The Cross and the Corinthians

“For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified” 1 Cor. 2:2.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie, and Sharon dig into the counsel Paul is giving to the Corinthian Church to help uncover their blindness about the cross of Christ.

They were very intelligent people and they were using their own intellect to understand the cross, but God’s wisdom is not received by the natural man. Even as Believers, we can begin to think that the cross of Christ is the one-time act of love that Jesus died for our sins. However, His sacrifice on the cross benefits our life for all eternity.

The cross provides all that we need to live victoriously. It paid for our sins by the blood of Jesus. It also took care of our flesh by the crucifixion and defeated the power of Satan in our lives by the resurrection.

There was nothing left undone. Jesus did pay it all so that we could have life abundantly free from sin and death.

So join in the conversation as we discuss the Cross and the Corinthians.

The Prayer Life

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green digs into 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, the 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.

Forgiving Forward

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green explores Forgiving Forward by Bruce and Toni Hebel. This is not the average “forgiveness” book.  Heavy with experiences made practical and answering questions many are not even asking; makes this a life-transforming book and one that should be in your library.

 

Forgiveness is foundational to a life of faith.  It is so much more than saying, “I am sorry.”  True forgiveness will take us out of our comfort zone and required a renewing of our minds.  Our natural minds cannot work from logic and reason in this matter because it is a supernatural work provided by The Supernatural God.  We are told to forgive as Christ has forgiven us (Ephesians 4:30.) Whatever has been done to me from another’s sin nature, I have done to Christ with my sin nature. All sin, no matter the degree required Christ to go to the Cross and pay the price.  The words may be simple but the process is complex in that our hearts must be made right before God with having our speech free of corrupt communication and only for edification to the hearer, being free from grieving or quenching the Spirit and getting rid of bitterness, extreme anger for harm to another person, and other thinking that is of the flesh with corresponding negative emotions. (Ephesians 4:29-31.)

Many often quote John 8:32 “You shall know the Truth and the Truth shall set you free.”  However, there is a key to that reality being applied and that is found in the preceding verse 31, “IF you abide (to be at home)in ME and My words abide in you, THEN, knowing and applying the Truth can be made practical for necessary forgiveness releasing burden and guilt that unforgiveness carries.

The Way of The Master Part Two

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green continues with the second half of a look into The Way of The Master by Ray Comfort.

 

Last week, we began a special two-part feature on Ray Comfort’s The Way of the Master. We learned from Ray Comfort and Kirk Cameron that only a small percentage of American churchgoers share their faith with others. In fact, a majority of Christians today have come to the conclusion that sharing the gospel of Christ is somehow not their personal responsibility.

One reason this is happening is because the enemy has very subtly diverted our attention away from our core message. Instead of preaching the good news that sinners can be made righteous in Christ and escape the wrath to come, we have settled for a “gospel” that implies that God’s primary purpose in saving us is to unfold a “wonderful plan” for our lives: to solve our problems, make us happy in Christ and rescue us from the hassles of this life.

But what unregenerate sinners really seek is a life change that brings positive results and won’t cost too much. If non-Christians respond to the gospel message only to improve their lives, they will be disillusioned when persecution comes.

So, I would like to invite you to come and be a part as we continue with Ray Comfort as he illuminates an almost forgotten biblical key that has the power to unlock the door of the human heart. A proven and effective way of making the gospel make sense to the unsaved. So rooted in the Scriptures, once you see it, you will forever wonder how you could’ve missed it. It is the biblical principle of bypassing the intellect (the place of argument) and speaking directly to the conscience-just the way Jesus did.

The Way of The Master

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green examines The Way of The Master by Ray Comfort.

 

How is it that a majority of Christians today have come to the conclusion that sharing the gospel of Christ is somehow not their personal responsibility.

I will be the first to admit that figuring out how to begin a conversation in order to share your faith with someone can seem like one of life’s most daunting tasks and certainly not all of us are called to a full-time role of evangelism. However, just because it does not come naturally for many of us, does not negate the fact that every Christian should be prepared to give an account of their faith when the Holy Spirit presents us with the opportunity.

We cannot wait around and hope that if the situation ever arises, we can simply “wing it”. If we don’t prepare to give an account of our faith, then more often than not, we will fail to heed the call when the Holy Spirit provides is an occasion to do so.

How can we learn to share our faith is simply, effectively and biblically… the way Jesus did?

One excellent tool that has greatly assisted me is: The Way of the Master by Ray Comfort with Commentary by Kirk Cameron.  This book gives life to an almost forgotten biblical key that has the power to unlock the door of the human heart. It is a proven and effective way of making the gospel make sense to the unsaved.

It is rooted in the Scriptures, once you see it, you will forever wonder how you could’ve missed it. It is the biblical principle of bypassing the intellect (the place of argument) and speaking directly to the conscience (the place of knowledge of right and wrong) – the way Jesus did.

Lord Teach Us To Pray

“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior” 1 Timothy 2:1-3.

 

This week on Sharin Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie Ratzlaff and Sharon Hoskins discuss the importance of prayer. It seems to be an area of struggle among many believers. Most times we pray in the manner we have heard others pray, but rarely feel a real connection to the Lord and wonder if our prayers are really going anywhere. Some describe their prayers as hitting the ceiling and falling to the floor. There is a Christian song that talks about all the things that happen while the church is asleep. We may not be literally asleep but we have a clever enemy that is very good at deception. Could the root cause of downfall that we see in society today be because the church as a whole doesn’t know how to pray? Join the conversation to discover why we should say, “Lord, Teach Us To Pray”.

Predators in Our Pulpits

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green examines Predators in Our Pulpits by W. Phillip Keller. Across the centuries since Christ came along in human form as a service, men and women of all creeds have had to examine their motives for ministry in the light of his humility and other self-denial. Why do they serve at all?

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green examines Predators in Our Pulpits by W. Phillip Keller. Across the centuries since Christ came along in human form as a service, men and women of all creeds have had to examine their motives for ministry in the light of his humility and other self-denial. Why do they serve at all?

It is a question of extreme importance. And while many stay glued to their TVs every night questioning the motives of our local, state, and national leaders, many take for granted the leadership in our churches – failing to hold accountable our spiritual leaders for the truth or lack of truth they speak.

Yet today’s author asserts the greatest threat to the church of Jesus Christ today is not from without, but from our own leadership within. He asks:

· Are our leaders guiding us to an authentic relationship with Christ, or are many merely providing balm for everyday life?

· Why are we hearing less and less of the true gospel message?

· Are we neglecting the unsaved and failing to provide answers for Christians living discontented lives?

· How deeply committed are we to proclaiming God’s truth and adhering to his commands?

In the face of today’s spiritual perils, W. Phillip Keller presses every Christian layperson to examine the state of the Christian church and depend upon Christ alone in his book, Predators in Our Pulpits.

To Know Him

“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” Romans 6:4.

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie Ratzlaff and Sharon Hoskins discuss the privileges we receive from the price Jesus paid on the Cross. As we live in this “age of grace,” where we receive many benefits from God as His children through the sacrifice of Christ, we forget that we have a responsibility in the relationship with Him. Romans 12:1-2 are beautiful verses that lay out a game plan for the relationship with God being a two-way street. But, our greatest responsibility is to know Him, and we find that everything else fits together when we spend time to know God.

Lifestyle of Discernment

“Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feeble-minded, support the weak, be patient toward all men” 1 Thessalonians 5:14.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie Ratzlaff and Sharon Hoskins discuss the scriptures which give instructions that require discernment. If we continue to read in 1 Thessalonians 5:15-23, we discover many more discerning instructions such as; follow that which is good, don’t render evil for evil, rejoice evermore, pray without ceasing, give thanks in everything, do not despise prophesying, do not quench the Spirit, and prove all things. These commands describe a lifestyle of discernment that will benefit our whole spirit, soul, and body to be preserved blameless to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Many times in life we are making decisions before we are filtering it through God’s word. Other times we let our emotions get the best of us and we speak before we think. Join in this conversation that challenges our spiritual growth and apply the practical ways we can begin to live a lifestyle of discernment.

Grace Grows Best in Winter

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green features this special book that Joni Eareckson Tada read during the first winter of her disability. Grace grew then for her. And through grace, you will grow too!

 

The “why” of human suffering is an age-old question. Recently, there have been several people within my circle of influence who have faced a season of suffering. Some have come through now to see the hilltop others are still journeying through the Valley.

So, come be a part, as we examine, Grace Grows Best in Winter from author Margaret Clarkson who offers a thoughtful, biblical exploration of the “why” of human suffering.

Clarkson indicates this is a book of help for those who must live with a continuing problem of suffering, of whatever kind. It seeks to lead sufferers to discover and to embrace the character of God, so they will be enabled to live triumphantly within the hedge of suffering, wherein God has placed them, and from which in his inscrutable sovereignty He had not yet seen fit to release them.
This is not an “escape” book, nor does it emphasize physical healing, although it frankly accepts the fact that God can and sometimes does heal. It makes no attempt to probe the problem of pain from a philosophical viewpoint, nor is it a book of debate. It contains no sentimentality and offers no shallow “comfort.”

Suffering is seen as one of God’s means of enlarging the soul’s capacity for Himself, and sufferers are enjoined to seek God’s enabling that they may lose none of the present or future fullness that God would have them experience as a result. This is not the most usual view of human suffering, but Clarkson is convinced that it is the only practical, workable way to cope with its stresses.

Loved by God Part Two

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green continues with the second half of this amazing book, Loved by God, by R.C. Sproul.

 

With the mastery of a scholar and the heart of a servant, acclaimed theologian R. C. Sproul continues our journey into the very heart of God… contemplating the deepest mysteries of His perfect love.

In the conclusion of this two-part feature, we will take a closer look at not only God’s immense love but also His divine wrath and also explore the incredible privilege which allows us to call our God…Father.

Once you discover for yourself the astonishing depth, wonder, and richness of God’s love, you’ll want to share it – and this book – with everyone you know.

Judge With Tender Mercies

“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another” Col. 3:12-13.

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon study what it means to judge according to scripture and find that we are commanded to judge (investigate, distinguish, and examine) not only situations but also people and ourselves. We are not to judge to condemnation, but to reconciliation. With the correct definition of judgment and the right context of judgment, we can discover how to judge with tender mercies.

Judge Unto Righteousness

“For if we judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world” 1 Corinthians 11:31-32.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss the demand we hear from the world, not to judge; however, we find scriptures that command us to judge. So, how are we misappropriating the truth of scripture and misusing the term judge? Join the discussion to discover the different definitions of the word judge, ways to distinguish it in context, and the command we are given to judge unto righteousness.

Key Words to the Christian Life

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green explores Key Words to the Christian Life by Warren Wiersbe.

 

Never underestimate the power of words. A judge speaks, and a man is condemned or set free. A physician speaks, and a person has surgery, or he is sent home from the hospital. A government official speaks, and millions of dollars are spent or withheld.

In our own personal lives, we know the power of words – words that can bless us and words that can cut us and hurt us. It is very important for us as Christians to know the meaning of biblical words. We need to understand these words and how they apply to our lives.

Words like justification, sanctification, propitiation, imputation, and mediation – these words make up the technical vocabulary of the Christian life and are very important!

So, come be a part as we delve into a world of words with Warren Wiersbe in Key Words to the Christian Life. Where he will help us establish a solid vocabulary for guiding our daily Christian life.

To Judge or Not to Judge

“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you shall be judged: and with what measure of mete, it shall be measured to you again” Matthew 7:1-2.

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss the scriptural definition of judgment. Matthew 7:1-2 tells us not to judge; however, Philippians 1:9 says, “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that you may approve things that are excellent; that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ.” Join in this challenging conversation on the topic of judgment and the examination of the question…are we to judge or not to judge?

 

If I Perish, I Perish

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green digs into “If I Perish, I Perish by Major Ian Thomas to find insights into the meaning of Christian commitment.
Do you recall a moment, a day, or a season when you came to the realization that you knew you would follow the Lord no matter what? I’m not talking about the moment you were saved, but a time later-after you’d experience perhaps some of the valleys of the shadows, after weaning from the milk of the word to meat of it, after realizing that you could do nothing apart from our Savior. A time when you truly understood that no matter the storms, no matter the trials or tribulations, you would not turn away from the Lord. Because being “in Christ” had become as essential to you as the air you breathe.

If you can not recall such a moment, then perhaps today’s showcased book will help you because it provides insights into the true meaning of Christian commitment.

I had the distinct honor of sitting under the teaching of Major Ian Thomas on several occasions during my high school and early college years. He was an engaging speaker who could make even a teenager sit up and listen as he presented solid truth with both profound insight and humor. Deep thoughts translated into practical, relatable lessons of life.

And it is with heartfelt appreciation for Maj. Thomas and his influence on my life that I ask you to come and be a part as we feature, If I Perish, I Perish-Insights into the meaning of Christian Commitment.

Loneliness: How to Be Alone but Not Lonely

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green discovers the contents of Loneliness: How to Be Alone but Not Lonely by June Hunt.  God has placed within each of us a basic need for a relationship with him and with others; therefore, our longing to belong, is natural. You may feel like the entire world has abandoned you; as if no one understands your pain and sorrow, but the Bible promises that the Lord is with you always!

 

Do you know…

· How being alone and being lonely differ?

· What leads to feelings of loneliness?

· How to identify situational causes for loneliness?

· What are the mental and physical symptoms of loneliness?

· How to overcome feelings of loneliness?

If not, come be a part, as an author and biblical counselor, June Hunt, helps us find answers to these questions in her book, Loneliness: How to Be Alone but Not Lonely.

The Riches of His Grace Part 7

“And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked word, yet now has He reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy and unblamable and unreprovable in His sight” Colossians 1:21-22.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss the thoughts that cause us to work for God’s approval. We are reconciled – past tense; now let’s grow in grace and knowledge by studying the scriptures to be a learner that has a testimony. Learning to go from “trying” to “trusting”. God declares that He loves us so much that He does not want to do without us.

The Complete Green Letters Part 2

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green continues with the second part of examining The Complete Green Letters by Miles J. Stanford. “The good has always been the enemy of His best. No book can replace the Bible, and only those of the highest caliber can assist in opening His treasures. Therefore, seek the best and shun the secondary.”

 

In conjunction with the word of God, the greatest aid to spiritual growth comes through deeper-life literature. As to feeding, it must be primarily the word. But desired growth can be substantially aided by concentration on the best writings.

It makes all the difference when the awakened believer is introduced early on to the tried and true writings on the Christ-life. Even so, caution and discernment must be exercised when studying but, there are priceless truths out there for all who hunger for His best.

So, come be a part, as we search out one such example. One that had a profound, lasting influence on my life. A work I believe can truly be classified as one of the best – The Complete Green Letters, written by Miles J Stanford.

The complete green letters is not a single work, but actually a collection of five dealing with a common theme – “not I, but Christ.” In these works, Stanford presents us with a comprehensive treatise on what it means to be a Christian.

The Complete Green Letters

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green examines The Complete Green Letters by Miles J. Stanford. “The good has always been the enemy of His best. No book can replace the Bible, and only those of the highest caliber can assist in opening His treasures. Therefore, seek the best and shun the secondary.”

 

In conjunction with the word of God, the greatest aid to spiritual growth comes through deeper-life literature. As to feeding, it must be primarily the word. But desired growth can be substantially aided by concentration on the best writings.

It makes all the difference when the awakened believer is introduced early on to the tried and true writings on the Christ-life. Even so, caution and discernment must be exercised when studying but, there are priceless truths out there for all who hunger for His best.

So, come be a part, as we search out one such example. One that had a profound, lasting influence on my life. A work I believe can truly be classified as one of the best – The Complete Green Letters, written by Miles J Stanford.

The complete green letters is not a single work, but actually a collection of five dealing with a common theme – “not I, but Christ.” In these works, Stanford presents us with a comprehensive treatise on what it means to be a Christian.

The Riches of His Grace Part 5

“I know your works, and your labor, and your patience, and how you can not bear them which are evil;…Nevertheless, I have something against you because you have left your first love” Revelation 2:2 and 2:4.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie Ratzlaff and Sharon Hoskins talk about the material that we use to build a dam and stop the flow of the Riches of God’s grace. Looking into the difference between law, legalism, and standards, we find that these things can stop the flow of God’s grace into our lives and even the lives of others around us.

The Riches of His Grace Part 4

“And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work” 2 Corinthians 9:8.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Sharon and Janie continue to discuss the gift of God’s amazing grace. Grace meets our need, Grace gives us a family, Grace allows us to have a relationship with God, Grace relieves us from the fear of death, Grace gives us the privilege of calling God “Father”.

Grace is always flowing but there are ways that we stop the flow of it. Not dying to our flesh daily hinders us from resurrected life that God has planned for us. Christ came for us to have life with grace and the cross is the center of that life He has given.

The Riches of His Grace Part 3

“According to ht working of His mighty power, which He wrought in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead, and set Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places” Ephesians 1:19b-20.

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue to look at Ephesians Chapter One verse by verse and discuss the “Riches of His Grace.” Some words in these scriptures are difficult to understand, so Janie and Sharon spend a little time talking about the meaning of these words.

Starting in verse 11 this week, they complete the chapter with the ultimate riches, “He has put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him that fills all in all” Ephesians 1:22-23.

Humility

This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green pulls Humility by Andrew Murray from the shelf.

 

One of the best definitions of humility is one by today’s author, Andrew Murray.  This man’s life reflected what he wrote.  He has described HUMILITY as:

“Perfect quietness of heart.  It is to have no trouble, not to be fretted or vexed or irritated or sore or disappointed.”

“It is to expect nothing, to wonder at nothing that is done to me, to feel nothing done against me.  It is to be at  rest when nobody praises me, and when I am  blamed or despised.”

“It is to have a blessed home in the Lord, where I can go in and shut the door, and kneel to my Father in secret and be at peace as in a deep-sea of calmness when all around and above is trouble.  It is the fruit of the Lord Jesus Christ’s redemptive work on Calvary’s Cross, made known in those of His own who are definitely subject to the Holy Spirit.”

This cannot be head knowledge, it must be a life lived in the power of Another, tested and tried on a regular basis, so that it becomes a part of your character and a continual habit. What held true in the day and ministry of Andrew Murray is still as relevant and needed today as in the days of old.

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.

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.”

 

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

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?

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

 

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” AngerAnxietiesDepressionFear, and Guilt.

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.

 

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.

 

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.”

 

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.

 

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.

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.

The Heart of God

Sharon and Janie dive into the heart of God and take some time to look into His character this month.

We hope that you can join us as we build on the foundation of faith that was discussed last month.  2 Peter 1:5 says, “…giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge…”  As we learn the virtue of God’s character we can understand how to grow spiritually into His likeness.

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 here to the recorded podcast each week.  Feb. 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th will be added after each show.

woman-to-woman-february-hosts

 

We also want to say thank you for your prayers and support.  The feedback you give is encouraging; thank you.  We have enjoyed being a part of your lives each week and hope that you will continue to grow with us.

Episode 1 – February 3, 2017

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 truth about His characteristics can bring us into a closer relationship with Him.  The relationship “test” is available to download.

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


Episode 2 – February 10, 2017

Focusing on God as Shepherd in our life, Sharon and Janie discuss the similarities that we have to sheep and how God protects us and provides for us as a good Shepherd.  Janie shares some interesting facts about how a shepherd cares for the sheep that we can all relate to as God’s sheep.

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


Episode 3 – February 17, 2017

Sharon and Janie tackle the three O’s of God’s character (Omniscient, Omnipresent, & Omnipotent).  The all knowing, ever-present, power of God gives us confindence in His ability to work in our lives.  It is important that we recognizing God when He shows up in our life so we don’t reject what He has to offer.

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


Episode 4 – February 24, 2017

Sharon and Janie share encouragement to the saints.  They discuss the importance of having a mentor to “do” Christian life with you.  Scripture defines encouragement as exhortation and warning.  When we are involved in each others lives it is easier to tell when they are about to fall over a cliff.

Post-Recorded at KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio – Grove, Ok.  Technical difficulties prevented live recording so Janie and Sharon entered the studio and attempted to share the live version.


The Proverbs 31:30 Woman to Woman show has been on the air since April 2016.  You can still listen to your favorite guest by going to the guest connections.

Janie Ratzlaff

Janie Ratzlaff has been in ministry for over 40 years; traveling overseas for decades with her husband’s job, she would team up with missionaries in the area and work alongside them. She has worked with Evangelical Mission Ministries, helping with teachings in over 70 churches that were planted in Mexico along with a seminary. She has also assisted in different areas of ministry with His Truth Transforms International. She trained and worked as a Biblical counselor and teacher. She has written and developed “Wellness Wisdom Workshops” and “Lighthouse Lifelines” both were made into seminars and study groups for churches, and put into Christian educational institutions both stateside and international. She is active in her local church teaching young girls and a prayer class. Every week she hosts a live radio show with Sharon Hoskins to mentor listeners and encourage them in their walk with God.

Follows is a series of broadcasts from 2016.

12-16-16

Janie encourages us with the remedy for bitterness.  Ending this year’s teaching with ways to recognize the symptoms of bitterness and scripture to help us find healing.  More information about Bruce and Toni Hebel can be found at Forgiving Forward. Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio in Grove, Ok.


12-09-16

Building on the sufficiency of scripture, Janie shares a teaching on our belief systems.  She gives us a list of lies we have been told and the truth of scripture that we should be trusting instead.  Once we recognize the lies we have believed we can begin to renew our mind with the truth of God’s word.  She offers two teaching handouts this week are Defining Lies and Process for Renewing the Mind.  Please forgive the first 7 minutes, it has a bit of noise that couldn’t be edited out, but recording gets better after that time.  Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio in Grove, OK.


12-02-16

Janie shares a teaching on the sufficiency of scripture.  God’s word is without flaw and is true, but do we believe that the scriptures are true for us?  She shares scriptures that define sufficiency and helps us learn to apply scriptures in our life.  Although she doesn’t mention teaching handouts, she does have Renewing The Mind – Part 1 , Renewing The Mind – Part 2 , Renewing The Mind – Part 3 and Putting Off / Putting On available for you to download.  If you are interested in receiving the booklet, “The Sufficiency of Scripture” please contact us. Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio in Grove, Ok.


11-18-16

Technical difficulties have prevented us from making this podcast available to you.  We apologize for any inconvenience.  You can listen to the teaching on 12-02-16 and receive much of the information that was discussed on this date.  The teaching handout The Truth About Me is also available for you to download.


11-11-16

Janie shares the second part in her teaching series on depression.  She describes the emotions and other causes that can contribute to depression.  Janie teaches on how to recognize depression and gives a definition of spiritual depression.  She shares scripture to help us apply God’s word to overcome the heavy weight of depression and give us hope.  This is the second part of the teaching that began with the podcast “10-21-16”  If you are struggling with depression you can glean from her message and be encouraged.  She offers teaching handouts Body-Soul-Spirit , Recognize Depression , Symptoms and Anedotes for you to download. Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio in Grove, OK.


10-21-16

Janie shares a teaching on the causes, cures, and other emotions that contribute to depression and how to find hope through it.  Next month we will continue this teaching along with renewing the mind.  Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio in Grove, OK.


9-16-16

Janie shares “Guidelines About Expectations” in this month’s podcast.  She enlightens us about the emotions that surround our expectations.  She shares warnings of the downward spiral that expectations can lead us into and encouragement for getting out of the whirlwind that may have us feeling trapped.  She also offers teaching handouts Expectations, Anger, and Bitterness , Dealing with the Emotional Process  , Process of Forgiveness this week for you to download.  Janie also mentioned Blue Bible to find scriptures on “anger.”  Next month she will share more on depression; causes, cures, and other emotions that contribute to depression.  Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio Grove, Ok.

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8-26-16

Janie teaches on the concept of “doing wrong for the right reasons.”  Exploring the story of David moving the ark of God in First Chronicles 13, she brings practical applications to how we can learn from David’s mistake so that we don’t continue doing things wrong for right reasons.  Teaching handout R.E.A.C.T. To Your Emotions is available to download. Recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio Grove, Ok.

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7-15-16

Janie has a passion to share practical teachings from God’s word about the heart of God and man.  Teaching handout Comparison Test is available to download.  Listen to her interview recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio in Grove, Ok


6-17-16

Janie’s introduction interview, learn her testimony and be encouraged by her genuine heart.  She has provided teaching handout My Heart: Christ’s Home by Robert Boyd Munger and God Is is available for you to download.  Listen to her interview recorded live on KWXC 88.9 Christian Talk Radio in Grove, Ok