emotions.  Even when we choose the right path with our mind and will, self will never willingly yield its control. It loves to hide itself in deception and lies that we believe; for all the wrong reasons.

Sharon and Janie will start to uncover the self life in its many different forms and offer a pathway of practical practice to deal scripturally with a life of messy emotions that are painful, defeating, frustrating; resulting in our own agenda for  life, ministry, and relationships.

Prayerfully ask that the Holy Spirit will open  our eyes to see “self” with the mind of Christ as the enemy and flesh will be determined to keep us blinded. Jesus Christ through His Word is the way to overcome messy emotions.

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Podcasts Woman to Woman

Emotions are Manageable

“Casting all your care upon Him; for He cares for you” 1 Peter 5:7. “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” Ephesians 6:12.

We can never figure out flesh and we should never fight people in the flesh, but give all those cares to the Lord. Managing our emotions is a process of building the character of Christ in us. When we learn to take our thoughts captive and manage our emotions that come from those thoughts, God can build His character in us. His character can be described as calm, tranquil, tender and these are things we can ask Him to build in us.

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Podcasts Woman to Woman

Emotions are Messengers Pt. 2

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said to you” John 14:26.

Janie and Sharon continue to discuss the importance of knowing how to hear the messages that emotions are bringing to us. Where do emotions come from and how can we distinguish what they are saying.

“At a very early age, we begin to receive messages and impressions about ourselves from those around us; parents, brothers, sisters, kids on the playgrounds, teachers, etc. These messages results in approval/acceptance that makes us feel OK about ourselves, or bring disapproval/rejection that makes us feel bad.”

 

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Podcasts Woman to Woman

Emotions are Messengers Pt. 1

There are different frequencies between AM and FM Radio.  If listening to AM stations you cannot hear the FM stations  and listening to the FM stations you cannot hear the AM stations.  You do not choose what is put on the AM or FM frequencies but you can choose which frequency you listen to.

The same is true of your mind.  Spiritual conflicts begin in the mind. You have one mind with two sources of programming from which to choose-either self pleasing or God pleasing.

We are programmed through our five senses, sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch. As we use these senses they  produces thoughts and/or arouses memories. Depending on what you “ listen” to through your senses  your mind will express corresponding emotions; influencing your actions of behavior. Behavior becomes  a habit and a habit becomes a lifestyle.  Now we can understand the importance of listening to the right “frequency.”

Learn how to set the frequency that will tune-in to living in quiet confidence in the midst of your circumstances. One brings health and healing, the other brings confusion and defeat.

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Podcasts Woman to Woman

Emotions are Molecules

“My substance was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth” Psalm 139:15.

God made us so skillfully; every little detail designed with purpose, carefully planned, and executed with precision. Emotions are the part of every woman (person) that seems to get the best of us more often than we would like. Maybe you have even asked the questions, “Why do I get so emotional?” “Are emotions really necessary?” Emotions can drive us crazy and everyone around us.  Janie and Sharon discuss the 4 M’s of emotion that will shed light on what they are, why we have them, and how we can handle them even when they seem to be overwhelming. Emotions are Molecules. Emotions are Messengers. Emotions are Manageable. Emotions are Messy. This broadcast focuses on emotions as molecules and how they actually affect our physical body.

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Podcasts Woman to Woman

Rx PreScriptures

“Be still and know that I am God” Psalm 46:10

Joy is a state of being and a gift from God-given to those who wait and trust on Him in the difficult time of life; those ready for a total commitment to the plan and purpose God has for us.  Sometimes we fail to move forward because we lack vision even after the desire to serve is within our hearts.

Proverbs 29:18 tells us “where there is no vision, the people perish” (or run wild).  We are in an age and culture where our vision has become very short-sighted and rather than having a single focus we are occupied with over stimulation of choices from the world around us, robbing us of the precious promises that are waiting for those that will “walk the talk”.

Many mistake joy with happiness.  Feelings, also a gift, when positive can also feel like joy.  We need to learn how God has made us.  The brain has a major role in how the body passes on information we gather from our senses and thinking.  Understanding how the brain works in behalf of the body and how it can work against us is determined by us.  “As a man thinks, so is he.”  Study along with us as we start an adventure inside the body, as it has been purchased by  the Lord Jesus on the Cross as a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit to work through us.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Joy in Adversity

“Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice” Philippians 4:4


 

Joy is very often associated with adversity in scripture as the result  of accepting the hard times of life.  We don’t wait for the hard times to come before we learn the art of living in joy and developing the mind-set our Lord shows us throughout the Word.  Adversity can promote the progress of the Gospel in many different ways.  We must not make it our goal to get out of difficult situations as these may be a part of the calling of God in working out His eternal plan and purpose for getting the Good News to all.  Resting in His wisdom for each of our lives will keep us from discouragement and wanting to throw in the towel when we think we have heard His voice and then plans don’t go according to our best in intent, agenda, and desire.

Adversity  will have unknowns and complexities, but the foundation that will hold us fast is: looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher our of faith, renewing our mind in the word, bringing every thought into captivity in a commitment of total surrender, acknowledging our fears and dread of the unknown.  Claiming JOY is all circumstances and learning how to apply, and finally waiting on the renewed mercies to live one day and maybe each hour in trust, obedience; made possible through love and led by the Holy Spirit as Grace Covers All.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Being Renewed

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint” Isaiah 40:31.

It takes strength and courage to live a Christian life and those attributes can be found only in the Lord. The battles of life can be overwhelming at times, but the Lord will give us the deeper strength that is needed to go through those battles victoriously. We live in an antagonistic world, we face an avalanche of opposition, we meet violent attacks from the enemy, and we fight our carnal appetites of the flesh. We cannot rely on our loved ones to sustain, renew, strengthen, or encourage us; this all comes from the Lord. We are being renewed in strength, courage, wisdom, insight, confidence, and so much more as we wait upon Him each day. Find out more about being renewed in Waiting upon the Lord  and  www.rarechristianbooks.com Find the 7 protocols of forgiveness at www.forgivingforward.com

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove Ok

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Unplug Your Busyness Part 2

“The thief comes not but to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come (Jesus said) that they (meaning us) might have life and that they might have it more abundantly” John 10:10.

Sharon and Janie continue their discussion on busyness and how to unplug. There are times in our life when unplugging is absolutely not possible. Janie shares some great tips on what we can do in those situations. The discussion covers how we can evaluate the busyness in our life to determine the source. What power source do we have our busyness plugged into and how can we reconnect to peace and rest.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove OK. 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Unplug Your Busyness

“But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise” Matthew 22:5.

Sharon and Janie tackle the topic of busyness. None of us are excluded from busyness, most everyone is affected by “too much to do and not enough time to get it done.” Busyness is often the result of taking responsibility for what is meant for God. The culture in which we live screams GET BUSY! Our children are encouraged to be involved in every activity at school, we are encouraged to be involved in every activity at church, and with career moms today, it seems that everyone is pulling at us from all directions. There are many times when we desire to slow down and get unplugged, but it ends up being more complicated than simply pulling a plug because everything is entangled and shutting down seems impossible. There are some warnings in scripture that we need to be aware of and evaluate where we are in the busyness of our own lives.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove OK

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Hems of Grace

“And the King shall answer and say to them, Verily I say to you, Inasmuch as you have done it to one of the least of these My brethren, you have done it to Me” Matthew 25:40.

Mandy Joye and Elizabeth Beck share their ministry to the families of Kenya and some of the surrounding areas. They have churches all over the country that share in sewing T-shirt dresses for the ladies and girls. They have created a pattern for sewing reusable feminine pads for the ladies so they can continue to work and go to school during their time of month.  They also crochet “gospel frisbees” that allow the children to share the gospel with each other while playing a game. They are actively involved in raising funds for the area during a time of drought. They are collecting reading glasses with the goal of 5000 glasses to take with them on their next trip. There are many, many more ways that this ministry serves the least of these.  Learn more about their ministry and the ways you can be a part of it at Hems of Grace Ministry or follow them on Facebook at Hems of Grace

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK

Podcasts Woman to Woman

I Beseech You

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service” Romans 12:1.

In a loving plea, we are urged to present our physical bodies to the Lord. In their conversations, Sharon and Janie challenge us to get our bodies under control in order to get our minds renewed. Janie discusses how the five senses were meant to be used for God’s glory and how we have mistakenly used them for self. Reminding us that pride is usually at the root of it all, “Ego is the anesthesia that deadens us to our own stupidity.” How true this is for so many of us. Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit; where God resides with us, and it is important for us to present it holy and acceptable. Sharon shares how Romans 12:1-2 were life-changing for her and how those verses continue to hold a special place in her heart. “My Heart, Christ’s Home” pdf can be downloaded.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove Ok.

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Opposing Six P’s of Pride

“God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” James 4:6

 

In their conversations that challenge Christians growth, Sharon and Janie have opened the door to all kinds of reasons why we don’t know or believe who we are in Christ; one of them being the lies that we have believed as truth. Last week they gave six traits that spiritual pride produces in our lives. This week they discuss the opposing six P’s of pride with the traits of humility. Believing religious lies can cause layers of spiritual pride that will plummet our Christian walk, but if we can really know humility it will keep pride from getting the upper hand. Defining Lies handout with scriptures is available to download for further study.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove OK

Janie mentions Andrew Murry’s book “Humility: The Beauty of Holiness”

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Podcasts Woman to Woman

Defining Lies Part 2

“But God commends His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” Romans 5:8.

Sharon and Janie define the religious lies that we have believed about God and our relationship with Him. Lies that cause spiritual pride, which will poison our relationships, pollute our life, produce anxiety and fears, plunder our prayers, provoke God’s enmity, and prevent spiritual growth.  A lie believed as truth will affect your life as if it were true – even though it is a lie. This is the key principle that is defined with the lies many have believed, such as; “we must earn God’s love”, “we are protected from sufferings”, “I must be a spiritual giant for God to use me.” Some lies are derived from scripture that is taken out of context.  Follow along on the teaching handout – Defining Lies – and have scripture references for extra study.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK 

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove OK [archiveorg DefiningLiesPart2 width=640 height=30 frameborder=0 webkitallowfullscreen=true mozallowfullscreen=true]

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Defining Lies

“For as he thinks in his heart, so is he” Proverbs 23:7.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK 

The challenge that comes from conversation with Janie and Sharon is to define the lies that you have believed about yourself, your relationships, and the world in which you live. A lie believed as truth will affect your life as if it were true – even though it is a lie. This is the key principle that is defined with the lies many have believed, such as; “money provides security and happiness”, “I must be married to be happy”, “my worth is based on what others think of me”, “the more I do for God, the more He will love and bless me”, and the list goes on. There are many lies that cross over into other lies; we believe one and all its buddies climb on board. It’s time to break the cycle of living in lies and start living in the truth of who you really are in Christ. Follow along on the teaching handout – Defining Lies – and have scripture references for extra study.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK [archiveorg DefiningLies width=640 height=30 frameborder=0 webkitallowfullscreen=true mozallowfullscreen=true]

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Attaining What Matters Most

“And be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith” Philippians 3:12.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK  

Janie Ratzlaff and Sharon Hoskins continue to challenge Christians to know and believe who they are in Christ. Too often we wrap our identity up in temporal things rather than in Christ. Life is centered in a person; Jesus Christ, unto holiness. We are commanded in Matt. 10:38-39, 16:24 and Luke 14:26-27, 33 to be willing to lose your own soul. Flesh has been crucified with Christ yet we “dig up” our stinky selves to go do service for the Lord. Could this be why people are calling Christians hypocrites? We need the absolutes of scripture and move forward in resurrected life.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, Ok  [archiveorg AttainingWhatMattersMost width=640 height=30 frameborder=0 webkitallowfullscreen=true mozallowfullscreen=true]

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Character That Counts

“But put you on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof” Romans 13:14

This scripture verse lays out two character robes and tells us which one to wear; however, the choice is still ours to make. We are warned, encouraged, instructed, guided, and in this case, flat out told what to do, but ultimately, we are always given a choice. Janie Ratzlaff and Sharon Hoskins challenge Christian growth through discussing how to carefully select the character that counts; Christ. In order to know who we are in Christ, we must recognize the character of Christ and allow the Holy Spirit to guide us in putting on His character over our own. It seems easier to just allow the flesh to have it’s way, but we really just cause more problems for ourselves; a tiny mole hill becomes the summit of a mountaintop when the character of our flesh is allowed to rule our lives. Choosing to put on the Lord Jesus Christ takes effort, but in the end, it is the only character that counts. Teaching handouts Roles of the Holy Spirit, and Being Led by the Holy Spirit_page 1, page 2, page 3 are available to download.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK.

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Podcasts Woman to Woman

Who Am I?

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” 2 Corinthians 5:17

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK 

Sharon and Janie dissect the general consensus that most people suffer from low self-esteem and what that means for the Christian. This is seen in the lives of people through the decisions being made that are destructive to their bodies, lifestyle, and families. The Christian who suffers from low self-esteem has either not understood, been taught, or grasped who they are in Christ. The question, “Who Am I” plagues many people today. Genealogy and ancestry companies are popping up everywhere because we have this question. People are going to great lengths to find out who they are; even getting blood work and DNA testing; however, knowing genealogies can never fill the void, only Christ can do that. The list “In Christ I Am” is available to download.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK [archiveorg WhoAmI_201708 width=640 height=30 frameborder=0 webkitallowfullscreen=true mozallowfullscreen=true]

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Age of Grace

“Father, the hour is come; glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You: As You have given Him power over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. And this is life eternal, that they might know You the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent” John 17:1-3.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove OK. 

Sharon Hoskins and Janie Ratzlaff challenge Christian growth through the conversation of Grace.  Many Christians have heard that we live in The Age of Grace, but what does that mean? Tackling this question is one aspect of Grace that is discussed. This topic has been sparked from the idea that many people suffer from low self-esteem and how Christians can overcome low self-esteem by knowing who they are in Christ. Focusing on Grace is laying the foundation on which our identity is built. With a firm grasp of Grace our true identity in Christ may be lived.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK  [archiveorg TheAgeOfGrace width=640 height=30 frameborder=0 webkitallowfullscreen=true mozallowfullscreen=true]

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Victim or Victorious

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” 2 Corinthians 5:17.

Sharon and Janie have a special guest, Ginger Green, who is a board certified Biblical Counselor and a trained Christian Mediator. She shares some concerns that she has noticed in that secular humanism has invaded the church in the form of Christian Psychology. She discusses a book The Christian Psychology’s War on God’s Word: the Victimization of the Believer by Jim Owen. She describes how the idea that Christians can’t help their habits and low self-esteem is due to the actions of others, the way they were raised, or because of some circumstance in their life is contradictory to scripture. Sin cannot be managed it must be uprooted through the cross.

Pre-recorded on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK 

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Podcasts Woman to Woman

Waiting On the Lord

“Trust in the Lord, and do good” Psalm 37:3 “Commit your way to the Lord; trust also in Him” Psalm 37:5 “Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him” Psalm 37:7 “Delight yourself also in the Lord and He shall give you the desires of your heart” Psalm 37:4.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK

Psalm 37 also says, “Fret not yourself.” Sharon and Janie discuss how fretting can cause us to use our tongue unwisely. We have an instant platform with an instant audience and instant responses on Social Media. Fretting can cause us to use that outlet to express things that should be left unsaid. In the world of “instants” that we live in today, it’s important to understand how waiting on the Lord in every situation will help Christians mature in their relationship with God. With this quality, young Christians will be encouraged to wait on the Lord as well.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK [archiveorg WaitingOnTheLord_201707 width=640 height=30 frameborder=0 webkitallowfullscreen=true mozallowfullscreen=true]

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Waiting Upon The Lord

“My soul, wait you only upon God; for my expectation is from Him” Psalm 62:5.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK

Janie Ratzlaff and Sharon Hoskins discuss the importance of waiting upon the Lord in all seasons of life. Examining the life of David through the Psalms, we find a man who could wait upon the Lord in some of the hardest times of life. Changing a negative circumstance to a positive prayer of praise is a strong attribute. David was able to express his faith and trust in the Lord. Learning to wait upon the Lord in every circumstance in life is vital to our Christian life.  Scripture guide is available along with the worksheet on expectations that will give a visual for how we can spiral down into depression.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove OK[archiveorg WaitingUponTheLord width=640 height=30 frameborder=0 webkitallowfullscreen=true mozallowfullscreen=true]

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Discovering the Conscience

“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said to you” John 14:26.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove OK

Sharon Hoskins and Janie Ratzlaff talk about the conscience. Discovering what it is and how to train it. The conscience sounds an alarm to warn against wrong decisions; however if it is not trained to sound that alarm, the conscience becomes dull. Janie describes how the Holy Spirit works with the conscience to help Christians walk in the Spirit. Training the conscience is vital to protect from temptations and sin. Sharpening the conscience in God’s word will renew the mind of Christians so their attitude, conduct, and behavior will look more like that of Christ.

A teaching handout is available to download that will be benefical for training the conscience. Janie and Sharon will be discussing this handout next week and you can follow along.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove OK
 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Overcoming Doubt

“Be not conformed to this world: but be you transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” Romans 12:2.

Conforming to the world involves aligning your attitude, belief, and behavior with that of the world. The mind is where all thoughts are processed and decisions are made; such as beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. Renewing your mind is the vital key to overcoming doubt. Janie and Sharon discuss how doubt has become a common and acceptable practice in Christian Culture. Janie gives several ways that doubt is rationalized by Christians today. If you don’t train your thoughts with truth from Scripture, then your thoughts will train you to be double-minded, doubtful, unruly, uncertain, confused, and completely lost about who you are. Jesus is the answer to finding your true identity.

 

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK
[archiveorg OvercomingDoubt_201706 width=640 height=30 frameborder=0 webkitallowfullscreen=true mozallowfullscreen=true]

Podcasts Woman to Woman

How Is Your Operating System

“But as He which has called you is holy, so be you holy in all mannner of conversation; because it is written, Be you holy; for I am holy” 1 Peter 1:15-16.

Janie shares about ways that we can check how well we are operating. It is important to heed to the detailed commands that will improve the way we operate as Christians. She give us thoughts on how to evaluate our life and emotions. When God gives us a command, He gives us the ability to achieve that command. Where are we finding our substanance for our Christian walk? Janie asks us to evaluate where we are getting our spiritual food. Are we seeking the best for our Christian walk or just taking the easy processed stuff. It is important that we be content wherever we find ourselves.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove Ok [archiveorg HowIsYourOperatingSystem width=640 height=30 frameborder=0 webkitallowfullscreen=true mozallowfullscreen=true]

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Ways to Foster Spiritual Growth Part 2

“For there is no other Name (Jesus) under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” Acts 4:12. Blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in Me” Matthew 11:6.

Janie Ratzlaff shares about having a disciplined life which will help us grow in our relationship with God.  What are some of the things that keeps us from growing in our relationship with the Father? Are you calloused to the message of the Gospel? Do you lack motivation? Are you indifferent to the things of the Lord? Do you feel the need to grow? Have you been too busy to notice these things in your life? Are you offended with God Almighty? Janie touches on many of these aspects. As you listen, keep your heart open to hear what the Lord may be wanting to reveal to you about yourself.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Benefits of the Cross

“I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me” Galatians 2:20.

Having just passed Easter Sunday, Janie and Sharon discuss the countless benefits we receive from the selfless act of the cross. As the media, communities, and many families communicate the celebration of Easter focused on a bunny, some eggs, and a hunt for candy to the children of the world, the real reason for Easter Sunday seems to grow dimmer and dimmer.  Yet, just as Jesus ministered to the thieves while He hung in pain and forgave all the people who nailed Him to the cross; He extends that same grace and mercy to all of us today. He loves you, died for you, and wants to live with you forever.

 

Pre-recorded on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Practical Tools for Spiritual Growth

“For the joy of the Lord is your strength” Nehemiah 8:10.

It is easy to get caught up in the busyness of life. We can have our schedules cram-packed full of “things” which makes our mind set on overload. The people in our life have needs that we are responsible to fill such as; dinner, laundry, grocery shopping, school pick up, band practice, sports practice, and the list goes on. This doesn’t even count our own needs, which usually get put on the bottom of it all, rarely to be addressed. When we fly in an airplane, we are instructed to put on our oxygen mask before helping others. For us women, that seems so out of order, it almost just doesn’t feel right! However, taking care of ourselves first with God will make us better for others in our life.

The Shepherd’s field has become such a hot topic over the past few weeks that we thought it would be a good idea to give some practical tools that would help you while in that quiet time with God. The time with the Lord is where you will find spiritual growth. God will draw you ever closer in those special moments alone with Him.

The second half of the show (starting at 27:15) is dedicated to hearing from a new author, Lori Klickman, and event coordinator, Carla O’Neil, who share about the Brave Conference where Lori will be speaking. Lori also shares about her ministry “Out of Ordinary.”

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, Ok.

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Shepherd’s Field – Part 2

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord fore ever” Psalm 23:6.  As part of the topic “Encourage without Wounding” we draw close to the Lord in “The Shepherd’s Field.” There we are filled so that we can overflow into the lives of others.

Part 2 – Janie and Sharon continue to expand on their discussion of the Shepherd’s field by peeling apart Psalm 23 verse by verse to see the beauty of being in the Shepherd’s care.  Women are noted for their ability to multi-task and it is easy for us to add prayers to the “list” of things to do.  However, getting alone with God in a secret place is so important in our Christian walk. In order for us to encourage one another we must first be encouraged ourselves.  When we are filled in the Shepherd’s field, we can then pour out to others.

Pre-recorded on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, OK.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Encourage without Wounding – Episode 3

“The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, He will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine” 1 Samuel 17:37.

Sharon and Janie share the story of St. Patrick on this St. Patrick’s Day.  As St. Patrick spent time in the shepherd’s field he drew close to the Lord.  Comparing the story of David, they discuss the importance of a shepherd’s field in everyone’s life.  We will find encouragement from God there which will help us to encourage others without wounding them.  The shepherd’s field is where we are prepared to fight the Goliaths in our life, but without preparation, we look much like the armies of Israel did, hiding and uncertain how to defeat the giant.  “Pray without ceasing” 1 Thessalonians 5:17.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, Ok

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Encourage without Wounding – Episode 2

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“He sent His word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.  Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!” Psalm 107:20-21.

Sharon and Janie discuss how the wounded can get well.  Wounds can be deep and painful or surface scratches that sting, but either way wounds hurt.  Using the hospital as an analogy, they share the importance of taking medicine that the Doctor (God) orders.  Knowing that medicine is available or having medicine within reach will not work, only when it is taken will it make a difference in our life.  Sometimes we look in the medicine cabinet (Scripture) and we just don’t know what to take that will make us better.  Healing is a process that requires covering the wound in His word.  Showing others our wounds only causes infection and disease.

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, Ok.

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Encourage without Wounding – Episode 1

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“But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today” so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin” Hebrews 3:13.  Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing” 1 Thessalonians 5:11.  It is easy to take these scriptures with the best of intentions and hurt others with our words.

radio-mic-adJanie and Sharon discuss the importance of learning to encourage others without wounding them.  Christians have somehow gotten the reputation of being hypocrites who judge others.  Christians are not intentionally hurting others, so why has this become what people see.  Maybe it’s because in our effort to encourage we are being condemning.  It’s time we change how we encourage others and get a new perspective on encouragement.

 

 

Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, Ok.

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Podcasts Woman to Woman

Encourage without Wounding

The biggest complaint about Christians today is that we are hypocrites.  We tell others what to do and how to live while not doing and living ourselves.  However, when Christians are asked about those accusations, we say that people use that as an excuse to stay out of church and refuse God.  Rarely do we think of ourselves as being hypocritical.

I realize that I have wounded people in my efforts to be encouraging.  My communication skills have not always been the best although I have had the best intentions.  Maybe it was due to excitement or my own adamant beliefs but unintentional wounds are still wounds that hurt.

Janie and I are going to discuss ways that we can learn to encourage others without wounding them. Sometimes our best encouragements can sound condemning and judgmental leaving others to think we are intentionally pointing a finger at them.  How do our best intentions turn into hypocritical judgmental condemnations?   We hope that you will join us in our discussion topic.

We broadcast live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio and kwxcradio.com every Friday at noon (CST).  If that time is not convenient, you can listen to the recorded podcast which will be posted here following the live show each week.

Show dates are:

March 3rd – Episode 1

March 10th – Episode 2

March 17th – Episode 3

March 24th – The Shepherd’s Field – Part 1

March 31st – The Shepherd’s Field – Part 2

woman-to-woman-info-cards-lgWe also want to say thank you for your prayers and support.  Your feedback is encouraging.  We have enjoyed being a part of your lives each week and hope that you will continue to grow with us.

Listen to February shows that discuss “The Heart of God“

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Into the Deep

It is so easy to get caught up in the routines of life.  In our family, we know what our schedule is everyday.  It is nice to break away from the routine and just relax.  Recently, I had the privilege to break away from everything for five wonderful days.  I knew this opportunity was orchestrated by God, so I sought Him for weeks before my departure.  I wanted to hear His voice, see His face, and feel His presence.  I listened carefully and watched mindfully; I desired to be changed by the end of the week, so I dug in deep.

And Jesus Said…

“Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a catch” Luke 5:4.  Jesus instructed Peter to cast his net into the deep for a catch.  I was struck by how Jesus said “deep” as if Peter had been fishing in the shallow waters.  I thought about myself before this week; had I been sitting in shallow waters hoping to make a catch?  As Christians, it is easy to get comfortable with the depth of our knowledge, the depth of our relationship, and even the depth of our commitment and service.  Many things can attribute to our comfort.  We can be too busy with work and our kids activity schedule.  We can be set in a routine and not willing to change.  However, many times it is fear that keeps us from going deeper.  Fear of what might be required of us.  Fear of failure.  Fear of a commitment.  I know because I have let all of these fears keep me from going deeper at different seasons of my life.  But, for five wonderful days in May 2016, I sought God’s face with a desire to launch into the deep.  As a result, I found a deeper relationship with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  No more shallow waters and no more fears.  Take a risk to launch into the deep and let go of your fears, I promise God will not fail you.

-Sharon

Image: http://www.ebiblestories.com/stories/the_story_of_the_fishermen.shtml

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I Am Tired!

I am tired!  Is anyone else tired?  It seems there is always something pulling at my time.  Just when I think I can rest I remember something that I should be doing or working on or somewhere I have to go.  There is an endless pile of laundry to be washed, not to mention the ones in the basket waiting to be folded or the folded ones camped out on the table waiting to be put away.  The dishes are never done, there is always something finding its way to the sink.  And just when I think all the beds are clean, floors are vacuumed, and bathrooms are spotless…it’s time to start all over again.

And Jesus Said…

“Come to Me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest to your souls.  For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” Matthew 11:28-30.  Now, this scripture seems a little out of context when we are talking about needing rest physically.  However, a good friend of mine, Jackie Hughes, told me one time, “Busy is Being Under Satan’s Yoke.”  Isn’t that what makes us tired…being busy?  I have used “being busy” as an excuse for many of my shortcomings.  I might forget to do something and reach for “busy” instead of forgetful.  When weeks go by without making contact with my friends, I reach for “busy” instead of neglectful.  When we get too busy things fall through the cracks, people feel neglected, and we get tired.  I sometimes think that we, women, think we have to be busy otherwise, we think we are being lazy or unproductive.  Yes, things like laundry, dishes, cleaning, errands, and other responsibilities need to be done.  Many women have jobs that add to that list, but this “busy” acronym helped remind me that being busy could be Satan’s disguise into my life.  I don’t want to give him one little place to grab a hold.  No matter how tired or busy I get, I can never allow that to distract me from God’s will or cause me to neglect Christ in my life.  So, when I find myself thinking about how busy I am, or feeling too tired to think, I remember this acronym to remind me to find rest in Jesus.

-Sharon Hoskins

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He Touched Me

Think about the conversations you have throughout the day.  Some of them are necessary for information.  Some conversations are pointless; it’s just a bunch of talk.  Others are exhausting; it takes all your energy to get through it.  But then, there are those conversations that mean something; they touch your soul, and you don’t want them to end.  For me, these conversations have Jesus in the center, the focal subject.  “He touched me, yes He touched me, and oh the joy that floods my soul.”  It’s a beautiful old hymn that describes how we feel at the touch of Jesus.

And Jesus Said…

“Who touched Me?” Luke 8:45.  Jesus was on His way to the house of Jarius, but a multitude of people were pressed against Him, the woman with the issue of blood touched Him, and He said, “Who touched Me?”  He noticed that touch because He perceived that virtue had gone out of Him.  This story made me wonder how I could touch Jesus in a way that would make Him stop and say, “Who touched Me”.  I am not able to touch His physical body today, but can I still touch Him?  He touches me in so many ways.  Does my time with Him in prayer and reading my Bible touch Him the way it does me?  I had always thought of myself as being the beneficiary of such conversations with Him.  But, perhaps if I would look outside myself, I could see that the love He poured out on the cross was more than the sacrifice for my sins, but through that He would be able to spend time in conversations with me.  “Now you are clean through the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you” John 15:3-4.  “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me” Revelation 3:20.  The time we spend with Him is a touching time for both Him and us.  He loves spending time with us, just as we love spending time with Him.  Maybe I’m the only one who has not considered the idea that God wants to spend time with me.  Who am I?  Nobody.  No one special, that God, the creator of the universe, would want to spend time with me.  This is how most of us think.  We know God loves us, died for us, and wants to give us eternal life, but we don’t think that He looks forward to our conversations and never wants them to end.  We sometimes think of our prayer and Bible time as something that will benefit us, which it does, but we don’t consider what that time does for God.  What if our goal each day was to touch Him; not with our service, not with our good deeds, or special talents, but touch Him in conversation?  I think it would give us a whole new perspective to our time with God.

-Sharon Hoskins

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It Is Written

We all find ourselves weak at times in our life; whether that weakness is a physical burden, financial struggle, or the pressure of making the right decision.  And it’s always during those times of weaknesses that we find our most difficult temptations.  We are almost guaranteed to hit every stop light in town when we are late for an important meeting.  Then we are tempted to speed and drive rudely.  When our paycheck is short due to illness and the electric bill is due, we are tempted to cut our tithe so we can pay it.  Temptation is guaranteed to show its ugly face right in the middle of our weakness.  The good news is that we can find comfort in the fact that Jesus experienced weakness and He was tempted too.

 

And Jesus said…

“It is written, man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God” Matthew 4:4.  Jesus had been fasting 40 days and 40 nights and He was hungry.  In that weakness, Satan tried to get Him to turn stones into bread in order to take care of Himself. Whatever weakness we are facing, we often find ourselves tempted to take care of it ourselves.  We look for the answer in what we can do.  Our prayers are often a plea for God to show us what we can do.  We say things like, “I can do nothing without Christ”, but we forget how much He can do when we just trust Him.  It is very tempting to try to make thing happen, set things in motion, or do what makes sense.  It’s easy to fall into temptation, but Jesus gives us the key to overcoming; “It is written…”  His word is the answer; breathed from the mouth of God and hidden in our heart to be used when temptations come.

-Sharon Hoskins