Tag: discipleship

Podcasts The Fireside Bookshelf

Spiritual Leadership

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green opens Spiritual Leadership by J. Oswald Sanders to answer the question: Are leaders born, or can anyone learn to be a leader?

 

There are a very small number of people who innately know how to lead; but the majority of us need equipping, mentoring, and encouragement to succeed. The need to know how to lead is expressed in 2 Timothy 2:12, where the Bible declares “Believers will reign with Christ.”  The training is now for the eternal destiny that we have been afforded.  There will be a  constant state of learning for the true leader, however, the character that leads is formed here and now. The most important character quality of a great leader is HUMILITY.

Watching a leader in action is a good way to learn; because a leader who does not take advice is NOT a leader. A true leader is a godly servant who knows where he is going, inspiring others and equipping others to follow.

SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP will lay out the principles and applications of how to become a leader created and guided by the Holy Spirit, as it is the leader’s responsibility to make sure the people understand complex issues with simplicity.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Riches of His Grace Part 2

“In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” Ephesians 1:7

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue with their discussion in Ephesians Chapter One. They tackle the word redemption to give a word picture of what Christ has done for us on the Cross. With redemption comes wisdom and prudence; it may take us a while to grab ahold of all that is ours because of the redemptions. There are many riches of God’s grace that are flowing toward us, we just don’t always know what all belongs to us according to those riches.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Riches of His Grace Part 1

“To the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He has made us accepted in the beloved” Ephesians 1:6.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss the importance of understanding God’s grace. The first three chapters of Ephesians give the position of who we are; the last three chapters give instructions on how to walk in who we are. Looking at the first six verses of Ephesians chapter one, Janie gives us much to think about as we hear how God chose us before the foundations of the world. In Christ, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

All of Grace

“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin” Romans 6:4-6.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss the joy of understanding the full benefits of living under Grace.  For those that choose to accept salvation without finding out the beauty of Romans 6, they will miss living the life that was freely given at the Cross. The Lord Jesus deserves to be trusted and since He says, “I have forgiven” then we can trust His wisdom, His grace, and His knowledge in being willing to forgive those that are our enemies. That, then allows the joy start to flow back within your life and when the joy flows back in your life, there is an inward and outward manifestation that we know the forgiveness is real.  Let’s uncover the promise of Christ taking care of all at the Cross when He  said: “It is finished.”

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Solid Foundation Part 2

“A lie believed as truth will affect your life as if it were true even though it is a lie”

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss the way a lie can affect our life. They touch on topics of lies that our society has convinced us are true and on lies that we have believed about ourselves. Each lie affects our life differently but they are all still lies which affect our lives in a negative way. We reject the truth for a lie and Jesus is Truth, therefore we reject Him.

School Day Devotions mentioned in the broadcast are available here

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Solid Foundation Part 1

“According to the grace of God which is given to me, as a wise master-builder, I have laid the foundation, and another builds thereon. But let every man take heed how he builds thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ” 1 Corinthians 3:10-11.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss how to build upon the solid foundation of Jesus Christ. The daily struggles of life can take its toll on our Christian walk in applying the scriptures that will help us stand in our faith in the heat of the battle. Finding truth; which is the person Jesus Christ, will give us the right perspective in thinking to overcome many adversities. Jesus is preparing a home for us in heaven and the home He is preparing has to do with how we are living here and now. What are you sending up; gold, silver, and precious stones or wood, hay, and stubble?

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Emotions in Dark Times

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss that 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 of 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 internally 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 a 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.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon extend the series The 4 M’s of Emotions to include how loss affects our emotions. 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 the 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 in deception and lies that we believe; for all the wrong reasons.

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon 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.

 

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.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss how Emotions are Manageable as they continue with the series “The 4 “M’s” of Emotions.” We can never figure out the 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.

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Emotions are Messengers Part 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.

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, 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 result in approval/acceptance that makes us feel OK about ourselves, or bring disapproval/rejection that makes us feel bad.”

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Emotions are Messengers Part 1

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

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

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss how we are programmed through our five senses, sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch. As we use these senses they produce thoughts and/or arouses memories. Depending on what we “ listen” to through our senses our mind will express corresponding emotions; influencing our 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 our circumstances. One brings health and healing, the other brings confusion and defeat.

 

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.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, 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. 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.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Rx PreScriptures

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

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss matters of the brain and our thoughts.

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 overstimulation of choices from the world around us, robbing us of the precious promises that are waiting for those that will “walk the talk”.

 

Many people 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 the information we gather from our senses and thinking.  Understanding how the brain works on 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

Peace from Prison Part 3

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” Philippians 4:13.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon conclude Philippians Chapter 4 where Paul shares peace from prison with the saint in Philippi.

Peace is not a commodity that we can buy and sell, peace is a person. So what Paul is saying is that he has learned to be content because he knows in whom he has entrusted his life. Many different circumstances have proven that Jesus Christ has always been sufficient. When we develop a solid relationship with God then peace can rule in our hearts. So forming a habit of spending time with God will help us find that close relationship and in that we will know Him, trust Him, and peace is the result.

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Peace From Prison Part 2

“Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved” Philippians 4:1.

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue their discussion in Philippians Chapter 4 where Paul shares peace from prison with the saints in Philippi.

Division can cause us to be separated from all that peace has to offer. Paul teaches us how to bring back unity among the brethren.

They take a trip to Revelation Chapter 3 to look at what Jesus said in His letters to the churches. We can get so busy and wrapped up in all that life throws our way that we too can lose our first love.

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Peace From Prison Part 1

“Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved” Philippians 4:1.

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon move into Philippians Chapter four where Paul shares peace from his prison cell with the saints in Philippi.  Paul wants them to know the value of standing fast in the Lord in difficult situations; it would defeat the enemy.

Peace at any price, but we can’t buy peace. Peace is something we all long for but seems to be out of reach. God gives peace in the midst of difficult situations.

 

Podcasts The Fireside Bookshelf

The Prayer Life

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green takes a look at “The Prayer Life” by Charles Usher.

The question at hand isn’t about how many people prayed daily, but how many people truly understand biblical teaching and perspective on prayer. Because if we are truly serious about spiritual growth, about deepening our relationship with Christ… Prayer must be assigned the highest priority!

So, come be a part as we join author Charles Usher in a discussion of the prayer life and how to live it, with a concentration on spiritual warfare in his book, The Prayer Life.  This is a small book perhaps 50 pages yet filled with immense truth and practicality. The topics Usher addresses include: hindrances to prayer, equipment for warfare, prayer of faith, perseverance in prayer, and prayers for nations, homes, and circumstances. For Scripture tells us to, “watch and pray.”

The Prayer Life by Charles Usher is currently out of print and can be found online only in very limited quantities. If you are unable to locate a copy and are interested in adding The Prayer Life to your library of Christian resources, please contact The Fireside Book Shelf through our home page and we can assist you in obtaining a reprint of this timeless work.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Perseverance from Prison Part 3

“I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” Philippians 3:14

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue in Philippians Chapter 3 where Paul is sharing perseverance from prison.

Paul is saying that we can have something that is out of the norm here on earth if we are willing to go for the prize and the priority that Jesus Christ called us to.

He also gives us warnings that it will cost us something to be in the race. There is a sacrifice that goes along with reaching the goal and receiving the prize.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Perseverance from Prison Part 2

“That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable to His death” Philippians 3:10.

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon look at what it means to “know” Jesus as they examine Philippians Chapter 3.

Paul writes this letter to the saints in Philippi from prison. In this part of the letter, we find perseverance being expressed.

Once a relationship with the Lord is developed, then it takes perseverance from whatever prison you might be in to move on in growing in that relationship. All relationships take time, effort, interest, care, compassion, patience, etc. and definitely perseverance.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Perseverance from Prison Pt. 1

“Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not troublesome, but for you, it is safe” Philippians 3:1.

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon move to Philippians Chapter 3 where Paul perseveres with the saints in Philippi. He reminds them of the things he has told them before. He shares with them the importance of pressing ahead and to keep God first in their life. He encourages them to rejoice in Jesus Christ, for He is the source of their joy.  You can be an earthbound Christian or a heaven-bound Christian; that is a choice we are given to make. The time that we have on this earth is the boot training camp where we are being trained on how the Lord has called us.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Principles from Prison Part 1

“If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any compassion and mercies, fulfill you my joy, that you be like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind” Philippians 2:1-2.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon move into Philippians Chapter Two where Paul shares some principles for Christian living from prison. This letter reveals a unity of love that Paul feels for the saints in Philippi.

Paul is sharing these principles so that the saints will be encouraged to care for one another. We can care for others with our prayers. We can be sensitive to the needs of others by understanding things from their perspective. Unity comes through the fellowship of the Spirit in these ways; prayer, sensitivity, comfort, love, and compassion. Let our joy be filled with all love.

Sharon shares a little more about the struggles she is facing with her diagnosis of cancer and moving forward with the cure through chemo.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Prayers From Prison Part 2

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon look at Philippians Chapter One and the prayers Paul shares from his prison cell.

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue their discussion on Philippians Chapter One and the prayers Paul shares from prison. The saints at Philippi are learning to boldly speak out as they see the way Paul is handling his circumstances in chains.

They are praying for Paul and their prayers are giving him strength, so they are sharing in the suffering with Paul for his deliverance.

Many of the circumstances that we face in life are not easy roads to travel but when we can suffer to the glory of God others are strengthened and encouraged to boldly stand in Christ. When we pray for each other through the trials, then we participate in their deliverance. How sweet it is when the saints work together in unity of Christ.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Prayers from Prison Part 1

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon look at Philippians Chapter One and the prayers Paul shares from his prison cell.

 

 

We can have joy in every trial that we go through as we allow God to give us the strength to endure them. The sweetness of joy can overflow into our situation because of the promises we have in Christ. There is nothing more excellent than what the Cross of Christ has done for us. As we look at our situations in light of Paul’s words we can find the same hope he had from whatever “prison cell” we may be facing. Sharon shares her diagnosis of breast cancer and all that the Lord is teaching her along the way.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Armor of Prayer Part 2

“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints” Ephesians 6:18

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue with the discussion on the armor of God. Prayer is a part of the Armor. It’s not just about having a conversation with God; it’s about allowing God to be a part of every moment of our lives.

For those of us who have unknowns and pain there is a bigger picture of eternity where we can put our focus, knowing that we will all receive praise at the Judgment Seat of Christ.  No matter what happens, God can take what is meant for evil and turn it around for our good when we allow God, in prayer, to encourage us, sustain us, fulfill us, and to take each difficult step along the way.

There was nothing Job did to deserve affliction. He did not displease God. He was not full of sin. He did not get angry with God during his affliction. Job did not base his relationship with God on the blessings he received. Let’s try to look at our situation, struggles, trials and tribulations from heaven’s perspective. It’s not easy to change our perspective while in the midst of a battle, but with prayer and renewing of our mind, God can help us to see the bigger picture.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Armor of Prayer Part 1

“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints” Ephesians 6:18.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon wrap up the Armor of God with Prayer. The final part of the Armor is prayer; it is the “glue” that holds all the pieces in place. We need more than just head knowledge; we need to be able to apply prayer in our lives. Since we don’t wrestle against flesh and blood, prayers need to go up on our own behalf so that we don’t wrestle within our own selves. Take thoughts captive and renew our mind in His word. Discussing the “Seven Wonders of Prayer” we find some reminders of Gods greatness.

1. There is no promise too hard for God to fulfill.
2. There is no prayer too hard for God to answer.
3. There is no problem too hard for God to solve.
4. There is no place (town or city) too difficult for God to move and revive.
5. There is no heart too hard for God to break.
6. There is no season of time too hard for God to repeat.
7. There is no prophecy too hard for God to fulfill. Every prophecy has been given to us in a promise.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Armor of God Part 2

“Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith you shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” Ephesians 6:16-17.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue their discussion on the Armor of God. This second part focuses on the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. Ephesians Chapters 1-3 tells what the character of Christ has done for us. Ephesians Chapters 4-5 shows us how we can tell if we are appropriating the character of Christ. Now, in Ephesians 6, to activate is simple: We are in Christ, He is our all in all, so the weapons of our warfare is not something we go pull out of a drawer, or obtain in our own strength; it’s putting on Him, it’s putting on life. Satan’s power was completely broken at Calvary and we are blessed to have that breaking because now Satan has no power over us. (Romans 6:6).

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Armor of God Part 1

“Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” Ephesians 6:11.

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon expose some of the subtle ways the devil is tricking us. We don’t have to fall for his lies, we don’t have to surrender in defeat because we have access to the power of God and His armor is available to us; all we have to do is put on His armor and march forward in His power. We give the devil more credit than he deserves and too much say in our lives. We don’t have to sit in defeat and say “the devil has me down”! It’s time to get the Armor of God on and be the warriors we have been called to be.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Taming the Tongue

“Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks” Luke 6:45

 

This week on Sharin Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon tackle the little member of our body that is hard to tame – the tongue. Taming the tongue is a challenge that we all face, probably on a daily basis. It requires constant monitoring and careful discipline.

The heart is the center of who we are, what we think, how we express and choose. Our beliefs, in our nation, in our culture, even in our church are changing. The beliefs and principles that we once held so dear are now being thrown in the trash and considered outdated, ignorant, and narrow-minded.

A few years ago, Judge Robert Bork wrote a book called Slouching Toward Gomorrah, but today, it seems that we are not slouching but running a race of endurance with the greatest deception, division, and moral decay. Our beliefs are the beginning of what will eventually come out of our mouth because they come from the heart of who we are. If we filter everything through God’s word then we would be able to better tame our tongue.

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Developing Christ-Like Character

“That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of 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

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss how adversity and trials compare to the purifying of gold. How we handle the fire could determine if we end up with a wounded heart or a broken heart. 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.

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Psalm 23

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures: He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul: He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies: You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever” Psalm 23

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon are talking through Psalm 23. In six short verses, we almost get a “how to” course for how the Lord wants us to live. We are sheep, sometimes we do act out of character, but the Lord calls us sheep and He is our shepherd. We find strength and comfort, guidance and understanding when we get alone with God. David was obedient to learning in isolation.  If you have been set aside then it can be a blessing to hear God more clearly.

The Shepherd is always present in the valley He has called you to walk. He is equipped to bring you through the valley in safety. He is carrying you so don’t give up. Personalize these verses to make them real for you every day. God is the Good Shepherd.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Encourage Without Wounding Part 3

“The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb” Psalm 19:7-10.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue their discussion on how to encourage each other without wounding each other. They focus on the encourager and talk about what it takes to be an encourager to others.

They talk about the life of St. Patrick and how he was kidnapped as a young man and enslaved as a shepherd. There is a great comparison to the life of King David as a shepherd; they both grew close to the Lord in the shepherd’s field.

It is a great lesson for us to find a place that we can call our “Shepherd’s Field” and get alone with God. We will find that we can be encouraged by the Lord and filled up with Him before we go try to share Him with others.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Encourage Without Wounding Part 2

“To the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He has made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” Ephesians 1:6-7.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon focus on the wounded saints. Wounded people sometimes have a hard time reconciling the way scripture instructs us. Spiritually, we can be admitted to the hospital where we can end up fighting the “treatment” or we can follow the orders that God gives us in order to get well and free.

Many times when we are wounded by other Christians, it causes us to not trust God; whether we are looking to that person as a reflection of God or we are looking for God to reflect in them. So, it is vital that we understand that learning to trust will increase the recovery time.

And, as always, forgiveness is key to overcoming wounds and moving forward in the victory of life. A great resource for forgiveness is www.forgivingforward.com.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Encourage Without Wounding Part 1

“To the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He has made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” Ephesians 1:6-7.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss the ways we can encourage without wounding the person in which we are attempting to encourage. We can all relate to this topic either by being the wounded or being the one who has wounded.

Remembering where the encouragement comes from is the key. Our own words will not help encourage anyone. Our own love toward them is insufficient. Our own perception will be skewed. Sharing God’s words with God’s love as we see people through God’s eyes. He is our hope and our comfort so through Him we can share both.

It’s easy to get caught up in what we “think” should be done but only by prayer can we know that we are doing what’s best in everything.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Heart of God-Encouragement

“…be at peace among yourselves. Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the faint-hearted, support the weak, be patient toward all men. See that none of you render evil for evil to any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men” 1 Thessalonians 5:13-15.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss the heart of God in encouragement. Sometimes encouragement means that we should warn others of the danger of their actions, attitude, words, etc. Sometimes encouragement means upholding the weak or comforting the faint-hearted. An encourager must know how to discern when to warn, uphold, and comfort. Encouragers can help bring healing to an individual and to the body of Christ. The purpose is to keep the unity of believers together with God.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Heart of God-His Natural Attributes

“O Lord, You have searched me, and known me. You know my downsitting and my uprising, You understand my thought afar off” Psalm 139:1-2.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon tackle the three O’s of God’s character (Omniscient, Omnipresent, & Omnipotent) which are His natural attributes. The all-knowing, ever-present, power of God gives us confidence in His ability to work in our lives. “Where shall I go from Your Spirit? or where shall I flee from Your Presence?” David writes in Psalm 139:7. We can count on God to be with us at all times. God knows our thoughts even when we can’t describe how we feel. When situations and circumstances are beyond our control, we can trust God has the power to make everything work for good.  It is important that we recognizing God in our life so we don’t reject what He has to offer.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Heart of God-Provider and Protector

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures: He leads me beside the still waters” Psalm 23:1-2.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss the heart of God as provider and protector of His flock.

Focusing on God as Shepherd in our life, Janie shares some interesting facts about how a shepherd cares for sheep that we can all relate to as God’s sheep.

It is important to cry out to the Good Shepherd for the things we need. We can find healing in the Word of God; it will supply all that we need. However, we tend to seek comfort from other sources (food, shopping, liquor, friends) before we cry out to the Lord for help in our struggles.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Heart of God-Who He Is

“And beside this, giving all diligence, add to you faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge” 2 Peter 1:5

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss who God is according to scripture. We all tend to have an idea of who we would like for God to be in our lives but it is important to remember the truth of His real character.

In relating to God as Father, most of us compare His qualities to those we have seen in our own earthly father. If he was distant, we see God as distant. If he was passive, we see God as passive; and so on.

When we know what God looks like we are more likely to recognize Him when He shows up in our lives.  We sometimes have a perception of God that does not match who God really is, so the truth about His characteristics can bring us into a closer relationship with Him.

The relationship “test” is available to download.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Perseverance from Prison Pt. 3

“I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” Philippians 3:14

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue in Philippians Chapter 3 where Paul is sharing perseverance from prison.

Paul is saying that we can have something that is out of the norm here on earth if we are willing to go for the prize and the priority that Jesus Christ called us to.

He also gives us warnings that it will cost us something to be in the race. There is a sacrifice that goes along with reaching the goal and receiving the prize.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Perseverance from Prison Pt. 2

“That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable to His death” Philippians 3:10.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon look at what it means to “know” Jesus as they examine Philippians Chapter 3.

Paul writes this letter to the saints in Philippi from prison. In this part of the letter, we find perseverance being expressed.

Once a relationship with the Lord is developed, then it takes perseverance from whatever prison you might be in to move on in growing in that relationship. All relationships take time, effort, interest, care, compassion, patience, etc. and definitely perseverance.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Perseverance from Prison Pt. 1

“Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not troublesome, but for you it is safe” Philippians 3:1.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon move to Philippians Chapter 3 where Paul perseveres with the saints in Philippi. He reminds them of the things he has told them before. He shares with them the importance of pressing ahead and to keep God first in their life. He encourages them to rejoice in Jesus Christ, for He is the source of their joy.  You can be an earthbound Christian or a heaven-bound Christian; that is a choice we are given to make. The time that we have on this earth is the boot training camp where we are being trained on how the Lord has called us.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Principles from Prison Pt. 2

“Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That you may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom you shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life” Philippians 2:14-16. 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue their discussion in Philippians Chapter 2 where Paul shares principles for Christian living from prison.

There are many times that we are bound by chains that are not necessarily physical. It can be health issues, financial circumstances, or any number of situations that cause us to feel like we are in a prison. Paul gives us an example to live; in that although he was in chains, he still encouraged those around him.

It’s not always easy to wear a happy face when struggles are so difficult but when we spend time with the Lord and know what He thinks toward us, we can have hope and joy in the midst of those struggles.

Remember that Christianity is a journey we live out each day; growing, maturing, and working out our own salvation with fear and trembling.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Principles From Prison Part 1

“If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any compassion and mercies, fulfill you my joy, that you be like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind” Philippians 2:1-2.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon move into Philippians Chapter Two where Paul shares some principles for Christian living from prison. This letter reveals a unity of love that Paul feels for the saints in Philippi.

Paul is sharing these principles so that the saints will be encouraged to care for one another. We can care for others with our prayers. We can be sensitive to the needs of others by understanding things from their perspective. Unity comes through the fellowship of the Spirit in these ways; prayer, sensitivity, comfort, love, and compassion. Let our joy be filled with all love.

Sharon shares a little more about the struggles she is facing with her diagnosis of cancer and moving forward with the cure through chemo.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Prayers From Prison Pt. 2

“According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death” Philippians 1:20.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue their discussion on Philippians Chapter One and the prayers Paul shares from prison. The saints at Philippi are learning to boldly speak out as they see the way Paul is handling his circumstances in chains.

They are praying for Paul and their prayers are giving him strength, so they are sharing in the suffering with Paul for his deliverance.

Many of the circumstances that we face in life are not easy roads to travel but when we can suffer to the glory of God others are strengthened and encouraged to boldly stand in Christ. When we pray for each other through the trials, then we participate in their deliverance. How sweet it is when the saints work together in unity of Christ.

 

Podcasts Woman to Woman

Prayers From Prison Pt. 1

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon look at Philippians Chapter One and the prayers Paul shares from his prison cell.

 

We can have joy in every trial that we go through as we allow God to give us strength to endure them. The sweetness of joy can overflow into our situation because of the promises we have in Christ. There is nothing more excellent than what the Cross of Christ has done for us. As we look at our situations in light of Paul’s words we can find the same hope he had from whatever “prison cell” we may be facing. Sharon shares her diagnosis of breast cancer and all that the Lord is teaching her along the way.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Armor of Prayer Pt2

“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints” Ephesians 6:18

 

Prayer is a part of the Armor. It’s not just about having a conversation with God; it’s about allowing God to be a part of every moment of our lives.

For those of us who have unknowns and pain there is a bigger picture of eternity where we can put our focus, knowing that we will all receive praise at the Judgment Seat of Christ.  No matter what happens, God can take what is meant for evil and turn it around for our good when we allow God, in prayer, to encourage us, sustain us, fulfill us, and to take each difficult step along the way.

There was nothing Job did to deserve affliction. He did not displease God. He was not full of sin. He did not get angry with God during his affliction. Job did not base his relationship with God on the blessings he received. Let’s try to look at our situation, struggles, trials and tribulations from heaven’s perspective. It’s not easy to change our perspective while in the midst of a battle, but with prayer and renewing of our mind, God can help us to see the bigger picture.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Armor of Prayer Pt1

“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints” Ephesians 6:18.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon wrap up the Armor of God with Prayer. The final part of the Armor is prayer; it is the “glue” that holds all the pieces in place. We need more than just head knowledge; we need to be able to apply prayer in our lives. Since we don’t wrestle against flesh and blood, prayers need to go up on our own behalf so that we don’t wrestle within our own selves. Take thoughts captive and renew our mind in His word. Discussing the “Seven Wonders of Prayer” we find some reminders of Gods greatness. 1. There is no promise too hard for God to fulfill. 2. There is no prayer too hard for God to answer. 3. There is no problem too hard for God to solve. 4. There is no place (town or city) too difficult for God to move and revive. 5. There is no heart too hard for God to break. 6. There is no season of time too hard for God to repeat. 7. There is no prophecy too hard for God to fulfill. Every prophecy has been given to us in a promise.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Armor of God Pt2

“Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith you shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” Ephesians 6:16-17.

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue their discussion on the Armor or God. This second part focuses on the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. Ephesians Chapters 1-3 tells what the character of Christ has done for us. Ephesians Chapters 4-5 shows us how we can tell if we are appropriating the character of Christ. Now, in Ephesians 6, to activate is simple: We are in Christ, He is our all in all, so the weapons of our warfare is not something we go pull out of a drawer, or obtain in our own strength; it’s putting on Him, it’s putting on life. Satan’s power was completely broken at Calvary and we are blessed with that breaking (Satan has no power over us) Romans 6:6.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Armor of God Pt1

“Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” Ephesians 6:11.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon expose some of the subtle ways the devil is tricking us. We don’t have to fall for his lies, we don’t have to surrender in defeat because we have access to the power of God and His armor is available to us; all we have to do is put on His armor and march forward in His power. We give the devil more credit than he deserves and too much say in our lives. We don’t have to sit in defeat and say “the devil has me down”! It’s time to get the Armor of God on and be the warriors we have been called to be.

Podcasts Woman to Woman

The Holy Spirit in Prayer and Warfare Pt2

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” Ephesians 6:10-11.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue their discussion on the Holy Spirit in Prayer and Warfare. No one likes the idea of war, but since we are in a battle, we need the power to fight and that power is of God. To have the power of God we need to know the precious promises, how to put on the Armor so we can withstand the wiles of the devil, and to know, reckon, and apply the work of the Cross for us and in us. Afflictions are no excuse for not being a Warrior for Jesus Christ. He gives us marching orders, but we don’t have to take those alone, in our own strength, we take them within the power of God, in His strength, and that’s how we can win the battle. Let’s stop surrendering to the enemy and giving him ground in our lives. Instead, let’s surrender to God and take back the ground that belongs to us and fight within the power of God.   Let’s get our armor on, our weapon in hand, and march into battle prepared. The Wiles of the Enemy teaching handout.