Jan Morton believes that everyone needs to be and feel seen so that they know the Gospel love of Jesus and that it might be best accomplished at her table with homemade biscuits. A pastor's wife of 47 years, Jan surprised herself and everyone else in her church when she realized that she had never given her life over to Christ even after marrying a pastor and singing in the choir. She had to move her faith from her head to her heart and she loves sharing her story with everyone she meets.  Jan co-authored the book Tasting Grace: A Mentoring in the Kitchen Bible Study with Leah Adams and now the Tasting Grace kitchen ministry is going on nine different states across the country. Leave a comment to be entered into the book giveaway.  Some gems from our time together: If it matters to us, it matters to Jesus. I was mentored without knowing that was going on—we just did life together. After I trusted Christ, I knew I could be myself and just love on everyone I met.  God is writing your story and I want to hear it.  I've learned to now pray about everything and delight in the fact that I am not in control of everything. What happens at Gran-Jan camp stays at Gran-Jan camp.  My best cooking tip is to make sure you place all your ingredients out on the counter before you start.  I want my family to know that all of my treasure is in heaven and that I love Jesus with all my heart.  Mentoring means to come alongside, ask questions and sit with another.  Jan, a mother of two boys and grandmother of five, retired six years ago after thirty years serving in Houston County Schools. She describes herself as a content homebody, and a biscuit-maker who especially enjoys gardening, cooking, and quilting. Co-author of the book Tasting Grace, Jan also served in women’s ministry for 21 years. She serves in a kitchen mentoring ministry of the same name: Tasting Grace – I think this is why I found Jan on Instgram – we have similar passions and both love making and serving biscuits. A favorite fun fact of hers is being on Wheel of Fortune Season 33! Yes she won!  https://granjansjoy.com/ And on Instagram. @jan_m_morton Just for you:    

Kathi Lipp's latest book is sure to be a treasure for you and hopefully for your neighbor who may need your chicken and wild rice soup that you just made! Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest released October 8th. Beyond the convenience and peace of mind of managing meals, Kathi wrote this book to help you experience true Sabbath rest, a full day to relax, recharge, and reconnect with God and your friends and family. We were designed to rest—it’s time to reclaim your Sabbath day. This book will show you how. Kathi is no stranger to Living a Legacy Life as this is her third time to be a guest on my show. Kathi and her husband Roger live in the mountains of CA and they have learned the joy and rhythm of "pre-deciding" meals, not only for their own sense of rest and refreshment, but also for those they know and love.  Kathi Lipp is the Publishers Weekly best-selling author of over 20 books, including Sabbath Soup. She and her husband Roger ran away to the mountains of Northern California where they grow their own food and turn it into delicious meals for those they host. And she will be hosting a giveaway all week long so be sure to enter and leave a comment below or on social media or just email me: [email protected].  Some gems from our conversation: The reason we keep sabbath is because it's God's gift to us. We were not designed for the hustle we create for ourselves.  We are unaware of God's extravagant love for us; keeping sabbath helps keep us aware of this love. If I keep items on hand in the pantry or freezer, I can be the first person at someone's door with a meal or pan of brownies when they just can't make one more decision. We grew up with a mind set of "in order for everyone else to rest, women had to do all the work."  A true sabbath helps us honor God, connect with people, and remember God's provisions. Providing food for others helps them "feel seen" no matter what's going on in their lives.  We don't need to ask, "How can I help?" Rather announce, "I'm bringing a meal at 3 this afternoon—will that work and are you gluten free, by the way? Taste-Test Sabbath Soup for Free!  Sign up to receive Kathi’s free ebook featuring four week’s worth of easy meal plans and delicious recipes.  

Thirteen years ago, Sarah felt stirrings in her heart and spirit—she knew she was meant for something in God's great purpose plan. She just didn't know what. So she invited some friends over. Four came. They talked about their own dreams and stirrings and how they might fit into God's great story of love and design. From small beginnings—you've heard the adage—great things emerge when offered to God with humility and perhaps, some trepidation. REFRESH.ORG was born and now reaches 1,000's of women. I love how God does math. Loaves and fishes offered to the Muliplier and Distributor.  Join Sarah Birkbeck today on my podcast and find out how God led her to help women "join the battle" to  do God's will with joy and intention. And if there's still room for REFRESH 2025,  she's offering a 50.00 off coupon to our listeners. Go sign up today! www.refreshwomen.org Some gems from our conversation: We tend to diminish what God's put inside of us for his kingdom work, thinking that who we are and what we offer can't make a difference for him or for others.  The act of pressing into the Lord even while exhausted and ready to quit provides all the strength needed to do his will with joy and confidence. I didn't have much to offer: this house, these friends, these stirrings; but God took what I had and Refresh was born. To lead women to the Father is the most important step in unlocking the dream potential that he's placed inside of each of us.  REFRESH means to enliven, stimulate, fortify and revive—God wants to revive the dreams lying dormant within each and every woman.  The truth is that at one time or another  every woman feels forgotten, inadequate or stuck in the thought of "I really don't know at all what I'm doing!"  To activate Christian women to advance the kingdom of God is my battle cry; to assemble the troops, position them for battle and carry out what God had in mind all along.  Sarah Birkbeck, wife and mother of four, is the founder and visionary of Refresh, a ministry dedicated to activating women to advance the Kingdom of God. She is a speaker, passionate about leading women to discover their kingdom purposes. Sarah lives in North Dallas with her husband James, son Asher, and daughters Stella, Skyla and Adeline.  Find out more in these places:  Instagram: @refresh_women @Sarahhelenabirkbeck Website: www.refreshwomen.org   

Christmas is my favorite season but I can miss Jesus in the rush and crush of it all.  Laura Crosby, a writer, pastor-teacher and welcomer—loved the Christmas story so much she wanted to help us hold still enough to appreciate all the Lord did for us.  Laura wrote an Advent study during Covid for her church in D.C. and has since made available for all of us to share, and I'm so glad she did. You may remember my first interview with Laura. Here's the link in case you want to get acquainted with her welcoming heart. She included a simple and delicious chicken recipe which I'm making tonight just because I have all the ingredients and a neighbor stopping by for dinner.  All week long Laura is graciously offering one free copy of her Advent Study as a giveaway. "Choosing Welcome at Advent" includes 4 short videos, Scripture for reflection and recipes! All for $10.00 (Except for the winner of the giveaway! comment below to be entered - or email me [email protected].)   Here's a recipe sample: Link to purchase HERE to get your own copy. Holidays are around the corner and you may need to consciously sit still, breathe and watch! Follow Laura on instagram: @lauracrosby. Learn more about Laura on her website here. Laura just got home from a missions trip to Scotland and last year she raised funds and awareness for those in need by hiking the Grand Canyon rim to rim. I appreciate Laura's heart for the needy as well as her desire to make travel and do challenging things with a purpose.  Some gems from our conversation: We might think that "this season of our lives" is too difficult to set time aside for God, but to keep Him first is hard in any season because Satan wants to distract you.  Experiencing Advent helps us become more aware of God's presence and so more readily respond to His voice and partner with Him.  Any work we do for God and with God stems from our identity as His beloved.  People don't want to feel like they are your project; rather they want to feel loved and seen.  As we reflect on God's purpose for our lives it's good to pray often, "Lord, what is mine to do?" When more present with Christ, we can more readily recognize the holy interruptions throughout our day. I love Laura and I know you will too. 

Single in my 20’s, in a new career, a new town and a new church, I felt okay mostly. Life was full and purposeful, but lonely on occasion. I wondered why families didn’t ask me over for Sunday dinner. All I could think of was that my church friends must have thought I had such an exciting single life, I wouldn’t want to come home to their normal, ordinary home and stand at the sink and peel potatoes or hold their babies while they got dinner on and then sit down at their table to get better acquainted. But that was exactly what I wanted to do. To be part of a family, if just for an hour or two. The Bible says God sets the lonely in families. I was lonely. I needed to be set somewhere. I got tired of waiting. So I called up some people. Invited them over. Invited myself over. I had a precedent and his name is Jesus. Sometimes you just have to make it happen and not wait for someone else to pick up the phone or send a text. I invited people over because I needed friends. I don’t think people thought I might be bad company or that I would run off with the soup ladle if they had me over for dinner. I just think they didn’t think of me at all. Maybe that’s what loneliness is: To believe you aren’t even thought about.   Trishie's Apple Crisp 5 large apples 1 t. cinnamon 1/4 t. nutmeg 1 t. lemon juice 1/2 c water Topping: 1 c sugar 3/4 c flour 1 cube butter, firm Peel and slice apples Mix in spices, lemon juice and water Lay in 7 x 11" dish Mix flour and sugar together Crumble in chilled butter slices until it resembles small peas (as an alternative, spread flour/sugar mixture on top of apples. Melt butter and pour evenly over the top.) Bake 45-55 min at 350 degrees. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream (sort of optional) See printable version HERE  

In case you're wondering, it's okay for Christians to talk about their money. Why? Because all we have belongs to God, anyway.  Today I'm delighted to host Erik Olson, a fellow podcaster and a wealth and money consultant from Holland, Michigan. As a Kingdom-impact investment adviser and retirement planner, Erik talks about not only money, but a theological view of our earthly resources that may surprise and delight you and maybe put a fire under your seat to do something worthwhile—PLAN something worthwhile—so that God is glorified and His kingdom well-served.    Some gems from our conversation: As in introvert, I prefer a spreadsheet over a conversation, but I like to think I can come alongside someone and gently and expertly help them serve themselves, others and God better with training and counsel. The Bible isn't anti-wealth; in fact, God is pro-wealth creation. It's just one more way we are made in God's image as creators. We make mistakes with money when we compartmentalize it as something separate from all our God-given gifts. If all that we have belongs to God, we need to make ourselves good stewards of our wealth because we answer to Him. God loves wealth creation insofar that we make more income in order to be generous servants as well as enjoy the life he's provided.  The biggest mistake we make with our money is not to plan with what to do with our money. We either pay too much attention to our money which shows we are insecure in our relationship with God; or, we ignore our money and end up with fewer opportunities to give to Kingdom work. Jesus was very clear: We cannot worship God and money at the same time. It's a question of worship: do we fantasize over our money and what it can provide for us or do we carry an undivided esteem of God over any of our assets?  

Thinking of writing your story? Susy Flory thinks you should begin, like today. Currently in seminary working on her doctoral degree, Susy Flory directs the West Coast Christian Writers Conference, and knows a good story when she hears it. Raised by an Irish mother who could tell a good yarn, Susy is a 17 book New York Times best-selling author whose favorite books are memoirs. Today we discuss how she came to co-write her lovely book, Sanctuary about a young man named Patrick who lost his way and the rescue donkeys that led him home.  She's offering a free copy this week - leave a comment to be entered. Susy leads Everything Memoir, both a free facebook group with loads of quality free offerings, as well as a year long coaching group on how to write your memoir which will be starting up again this coming January. Learn more about both on her website: susyflory.com and find all her links HERE. Some gems: I find people endlessly fascinating and I love helping them tell their stories in any form but especially in written form. From getting to know Patrick and how God met him in all his struggles, I came to appreciate in a deeper, broader way that those who follow Christ are all a part of one church.  From Patrick's story we see again how God doesn't give up on us no matter how many times we fail.  Words have an eternal quality to them, which is reason enough to begin writing your story. Everyone who loves God has a God-story that needs to be told, even if only for one person to hear it.  Patrick felt accepted and unconditional love from one particular donkey named Aran and that helped him feel less alone and eventually led towards his healing.  Writing our stories gives us joy in that it helps us feel like there's a reason for why things have happened in our lives. 

Megan Fate Marshman tells us what to do when we don't have all the things figured out: go to Jesus and tell him that we don't. And then we go to him again and tell him again. We need reminding. We are prone to think we are in control and what a gift from God that we are not.  I just finished reading an advance copy of Megan's latest book, RELAXED: WALKING WITH THE ONE WHO IS NOT WORRIED ABOUT A THING and I'd love to say that I'm totally relaxed AND not worried about a thing. But I'm more relaxed and I'm less worried. So good. Buy one for yourself (if you don't win the giveaway) and one for that friend who may be worried—oh, that's every friend, or most anyway.  Megan, a single mom of two young boys—her dear husband Randy went to be with the Lord at age 36—writes from what she is learning about grief and worry and autonomy and coming to Jesus over and over again. A knowledgeable and charismatic teacher of the Word, Megan pastors at Willow Creek Community Church, Chicago, runs the women's ministry at Hume Lake Christian Camp and is the women's pastor at Arbor Road Church, Long Beach, CA.  Megan’s website Megan on IG Megan on Facebook Megan on X Buy Link   Some gems from our conversation: We don't need to do more; rather, we need to be intentional about showing love right where we are. God's gift to us is that we don't need to trust in ourselves. Risk-taking is Christlikeness because you are setting yourself up to need him and the prompts almost always lead to love. Anxiety signals me where I'm trying to get my security. We experience a sanctification gap and we go about it all the wrong way to close that gap without God. Grief has taught me to pay more attention to what really matters and less attention on those things that don't.  We are called to be God's hands and feet to anyone he brings our way.  We are not working on making a perfect family; rather on doing things right. Anxiety alerts us that something is going on in the dashboard of our soul. 

We all have a story to tell and when we tell it, we can encourage someone else who may need to know and trust God a little bit more. Julie Sunne expected certain things from God and when they didn't happen, she realized she didn't really know this God she was raised to believe in. Married 36 years, a mother of 4, Julie experienced 5 miscarriages and 4 live births in a stretch of 8 years. Their third child and only girl, Rachel, was diagnosed as intellecturally disabled and will need to be cared for her entire life. Rachel, age 26 but developmentally only age 3, continues to teach Julie about trusting and knowing God in his entierty.  Julie's book points our minds and hearts to God and you'll want to get one for yourself and anyone you know who is struggling with hope. She's giving away a copy this week so be sure to comment here or on social media for your name to be entered.  SOMETIMES I FORGET: 60 REMINDERS OF HOPE FOR YOUR HARD DAYS, a concise and helpful devotional to direct our minds and hearts to the nature of God. As Julie says, we don't just wish for something, we hope in God who is immutable and never-changing.  In the pages of this book, you will discover: --more about who God is --how God relates to us as His children --why we can believe God’s promises --truths to remember --a simple, yet meaningful way to pray through the valleys Life will throw you curveballs, but in the character of God lies hope. Because of who God is, you can trust Him in your most desperate moments.   Some gems from our conversation: When God didn't answer my prayers, I just felt that his blessings pertained to other people, not me.  I had to learn that my expectations of God were not always his plan for me and thereby, not his best for me as well.  The main cure for "forgetting Who God is" is to read the Word of God which reminds us who we can trust.  We will never completely understand the ways of God so we have to get to a point where we surrender ourselves completely to God. We can't just take one attribute of God without all the rest as one nature, perfect and unchanging, loving and almighty.  My legacy is to trust my hard places to the Lord and surrender my understanding to His.    Follow Julie at juliesunne.com.

I’m not sure why we bother arguing with God. God being God comes with an unfair advantage but I imagine I’m not the only one who tries. There’s that Jonah fellow from Nineveh. He argued but he ended up—well you probably know where he ended up. Even Jesus who had a special connection, you might say, debated with his Father about the wisdom of what he was about to go through right before the cross. He went anyway. Alone, for the most part. I should have known better than to argue. There’s no point. But processing out loud is my favorite and God already knew what was in my head. And, while arguing takes two and I did most of the talking, I did get an answer At 30 I wasn’t worried about gray hair. I had a great life. I just didn’t want to grow old alone. I had a plan to love and serve God—but not by myself. Phone calls can mess up the best of plans. YOUR TURN Do you have a plan for your life? What does it include?   When your plans take a “wrong turn” in your view, how do you deal with your disappointment?   Have you ever argued with God? If not, you can try it out today. (I'll wait...)     How did that turn out for you? If we remember He’s our perfect Father—and loves us even more than our own dads—and that he knows what’s ahead, we can relax. Instead of stewing we can wonder how He’s going to surprise us with something we would never think up on our own. That’s one of the fun parts about following God—the surprise factor. It gets me every time. TAKE GOD AT HIS WORD “There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off” (Proverbs 23:18).   TELL GOD WHAT’S GOING ON (write your prayer or pray the one below):   Lord, God, Thank you that you love me and that you are love so that you can’t betray. Help me place the truth of your character over my feelings. I surrender my plans to you. May I look to you in trust and expectation. I love surprises. Thank you and amen.  

Lori Margo wife and mother of three adult children, knows what it means to stay awake all night and worry - like all good mothers do! She knew God loved and cared for her—even while facing cancer four times and losing her mom at a young age. But her faith stalled out one day and she prayed, "Lord, I need to know you are with me. Show me ways you are present here in these struggles." And that began her process of tracking God, keeping short lists, recording how He's answering prayers, big and small. She prayed: God I just want to know that you are with me. If you answer my prayer or if you don't—I'm still going to trust you, no matter what." Lori writes: Life is hard AND God is incredible. Both phrases are true and happening simultaneously: Life is hard. God is incredible. That’s my story. I’ve had hard things come my way AND I’ve experienced the faithfulness of God alongside the pain and suffering. He met me where I was and brought peace as I held the pieces of a life I never imagined for myself.   Some gems: Life is hard AND God is incredible. To track how God is present helps keep me emotionally resilient. I acknowledge my fears but when I look for how God is working on my behalf, worry turns more easily to worship.  Psalm 73 is where I go for help: God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.  I didn't want to just say the words, "God I trust you"—I wanted to get into the habit of observing His miraculous presence in my trials and difficulties.  Sometimes I stall out and I just say, "God I need to hear from You" and then I keep a pad of paper and a pencil nearby. You CAN have a deeper connection with God, even when life is hard. Take the quiz HERE. Learn more from Lori at lorimargo.com.  

Speaker, author, Keith Ferrin heard someone tell or perform the entire book of Luke on stage for two hours straight. He made a lunch date with the presenter for that next day, a lunch date which lasted nine hours. For the last two decades, Keith's been presenting Scripture by the book as a storyteller. "The Bible is not only meant to be studied, understood and obeyed", Keith says, "it's meant to be enjoyed." We discuss the Thdifference as well as what it means to internalize the word vs memorizing the words. Keith is passionate about helping people know and love God's word and offers great series on YouTube as well as on his website. Keith is offering my Welcome Heart listeners a half-off coupon for two of his great resources: get both for the price of one. One course is called Relational Bible Study. www.keithferrin.com/rbs The other is called The Simplest Way to Internalize the Bible www.keithferrin.com/internalize Use this LINK to get them both for the price of one. His free resource is: The Simplest Way to Study the Bible. LINK HERE. Some gems: People are under the false belief that massive parts of Scripture is confusing so they don't even attempt to read it. The main difference between Christianity and all other religions is this: the Creator saw that His creation was in trouble and He set out to rescue and fix what they can't fix on their own. The Bible is not only true, it's also powerful and amazing and transforming and meant to be enjoyed. I realized that God's Word isn't just to be studied verse-by-verse like little sound bites; rather it's to engage my mind, emotions and soul and that's made all the difference. To internalize Scripture is the know the Word; to memorize Scripture is to know the words.  The more relational we are with Scripture, the more information we will retain. Our primary purpose in reading the Bible is to hang out with Jesus.   To learn more about Keith and how to learn to enjoy the Bible, follow Keith on all social platforms @keithferrin or his website: keithferrin.com.

Bret Lott knows how to make a woman cry. Possibly a man, too, but I'm not sure. I know he's cried (sobbed, he admitted) when reading Leif Enger's book, Peace Like a River. I already liked Bret Lott but that made me like him even more.  Bret Lott, award-winning author of now 16 books (both fiction and non-fiction) didn't start out to become a writer and, in fact, met obstacles along the way. I'm glad he persevered; if you've read Jewel, one of Oprah's Book Club selections, then I'm sure you're glad as well. He wanted to ride a horse and be a Park Ranger. Grateful that didn't pan out.  Fun sidenote: Since I'm also from Southern California, it was a delight to find out that Bret used to work at Knott's Berry Farm at the candy apple booth and once-a-month he made waffles for Mr. Knott.    Bret is giving away a signed copy of his latest book out this month entitled: GATHER THE OLIVES, On Food and Hope and the Holy Land  - comment below or on social media to be entered! Born in Los Angeles in 1958, Lott grew up in Buena Park, CA and Phoenix, AZ before returning to California to live in Huntington Beach, CA. He met and married his wife of 40 years, Melanie Swank Lott, at First Baptist Church of Huntington Beach/Fountain Valley. A graduate of Cal State, Long Beach(1981), Lott headed to Massachusetts for graduate school at UMass Amhurst. He received his MFA in 1984 and landed his first teaching position at Ohio State Univ. In 1986, Lott joined the English Department at the College of Charleston, where he is now a tenured professor and director of the new MFA program and leads writers retreats to Italy. Find out more about his writing retreats here: https://bretlottwriting.com Be sure to comment below to be entered to win: Gather the Olives. Some gems: The difference between a good writer and a bad writer: the bad writer says, "Here I am, I have something to say." The good writer writes a good story and you're not aware he or she even exists. I write to try and understand things, why people do what they do and what happened to their lives. I shared a short story with a girl I liked. She wasn't impressed. I knew right then that I loved her.  Jewel was based on my grandmother's life. She had 6 kids and the 6th, my aunt, was Down Syndrome.  You're given what you're given in life; the writer's job and joy is to write the pages torn from that life and try to understand it better. The best art fills us with wonder and glory and mystery and beauty which are all manifestations of God.   

Connie Lawson, wife and mother of three little girls has suffered more than most. When asked, "Do you ever wonder why you went through so many trials?" she replied, "Not anymore. When you really push into Jesus and decide that He's enough, you find out that He really is enough."  Misdiagnosed at age 11 with a mental illness that didn't get changed around until her late 20's, Connie could be bitter over all those lost years. Instead, she's turned her pain into an opportunity to help others trust the God that she's come to know and love, even in and in spite of the darkness. Hear more of Connie's story on her podcast, Weeds, Seeds and Beautiful Things.  Some gems:  I don't understand the why behind my trials, but I do know that God is good, no matter what. If you aren't anchored to the truth, you'll drown, and the truth is that God is loves you and is present in your suffering.  My mission is to help others come to know the God I've learned to trust.  When you pray for more faith in God rather than praying for a changed outcome—it changes you. My suffering is a doorway to see the face of God.  An entitled anger says, "I don't deserve this pain" and keeps me from seeing God's hand.  For more encouragment, follow Connie at WeedsSeedsandBeautifulThings.com.

My friend and fellow podcaster, Mary Hess of The Back 40, invited me and 3 other gals (from the back 40!) to chat on her podcast. Here's what Mary had to say about all of us crazy and fun ladies: Ever found yourself in a predicament because your body is going through changes you don't quite understand? Or perhaps you're struggling to find your identity amidst the pressures of social media, comparison, and the expectation to constantly achieve? Well, ladies, you're not alone. I'm accompanied by four incredibly inspiring women - Sue Donaldson, Ruthie Gray, Susan Macias, and Carol Feil - who have each navigated their unique journeys and have come to share their wisdom on these common, yet often overlooked subjects. Our conversation doesn't shy away from the personal, the profound, or the downright hilarious. We candidly tackle the often-ignored topic of menopause and each share our own experiences with hormone replacement and our strategies for coping with life's inevitable transitions. I think you'll find comfort and camaraderie in our tales of overcoming fears, breaking free from societal timelines, and taking action, no matter what stage of life you're in.  But that's not all. We dive deep into the challenges of finding your true identity in a world that demands comparison. We discuss the power of authentic communication, and the importance of being true to yourself. Wherever you are in your faith journey, whether you feel you're just starting out or you've been walking the path for decades, this episode is for you. So, get comfortable, grab a cuppa, and join us for a conversation that will have you nodding in agreement, laughing out loud, and maybe even shedding a tear or two. You won't want to miss it. Connect with Sue Donaldson: https://welcomeheart.com/ Connect with Susan Macias: https://www.susankmacias.com/ Connect with Ruthie Gray: https://authenticonlinemarketing.com/ Connect with Carol Feil: https://carolfeil.com/ Find our host, Mary here at The Back 40 Some gems (we do think we are funny...) I had to make a choice, to say this is my new season, and I'm going to assume that God didn't make me faulty. It's not bad. Hot flashes are never fun. I just want to be so in sync with what the Lord is doing in my life, so that, if I snap at someone, that I can do short accounts—to get our relationship back on track as soon as possible—like with God and my children and my husband. Because we can now walk around with, you know, computers in our back pockets, I think we have to really really guard our hearts and minds to what we allow to settle in and take up that space. I think sometimes it's easy for me even to get into the mindset of oh my gosh, I'm in my 50s now and what do I have to show for it? What do I have to show that I've been doing ministry or I'm successful in some arena or some way? I don't know that comparison ever really goes away and I kind of thought it would. To be surrounded by people who inspire you is is self-serving sanctification. To go into community on a regular basis and say have someone say, "You're not late, Susan, you're blessed. You're doing what God wants you to do today." When we start feeling lonely or down about what we're doing or anything to do with our second half of life, the worst thing we can do is stay to ourselves.  

Scott Savage, pastor, husband of a judge and father of 3, realized one day in a church meeting that he was in the wilderness of burnout. What followed was 9 months of finding and knowing God on a deeper level and he's here today to share with us part of what he learned. You may not be in a wilderness yourself right now, but you may know someone who could use Scott's encouragement. He's offering a free resource which you can access here: Don't Give Up When It's Time To Change: 10 Things You Need to Hear When You're Ready to Quit. Scott and his wife, Danalyn often say, "Everyone has a story if we stop long enough to listen." Perhaps that's the main thing you need today: someone to listen to your story. You can connect with Scott here.  Some gems from today:   What if you started looking for God's kindness in your wilderness where He leads you tenderly closer to Himself. We can wake up and discover that we are somewhere where we never intended to be and find we are in a wilderness.  Friendships forged in the hard places can be our deepest and most life-giving relationships.  I knew I was burned out from focusing on my public life more than tending to my private life with God. Burnout is something we have more control over; wilderness can often be the result of outside circumstances.  My prayer is that people will connect to me in my stories so that they will connect with God.  When feeling burned out we can claim the promise we are not alone: God hasn't left and He can provide others to accompany us in the hardest of times.  Scott Savage is a pastor, author, and speaker with the best last name ever! As a seasoned Millennial pastor, Scott has served churches for nearly 20 years. He currently leads Cornerstone Church in Prescott, Arizona. His writing has been read by over a million people in places like Our Daily Bread, RELEVANT Magazine, Air1 Radio, and the YouVersion Bible App: here's a sample. Through his writing and speaking, Scott loves helping people who are navigating difficult situations to find hope and healing. He is married to Danalyn, aka Judge Savage, and they’re raising three brilliant children. You can learn more about Scott at ScottSavageLive.com or follow him on social media (@scottsavagelive).    

Kristen Hallinan knew she needed to make some changes. How she responded to situations was threatening the peace in her family and costing her precious relationships. Once she figured out that much of her over-reactions were based in deep-seated early life trauma, she was able to begin to move forward: for her sake and for the sake of the next generation.  As a result of what Kristen learned, she's put together a resource that is her legacy and will be of help for many who feel stuck in the pain of their past. That may not be you but you may know someone who needs to hear her story and how to get beyond small-t trauma and live in the freedom and wholeness that Christ provides. A copy of her newly-released book will be part of a giveaway all week long. Be sure to comment to be entered: Legacy Changer: Heal the Hurt, Redeem Your Story, Create Hope for Your Family Some gems from our conversation: It took me many years to resource all the tools to help me heal.  We are forgiven completely when we come to faith in Christ, but not always fully healed. I love seeing women walk in freedom when God redeems their past pain. As a child, I felt unwanted, unseen, and that I was simply annoying to others.  It took courage to speak up about my needs and face the fact that many were not met as a child. To quiet the lies in my head, I list them out and contrast them with the truths of who God says I am.  I am teaching our children that it's okay not to be enough because God is enough. I've learned that I am in charge of my emotions—they are not in charge of me. Kristen Hallinan is a sought-after writer and speaker, passionate about helping women redeem the pain of their past and move towards a healthier and more hopeful future. On mission to equip women and support families, Kristen previously worked as Director of Development for MOPS International. She enjoys working with teen moms, crisis pregnancy centers, and serving as a pre-marital mentor with her husband Shawn in Dallas, TX. Legacy Changer is Kristen’s debut book, and you can find her other writings in publications like Relevant Magazine and The Joyful Life. Laughing with and chasing after her four children helps burn off the calories she consumes of her favorite treat—homemade gluten free churros.     

Pam Fields of The Mom Next Door Podcast shares with us today her desire to come alongside other moms and throw out the anchor of God's truth, hope and love, encouraging them in their parenting and their walk with the Lord. She came from a difficult place in her own childhood and didn't really understand what it was all about but she met the Lord at 15 and knew right then that God loved her and that she was His favorite. I wanted to argue that I was His favorite, but as we know, God loves us all.  Pam, a recent resident of Tennesee after living in Oregon for many years, is a mom of 9 and grandma to 4. She hosts the free Facebook group called: Tending Fields Moms Group and interviews moms from all walks of life on her podcast.    Some gems: I want to throw out the life preserver and provide an anchor for moms who are needing support and encouragement.  An online community is a starting place for sharing hope and practical resources. I know that there is so much power in prayer and when we can't make a casserole for someone, we can still pray. I always knew that God loved me and that I was His favorite. Because of the dark places in my past, I know that I kept myself from fully experiencing my emotions until I met with a counselor and recognized my childhood trauma. To get beyond a painful past, we must surround ourselves with people who point us to God and His healing truth. We aren't meant to grow on our own. I  want a home where my people feel comfortable and supported whether or not things are going well or not so great.       As a mom of 9, Pam has learned how to incorporate prayer into the busy moments of mothering life. She would love to share this resource with you! In this guide, you will find prayer prompts as well as step-by-step instructions for crafting a prayer bracelet which will be a great reminder to pray for any concerns that you are carrying. She writes about the bracelet HERE.       Prayer Bracelets: A Practical Idea to Remind You to Pray     Here is the link: https://subscribepage.io/3e30w2   Follow Pam: IG: https://www.instagram.com/tendingfields/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/TendingFields Website: https://tendingfields.net/  

Kendall Vanderslice joins us today to talk bread, food, community, and loneliness—all some of my favorite topics. Founder of the non-profit,  EdibleTheology.com, Kendall shares her wisdom regarding cultural polarization, and how eating together is a vulnerable and soul-filling activity. I love her call to include "rhythms of times at the table" in an effort to stave off our default into isolation. And, that when we do, we feel more known, respected and healed. Author of We Will Feast, By Bread Alone, as well as the digital course, Bake With the Bible, Kendall also promotes a program we can use in our churches to build community and love, even in the middle of an election year! (Maybe especially in the middle of an election year!) And she is offering a copy of her recently released book/memoir: By Bread Alone: A Baker's Reflections on Hunger, Longing and the Goodness of God. Some gems from our conversation: To eat together takes vulnerability at some level which leads to deeper sharing and better knowing of one another. Loneliness has negative effects on our brains and our bodies.  God speaks to us in the act of cooking and eating. Healing is possible around the table. Pull up a chair. Sharing stories and meals can fill gaps and foster connections unlike any other thing. Invite others into your home on purpose when it's not all cleaned up and perfect. We can love better when we don't agree on topics when we cook and eat together.  To stave off loneliness, purpose to plan your life around rhythms of eating at the table with others. Her favorite thing to bake (I asked!) is "Sourdough on Training Wheels." Sounds like my kind of sourdough. In her own words Hello! I’m Kendall Vanderslice – yes, before you ask, that is my true name. It’s just by chance (or the humor of God) that I ended up in a field so fitting. I’m a baker and writer, whose best thinking occurs as I work dough between my hands; I scribble down thoughts on pieces of parchment dusted in flour, until I can parse them out later before my keyboard. When I embarked on a career as a pastry chef, I found that my love of bread transformed the ways I read scripture. Fascinated by God’s use of food throughout the arc of the Gospel, I merged my work in the kitchen with academic study of food and theology. I founded the educational nonprofit Edible Theology as an outlet for further research and public engagement in this sphere. You can get a taste for our work by listening to our weekly podcast Kitchen Meditations. I’m a graduate of Wheaton College in Illinois (BA Anthropology), where I began engaging questions of food and faith. Interested in commensality—or, the social dynamics of eating together—I studied food at Boston University (MLA Gastronomy). My thesis on church meals sparked a range of theological questions, leading me to Duke University where I wrote a thesis on the theology of bread (MTS). In 2018 I was named a James Beard Foundation national scholar for my work on food and religion. My first book, We Will Feast: Rethinking Dinner, Worship, and the Community of God, released May 2019. My second book, By Bread Alone: A Baker’s Reflections on Hunger, Longing, and the Goodness of God, releases February 2023.    

A teacher told Dianne Beck, "You're a good writer" and that made all the difference. Beck's love of writing turned into a passion, first while teaching non-reading junvenile delinquents, then teaching in a Christian school and now writing young adult fiction. She inspired her students to write and they made her accountable to finishing her first novel, Sticks and Stones—a prequel to her current book, Finding True North. Beck explores the theme of living from our true identity, who God designed us to be. And she is giving away a copy this week! Leave a comment below to be entered. You'll want to read it first and then give it to your favorite 8th grader! Dianne's legacy is love: "When you read my stories, real or imagined, may you discover a God who loves you."    Dianne, a mother of four adult children has taught school for years and has a special spot in her heart for Middle-schoolers, which makes her a saint and well-appreciated by parents that's for sure. Check out her writings on her website: diannebeck.com  Some gems: A 5th grade teacher told me that I was a good writer. I never forgot her words. The juvenile delinquents I taught to read just needed someone to come alongside and show them that someone cared. Young people are embattled by social media, adding to their tension and confusion.  We all need to live out of the confidence of being who God designed us to be.  The written word stays long after we are gone: I want to write so that others know God loves them. Staying in the Word is the key to remembering our true identity.

Amberly Neese is all for Glee-ology as well as Theology. She loves making people laugh. I would say she can't help it. She knows, too, that truth goes down easier when prefaced with a good dose of humor and vulnerability. Author of three great Bible Studies including UNTANGLING FAITH: RECLAIMING HOPE INTHE QUESTIONS JESUS ASKED, Amberly helps people like you and me experience the freedom found in meaningful relationships with God and others.  She's hosting a giveaway of UNTANGLING FAITH all week long - please leave comment below to be entered.  Some gems from our conversation:   My favorite question that Jesus asked is: "Who do you say I am?"  Humor drops defenses and helps whet our appetites for what God wants to teach us.  I had to let go of the false notion that God only is concerned with me when I'm doing things right.  I want people to know that God is for them by the way that I love and honor them. We develop a specific muscle group in our minds each time we recall how God loves and provides: He does so for birds—he will do the same for us, His children. When my adult children need help, instead of rushing to their aid, I ask, "What do you know to be true?" Jesus asked over 300 questions as recorded in Scripture. Since He knew all the answers the questions were for you and I to help us grow in faith and love.      Amberly is a featured speaker/ emcee/ comedian for the Aspire Women’s Events and Marriage Date Night, two popular Christian national tours. She and her husband have two adult children and live in Prescott, Arizona, where they enjoy the great outdoors, the Food Network, and all things Star Wars. I got to meet and hear Amberly in October. What a treat!

Colleen Swindoll Thompson speaks today about "reframing her pain" and what she didn't learn in Sunday School. "We don't like to hear that life includes suffering," Thompson states, "and that modeling how to suffer well is the best legacy we can leave our children." She was raised well and she figured if she did "her part for God and with God" she'd be okay. But she wasn't. Through multiple difficult and tragic circumstances, she learned to lean in toward God and allow Him to do his refining work, and all of it helped her establish "Reframing Ministries"—an organization to bless, encourage and support the caregiver. Colleen will be giving away a copy of her book When Life Isn't Fair: What They Didn't Tell You in Sunday School this week. Leave a comment below or on social media to be entered to win.  Some gems from our conversation: God's way is so different from what we plan—so much bigger and better but we don't see that right away. I was raised with the idea that if I do my part, God would give me an abundant life without suffering. I want to leave a legacy of listening well because that means I'm loving well. How I treat others that God has entrusted into my care takes vulnerability and the willingness to ask for help. We can face our challenges and trials either by fighting with God, asking "Why, God?" and trying to fix things on our own or by asking Him, "What do I do now? You've given me this day and these trials—I need help."  God knows you: your health, your emotions, your relationships—all the things—and He will supply the person or persons that you need when you need it. When we find ourselves stuck, not knowing how to move forward, the first step is to acknowledge our need; then pray, "Lord, I don't know what to do." God doesn't say, "I need to you do" as much as "I need you to be"—close to me, crying out for help and resting in His presence. Sign up for Colleen's 5-Day Patio Videos Devotional Series HERE. View Colleen's story here or here. Do you know a caregiver who would be encouraged by this podcast? Please share the link today.   _______ Maybe someone in your neighborhood needs to hear Colleen's message of reframing. If I don't know my neighbor, it's hard to love them as Jesus loves them. You can start by hosting a coffee. This printable can get you on your way, including two simple recipes (I only do simple)—    

When Twyla's daughters say, "Are we walking the neighborhood or talking the neighborhood?" she knows she's been passing down a legacy worth living. She says drawing close to God is the first step in loving our neighbors and some of her favorite words begin with "R." Twyla Franz is a big believer in baby steps and ripple-effect living. An Enneagram 9 learning to live open, she loves front-yard conversations with neighbors, chalk-painted furniture, and Yogi’s blueberry tea. As a missional neighboring guide, she helps others get close to Jesus and grow deep, missional friendships with neighbors. Find her words (written and recorded) on TheUncommonNormal.com. Other places Twyla writes include (in)courage, Relevant, Her View From Home, and The Grit and Grace Project. She also hosts Begin Within: A Gratitude Series to encourage year-round gratitude (because gratitude, she says, has a ripple effect.)   Some gems: So often we complicate our faith instead of just living the rhythms of drawing close to Jesus and allowing him to ripple out onto our neighbors. To live missional is to live "interruptible." When we make ourselves vulnerable, we become approachable so that the Good News naturally or supernaturally pours out. My preference is not to ask for help but I find that makes me real and makes Jesus real to my neighbor. I know God differently on my knees than anywhere else. When I know where the goal is, I keep inching my way forward; I don't have to get there overnight.  God's abundance isn't only for us, it's for how it flows over and out of our lives for those we meet everyday. Whatever we hope to do in our neighborhood, we need to start in our homes.  A piece of our purpose is to thank God every day in our hearts and in the presence of others.    Free sample week of Cultivating a Missional Life: A 30-Day Devotional to Gently Help You Open Your Heart, Home, and Life to Your Neighbors And, Find out if you are accidentally keeping your friendships shallow—and what you can do about it   Find Twyla in all these places: Website—https://theuncommonnormal.com/ Cultivating a Missional Life Devotional https://theuncommonnormal.com/book/ Freebies (including sample week of devotional)—https://theuncommonnormal.com/subscribe/ Begin Within: A Gratitude Series—https://theuncommonnormal.com/category/gratitude-series/ Podcast—https://theuncommonnormal.com/podcast/ Instagram—https://www.instagram.com/theuncommonnormal/ Facebook—https://www.facebook.com/theuncommonnormal  

Jordan Raynor returns to Living a Legacy Life Podcast today to talk about his radical and biblical view of our work, all of our work, and how it matters to God and to eternity. Jordany is the leading voice on work and faith and you may have been first introduced to his writing with his great books, Created to Create and Redeeming Your Time (Hear our conversation about that HERE.) Today he addresses our misconceptions of our work, our view of heaven as well as the Great Commission as most of us know it. Join us as we tackle these great topics from his latest book: The Sacredness of Secular Work: 4 Ways Your Job Matters for Eternity (Even When You're Not Sharing the Gospel)   You will be motivated and blessed. OH! And he's giving one away so be sure to leave a comment below to be entered.  So many convo gems: We know our jobs matter to God: His one and only Son, Jesus was raised in the home of a small business owner! We live with too many half-truths about heaven.  The first commission is to make the world more useful for people's benefit and enjoyment. God delights in every detail of our lives, most of which includes our work.  Our work is a vehicle for bringing God eternal pleasure. The Great Commission is great but it's not the only thing that God values.  The Gospel includes the redemption of the earth, not only the salvation of our souls.  Make a list of questions that will launch conversations from the surface, to the serious, to the spiritual and keep them in your phone.   Follow Jordan at jordanraynor.com  Podcasts and books.      

Alyssa Evans never met her dad and was raised in a foster home, then adopted. It wasn't until she had her first child that she decided to embrace faith in Christ. And found her "forever family." As a military wife (Marines!) she's moved countless times and struggled often with loneliness that is typical with military families. she compared herself (a little bit!) with Jesus since his fulltime ministry was 3 years and a typical military duty is 3 years where families need to uproot again, find new friends for themselves and their kids. Alyssa and her husband want to continue ministering to the military family unit in some way after his retirement which is not that far away.  Some gems from our conversation:  Women become incredibly isolated when they uproot every three years or so and they need someone to come alongside and just be with them. We want to love people with the same love that Jesus loves us. Our church knew we wouldn't be sticking around because of the military so their attitude was: "Hey! We don't care how long you're staying and if it's a short time, it just means we will love you harder!" The least I can do is invite someone to my table. If there are snacks for the kids, sometimes that's all that's needed to gather women around my table (and by snacks I mean a big bowl of popcorn and another one of cereal.) I find that as we get older, we're so busy with our older kids, we don't take time to develop our women friendships. We need to put it on the calendar. When I'm feeling blue and lonely, I've learned that if I'm invited somewhere that I say, "Yes!" no matter what.  The Lord has more for me and he humbles and sustains us.  When wallowing in loneliness, I've learned to stop saying, "Why, Lord?" and changing it to, "Lord, what will You have me learn from this situation?" When I'm authentic with my story, it deepens a new friendship and lets another know there is room at my table.    

Free lance writer, editor, mother of two, Jenny Abel talks today on the preciousness of recalibrating your life, all for heaven's sake. Co-author with Kenneth Boa of the book, Recalibrate Your Life: Navigating Transitions with Purpose and Hope, Abel defines recalibration as consciously processing where we've been, where we are now, and looking ahead to where God may want to lead us. "This isn't something we only do at the end of our lives," Jenny says, "rather we do it on a regular basis to help us gain perspective: Are we numbering our days to gain a heart of wisdom?" Leave a comment below or on social media to be entered to win a copy of Recalibrate Your Life. Teach us to number our days,     that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12 Some gems: At the heart of recalibration is a pilgrim mindset. Before we can recalibrate, we need to calibrate: do we belong to God? Are our minds set on Christ? My relationship with God would not be what it is without my time in the dark valley of infertility. Knowing you are really going to die someday changes everything. Our career changes; the calling on our lives is never ending. Suffering prompts recalibration. My desire is to inspire others to know and hope in God and call them to gaze on God's beauty. Our pride, our day-to-day inertia, digging in our heels—all of these things keep us from numbering our days.  Jenny Abel is an editor and writer for Ken Boa, coauthor of Recalibrate Your Life. Having sat under Boa’s teaching since she was a teenager, she began working for him and his Reflections Ministries in 2013. She served as editor of the monthly Reflections teaching letter from 2017 to 2023. She cowrote Shaped by Suffering and A Guide to Practicing God’s Presence with Dr. Boa and edited his book Life in the Presence of God. A freelance writer and editor, she founded Jenny M. Abel Editorial Services (www.abeleditorial.com) in 2011. She holds a BS in mathematics with a concentration in Latin American studies from Furman University, is a graduate of the Focus on the Family Leadership Institute, and resides in Charlottesville, Virginia, with her husband, Ben, and their two young children.   Book web page: http://recalibrateyourlife.org   Ken Boa’s website: http://kenboa.org   Ken’s social media: Reflections Ministries - YouTube, Facebook, Kenneth Boa (@ken.boa) • Instagram photos and videos     AND, Jenny shared a recipe! Yay! I'm not sure I'd decrease the butter, but that's just me. Thanks, Jenny! Grand Canyon Coffee Cake Part 1: ¾ c. canola or vegetable oil 2½ c. flour* ¾ c. sugar 1 c. brown sugar (light or dark) 1 tsp. nutmeg 1 tsp. salt Part 2: 2 tsp. cinnamon 2 eggs, beaten 1 c. buttermilk 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda 1 stick butter Directions: Preheat oven to 350° F. Combine Part 1 ingredients and mix thoroughly (in an electric mixer). Take ¾ c. of this mixture and set it aside. Part 2: To the set-aside mixture, add 2 tsp. cinnamon. This will serve as the topping. To the rest of the Part 1 mixture, add eggs, buttermilk, powder, and soda. Pour into the bottom of a greased 9” x 13” pan. Sprinkle the topping crumbles on top, distributing evenly. Bake 25–30 min. or until toothpick comes out clean. Melt the 1 stick butter and drizzle on top of the hot cake. Serve warm for breakfast or anytime! *Note: I often use whole wheat flour for all or part of this case to make it healthier. I also decrease the amount of butter drizzled on top to about ½ to 2/3 of a stick.  

When God said, “Be hospitable” he added a caveat which could only be divine: “And while you’re at it, don’t be grumpy.” It’s easy to be grumpy because hospitality is work especially if you don’t think you are very good at it. Some people are really great hosts. We describe them as “good at entertaining.” But God didn’t say, “Be good entertainers.” There’s a difference. Seems to me that entertaining has more to do with me and hospitality has more to do with my guests My friend told me that the hardest part of hospitality is trying too hard to impress with appearance and presentation instead of being genuinely warm and welcoming.  Emphasizing these things can leave her feeling superficial and flat rather than warm, loving and satisfied.  She said, "I have to remind myself that entertaining is not the same thing as hospitality.   I need to slow down and take time to nurture relationships."  She's right. I need to remind myself of the same thing, especially when I end up running around at the last minute, barking orders at the family to help me finish whatever isn’t, and making a general mess of a kind and loving atmosphere - - all in the name of “making things nice for the company. Mom was raised in the ungrace of no hospitality. But she wanted to help people know that they were a big deal to God by inviting them over for strawberry jello and baked chickens in the blue roaster on time-bake on Sundays. So she kept inviting and that’s how she broke that chain and raised all us Moore kids with grace enough to do the same only I don’t usually make jello and often I buy the pie. We all know how to make coffee. Thank you, Mom.    Karen Mains wrote:  "True hospitality comes before pride.  It has nothing to do with impressing people, but everything to do with making them feel welcome and wanted."  Some thoughts from today's episode: God wants to use our hospitality as a vehicle for Him to change lives – our lives and those we invite. True hospitality is "relationship-based" rather than "show-off based." The more I accept that grace, the easier it is for me to give grace to everyone else. I think that’s called love. Hospitality can get confused with Entertaining. Both are great – both can be used by God – but they are not the same. God is interested in me, but when I invite someone over, he wants me to show my guests that he’s interested in them. If one is truly hospitable, one shows graciousness, courtesy, and genuine kindness--all qualities of our loving God. Someone can show these qualities without owning table settings for twelve with matching linen napkins. There is no one more hospitable than God, and we are to be His welcome to the world. Great food, good times, a gorgeous home—is that what hospitality is all about?  God makes room even when no one else does, and sometimes in the most unlikely places. Sometimes we just need to make room so that someone becomes part of the Bigger Story.    

Welcome Carol Feil of Yellow Boot Fame to Legacy Living today! We talk about what matters most during the busy holiday season and we laugh a lot, too! People are lonelier than ever and how can we include rather than exclude to help others connect to a family, even if for one evening? Sometimes choosing "simple" over "elaborate" is the best gift we can give our own families as well as ourselves so we can focus on what really matters and choose to make this time a sacred space.  Some Carol gems: Simplifying allows us to focus on what's most important durlng the holidays. Love can mean learning to give someone what they are willing to receive. I've discovered that doing things that help our family connect is more valuable than buying more gifts and putting on elaborate events. Our "shoulds" are not always grounded in reality. My family was happier with less; I had to learn to expect less of myself. I taught my children that we aren't purposely exclusive when we are purposely inclusive, but we have to look out for that one who is feeling excluded by our inclusivity.  We "should" ourselves into doing more when it only adds more stress and no one else is expecting it--only us. A gift from Carol, first a word: I love everything about Christmas - well, almost everything.  Tinsel and holly, yes. Stress and overwhelm, no.  Coco and caroling, yes.  Overloaded calendar, no.  You get the idea.  It's easy to overcommit, overdo, then overwhelm ourselves as Christmas approaches.  How often does the schedule dictate what you focus on? I have learned that by choosing what goes on the calendar in advance, I can simplify, stay sane so I can focus on the Sacred of the Season.  I want this for you, too. I've created a FREE resource to remind you: You have permission to choose sane and simple so Sacred can be the focus. Carol wears yellow-boots in the garden - they are her “listen & learn” boots. She takes pictures of everything! Slugs & bugs & selfies! But, her grandkids are her favorite to frame. She will tell you growth in life is good and gardens are proof. She believes God grows us where we are and helps us to be rooted and grounded in His unchanging character. He knows our pain and loves us more than we can imagine. Let Carol encourage you today, so you too, can plant a seed of hope for another tomorrow. You can find Carol through her website www.carolfeil.com, on Instagram and Facebook.  

Kristen Welch went to Kenya on Compassion trip with an agenda. God wrecked her instead, all for His glory and purpose. Kristen thought she had God and faith figured out but instead she realized she had not been really living the Christian life as God requires all of us to live who call ourselves followers of Jesus. As a result of that encounter with God and with the world's poverty, Kristen founded the non-profit, Mercy House Global. You can hear more of story in her book, Rhinestone Jesus, and today's conversation will encourage you and maybe even wreck you, all for heaven's sake.  Kristen will be hosting a giveaway of her great book, Made to Move Mountains: How God uses Our Dreams and Disasters to Accomplish the Impossible. You may already know Kristen from her great mom-blog, WeAreTHATFamily.com.   Some gems: You never know when you say that "yes" of obedience where God will change you and use you. My normal was impacted by the world's normal: 75% of the world live on $5.00 a day.  Generosity is a spiritual discipline. When we see someone start something big we use it as an excuse to not do anything. Abiding in Christ is the main thing that keeps me from discouragement because the work is exhausting but it is His work. Everyone is commanded to remember the marginalized. Doing nothing is a response too. I found myself in the classroom of Surrender, 101, and I stopped expecting it to be easy.    Kristen is passionate about empowerment, taking action, responding to God’s command to care for vulnerable people and making a difference with how we spend money. Find all you need to know on MercyHouseGlobal.org. And prayerfully consider buying your Chirstmas gifts from Mercy House Global. Those subscriptions boxes sound amazing!  

Author, speaker, life coach, Caris Snider talks today about how she struggled with anxiety and depression and how that's not a bad thing, it's just a thing that can be progressed through with the help of community, the truths of God's Word and presence, and possibly a  coach and/or therapist. Overwhelmed with all the things a mom faces, she began a little podcast that's become a big one called "Car Line Mom" - what we think about while we're in all the lines waiting with our kids or for our kids. Her latest book, by the same title is available today: Car Line Mom: 100 Days of Encouragement for the Mama Who Gets Everyone Everywhere.   Some gems from today's podcast: When negative thoughts come in, don't let them stay! No matter how we struggle as moms, we are never alone.  No one in the Bible did their journey alone; ask God for a friend to journey with you as a mom. I learned through my own feelings of inadequacy and living an over-committed life that it's okay to say "no" and create healthy margins A coach helps us Zoom Out on your life map to see how we can get where we want to go. Jesus was a our model even in negative feelings so we don't need to be afraid to have them. We don't need to be afraid to talk about faith and mental health. As mom's we feel like we can't fail which adds chaos and "overwhelm" to our lives.  We need to live from the overflow of God's presence. He promises peace; we need to live in and from that peace. CARIS SNIDER loves to share the hope of God through speaking, writing, coaching, and leading worship. She is the author of “Anxiety Elephants: 31 Day Devotional” and “Anxiety Elephants: 90 Day Devotional for Tween Boys and Girls.” From her own personal experience, she helps women in their journey of overcoming depression, anxiety, fear, and shame. Caris lives with her husband, Brandon, and two daughters in Cullman, Alabama. A word from Caris: I am so glad that you have found your way here. You see, I know what it is like to be shackled in guilt and shame, feeling hopeLESS and purposeLESS. BUT, I also know the freedom of those shackles being broken and beginning to live a life FULLfilled. I have my good days and I have my bad days. I have had some pretty dark days as well. I don't know what type of day you are having, but just know that many of us have been where you are, and there is hope to make it out. Find free resources HERE. Follow her instagram to learn more: @carissnider And her website is carissnider.com    

Jilliann Woods grew up in an abusive environement which didn't stop with her childhood. Because she didn't understand the oppression under which she was raised, she found herself in repeated abusive relationships. She finally realized that God created all of us to be heard and seen and empowered by His Spirit, she now lives free and boldly counsels and teaches multitudes of women so that they too can find our God-given freedom in Christ. Thank the Lord, for Jilliann's courage and love for others. Check out her two free resources on her website: jillian-woods.com. And pass them along to anyone you know who might need help in this painful and crippling life situation.  Free guide: How to Climb Out of Oppression Free printable: Bold and Free Manifesto     Some gems from our conversation: I thought it was my duty to be nice at the expense of being honest. All the things I wanted to keep secret, I now share to help others. One oppressive relationship when younger can lead to a series of abusive relationships as an adult. When you suspect someone may be in an abusive relationship, develop trust by just being there for them and then begin asking gentle questions. God gives us all kinds of permission to be bold.  I learned I do have a voice given to me by God, empowered by Him to be used by His Spirit. How does a woman transition from being "beside the point" to becoming the very point of her own life? Jilliann Woods is a writer, abuse survivor, and founder of Be Bold. Live Free—providing encouragement, coaching, and resources for women affected by abuse in close relationships. Currently, she is writing a book for Christian women who seek a path to freedom from abuse and relationship addiction. She is a certified Domestic Violence Peer Counselor. Jilliann is Mom to three amazing adults, and Grammie to seven cherished grands. She happily resides on the Central Coast of California.   3 Steps to Take if You are in an Abusive Relationship:   [Safety first for yourself and your children. If physical violence is an issue, find safe shelter. If you don't have a place to go call: 800.799.7233] 1. Confide in a trusted friend. Even if you feel ashamed or embarrassed, a trusted friend will understand and realize the abusive behavior of your spouse is not your fault. 2. Find a mentor or counselor who is trauma informed. Someone who will know what you are going through. Ask your friend to help with this step. If you are a Christian, find a trauma informed faith-based coach or counselor.  3. Be honest with yourself, don't excuse the abuse, and don't accept the blame for his behavior. Pray and ask God for guidance and courage.     NOTE: In abusive marriages, Marriage Counseling is not advisable. You need individual counseling. The abuser must be willing to get help and do the work to change his behaviors first.   Click here for  FREE 5-Step Toxic Relationship Reset Guide (scroll to bottom of Jilliann's home page)   Find and follow Jilliann in all the places-- https://jilliann-woods.com/ https://www.instagram.com/jilliannw https://www.facebook.com/writerjilliannwoods https://www.pinterest.com/jilliannwoodscoach/  

Things are out of our control. Circumstances do cause us grief and pain, tragedy does strike the good people as well as the bad. What can we do with our sorrow? We hope as Paul wrote in I Thess. 4:13 – “Do not grieve like the men who have no hope.” We can think that as a good Christian, we should not be grieving—as if being sad is un-Christ-like. Life IS hard, we’d be foolish not to embrace that fact, and the best way to get through grief is to grieve. But we grieve differently because we belong to God. How does a follower of Jesus grieve differently? With hope in God who knows what’s ahead and loves us to the uttermost. We are to come to Him with our grief, we are to hold on tight, as we grieve, and we are to look for God’s beauty and purpose amidst the ashes of pain. I want to add something here that maybe you can relate to: I hate to see my kids suffer – I like to run around and manipulate all their circumstances and their friends and their teachers – just so that my kids don’t suffer pain – but God has something better in mind. He wants them to know Him through their pain. And that is far more beautiful and helpful than anything I can maneuver. They need to learn to know God personally; They need to learn for themselves that God’s joy underlies their grief and the best way for them to learn it, is for their mother to get out of the way of the Holy Spirit.    (Of course, the Holy Spirit still needs my help with my husband . . . just kidding.) Joy comes from trusting and hoping in God Joy comes from communing and depending on God Joy comes from obedience and the main thing to obey is: "Love others as I have loved you." John 15       Sign up here to receive my 31 Days of Prayers: Love God, Love My Neighbor - It's Not Complicated (I make it complicated) One short prayer in your inbox for 31 days (free.) Also in journal form - see SHOP. A gift for your soul just in time for the holidays. Quantities are limited. 

Mimika Cooney, author, speaker and "personal trainer for the mind" is with us today to talk about mindset and legacy and living for things that matter. Wife and mother of three, Mimika had a lot going on until she realized she needed to get off the treadmill of doing too much with too little of relying on God. She needed a mindset change: "Lord, show me what you want me to do and then help me do it." And he did and does.  "Our mind drives our actions so I need to keep God in the driver seat by renewing my mind daily—Romans 12:2."--Mimika (pronouced like paprika!) Author of 10 books including her latest: Unstick Your Mind: Shift Your Mindset, Develop Grit, and Break Barriers, Mimika shares wisdom and inspiration based on her favorite Scripture, Romans 12:2 - "...be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect." Find her free resource: 8 Steps to Supercharge Your Mind HERE.   Some gems from our conversation: Training includes action—God expects us to act so we can be and do what he's created us to be and do. We all have "junk in the trunk" that slows us down and needs clearing out. We may be living in denial-city if we think we can do God's will without God renewing our minds daily. Our mind drives our actions so I need to keep God in the driver seat by renewing my mind daily—Romans 12:2. We don't know what we don't know so we rely on God to show us what needs changing and then take action steps to make those changes. There are limits to self-help because it's self, not God. You have to want to make a change. I help people move from where they are to where they want to be. Ask yourself: "What are you thinking and why do you believe that?" You're never too old to teach an old dog new tricks.  Your story is a testimony to God's grace so if you keep it to yourself, you are doing the world a disservice and robbing God of the glory due him.   Find Mimika here: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mimikacooney YouTube https://youtube.com/c/mimikacooney Facebook https://www.facebook.com/themimikacooney Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mimikacooney Twitter https://twitter.com/mimikacooney Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Mimika- Cooney/e/B0052GNJGY   Don't forget to check out her latest book, Unstick Your Mind as well as her free resource: 8 Steps to Supercharge Your Mind HERE.  

When we wake up each morning, do we actually think that what we do can change someone's world in some way? Most of us are grateful to change the sheets on a regular basis, clean the coffee pot with vinegar a few times a year, and water the plants when they show signs of an early death. Yet, as followers of Jesus, we are not only called to an eternal purpose, to love God and our neighbor, we also get the privilege of partnering with the Son of God to change lives—one life, perhaps—all for His glory and our good and theirs. Does that sound too hard? Too overwhelming? Too exhausting? It can to me, until I remember how Jesus spoke to many individuals, not only crowds of 5,000 and more. And He met needs one-on-one, as well as breaking bread and fish for hungry men and women and their kids on a mountain more than once. Think about it: I've learned that inviting one person for a cup of coffee can change their world. God loves people, and He wants to use our tables and teapots to show people that He does. Your cup of coffee or tea, soup or water—can be an introduction to God that someone has been looking for their whole lives. As my new sweatshirt reads, "My real home is heaven. I'm just here recruiting." (I don't usually wear that on a first time meet-up.) Awhile ago I shared three stories of how God changed lives through a simple invitation. Here are three more stories of how God changed lives through a simple invitation. An invitation to the one who needs a family An invitation to the one who needs to live awake An invitation to the one who needs a little help   Maybe you've been the recipient of an invitation that changed your life. I'd love to hear about it.  I'd also like to hear if you invite someone over and would like me to pray alongside. Email me: [email protected]. We're partners, after all.  To hear my first three invitations that changed the world, LISTEN to Part, I - HERE.  

Today's conversation with Keri Eichberger is something we all need to hear: how to live with less worry and more peace. Author of the brand new book: Win Over Worry: Conquer What Shakes You and Soar with the One Who Overcomes, Keri, mother of five (now there are five worries!) speaks of her own process in overcoming worry with the truth of God's Word.  Yes, there's a giveaway! Leave a comment below or on social media to be entered to win her book! Some gems from Keri: We must be aware of the temptation to rely on ourselves and our own abilities, for true peace and freedom can only be found when we fully trust and surrender to God. Worry is rooted in fear: fear of helplessness and fear of worthlessness. The more people I love, the more reason I'll have to worry—until and unless I give them all to God's care. Simple steps to worry less takes a commitment and a decision to follow those steps.  I worry less when I remember that God sees so much that we don't see. Identify your root of worry and cover it with God's truth: He is all loving and all powerful.  Overview: On this episode of WELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy Life, our host Sue Donaldson is joined by guest Keri Eichberger as they dive deep into the topic of worry and its impact on our lives. The conversation begins with a focus on faith and the desire to make a difference in the lives of loved ones through their love for Jesus. The importance of living boldly and vulnerably in our faith is emphasized, as it brings glory to God and raises "kingdom builders" who can make a positive impact in the world. The discussion then shifts to the root causes of worry and how unresolved worry can turn into fear. The speaker shares personal experiences, like worrying about their child driving, and explains how these fears can stem from deeper rooted fears of helplessness and worthlessness. They highlight the importance of identifying and addressing these root causes in order to overcome worry, reminding listeners that these fears are lies and that we are never helpless or worthless, drawing strength from the truths of God. In addition to exploring personal experiences with worry, the episode also discusses how faith impacts daily life and how it is important to show reliance on God rather than trying to handle everything on our own. The speaker shares personal struggles and how they rely on God's grace to navigate their responsibilities. They also touch on the prevalence of worry among people of all ages and provide practical strategies for dealing with worry, such as writing down reminders of God's love and control. The episode continues with an examination of the origins of worry and the tendency for people, including the speaker herself, to learn unhealthy coping strategies and avoid addressing the true source of their suffering. The importance of unlearning and relearning trust in God rather than relying on oneself or the world is discussed. The conversation then moves to the challenges of parenting and the need for vulnerability in building intimacy and allowing others to witness the grace of God. The speaker encourages authenticity and transparency, acknowledging that it is God being tested, not the individual. They also tackle the issue of self-reliance and the tendency to worship one's own abilities. The speaker references Psalm 73 and ponders whether worry is more prevalent now compared to 100 years ago. The episode concludes with reflections on leaving a legacy and the importance of embracing and relating to others. The speaker addresses encounters with non-believers and the need to overcome fear and self-righteousness in order to meet others where they are. Their personal journey of growth, including overcoming worry and finding more peace through a closer relationship with God, is shared. The speaker also discusses their decision to write a book on anxiety to help others and their research process. They suggest resources for fostering faith in young children, such as reading biographies of Christians, and highlight the importance of honoring trust in difficult circumstances rather than offering empty platitudes. Throughout the episode, Sue Donaldson and Keri Eichberger provide insights and personal anecdotes that listeners can relate to. They explore the complexities of worry, the role of faith in navigating life's challenges, and the importance of leaving a legacy rooted in love and empathy. Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of worry and practical strategies to address it, as well as inspiration to live a legacy life with less worry and more peace. Keri Eichberger www.KeriEichberger.com [email protected] Hang with me on Instagram!      

You will love this conversation with Roger and Kathi Lipp about their brand new book, The Accidental Homesteader AND they are giving one away! Be sure to comment on social media, on blog or email me so you can be entered to win because you will want a copy for yourself as well as gifts for friends and family: The Accidental Homesteader: What I’ve Learned About Chickens, Compost, and Creating Home   Roger and Kathi Lipp had an idea - a big idea - to move from the Silicon Valley to the north woods of California in mid-life and then they "accidentally" became homesteaders and they (mostly!) love it! Hear how they processed their move, and about some of the very real challenges they faced, and how their strong marriage made this a successful venture. Their enthusiasm for learning new things is an inspiration for all of us to learn new things at any age. Their legacy and desire is to continue to care for others as they grow in their love for each other and their neighbors as well as a deepening faith in their God.    So many tips as well as over 20 recipes and inspiration for all of us to grow and change no matter what our age. Highly practical, humorous, and inspirational, The Accidental Homesteader will encourage you to live with more peace, joy, and contentment.     Some gems from our conversation:   When you're following God, it's never boring. Our brains have expanded, and so has our faith. God is our first thought instead of our last resort when a crisis comes up.  Living as a homesteader makes me more grateful and we are living the life we want. If you're homesteading, you're not taking the easy route—it's rewarding but not convenient. When creating your home, loved and lovely is the goal—not perfection.  If you need or want to learn something, there are a million people who want to teach you.  Learning on the job is rewarding in a way we never experienced before and it brings joy.   About Kathi: Kathi Lipp is the Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of 20 books, including An Abundant Place: Daily Retreats for the Woman Who Can’t Get Away, Overwhelmed, and Clutter Free.  Along with being a part of the InCourage at Dayspring writing team, she is the host of Clutter Free Academy the Podcast! with Kathi Lipp, Facebook group Clutter Free Academy, and Clutter Free for Life. Kathi lives on her Red House mini-homestead with her husband Roger, a dog, and eight chickens and holds cozy writer retreats for content creators. Find and follow her at kathilipp.com, @kathilipp and clutter-free academy and @writingattheredhouse          

Whitney Akin felt overlooked,and that her life didn't matter and she didn't have any purpose in the grand scheme of things. Insecure and shy, she hid in the back of any group gathering so that she wouldn't make a mistake and bring even more perceived criticism onto her heart and life. Finally God reminded her who she was and more importantly who He was: beloved by God, created for his purpose and mission. Her mission now is to let everyone know that they count, that our worth isn't based on our big splash in society or our numbers on social media. Listen today to hear what it means to live seen by God and how you can make that a lifestyle vs only a moment.  Her book, OVERLOOKED: Finding Your Worth When You Feel All Alone is a gem and you may need to get one for yourself and one for a friend who is feeling the same way. Good news: A Giveaway for your first copy! Leave a comment below to be entered to win. Some gems from today's conversation: God gives us all the approval that we need, we just need to remember that. God's name, El Roi, means he is the God who sees so he can't help but see us—we are never overlooked. We like to measure our worth based on how many more eyes are on us, but its the Father's eyes that matter. There's a difference between knowing that God loves me and experiencing it for myself in my grief and doubt. Feeling like  was unseen translated into severe, self-consuming insecurity so that wanted to hide in any social situation. If I hid inside myself there was less of a chance of being hurt. I want my children to live seen, but also take it a step further to help others feel seen by God. Being seen is a moment, living seen is a lifestyle.  Whitney Akin is a wife and mother of three young ones, author and speaker. You can find her here.

Hyatt Moore and his wife Anne came to Jesus late, in their later 20's and they've never stopped serving God all these many years. Hyatt, in his third career—when you're just about to ready to celebrate your 80th birthday, you have time for at least 3 careers—describes himself as a Christian who is an artist. Father of 5 and grandfather of 17, Hyatt wants his legacy to be something that goes on through his kids long after he dies, and he's very intentional about modeling his faith and pouring into his kids and grandkids. First career: Art Director of Surfer Magazine, Dana Pt, CA; second career: Missionary with Wycliffe Bible Translators for 32 years (Director for 5 of those years); Full-time painter (currently painting for many organizations, including donating many each year, and on commission.) See his commission gallery here.  We talk about art and creativity and the talents that God gives all his children. Hyatt says he's a two-talent guy, and God has definitely doubled those. I'm thinking he has five to ten, but then I'm his sister and his biggest fan. Some gems: Creativity is basically problem-solving. God and his mercies are new every morning; I get ideas, solutions, creativity every morning. After running from God and then found by Him, I wanted to live my life to serve others the way I had been helped. Be humble, but step up to your gifting and you'll get more yet.  I want to live a "bless-able" life—I can prevent God's blessings by how I live. God said, "Be holy for I am holy" which implies it's possible for us but only with his help, Spirit and fullness.    Hyatt's portrait painted by a friend and student, Pil See his art at hyattmoore.com View his blog here and join his mailing list here.  Hear his testimony on YouTube here. Hyatt's signature piece is The Last Supper with Twelve Tribes - hear that story HERE. One of the paintings Hyatt created for fellow-artist, Joni Eackenson Tada:   He's known for his large canvases as in Heroes of the Faith:  

With her latest book, Stuff I'd Only Tell God, A Guided Journal of Courageous Honesty, Obsessive Truth-Telling and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery, Jennifer Dukes Lee gives us what we may didn't know we needed: a self-guided tour of ourselves--and it's only as accurate as we are honest. On this episode of WELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy Life, host Sue Donaldson talks to guest Jennifer Dukes Lee about her legacy journey. Jennifer shares her story about creating legacy Bibles for her daughters and the importance of leaving a lasting impact on loved ones. In addition, the episode delves into the power of journaling and how it can help build a deeper relationship with God, the value of asking and answering questions to form meaningful connections with others, exploring both the good and the bad memories in our life, and cultivating self-compassion through journaling. Join us as we explore these meaningful topics that can help us all live a more purposeful and intentional life. What you'll learn from tuning in today: 1. The importance of journaling as a way to become more intimate and honest with God, and to see where He has been in your life, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship. 2. Ways to embrace your unique self and be reminded of God's humor. 3. The concept of exploring both the "holes" and "gardens" in your life and how this can balance things out and allow you to see the beauty in both. 4. How to think about your relationship with money and how it influences your life. 5. The value of cultivating self-compassion by reflecting on past experiences and gaining admiration for your younger self. Some Jen Gems: 1. "We have a generation of people who have grown up without a legacy of faith, so it's up to us to create that legacy now." 2. "Legacy is about making a lasting impact. It's the things that will outlast us when we're gone." 3. "When you lean into discomfort, you find a deeper level of meaning, purpose, and significance in your life." 4. "When we're honest and vulnerable about what we're experiencing, other people find a way to connect and realize they're not alone." 5. "Legacy is not about perfection, it's about authenticity. It's about being true to who God created us to be."   Learn how to create a Bible journal for someone you love: HERE  

Welcome Robin Rhine McDonald of MadeWell.com today as we discuss what may be your favorite topic (or not!)—our physical health. Robin is a faith-based holistic health coach who loves Jesus and has a passion for helping people live their best life physically, all for heaven's sake. I ask Robin some tough questions today—maybe I was feeling a little defensive as I do love my sugar—but she answered everything beautifully. You will learn and be encouraged, no matter where you are on the health spectrum.  Robin learned her good habits because she needed to, and she learned how food and fitness work together to help us live the way God designed. We talk weight loss, bad and good habits, and why God cares about us stewarding our bodies well.  Some gems from Robin: 1. "I think the turning point for me was watching my grandparents' health deteriorate. They dealt with all the common chronic diseases, and I began to see that if we don't make intentional choices, we are going to end up the same way."   2. "It's about going back to the garden and the way that God intended for us to live, before there were processed foods and convenience was the norm."   3. "We don't have to be perfect, but we do need to be intentional and aware of the choices we're making. It's never too late to start making healthier choices."   4. "Grace is not just about covering our mistakes, it's fuel for transformation. It's about acknowledging that we're not perfect, but that God is at work in us.   "5. "Our culture promotes convenience and a sedentary lifestyle, but it's important to remember that small changes can make a big impact on our health."     How to connect with Robin and access her great resources: Podcast: visiondrivenhealth.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robin_rhinemcd/ Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/RobinRhineMcD 5 Day Sugar Fast Devotional: https://www.madewellhealth.com/sugarfast Greens & Grace Experience: https://visiondrivenhealth.com/greensexperience How to prioritize your health masterclass: madewellhealth.com/prioritize Robin McDonald is a health advocate who believes that small changes in lifestyle can have a big impact on health. She knows that many chronic diseases are preventable through healthy choices and that our cultural norms make it difficult for people to know where to begin. Robin encourages people to take hold of God's grace and start making positive changes in their lives. She emphasizes that there is no shame in past choices and that hope for healing is available to everyone.   TRANSCRIPTION OF OUR CONVERSATION - ENJOY! Good morning. Today we are talking to my first health coach. I don't know. I'm not sure I can do this today, Robin, because I went to Taco Bell for lunch. But this is Robin Ryan McDonald, and she describes herself as a faith based, holistic health coach, and we're going to dig into that a little bit. Robin, I know you'll be excited to talk about what that actually means. We'll break it down. Robin, first, tell us a little bit about where you live, your family, and then what does that exactly mean? Robin McDonald [00:01:13]: Yes. So I live in Oceanside, California. I'm a mama of two boys. I've got a three and a half year old and a ten month old. Sue Donaldson [00:01:21]: Whoa. Robin McDonald [00:01:22]: I know. And I'm married to the man of my dreams. So a holistic, faith based health coach. So at the end of the day, it really means that we are coming into alignment with what God has called us to already. We've been given this life. We have a vision, we have a purpose, we have a calling like you talk about all the time. We have this legacy. And so my big thing is, what does it look like to steward our bodies and to partner with God in creating the vitality that we need to carry that out? Sue Donaldson [00:01:56]: Say it again. What does it look like to steward our bodies? For those who don't know, the Christiane steward. What do you mean by that? Robin McDonald [00:02:03]: Thank you for asking. So stewarding means that you are taking care of you're tending to something. So if someone lends something to you that actually belongs to them, you want to make sure you take really good care of it. Right. And so our bodies, at the end of the day, belong to God, and so we want to make sure we take really good care of them again in order to do what he's called us to do. Sue Donaldson [00:02:28]: Yeah, it's always for a higher purpose. It's not so that we look good, though. I like to look good in order to fill out or fulfill our purpose that God has given us. I'm wondering for the person who has an ongoing disease that makes them maybe they can't even get out of bed. What's that called where you just don't have any strength? Robin McDonald [00:02:55]: There's a couple of different diseases. Sue Donaldson [00:02:58]: If they're listening to this today, they go, wait, is this my design to stay in bed all day? What would you say to someone like that? Robin McDonald [00:03:04]: It's a good question. Bringing the heavy questions out. I like it. So first thing I'll say is I don't believe that that was God's intention or design. The problem is we live in a fallen, broken world, and unfortunately, there is disease, there is pain. And even Jesus himself said we would not face this world without trouble. There would be challenges. And unfortunately for some of us, that is physical. Sue Donaldson [00:03:27]: Right. Robin McDonald [00:03:28]: With that said, there is almost always something we can do to either minimize the either propensity we have towards disease or even our current state. Right now, the United States, we are struggling. Most adults are either obese or experiencing not just one, but two to three chronic diseases. And a lot of that is actually lifestyle induced. So there are the people who unfortunately have these oftentimes diseases that they got maybe since birth, but most people only have a propensity to disease. And it was the choices that we've made that led to the outcome we have. And for some people, maybe they hear that and they're like, oh, man, I did this to myself. And maybe they would be inclined to feel guilty or shame. And I would say there doesn't need to be any shame in it because unfortunately, our culture has informed us that fast food and convenience and sedentary lifestyle, all those things are the norm. And so most of us wouldn't even know where to begin to make different changes. And when we become aware of where we're at and the hope that's available to us for the healing that can come from starting now, no matter where you're at, to make those simple changes, that's when we can take hold of God's grace and actually create a different outcome and trajectory for us moving forward. Sue Donaldson [00:04:52]: Okay, now that is a mouthful and a paragraph full. And I love all those different sentences. Taking care of yourself for God's kingdom. Also taking hold of his grace and also starting where you are. I think for people who are chronic dieters, especially, feel like I've tried them all, none work. So I'm just going to go buy another donut. A friend of mine, she does like to walk a lot more than I do, but she calls it taking care of her temple because our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. And I thought, okay, spiritualize, everything grace. Her name is even grace. But it's true. We take care of our temples when we are stewarding our bodies. Well, how did you get started in health coaching and what do you love about it? Robin McDonald [00:05:36]: Great question. So for me, I actually grew up eating terribly. Sue Donaldson [00:05:40]: Paul talks about why is that your mother? You're going to blame your mother? Watch it. I have adult children. Robin McDonald [00:05:47]: I always say bless my precious mama. She didn't know. I didn't know. None of us knew. We were just living. The American Standard Diet, also known or the Standard American Diet, also known as Sad. Right? Sad. Sue Donaldson [00:05:59]: What's it stand for? Standard American diet. Robin McDonald [00:06:03]: It's just sad. Sue Donaldson [00:06:05]: White sugar, white bread, all the things. Robin McDonald [00:06:07]: I like shaken bake this, fried this, pasta that. Hamburger Helper. If it wasn't in a box or something we could throw in the microwave or something we could get in a drive through. I personally wasn't eating it. I was the pickiest eater. Paul writes about how he was the foremost in his sin, and I'm like, I was the foremost with my eating. Like, I did not like vegetables. A lot of my childhood friends who know what I do now think it's hilarious because they knew how piggy they remember. Sue Donaldson [00:06:35]: Yeah, my mother always served two vegetables at every meal, so that was good. And she was from the Midwest, but we lived in California, so we had good vegetables. You know, the Midwest, you think they would have better vegetables, but no, it's the frozen vegetables, I think, that are healthier than the canned, of course. Robin McDonald [00:06:50]: Oh, yeah. Sue Donaldson [00:06:51]: And then she always had a salad. But I'm not saying we grew up, and also we couldn't afford to go out, and I think going out, especially the fast food in McDonald's, was like to eat. Well, they were pretty cheap when they started, but it was kind of a treat to do fast food. So I think I grew up fairly healthy. But you didn't. So what switched it? Robin McDonald [00:07:14]: That's awesome that you had that. And I think that's one of the things I tell people, too, is if you could just cook your own food, even if maybe it's not the standard, healthy, whatever, that's a game changer in and of itself. But for me, it didn't catch my attention until college. I ended up getting a full face of acne and gaining the freshman 15, which turned into the college 20. And then, like we talked about earlier, we want to look good. I wasn't feeling so good in how I look, and so I started to do some more research and exploration. And it was funny because I was trying to find the right topical regimen for my face. And a friend of mine said, you know, what shows up on your face is actually part from what you eat. And I thought that was the dumbest thing. I was like, why would what I eat have anything to do with my face? That goes in my stomach. Sue Donaldson [00:08:02]: But I remember people saying, well, I can't have chocolate because of my acne. Robin McDonald [00:08:08]: It is absolutely related. I didn't know at the time, obviously, and it wasn't until I did change my diet, and at the time, I was I was eating out a lot. I was getting a lot of and I was on a college budget as well. Sure. And so I ended up realizing by changing my diet, I cleared my acne, I lost the weight. But what really shifted in having a passion for this was when I started to see the health of my grandparents deteriorate. So I have all the chronic diseases represented in my grandparents heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, Alzheimer's, cancer, dementia. And I have one grandparent left. Unfortunately, two grandpas passed away from dementia, alzheimer's. One grandma passed away from heart failure. She also had diabetes and arthritis. My last standing grandma has she's a cancer survivor. She has diabetes and arthritis and all of these. Sue Donaldson [00:09:07]: Yeah, diabetes is such a bad thing. My husband's an internist, and so he's very conscious of getting his patients to lose weight. Because diabetes is so hurtful to your body, you don't stay alive longer. I'm pretty sure. Robin McDonald [00:09:21]: Absolutely. And unfortunately, diabetes is often the precursor to heart disease. So when you see someone who ends up with heart disease, stroke, heart attack, it often started with diabetes, which even before that was a result of excessive blood sugar spikes, which comes from eating a lot of processed, high carb, refined foods. Sue Donaldson [00:09:44]: I'm going to ask you another hard question. Robin McDonald [00:09:46]: I'm ready. Sue Donaldson [00:09:47]: My husband is naturally slender. Thankfully, all three of my daughters got those genes, but we feel like it's unfair to those who are naturally DNA disposed to having. One of my roommates, her father died very young and he was a jogger. And when I mentioned that to my husband later, when I met him, he said, oh, well, it's DNA. And so how much of it is DNA? Where people go, well, it's not fair. He can have three beers a night and he doesn't get a beer belly and he doesn't work out, and he just climbed Mount Everest. So I know that's whining, but I bet you hear it. Robin McDonald [00:10:31]: Absolutely. And even to some extent with me, I'm 6ft tall, and so even when I was at my heaviest and I show my before and after photos, they're like, you don't look like you were that heavy. And I'm like, well, it just kind of distributes really well. Sue Donaldson [00:10:48]: Yeah, I wear big sweaters myself. Robin McDonald [00:10:51]: There you go. And your question, there's two different aspects to it. So one, just based on what we know through research, is 80% of what actually comes about with disease is lifestyle. Only 20% is genetics. Sue Donaldson [00:11:11]: How do you know that for sure? That's a big statement. Robin McDonald [00:11:15]: Yeah, absolutely. So if you want to delve further into it, you look into the study of epigenetics. So this is the study that looks or the study of your genes and gene expression. So what we've come to find is that you're given a certain set of genes from your parents, obviously, but based on what you do, your environment, even your mental health, what you eat, your water, all these different factors cause those genes to either express to turn on or to turn off. Sue Donaldson [00:11:43]: Oh, wow. And can you kill them off early on so that they never get turned back on? Robin McDonald [00:11:48]: I'm not entirely sure about that. What I do know is that the more we implement those healthy habits, the better chance we have to keep the negative ones off right. Sue Donaldson [00:11:58]: And did you study health in college then? Robin McDonald [00:12:00]: I actually didn't. So undergrad was business, grad school was seminary, and I ended up doing a specific nutrition certification through integrative health after I graduated, once I started to see the health deteriorate with my grandparents. And after coming from seminary, where we're being equipped to execute the Bible and to understand theology and to equip the saints and doing what God's called them to do. And I'm seeing these precious saints getting taken out of the game early and being hindered by disease, and I'm like even professors and peers, there were two pastors in my denomination who passed away. Sue Donaldson [00:12:39]: In their fifty s and sixty s oh, my goodness. Robin McDonald [00:12:41]: From these degenerative diseases. And so God really put on my heart of like, okay, this is a problem. If the bodies that comprise the body of Christ are unable to do what they're called to do, to actually be the hands and feet of Jesus, we're in trouble. Sue Donaldson [00:12:58]: How much as believers, do we need to focus on the physical? You've sort of answered the question, but I think that might come to mind for those who are more like too heavenly minded to be any earthly good. But God calls us to set our minds on things above. He doesn't say to set our bodies on things above. So how would you answer that? Robin McDonald [00:13:19]: I think the best answer to almost any question we have regarding our walk with God is what can we see from Jesus in his life? So Jesus had three years of public ministry. He was alive for 33, but he only had three years of public ministry. When you read the Gospels, I believe the number is I'm not going to give the percentage, but I would say at least a third of the Gospel is referring to physical healing. So if physical health didn't matter, then the Son of God was wasting his time. And I don't think he was, but. Sue Donaldson [00:13:55]: I think people would argue, sure, yeah, late, I'm ready. I taught high school, so I love it. Robin McDonald [00:14:04]: I love it. Sue Donaldson [00:14:05]: Has nothing to do with anything. I think they might argue that the reason there were physical healings is because people were looking for an outward sign fair of a Messiah. But you take it to a different aspect. I'm not arguing with you, but I think that's a very interesting thing. That's how you come about, I think you've already answered it. Is that God wants us to live for Him in the best way possible and to live longer. May or may not be in the cards. I mean, Tim Keller just passed away very young because of pancreatic cancer, who knows whose fault that was or is there a fault? Who knows? I don't think people are talking about that right now. They're just feeling the loss. Robin McDonald [00:14:47]: Right. Sue Donaldson [00:14:47]: And my brother is almost 80 and I'm not ready for him to weigh he's got a lot more going on, but he's sick right now, so it makes me worried in a spiritual way, of course, but I've given him to the Lord, but I just don't want him to. But 80 is long for some and I told you, I'm 71 and I'm not ready to conquer over, but I'm ready to see Jesus. But if he wants me to be healthier, maybe I need to hire you. Robin McDonald [00:15:17]: Hey, I'm here. I'm ready. Would you have an application process? Sue Donaldson [00:15:21]: I just don't want to give up sugar. That's my problem. I'm a good baker. Robin McDonald [00:15:26]: Hey, me too. Sue Donaldson [00:15:28]: You are? Yes, but I'm not going to argue with you. I'm sure you are. You include in your description the phrase weight loss. There's a lot to be said about this because of body image, and my daughter's a therapist and she has to deal with especially girls or women who we go into deep depression because of body image issues. Maybe it's not even a bad body image, but it's how they view themselves. Depression, even suicide. What are your thoughts on that? I think it's a weight loss. Robin McDonald [00:16:02]: Yes. So it's obviously a word that can be fleshed out a lot. When you think of weight loss, when you ask someone, what's your main health goal? And they say, I want to lose 20 pounds. If you cut off someone's leg, that's going to drop for some people, close to 20 pounds. But that's not really what we're looking for, right? Sue Donaldson [00:16:20]: No. Robin McDonald [00:16:21]: And so what people really want is they want fat loss and what they even want more than that is to look a certain way. And oftentimes, at least for myself, I care a lot about building muscle. There's a lot of research that shows that one of the number one things you can do to reduce all risk of disease and mortality is to build muscle and oftentimes to create maybe the aesthetic that people are looking for. They don't realize that sometimes that could mean gaining weight. Sue Donaldson [00:16:51]: Yeah, muscle muscles make you cause gain weight. Yeah, I've heard that before too. Robin McDonald [00:16:56]: And so something we talk a couple of different things we talk about with my clients. One, a big foundation of the program is grounding ourselves in our identity, in Christ and knowing that the pursuit of health, even the pursuit of weight loss, isn't about trying to attain an acceptance for our body or trying to reach a certain aesthetic goal. Again, we all want to look and we want to feel confident, but I think what we often don't realize is that's a decision that we make for ourselves that comes from receiving God's perspective of us, that comes from believing what's true and identifying the lies that are there. And oftentimes the lie is, I'm not attractive or beautiful unless I weigh X amount. Sue Donaldson [00:17:36]: Okay. Robin McDonald [00:17:36]: And things like that. But then, of course, from the actual health standpoint, we want to say, okay, and some people, they're actually health at a heavier weight. We want to look at their blood work, you want to look at their physical capacity. You want to look at those other factors. Or even two, if someone's more muscular, and then they have maybe some fat on top of that, and it looks like they're heavier, but their body composition isn't health. So there's a lot that goes into what it means to lose weight and what it means to be healthy. And in terms of body size, what that looks like. Sue Donaldson [00:18:05]: Okay, what is your favorite? Maybe you don't have one. Do you have a favorite popular weight loss or fitness program? I'm thinking of noom calibrate weight Watchers. Do you have one or you don't even want to mention it? Robin McDonald [00:18:23]: I don't. I'm a big proponent of creating a lifestyle, and I think that's one of the biggest hurdles for people in creating something that lasts. 90% of people who lose a significant portion of weight gain it back within five years. Sue Donaldson [00:18:46]: Oh, totally. Robin McDonald [00:18:47]: And a big part of that is because we try the next thing. We try the next diet, we try the next app or whatnot? And we miss that. It's not a question of hitting your next goal. It's a question of, am I creating habits that serve a lifestyle like we talked about, enabling me to do what God's called me to do? And so we do a lot of reframing and perspective shifting with my clients to where, yes, we support them in losing the weight. Yes, we support them in improving their blood work and increasing their energy. But we want to come down to, are we creating a lifestyle that's in alignment with who you are in Jesus? Sue Donaldson [00:19:26]: I'm writing this down, no problem, because I've joined a couple of these things and I've lost, like, five pounds, but I don't like the food. Sometimes I don't like the food. So I think, well, this is not going to last. So I quit. That wasn't those two. But there was something else. I can't remember the name of it. I thought, oh, my gosh, I don't even like it. And I'm a foodie, and I know you can eat well and deliciously healthy, and sometimes I do. So am I creating habits that are in alignment with say that again with. Robin McDonald [00:19:57]: Who Jesus has called me to be and what he's called me to do. Sue Donaldson [00:20:02]: Do you think that there's a prejudice against fat people, even in Christian circles? Robin McDonald [00:20:08]: It's a good question. I think it's one of those things where it's something to discern with each individual heart. I'm not entirely sure. I guess I don't have a strong opinion on that question. I think there's a misconception about people who are heavy, the assumption that they're that way because they're lazy or because they end up that way. And I don't think that's the case because like I said, our culture one, we've got a culture that has severely misinformed us on what health actually is. The governmental guidelines are junk and actually perpetuate obesity and the onset of disease. And then on top of that, oftentimes what parents consumed and their lack of health when they have their kids, they increase the propensity of obesity and whatnot. And one last thing I'll say about that. Most people who come to work with me are undereating, even though they're overweight. Sue Donaldson [00:21:06]: Isn't that interesting? Robin McDonald [00:21:07]: They're trying so hard to lose weight and they care so much about trying to be healthy and they're actually not able to lose the weight because their body is starving and holding onto the weight to survive. And I have to do a lot of mental reworking for them to be comfortable with increasing their intake so that we can get their body nourished and help improve their metabolism to get to a place where they can actually lose the weight. Sue Donaldson [00:21:34]: It sounds like it's a big educational process, education plus building good habits. Can you summarize what you mean by the phrase grace based sustainable process that's on your website? Robin McDonald [00:21:47]: Yes. Sue Donaldson [00:21:47]: Let me say it again. Grace based sustainable, which we all want to be sustained in any process if we're going to work that hard, if we're going to spend money to be coaching or to change a habit, whether or not we go with you or anything. And also fresh food costs more. Sometimes the poorest section of the population is difficult. And so of course I know we were each given $100 by our church during COVID to go pass it around to people. Robin McDonald [00:22:19]: That's cool. Sue Donaldson [00:22:20]: Yeah, I think my husband used it to help someone who needed dental work. And my daughter and I went around and we bought some sleeping bags on sale and passed them out to homeless people. But we actually went to McDonald's to get $10 gift certificates because they could get more food. It would fill their belly longer, but of course it wasn't healthy. So I'm a bad girl. But they got fed. They were happy to get them. Of course I'm sure. So what do you say for someone I can't afford to eat? Robin McDonald [00:22:49]: Well, what I will say is it does take some intentionality to craft a meal plan and a grocery list that actually can fit within a certain budget. And I will say I'm very excited. I'm going to be having a gal on my podcast who is like the budget master and that's like her whole thing is you can eat healthy and budget for this much. So I'm excited to have her as a resource. But with that said, what is not able to occur in finances for purchasing food will have to be made up in time to plan accordingly. Sue Donaldson [00:23:27]: Yeah, it's so true because well, I grew up with mom parents, who we didn't go out to eat much, and where I live here, we didn't go out to eat much just because I have that. I'm a granddaughter of the Depression. But I also find that the food tastes better if you make it at home, but it does take more time. And because I didn't have to work full time after my children were born, I have the time and energy to do it. But when I started working part time, I thought, well, no wonder people want to order pizza. You're so tired after work. So you have to plan in advance. And I usually plan my menus two weeks in advance, and then if I change my mind, at least I usually put a little, like, if I don't feel like eating this a little list. Because intentionality helps, actually, in so many good things. What is the main key to good health? Robin McDonald [00:24:15]: The big, broad question. Sue Donaldson [00:24:17]: I know, but you wrote on this, you say being healthy doesn't have to be hard. Really? How so? Robin McDonald [00:24:23]: Okay, so being healthy doesn't have to be hard. What is the main key to being healthy? The main key, so I think, is being vision driven. And that vision comes from, again, our identity in Christ and knowing who we are in Him. Because whether it's from me or something you Google, there are always going to be recipes, meal plans, diets programs, et cetera. But the question is if it's going to last, it comes down to are you being driven by the One who made you and the One who's called you to living that life of purpose? Sue Donaldson [00:25:06]: Doesn't everything always come down to that. Robin McDonald [00:25:08]: At the end of the day? Yeah, they joke about that being the answer in Sunday school. Jesus, it's like but yeah, that is. Sue Donaldson [00:25:14]: Ultimately that's the answer. And, you know, my podcast is about legacy, and I can tell what your legacy is, and I appreciate your you're so articulate. How old are you? Can I ask how old you are? Robin McDonald [00:25:27]: Yeah, I don't mind. I'm 32. Sue Donaldson [00:25:30]: Here we go. And mother of two, active and a great and 6ft tall and has this great business, but it's not just a business for you. I can see that. It's a passion. So how would you answer this question? What do you want your legacy to be for those who know and love you? Robin McDonald [00:25:46]: So the biggest legacy that I want to pass down is that we would be led by Jesus in all areas of life and prioritizing what matters most, and that's being vision driven in relationships, in career, in health, everything. And obviously one of my primary areas of focus is health. And I really believe that it's to the enemy's delight that we consider health as something separate from our pursuit of Jesus and our ultimate legacy. Sue Donaldson [00:26:22]: Totally. I was told in college that spirituality isn't a slice of the pie, it's the whole pie. And our health is one of those slices. And of course I like to eat and make pie, but I always remember that because I think people, like, in your neighborhood, they see you drive out to go to church on a Sunday morning and they think, wow, they're the religious people and they consider it a slice of your life. And unless they actually know you and get to know you, they think, well, that's just not for me. But if they get to know you, hopefully they will know that it's not just a slice of our week. Robin McDonald [00:27:03]: Amen. Sue Donaldson [00:27:03]: During the other six days that Jesus rules our life. And I can say that it's not always the case for me, but that is my long term goal as well. How are you busy doing it right now, passing on this lexi? Robin McDonald [00:27:17]: It's been a huge game changer since I've become a mom. I think it's added a lot more depth to that question and what it looks like, and it's also, in some ways, made it more challenging. And so for me, I'm very intentional do my very best to spend time in prayer and in the Word. And even prayer has taken a different avenue. Every time I breastfeed, I'm like, I'm just sitting here, I'm going to pray. Every time I put down my babies, I pray over them and just finding those mundane areas where I can invite God, acknowledge Him with me. Even just this morning I put on my Instagram story how when I was at the gym, I was thanking Jesus that I was feeling stronger. I'm ten months postpartum and I was like, how cool, God, that you created our bodies this way to heal and get stronger and recover, especially for us as women to have that opportunity and privilege. So for me, that's a huge part is how do I integrate Jesus into the mundane? And at the end of the day, a habit that I've recently started implementing is I call it the God count up. And so I write down at least three things that God did through my day that I would count as a win, that I get to give Him glory for, and then I write down three things as intentions for the next day. And that practice has helped me just in reflecting on my day, helped me acknowledge God, help me acknowledge what there is to celebrate, and then also set my focus for the next day and just helps me be so much more intentional with, again, what matters most to me and grounding myself in Jesus. Sue Donaldson [00:28:46]: So every day you remember what your three things are for your focus? Robin McDonald [00:28:51]: Not always, actually, I tried to. Sue Donaldson [00:28:53]: How can you do that with two small children? Good for you. I read recently that we should just tell God every day how much we adore Him and. Has really revolutionized I can't really say that revolutionized my prayer life because it's been since Friday, but since Friday I have felt closer to God in adoring Him. Robin McDonald [00:29:14]: Amen. Sue Donaldson [00:29:14]: Even when things were not going to the way I wanted it to go. You know how things happen and you're disappointed in people or in yourself, and then you go, Well, I just adore you. It makes such a difference. And that really brings God and his grace into the mundane, because life is mundane. As Charles Windall said, the trouble with life is that it's so daily and yet God says, I love. I think it's Psalm 92. It's my parentheses, it's my parentheses verse. It says, I proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness by night. So in the morning you have the love, in a night you have the faithfulness. And because I was an English teacher, it's a parentheses and then we're in the middle adoring him. What obstacles did you have to overcome or challenges to meet to leave this legacy or you're in the process. Robin McDonald [00:30:05]: I know, yes, of course, always in the process. The two biggest things, one is I would consider myself kind of more of like a type, a achiever kind of person. And I've fallen into the trying to do for God versus with God. And that's a big thing I am trying to be so mindful of and to continue to bring before him and to bring to his feet. Because while doing things for God, it's not a bad thing. But I I want the fullness of what I'm created for. And I know that that's that intimate relationship with him and I know that the way that I'm going to have the greatest impact and to ultimately do what he's laid on my heart to do is going to come from being in him. I'm doing it with him, from him versus if it's just for him, then it's out of my own perspective and my own strength. So that's the first thing. The second thing is being mindful of when again, being an achiever type is being aware of when shame tries to creep in. And that's why I actually emphasize so much about grace in the program, because I have so much experience of working through that shame and taking hold of God's grace. And acknowledging grace is something that not just that which covers our sins or our mistakes, but also the substance by which we are fueled into transformation. We use the phrase like, oh, it's by God's grace and it is that we can be transformed and experience a different trajectory. Sue Donaldson [00:31:35]: Give me an example, good example from. Robin McDonald [00:31:40]: I think it was a week and a half or so ago, I was trying to handle this very stressful situation with my husband. He was out of town on the phone, I have a baby screaming, I have my three year old whining and my whole self is just like and I ended up yelling. I went into the garage, I did a yelled outside, came back in, and I just was, like, so worked up. And it was ironic because I had just prayed a prayer a couple of days before of, like, God, reveal the areas of me that I need to work, maybe even slightly from a place of pride, of, like, I don't know what I need to work on. Reveal to me. And then it's like, two days later, boom. Like, okay, Jesus, I see that. And that would be one of those moments where I'm like, oh, my gosh, I can't believe I reacted that way. What's wrong with me? That's not the example I want to set for my kids. And that's where the shame would try to creep in. But I guess fortunately, unfortunately, I've walked this path so many times, and I'm like, okay, hold on. We're going down the road of shame. What's true is I made a mistake. I'm not perfect. I get to work on taking hold of God's grace in those moments where I'm super stressed, recognizing, like, this isn't life or death. How can I be the thermometer instead of or the barometer instead of the thermometer with my kids? Right? I set the tone, and so I was able, after, of course, being upset with myself and experiencing a bit of the shame, to take hold of what's actually true and take hold of God's grace. And since then, it's been better. Am I never going to have a moment like that? No, but I can say that God's doing that little bit of work continually in me in that way. Sue Donaldson [00:33:23]: Great. How do you embody God's welcoming heart? Robin McDonald [00:33:28]: I love that question. And I actually just went to a conference this past weekend, and it was not a Christian conference. It was a business conference. And it was a group of people who have a huge desire to make a big impact. And the language that they used was, like, the universe or living a life of surrender the cosmos and the energy. Sue Donaldson [00:33:50]: That you bring to the table, the. Robin McDonald [00:33:52]: Energy, all those things. And they even had stories of, like, I don't know, something in me told me to do this, and my heart was just, like, bursting because I'm like, It's Jesus. It is Jesus. All of that is found in Jesus. And obviously, I can't just interrupt them or scream like, Jesus. Usually it's not super effective, but what I did do, they create a lot of space for sharing in that environment. And this is what I try to do in my life in general, is to be really authentic and to not feel like I have to hide or change language when I'm talking about what's authentic for me. So when they asked what my goals were for the year, I said, I want to be in 100% partnership with God in my business and my family. And when they asked me, what are the big wins you have from the last year? I said, my husband and I did a pastoral internship together at our church, and we led a small group together and we have weekly date nights and we're going to go on a vision retreat together. Like, I'm prioritizing my marriage and God and we're serving together. So it's like I wasn't preaching to them, I was sharing authentically. Right. And even too, they asked the question of, what are you going to bring to this event? And I said, if anybody is questioning at all about their worth and value and feeling like this business is the way that they're proving themselves, I would love to speak life into you. And I got to have a couple of those conversations. Sue Donaldson [00:35:08]: Did they come to you? Robin McDonald [00:35:12]: Yeah. Sue Donaldson [00:35:12]: Was your point that they would find it, that it wasn't enough? Robin McDonald [00:35:17]: Can you rephrase that? Sue Donaldson [00:35:19]: You said, if there's anyone here who's finding their worth in their business, I thought that's what you said and you were going to say, well, you're going to eventually come to the end of that because God is the one who gives you worth. Okay. Robin McDonald [00:35:34]: Yes, a lot of them are, and they share it's a pretty vulnerable group, which is really cool. And I think what sets the stage for me to also share vulnerably and even for them to be more receptive, but they'll say things like, oh, yeah, my mom didn't believe in me. And so I'm proving to her now I'm making this much, or things like that. And I just want to be like, oh, precious person, you're enough as you are. And what you're creating here is an overflow from your worth and your value. And then at the end of the day, again, back to Jesus. But being able to just speak life and encouragement is certainly something that really lights me up wonderful. Sue Donaldson [00:36:12]: So how could people find you? Robin McDonald [00:36:15]: I am on all the social media platform. Actually, I'm not, I'm not on TikTok, believe it or not, as as a millennial, I'm not on TikTok, but you can find me on Instagram or Facebook. I also do have my own podcast I just launched. It's called the Vision Driven Health Podcast. And so those are the three best places you can find me or hear more from me. Sue Donaldson [00:36:33]: Okay. And we'll put the links in show notes and you have a couple of resources. Would you explain them? And then we're going to offer them free to my listeners. Robin McDonald [00:36:41]: Perfect. So the first one is called the Five Day Sugar fast devotional. This one was a labor of love with me and my team. We get into what fasting is from a physical standpoint, what it is from a spiritual standpoint. And then we each wrote one of those or we took turns writing those different devotionals in there. And it guides you through a really cool process of fasting sugar and ultimately receiving more of God in your life and learning to partner with Him in your health, too. Something physical. So that's a great option. Second one. In the same vein, the Greens and Grace challenge. It is a five day experience where you will have access to five different recordings from myself on what it means to be vision driven, grace fueled, and then some very practical trainings on how to deal with sugar and blood sugar, how to form habits that last and break ones that aren't serving you, and those different topics. So that and it also has recipes. Both of these actually have recipes in there based on the topic of them. And lastly, for those of you who maybe are hearing all of this and say, I don't have time for any of this, I have the how to Prioritize Your Health Amidst the Chaos without Any Added Stress Master class. Sue Donaldson [00:38:01]: How long is that? Robin McDonald [00:38:02]: It's 2 hours. So, ironically, so it's something that you can break up over a few days or a week and kind of get little chunks of it as you go, but it also has a few different resources built into it, how to make a schedule. It's also got recipes. Quick, easy recipes. All of them. All my recipes that I give people, I try to make quick, easy, and tasty. Sue Donaldson [00:38:23]: I love that. Quick, easy, and tasty. Me too. I always give a gift to my podcast guests. My listeners don't know this, but I send you simple favorite recipes from sue, and you can just throw them all out when I send them to you. Robin McDonald [00:38:40]: So funny. Sue Donaldson [00:38:41]: You're going to say, oh, dear, she needs me. Robin McDonald [00:38:44]: I'm going to look at them. Sue Donaldson [00:38:46]: Thank you so much for being with us today, and you have been a delight, and God bless you. Until next time, think about your legacy, the one God has called you to live all for heaven's sake. I would love to speak at your next Christian Women's event, see my keynotes and retreat series as well as the show notes from today's [email protected]. Thanks for coming. You're always welcome here. You don't think so?

The most important question about our road trip with God is this: How in the world can I stay on this trip? The answer is this: “You can’t. Not by yourself. You need God completely.” And the only way to remember that is to spend time with Him—whether it’s in the car, in the shower, in your favorite chair, or on a walk. don’t expect to do the Christian life by yourself. It’s sure to fail, period. You’re heard the expression "We need someone with skin on."  Our children, our families, our friends need God, but they need God with “skin on” and each of us needs to be Jesus to someone else; we need to be God’s HUG to one another. However, before we can do that properly, we must first be experiencing God’s HUG for ourselves. In other words, before we can water others, we must make sure our bucket is full. I need constant refilling. We could do a whole study on what causes holes in our buckets. Someone said, “Ministry is spillage.” Helping others is a by-product of seeking God and finding our rest in Him. In other words, we don’t seek to help others first  - but that happens when we seek God. Remember to take those Rest Stops: Women are tired, period. We do too much, often, for too many people, with too little money, cooperation or sleep. I need to figure out one of 3 things: do I delegate this job? Do I do things that energize me? Or, do I dump something? Don’t expect to do the Christian life by yourself. It’s sure to fail, period. Before we can water others, we must make sure our bucket is full. When we are so full up of God ourselves, our ministry of love and exhortation and healing for others is simply the natural outcome. The more we come to Him for rest, the more we understand how He Himself is our rest. We come to Him because others are depending on us to be their rest as they travel on their journey. One thing that I thought would be fun if we had the time is for each of us to share stories that began with the line: “I was so tired once that I . . .”   Share in comments - would love to hear your "tired" stories, unless you're too tired, of course.     

Country singer/songwriter, Laurel Taylor knows who she is. It took a comment from Jlo on American Idol to make her realize that she didn't know who she was at one point. She needed to go back home and to her Gospel roots, and recognize that she belonged to God, He had given her these gifts, and she would live her life for his kingdom and glory.  Laurel, 29, knew from age 15 she wanted to sing, and she began writing songs in earnest at 17. But then went off the rails for a time, separating herself from friends, family, and God. At a crossroads (literally), after having lost it all, she chose God—seriously and for herself, this time—not just because she was raised in the faith. And she hasn't looked back.  Some gems from today's conversation: When you preach something, it comes across differently than when you sing it. People still saw me as the person in my past. And for me to move forward, I had to sing about it. I'm always looking for an opportunity to talk about the Lord. I communicate a melody that they can't get out of their head.  That's my goal. I want to be known as a believer that loves Jesus with all their heart, and would go to the ends just to help someone, no matter what, and I always want to put myself last.  I just want to be seen different. I don't want to be categorized as she's a church girl. I know that I'm nothing without the Lord. And I'm nothing without his lyrics, his melodies, you know, he can literally mess my voice up as soon as I open my mouth. I embody God's welcoming heart by giving Him the reins, every time.   About Laurel by Laurel: HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW… I LOVE JESUS WITH ALL MY HEART I LOVE WRITING SONGS ABOUT FREEDOM, HEALING , AND RESTORATION I AM FROM ALABAMA , SO I SAY “ROLL TIDE” I AM A DOG MOM OF 2 I LIKE SMILEY FACES I WOULD LOVE TO PRAY FOR YOU She writes the music first, and then adds the lyrics, God-breathed, she says. And I believe it.  Follow Laurel on instagram @laureltaylorofficial and you can hear her music on any of your listening platforms. Some of my favorite songs are: Song of Freedom, Healed, and her latest hit song, Old House.  Hear a preview here. Bio: LAUREL TAYLOR IS AN ARTIST AND SINGER/SONGWRITER IN NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE.  ORIGINALLY FROM ALABAMA, SHE MADE HER MOVE TO MUSIC CITY TEN YEARS AGO, RIGHT AFTER TURNING EIGHTEEN.  FROM THE AMERICAN IDOL STAGE, TO TOOTSIES ON BROADWAY, TO THE LOCAL CHURCH LEADING WORSHIP, HER VOICE AND SOUND SPEAKS TO EVERY CROWD.  LAUREL CARRIES AN EXCELLENT STAGE PRESENCE AND LIVE SHOW PERFORMANCE EVERYWHERE SHE GOES.  SHE HAS A RAW COUNTRY SOUND, MINISTRY MINDSET, AND HER OWN UNIQUE STYLE.  LAUREL USES HER LIFE STORIES TO SPEAK TO PEOPLE THRU HER MUSIC AND INTENTIONALLY WRITES FOR EVERYONE THAT LISTENS.   Something new—a transcription of our conversation for those who'd rather read it or read along while listening.    Sue Donaldson [00:00:01]: Good morning. Did you know that the most important thing about you is that God loves you? He loved you to the cross and back. And part of his great love is that he gives you a life that matters. You never have to wonder, do I matter? Do I count? You are number one in God's book and he gives you opportunities every day to live a life beyond yourself. Sue Donaldson [00:00:25]: I like to call it a legacy life. This is Sue Donaldson. As you listen today, ask God, show me how to spend today investing in people and your word. Because both last forever. There's no better way to live. Hello. Good morning. Today I have a very special guest. Well, I guess they're all special because in God's sides they are. But this is a fun one. I have never interviewed a country western singer songwriter. And today we have beautiful Laurel Taylor with us. Laurel, tell us a little bit where you live and where you're from and then we're going to get into some really great questions. Laurel Taylor [00:01:11]: Yeah, thanks for having me. I'm originally from Montgomery, Alabama, but I live in Nashville. I've lived in Nashville, Tennessee for over eleven years. Eleven years, exact, actually. And it has been quite a journey. I started in the country world thinking I was going to be the next Gretchen Wilson. And then I slowly have learned that even in that time I wanted what I wanted. And God has really taken me down a journey. Even when I wasn't holding on to his hand, I wasn't looking for his voice, I wasn't listening for his voice. I did American Idol and that took me to pop genre and then I gave my life to Christ in 2015 and I decided that this is the journey I'm going to go on. So I'm back in the roots of country, little bit of pop, little bit of rap, whatever the listening to here. But I love the Lord with all my heart. Sue Donaldson [00:02:14]: How old were you when you knew you wanted to sing as a performer? Laurel Taylor [00:02:20]: Probably 15 or 16 years old was when I started traveling to Nashville. Sue Donaldson [00:02:25]: Wow. And did you have parental support? Laurel Taylor [00:02:29]: Absolutely I did. It was very different for my dad. He is an engineer mindset. So it's A to B, B to C and music is like, okay, let's do A, but then let's skip to Z. And my mom, she loves to sing. She grew up in the choir singing. So, yeah, that was kind of my background. But they were absolutely supportive and put me in piano lessons, guitar, all that. Sue Donaldson [00:02:57]: And what came first, the singing or the writing of the songs? Laurel Taylor [00:03:01]: The singing. I didn't start writing until I went to Nashville around like 17. I had a producer tell me, he said, you have to have the full package. It's the writing, the singing and the performing. It so playing. And so I challenged myself and I went home, and I started writing everything I could think of. Sue Donaldson [00:03:27]: Wow. So you went and talked to a producer at 17, and then you went back home and then you came back. Laurel Taylor [00:03:33]: I did, yeah. So when I moved to Nashville at 18, I already knew where I was going to live, what I was going to do. It wasn't like, I'm just going to walk the streets and find my way. I had it sent at about 17. I went to Quad Studios. That is one of the first places Taylor Swift actually went. And he told me very specifically, he said, you got to do all three, and your parents can't be your biggest fans. You've got to actually build. Sue Donaldson [00:04:01]: I was like, real fan. Laurel Taylor [00:04:02]: He was super honest at 18. I knew I was going to live in Green Hills. I knew that I was going to play Tootsie's downtown Broadway. I knew my mom was happy about that, and I knew that what wasn't she happy about? Sue Donaldson [00:04:16]: I missed that part. Laurel Taylor [00:04:18]: Playing on Broadway, playing the strip with all the bars, and it's just not a good atmosphere. Sue Donaldson [00:04:24]: But that's not Nashville. So you were going to Broadway first? Laurel Taylor [00:04:27]: No, Nashville. Sue Donaldson [00:04:30]: I was thinking Broadway, new York. I was just in Nashville. Laurel Taylor [00:04:34]: That's funny. People do say that, but it's like music grow, if you want to say that instead. But it's just a bunch of restaurants, of chains, of everybody playing music everywhere you look. And I've learned a lot being down there. Sue Donaldson [00:04:48]: And do you just walk in and say, I'm a singer. Will you pay me or what? Laurel Taylor [00:04:54]: So you have auditions depending on where you're going, but tootsies and like, honky tonks, all those, those have one main guy. And what they do is they basically just interview you and on stage on the moment, like in the moment. And the band fires off of the song. And for me, they fired off some Loretta Lynn song. I did not know. Sue Donaldson [00:05:18]: Okay. Laurel Taylor [00:05:18]: And I embarrassed myself, basically embarrassed myself. And he said, Taylor I mean, he called me Taylor. You got a good voice, but you got to go home and learn, like, the legendary stuff. And so I did. I learned everything from Johnny Cash to Loretta Land, Tammy Wanette, like any song pat you claim think of, I was going to learn it. And so I came back. Sue Donaldson [00:05:43]: I mean, that is a huge library. Laurel Taylor [00:05:46]: Oh, it's huge. You have to know, even when you're playing the Strip, you need to know, like, people's favorites. Sue Donaldson [00:05:53]: You want to know people's favorites because they're going to call them out. Laurel Taylor [00:05:56]: Absolutely. And if you don't know it, you better fake it and figure it out. Sue Donaldson [00:06:00]: And do it better than the way you did when you auditioned. Laurel Taylor [00:06:03]: That's right. Sue Donaldson [00:06:03]: So when did you know you were ready to go back? Laurel Taylor [00:06:08]: I really believe it was because a place opened up for me to live. Sue Donaldson [00:06:13]: To live or to perform? Laurel Taylor [00:06:15]: Yeah. So I lived in a pool house behind a beautiful big house in Green Hills. I just chilled in their pool house, and it was perfect for me, what I needed, and I knew that I was set up writing. I met the greatest legendary writer, and he taught me so much about writing and just telling stories because he's a writer of old Red. That's all right there. He'll tell you? No, but God had his hand on me even when I wasn't living in his will, and I think that's super crazy. Sue Donaldson [00:06:53]: I would think that your parents would be a little worried just because I have adult children. That one just moved to New York, one is moving to Chicago, one lives in La. So I feel like I'm represented in all the major cities, but you kind of want, like, Lord, now, don't forget they're yours. I gave them to you when they were born, and please protect them because it's crazy and wild out there. So I appreciate your parents. Not that they had to allow you, but kind of because our kids went off to college, and that could be just as dangerous as going off to live in a pool house somewhere. And so it really doesn't really matter where you live. You just need to be under the blood and protected by Jesus. Laurel Taylor [00:07:31]: That's right. Sue Donaldson [00:07:31]: So tell me your spiritual journey, then. Laurel Taylor [00:07:34]: Yeah, so I grew up on the foundation of Jesus. And gosh, I was there every time the doors are open in church. But me, too, I didn't have it for myself. I couldn't live out my salvation through my parents. And when I got to Nashville, I really saw a big city, lots of opportunities that I've never had, decisions I have to make that are on my own now. I can't just call mom and say, Should I do this? They taught me, raised me up, and I should be able to do it. And I really started off I say I started off well, but I still didn't have it when it came to Jesus. I didn't have that love that I know that I never really encountered the love of Jesus the way I did later. So I wasn't very serious. I knew I love Jesus, okay, I'm moving on, kind of thing, but I don't need Him. I'm going to put Him on a shelf. And so I started out with a publishing deal and writing every single day and just really focused on that and then playing super late nights. And those late nights turned into staying after and starting to drink and starting to do all these different things that I've never experienced. And I wasn't a very sheltered kid, but it was very much like, this is what you do, and this is how you do it, and you don't go outside those lines. And when you're in a big city and you've never experienced that, you're on your own, and you got to find your way through your journey. And my parents were holding on so tight, they would come see me every two weeks. Wow, that was fun. But I just found myself lying a lot. I found myself living a double life. I found myself being one way and then when I go home, I'd be exactly what they wanted and I had to figure out my identity and who God says I am. And so after American Idol, actually, this is the whole journey. When J. Lo told me on national television, she said, we're going to cut you because you don't even know who you are yet. Sue Donaldson [00:09:46]: Wow. Laurel Taylor [00:09:47]: Yeah. Sue Donaldson [00:09:47]: Did you start crying? Laurel Taylor [00:09:49]: I don't really remember. I'm not a huge crier, but I was just like, what? At the time I was super cocky about it and like, what are you talking about? But now I look at it and I'm like, she was so right. Sue Donaldson [00:10:00]: I wonder how she knew that. Have you ever told her that what it meant to you? Laurel Taylor [00:10:06]: No, god was just speaking through her. And so in 2015 of January, I gave my life to Christ. I said, you know what he gave me? The peace to walk away from the city, walk away from. Sue Donaldson [00:10:20]: Was it the American Idol thing that changed it or something else? Laurel Taylor [00:10:24]: It was kind of both. It was walking that journey and then everything just kind of fell apart. Like I couldn't describe it. I had no choice but to give up. I was losing tours left and right. I was losing opportunities left and right. My booking agent dropped me. I wasn't getting the yeses anymore. I was getting more no's shut doors. And I couldn't afford to live. I couldn't afford to live there. Sue Donaldson [00:10:55]: What was causing those besides the Lord? The Lord allowing it? Laurel Taylor [00:11:00]: Yeah. I think my choices I think me choosing this over this or even just poor decision making, not showing up on time or I was so high I couldn't go to a radio interview. Like all these different things and I was just dropping left and right. And I was the person that was like, ain't nothing going to happen to me. I'm good. I got it covered. And then one day I lost everything and my family, my friends no longer were my friends. And my family loved me from afar because of the lifestyle I was living and the choices I was making. They had to love me from afar because they were done speaking into me and just gave me to the Lord. So it had to be a work that only God could do and that's what kind of happened. That's where I am today is because of him intervening and going after me. Sue Donaldson [00:12:04]: Did he speak to you? Laurel Taylor [00:12:06]: Did Jesus speak to me? Absolutely. I was on the side of the road in the interstate where you can split and go to Alabama or you can go around the circle to Nashville, Gamut, you go to Huntsville. And I was in the middle of the media, and I pulled over, and God said, you're done. You have used every bit of my abilities that I like. I gave you these abilities, these gifts, and these talents. You're done. Go home and go make your family right. And in my time, even then, I didn't think I was coming back. But he said, my time, I will bring you back. But at that point, I saw no hope. I was like, I'm not going to Nashville ever again. And he brought me back how soon after? Probably six years. Sue Donaldson [00:13:07]: Wow. That's a long wait. Laurel Taylor [00:13:09]: Yeah. About it might have been seven years. Yeah, perfect number. I went on a journey. I was with a group called People in Songs, and they traveled and led, worship, and it taught me how to pray. It taught me how to go to bat for people. It taught me how to be in the Lord's presence, which was hard for me, hours soaking in his presence, and I was like, what is this? And it just trained me how to love and how to serve. And so many wonderful artists came through, and it was kind of a label ministry, and it just taught me a lot, and so it equipped me to where I am today as my own artist. Sue Donaldson [00:13:57]: Wow. Laurel Taylor [00:13:57]: That was the journey. Sue Donaldson [00:13:59]: Well, seven years is not a short time when you're in the middle of it. Laurel Taylor [00:14:03]: No. It feels like you're like, hey, what are we doing? Like, I'm ready to go back. Sue Donaldson [00:14:09]: A quick question. When you're American Idol, people will want to know this when they're listening. How far did you go? Laurel Taylor [00:14:15]: Top 40. So Hollywood has Monday through Friday, and basically I got cut on that Friday right before the top 24 was live. So it was cool. I stayed a while, and I enjoyed it. It was very cutthroat, but God had a different plan. Sue Donaldson [00:14:33]: Are you in touch with any of those people that you worked, that you sang with? Laurel Taylor [00:14:38]: Yeah, they'll comment on my instagram things. Sue Donaldson [00:14:43]: But we live very different lives. Very different, yeah. What is your songwriting process? You read a verse or does God nudge you or you see someone in pain or is there a line from poetry or what? Laurel Taylor [00:15:00]: Yeah, most of the time it's melody. First melody, and I put lyrics to it, but sometimes it is definitely God breathed. Like, I have a song called Healed. Sue Donaldson [00:15:13]: I love that song. I listened to it yesterday and I sent it to several people, by the way. Yeah. Laurel Taylor [00:15:18]: If I could just touch him, his garment, I'd be healed. And I went to that scripture and I was like, whoa, this is so cool. Like healing is right here. You just have to want it. And so that's how I with that song is I had that line. So then I added the melody, and then from there, the bridge just poured out of me. That was so cool. Sue Donaldson [00:15:41]: Don't you know that's when the Lord that's when the Lord is oh, yeah. Laurel Taylor [00:15:46]: You could feel it. Sue Donaldson [00:15:50]: And tell us about the latest this Old House. That's the one I've heard the most. Laurel Taylor [00:15:54]: Old House. Old House was definitely inspired by just my journey, my testimony, and how I continued to live in the past and I couldn't move forward. People still saw me as the past, too. And for me to move forward, I had to sing about it. I had to literally say, I don't go cut that grass anymore. I don't go check that mail anymore. I don't open those doors anymore, and I'm walking out of my old house. And it's a beautiful thing. You just don't know how much strength you actually have to walk out. Sue Donaldson [00:16:33]: And you don't actually mention God in the song. Correct. So I think it's such a great crossover song because so many men and women are stuck in their past for perhaps some good reason. But I like to say there's that organization called MoveOn.com, and not that you want to minimize a person's pain. Never minimize a person's pain. It's up to them and God to work things out. But we can get so stuck, as you've experienced, that we're no earthly good and we need to be heavenly good while we're here, because we're not here that long, let me tell you. I can tell you that at 71 that we're not here that much longer. So we want to make the most of it. And I can't if I'm always licking my wounds or if I'm stuck in shame, I like to say that shame is from the pit, and we are not pit people. Laurel, I want you to remember that because your journey and your challenges are not over. Right? Yeah. How old are you, can I ask? Laurel Taylor [00:17:33]: 29. Sue Donaldson [00:17:33]: Oh, my gosh. You have come a long ways for 29, my dear. God has great things in store. How does singing and songwriting help you spread the gospel, grace and message of Jesus Christ? Laurel Taylor [00:17:48]: Yeah, I mean, I've always said that when you preach something, it comes across different as when you sing it. And that's what I've experienced in my journey. Even like I told you earlier, writing with the veterans, you sing it and it's a little more believable and it's not so offensive and it's not so slap in the face. And so I try to communicate in the best way, like you said, a crossover. I don't want to deliberately say, like, writing a song about your mom or dad, you don't want to put their name in there because then that person can't like, oh, well, my mom's not named this. I'm not going to listen to the song. Sue Donaldson [00:18:28]: Yeah. Laurel Taylor [00:18:28]: I try to relate in every possible way I can to the listener, and I communicate a melody that they can't get out of their head. Sue Donaldson [00:18:37]: That's my goal. Wow. Laurel Taylor [00:18:42]: Yeah. Sue Donaldson [00:18:43]: I'm writing this down. So communicate a melody that they can't get out of their head. Isn't that every songwriter's goal? Because they want you thinking about yes. My brother is a songwriter, so I can't wait for him to hear this. I also have him on my podcast, so I'll send that to you. But he's not famous like you, but he is wonderful like you. And he'll put already he'll put new music to words that were written by somebody else. Laurel Taylor [00:19:12]: Yeah. Sue Donaldson [00:19:13]: And he's such a great guitar guitarist. It's so great okay. Communicating that they can't get out of their head, which is really what God, he doesn't want to be out of our head. So if you can communicate who Jesus is through a song, in a beautiful song there's something about music, at least for me, it touches my heart and makes me cry. I cry more now that I'm older, but even when I was younger, to belt out a Broadway tune. I mean, let me tell you, there's certain songs you just don't want to sing because you don't feel like crying. But they do get to your hearts, right? Laurel Taylor [00:19:44]: Yeah. Sue Donaldson [00:19:45]: Are there any particular instances when you knew God and let's say in the last since you've come back to Nashville? How many years has that been? Laurel Taylor [00:19:54]: Two. Sue Donaldson [00:19:55]: In the last two years, let's say, where you knew God was working through your singing or your songwriting in a secular situation? Laurel Taylor [00:20:07]: Yeah. Oh, my gosh. Sue Donaldson [00:20:09]: Tell us one. Laurel Taylor [00:20:10]: So I was on this podcast. It was a podcastradio in Nashville, and they play everything from everything except for anything that's positive. Truly. Sue Donaldson [00:20:28]: Okay. Laurel Taylor [00:20:28]: I don't even care. Sue Donaldson [00:20:30]: They hear that I'm going to take your picture. How did they happen to have you host? You your agent. Laurel Taylor [00:20:40]: Yes. Sue Donaldson [00:20:40]: But they knew in advance that you were a Christian. Laurel Taylor [00:20:43]: Yes. And they said yes because of the sound of the music. The genre is what they were going for. I show up, and it was very stressful inside. I don't show it. Sue Donaldson [00:21:03]: I hope you don't feel stressful right now. Laurel Taylor [00:21:05]: No. Sue Donaldson [00:21:06]: Take it. Laurel Taylor [00:21:07]: Not even a little bit. Sue Donaldson [00:21:08]: Me neither. Laurel Taylor [00:21:09]: But he basically the host. He said, Tell us about your song. And I was like, Well, I'm always looking for opportunities to talk about the Lord in the coolest way I can, the most simple way. And I was like, well, you know, the song is called Sound of Freedom. And there's freedom there's freedom that we need there's a victory there's a cry. I was just going and I was like, there's hope. And he was like, you're a very positive person. Yeah. And I said and it's all because of Jesus. And I didn't realize I said that. And they kind of like did they bleep it out? No, they just kind of push past it and was like, okay, so tell us about your music. And I was like, it's very positive. It's very influential and encouraging. Like, I want to bring a good message. And they were nice, but I'll never do that again because they told me, they said, My gosh, you're so positive. It's like, can you be negative? Like, they were kind of like pushing back. Yeah, pushing back. Sue Donaldson [00:22:17]: And were they mocking you? Laurel Taylor [00:22:19]: Maybe. Sue Donaldson [00:22:20]: Yeah, but see, that but, Laurel, that's okay because Jesus was mocked. Laurel Taylor [00:22:25]: Yeah. Sue Donaldson [00:22:25]: So you're in good company, but you will know whether or not you should do it again. Laurel Taylor [00:22:29]: And I know for a fact never again. Sue Donaldson [00:22:31]: Okay. Laurel Taylor [00:22:32]: That I was there to be a light. Sue Donaldson [00:22:35]: Yeah. Laurel Taylor [00:22:36]: That's all. Sue Donaldson [00:22:37]: Yeah, well, and that already was broadcast. Was it broadcast live? It was live, but you don't know. We don't know because you sowed seeds that day. Jesus sowed seeds through you, who was listening, who still hasn't forgotten it. Laurel Taylor [00:22:52]: Right? Sue Donaldson [00:22:53]: And I even mean the interview earth because they put on a good show. But when they are alone, if they are honest, they are honest with their emptiness. And that goes for anyone listening here today. That when we are alone and we're honest with our emptiness. That's when we throw ourselves on Jesus breast. And we all need to do that. It doesn't matter how long we've known Him. Are there singular challenges or temptations in a performer's life that, let's say, someone like me, a high school English teacher, wouldn't face? Laurel Taylor [00:23:29]: I think a lot as musicians and artists that take a platform, it's an ego thing, it's a pride thing. I think we all go through pride, but it's a very different, like, look at me, I deserve this, and I have to die to that all the time. I know that I'm nothing without the Lord, and I'm nothing without his lyrics, his melodies. He could literally mess my voice up as soon as I open my mouth. And so it's not in my own strength, it's in his. And it can be very hard and very challenging. Especially the bigger the venue, the bigger the experience, the bigger I mean, you want to stay grounded. You don't want it to get in your head. And especially the people that treat me like, oh, my gosh. And it's like if you knew who I was on a daily basis, I'm just chilling. Sue Donaldson [00:24:30]: I remember once when we were looking for a new worship pastor in our church, and I was in the choir at the time, and I just said, the main attribute needs to be humility, because the man or woman is going to be on the platform, literally on the platform above others. And we do that so we can see them, right. But it can go to our heads. I'm a speaker, so it can go to my head. And so it's so ridiculous if you think about it. But it's a temptation that a lot of celebrity Christians have, and you just want to pray for them like I want to pray for our pastoral staff and that they will remember that God has given them any talents or leadership skills that they have. And that's exactly what you just said. And what helps you stay intimate with Jesus? Laurel Taylor [00:25:20]: Yeah. One is I set aside time my own self before or after the show, and I go into a space by myself. That's one thing I do that I like to be removed from the crowd. Another thing I like to do is I am not a person that likes to feed myself musically with trash just because it's a good melody or as it could be like no. I really try to keep it hopeful and restoring and feeling my soul. I do travel, leading worship all over, so I am fed by several churches, several pastors, several communities that I trust and I love, and then just prayer talking to him like he's your best friend and not really complicating it, over complicating it. And with my manager, we have this thing that don't ever forget. I want to help set up my booth. I want to help set up I want to carry my guitar, those kinds of things. Like don't let it get to your head. You're just there. Sue Donaldson [00:26:39]: Did you say agent? Laurel Taylor [00:26:41]: Yeah. Sue Donaldson [00:26:42]: Is your agent a believer? Laurel Taylor [00:26:44]: Yes, 100%. Sue Donaldson [00:26:46]: That makes a difference, I'm sure. Laurel Taylor [00:26:48]: It's so much like minded. It's so easier. Sue Donaldson [00:26:51]: Yeah. Where do you think God is leading you in your career and ministry? Laurel Taylor [00:26:58]: I think he's taking me a crossover. I think he's taking me secular music. It's scary because that's where I started and I really screwed up. And so for Him to take me there again, it's like he trusts me. And I know that I can hear it. I can hear it even in how I talk about it. I'm so trusted by God and I believe he trusts me with what he's given me. And I know that I'm going to do it the right way. Yes, I will fail, but I know that God is there with me and he's going to help me through every situation and I don't have to figure it out. Sue Donaldson [00:27:37]: And if not, your mother will call you. Yeah. And remind you. As you know, my podcast is about living a legacy life, and normally I don't well, I do. I have interviewed people your age because when you think of someone older, that's when you think of legacy. But I think we don't wait until we die, Laurel, to leave a good legacy. So what we do daily is what counts. So what legacy do you want to be known for now? For those who know and love you? Laurel Taylor [00:28:03]: Honestly, I've thought about this and thought about this, and I just want to be kind. I want them to literally say, because I'm really big into the church, is like super hurtful right now and it's sad. I want to be known as a believer that loves Jesus with all their heart and would go to the ends just to help that person no matter what. And I always want to put myself last and I don't know, I just want to be seen different. I don't want to be categorized as she's a church girl because you can't relate to all those people that don't go to church or have never heard about you. And I found myself in a lot of those situations and they're like, you're just different. I don't feel like you're judging me and I'm like, why would I judge you? All I can do is love you. Sue Donaldson [00:29:08]: I don't know if you've read Oswald Chambers My Utmost verse Highest, but one thing he says is that we lead the aroma of Christ when we've left the room. And that's what I want because I love the whole idea of people seeing Jesus through me without me having to say it. But we still need to say it when it's time like you did on that radio station. Doesn't mean you have to go there again so that they go, oh, there's something different. I go, well, it's not me. What you're sensing is the Holy Spirit. That might be too weird for them at the time, but yes, it is through our kindness, the scripture, Jesus said, they'll know your Christians by our love. And yet that is not what the church is known for right now. But they do throw the baby out with about bathwater. I do think at times too, it's like, oh, don't make that an excuse to stay home and watch it online. Right. And how do you go about making sure that people know that you are kind? Laurel Taylor [00:30:05]: I walk in it even before I get to venues or things even on the sides. I want to pray for people. I want to pray for the ones that host me. I want to pray for the staff, the volunteers, all those things. I pray for those opportunities because those are the relationships and those are the things that people are going to remember. They're not going to say she did a great 45 minutes show. No, she told me about this and prayed for me on the side. If I ever get to a place where I'm not doing that, then I have not fulfilled what God's called me to do. Sue Donaldson [00:30:41]: Amen. So great. And what challenges, well, you've already mentioned some, but or obstacles have you faced in order to leave this kind of legacy of kindness and love? Laurel Taylor [00:30:55]: I would say it's because I wasn't kind before living for the Lord. I was making fun of Christians. I was doing everything that the opposite. And to be able to love people well, it's because I know how to love myself well and I know where I can remember where I was at the time and how I want to be told that exact truth in however I needed to hear it. And so it's like I put myself in that position every single time I'm. Talking to someone that needs to hear it. Sue Donaldson [00:31:34]: That's so good. Some people think, oh, I can't really say that I love myself. Well, but you said it with such calmness. I know that that's based in the fact that when I'm secure in who I am with Jesus, I don't think about myself at all. And that's one thing that CS. Lewis said. It's not like you think less of yourself, you just don't think of yourself at all. And we don't need to laurel because Jesus already showed how much he loved us. So there's no really reason. It doesn't mean I don't go get a pedicure. I do like some self care, but as far as I think a lot of people hurting other people, even in the church, is because they are not secure in how much Jesus loves them. So our job in this security is to continue to reassure them even though they may annoy us. Like, I get annoyed with those kind of people, but I thought, well, what they need more is not my irritation. They need assurance that God loves them just as they are. So my favorite question, how does your life embody God's welcoming heart? Laurel Taylor [00:32:32]: I've really been thinking about this. Okay. So I just want to make sure I got it right. Ask it one more time, because how. Sue Donaldson [00:32:41]: Does your life embody God's? Welcome. Laurel Taylor [00:32:45]: Yes. So I get put into a lot of situations where Jesus is not exactly welcome. And I believe that it says, wherever we walk is kingdom ground. We take on it. That kingdom ground. And so when I'm sent somewhere, I believe that is the open door to give God the glory. And it's really hard, well, obviously through my gift, but honestly, this is going to sound like, really dumb, but it's through. Like, when I open my mouth, when I speak, sometimes it's by my actions, and I don't say anything. It's just how the Holy Spirit guides me in the moment. Not everybody's going to listen, and not everybody's just going to not listen, so it's how they need to hear it. But I always give God the reins when I'm somewhere, always. Even when I'm scared, even when I don't want to, even when I know he's about to embarrass me. I just have to. Because we submit to God, we're not accountable to others. Sue Donaldson [00:34:15]: We don't live for the approval of man. And yet even Christians, well, with all social media, it's so easy to get caught up with that. Gosh, Laura, I want to pray for you right now. I rarely do that on air, but you're young and you are mature beyond your years in Christ and you know who you are, and so Satan is kind of mad about that. And I hope you have a team around you, a prayer team. I have, like, 42 women who pray for me. Some men when I go speak, and they feel part of my team and I'm not a celebrity, but I don't want to ever speak without them knowing that I'm about ready to get up on a platform as we talked about before, because I could really mess up. And I don't mean mess up like I do a poor job, though, that could happen. I mess up that God would not get the glory. That's what's messing up. Laurel Taylor [00:35:11]: So let's pray. Sue Donaldson [00:35:13]: Father, I just want to ask again, your covering over wonderful Laurel Taylor. Thank you for the gifts you've given her. Thank you that she's confident in them. Thank you that you are opening up opportunities to cross over, because that's what Jesus did when he came to Earth. He crossed over in the real sense of the word. And it's not going to always be easy, as she knows. I pray, Lord, that you'll raise up friends and family who will take it as their duty and delight to support her and that she'll never feel alone. Lord, thank you for these opportunities and I know I'll hear more about her in the future because of what you're going to do through and in her life, Lord. Just bless her in every way that she wants to be blessed in ways that she doesn't even know. In Jesus name, amen. Laurel Taylor [00:36:00]: Amen. Sue Donaldson [00:36:01]: Thank you so much, Laura. You're great. How can people find you and where can they listen to your music? Laurel Taylor [00:36:08]: Yeah, you can find all my music on all platforms. Apple Music spotify amazon Music You can please follow me on Instagram, Laureltaler official, and then you can check out my website, laureltalermusic.com. Sue Donaldson [00:36:22]: Okay, thank you so much. It's been a delight. Laurel Taylor [00:36:24]: Thanks. Sue Donaldson [00:36:25]: Until next time, think about your legacy, the one God has called you to live all, for heaven's sake. I would love to speak at your next Christian Women's event, see my keynotes and retreat series as well as the show notes from today's [email protected]. Thanks for coming. You're always welcome here.  

Ruthie Gray from Authentic Online Marketing and the Authentic Online Marketing Podcast shares her story of how God has led her the "second half of life"—something we are either in or heading towards. Ruthie's passion is to help women "grow up", try new things--even when it's terrifying—and help Christian women entrepreneurs succeed for the sake of the Kingdom of God. She's a wife of 35 years, mother of 4, grandmother, caregiver for the last 13 years and loves her Lord and the community she coaches and encourages. She acknowledges we can't grow and move forward without helping each other along the way. Listen and be encouraged - and take some time to dream and explore: What's next for your life? Some Ruthie gems: I love looking at Scripture as a whole and read the Bible through each year, starting the day with coffee and the Word. If you don't try new things you won't find out what you're best at, what gives you joy, what serves others and what's your superpower. You deserve to take some time to dream and explore what your next season will hold. Every time I try a new thing, I become apprehensive and fearful, but I don't want my fears to hold me back. I want my legacy to be one of courage and wisdom because I've walked with God. Are you starting a new business and want to connect authentically with your online people and grow your audience? Find out how Ruthie can help HERE. You can get to know Ruthie better and what she offers on her podcast: Authentic Online Marketing Podcast.   Let us know in comments what dreams you are exploring. God loves you and you are not done yet. 

The writer Maree Dee has two grown children with mental illness. When I interviewed her on my podcast she said, “It’s possible to experience joy and pain at the same time.” (Episode 75) How? Because she trusts God, no matter what. We never know what’s ahead of us each and every day, do we? We ask God each morning, “Lord, please give me wisdom and strength to face my day – and grace for those who need to know your joy and peace.”   There’s a world of hurt out there and we need to be so filled with God’s Spirit that we are able to not only remain full when we come under attack, but we need to be so filled, that when jostled and banged around, that the grace and joy of Jesus spills out. Our benediction at Grace Church is Romans 15:13 – we say it as a congregation at the closing of the service –“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”   We need to be giving this benediction to ourselves every day –maybe before our husbands get home or the kids or before we go into work: “Dear God of hope, please fill me with all joy and peace in believing – that I will abound and overflow with hope by Your power.” What helps you keep your cup full of joy? Share in comments and we will all be filled up a little better. Points to Ponder: Joy is the deep, quiet undercurrent that has its source in the eternal river of God Himself and His peace. That kind of joy can even underlie grief. We keep our cup full by recalling we are not alone. Your night of weeping may have been more like nights of weeping – I’ve smeared mascara on my sheets more than once. There’s got to be a country Western song by the name of What Do I Do With the Mascara On My Sheets? Weeping may endure, but there’s hope for the morning. (Psalm 30:5)  Our maturity, our fruit-bearing, our witness for the Gospel—our JOY— is not dependent on another person or event or group of circumstances—like the perfect family reunion or holiday gathering. It is dependent on our own personal response to God and His Word.   

Christy Boulware, author of Nervous Breakthrough: Finding Freedom from Fear and Anxiety in a World that Feeds It, learned from experience that living life on overdrive meant she was headed for distruction. On a family vacation one summer, she experienced her first panic attack and she didn't know what was happening to her. When her dr said, Christy, your body is telling you something's got to change and you need to get to the root of it." That began a process of recognizing she was living in fear and anxiety and the only way to change was to surrender to God. Surrender and give up her way of doing things, her timing of how things were to get done, and even changing a successful career to help others find freedom from their fears.  Leave a comment on blog or social media to be entered into giveaway of her book: Nervous Breakthrough: Finding Freedom from Fear and Anxiety in a World that Feeds It   Some gems: Just because you have fear, it doesn't mean you don't have faith. We can experience negative emotions; it's what we do with them that leads us to greater peace and less fear. Our body provides what I call "smoke alarms" that something needs to change and it's to our peril that we ignore them. We underestimate how much understanding God's love connects to our level of fear and anxiety. We overcome the snowballing effect of anxiety when we check our thoughts with truth at the top of the hill before it gets too big for us to control. I was stuck in self-reliance and addicted to success so I didn't need what God had to offer. Christy Boulware was stuck in self-reliance and addicted to success so she didn't need what God had to offer. Until her body told her a different story.  Debilitated by days and weeks of panic attacks, Christy learned that the only way to change and fight her fears and anxieties was through getting to the root of them, and that took surrender. As a result of her work of faith to get her from fear and panic to using her experiences for the kingdom, Christy began the non-profit: Fearless Unite. See christyboulware.com for additional sources that help us when we are afraid and to keep our minds and hearts on the truth of God’s Word.  

Rebecca George, podcaster, author and speaker is passionate about helping women find and live out their God-given purpose, all for heaven's sake. She wants to "leave a person better than she found them" which can be shown in the every day actions of love, action and encouragement. Rebecca's brand new book, Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-getter Girl helps the reader examine her joys, gifts, and heart-posture before her Creator-God and moves her into a life of purpose and surrender.  She will be giving a copy away this week so be sure to comment on Blog or on Social Media to be entered.  Rebecca's theme verse is Psalm 34:5--— Those who look to him are radiant;     their faces are never covered with shame. We light up our world from looking to Jesus. Hear Rebecca every Tuesday on her podcast, Radical Radiance and follow her on instagram @rebeccageorgeauthor. She offers a free journal SHINE BRIGHT on her website. Sign up here. Some gems: What gifts we have from God can translate into how we love others in our every day. God's at work all the time. How many opportunities do I miss to partner in His work by living unaware? The outcome is God's; the obedience is ours. To be available to God is to ask: How can I best love, serve and encourage anyone He brings into our lives on a daily basis? Are we turning to God's truth when faced with fear, doubt or insecurity?  

A good definition of faith is:  doing what God says and trusting Him with the results.  It sounds good on paper. It can be hard in real life. Sometimes it can be hard to trust God to work through another person- or perhaps in spite of another person.  To step out on faith may feel like we’re stepping off of cliff but once you step out you find it’s only a curb because God is there to break your fall. Pity the person who never takes that step to find that out. “Step out,” God says, “and you will find I am all you need.” For some, faith might mean closing your mouth and praying only:  Hudson Taylor said, “Learn to move men by God through prayer alone.”  That’s a tough one – especially for a woman, especially for an extrovert, especially for a red-headed extrovert. . . Faith may mean closing your mouth, AND, Faith may mean opening your mouth.  Paul asked his friends in Colossians 4:3– “Pray that I talk freely of the mystery of Christ, that God would open the door. . .” You know when God is speaking to you. And if you’re not sure, like Peter, you can say, “Is that you, Lord?” And if it is, then it’s best to get out of the boat.  God is calling for complete obedience for a complete faith. Hudson Taylor said: "Learn to move men by God through prayer alone."   7 ways to live in the unseen: God is doing His work in our lives and others (even when we can’t see it) II Corinthians 4:18; Our work for Him is not in vain I Cor. 15:58  “. . .be steadfast, abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.” That all things are working together for good who are called according to His purpose –Romans 8:28 That God is able to do abundantly above all that we ask or think – Ephesians 3:20 That He Who began a good work in us will complete it – Phil.1:6 That where there is weeping now, will turn to joy and laughter Luke 6:21 That nothing can separate me from the love of God – nothing – Romans 8:39

Rachel G. Scott, wife and mom of a blended family knows what it means to obey by faith, look to God for the next step and take that leap that needs taking. Founder of The 5 Leaps Podcast, Rachel is wise beyond her years and counsels her audience that there is more than one way to take a leap, five in fact. She explains there's a difference between being a "nice" Christian and a "kind" Christian, and her legacy is one we share: to serve God well and point her kids to Jesus. Today she's offering my listeners her free resource: The Five Leaps Quick Guide - click here.  Tools to help you prepare, plan and execute your next leap. Love it and Rachel! Some Rachel gems: We need to always be leaning into what is that next leap God is leading us to make. The trailblazer goes where no one has gone before, teaching and bringing others along the way. I realized that there is more than one way to take a leap of obedience.  I can envision the worst that can happen while considering the next leap and fight with God's truth my imaginations, speculations and negative thoughts. A "nice" Christian is different than a "kind" Christian; one is something we perform, the other is a posture of the heart.  I want my kids to live a leaping lifestle so that obedience to God is natural for them. SOCIAL MEDIA Follow Follow Follow Facebook: /iamrachelgscott LinkedIn: /rachelgscott Instagram:/iamrachelgscott