Charles Spurgeon wrote, "If you have some worry, and you do not know how to meet it, some work, and you do not know how to do it, look to him who made the iron swim and he can do the same for you." Today I am sharing how a miracle about a man who lost a borrowed ax head can bring great encouragmenet to our hearts today. Website Maintenance February and March Mini Wisdom & Goal Workbook: http://www.sheprovesfaithful.com/shop/goals SPF Shop: sheprovesfaithful.com/shop  Support SPF $5 a Month (get the Wisdom and Goal Workbook free until end of March 2024): patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Love natural, non-toxic products for your home and body? Try Earthley while supporting SPF: https://earthley.com/ref/lauren.hlushak/  

Whether it's a new year or a new season of life, or you are just looking to make the most use of your time, commiting to this one thing first helps everything else fall into place.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode256 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Get Wisdom and Goals Mini Brainstorm: sheprovesfaithful.com/shop/goals

Our five senses are Christian virtues because God made them and they are to be used for God’s Glory. Christmas time is full of using our senses but how can we use them to remember and celebrate Christ at Christmas? Today I am joined by my husband, Andy Hlushak, on this Christmas Spectacular! Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode255

Proverbs 14:1 says that a wise woman builds her home but a foolish one tears it down with her own hands. One creates and one destroys. Today I'm sharing three ways we can be wise women who builds up and nourishes those in our homes.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode254 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 12 Days of Christmas Reading Plan: sheprovesfaithful.com/shop/12days

Have you ever wondered what does giving thanks to God look like besides saying thank you? Is there more to it? Today I am sharing three lessons on giving thanks from Psalm 100, the psalm of thanksgiving.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode253 Support the Podcast $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Shop Earthley and Support SPF: https://www.earthley.com/ref/lauren.hlushak/

What causes fights and quarrels among you? James asks.  Maybe you have asked that same question to your children. But if our homes are green houses, if they are training ground for our children, if the instruction we give is fodder for their heart and mind where emotions and actions are made, isn't it a grand opportunity to address conflict in a biblical manner? Today I am sharing four ways we can prove faithful in teaching our children about conflict with one another.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode252 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Get the Bible study: sheprovesfaithful.com/shop

Ephesians 4:32 says, "be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ forgave you." But what if we struggle with forgiving someone? What are we to do?   Bible Study: sheprovesfaithful.com/shop/spf251 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode251

When someone sins against us, the sting can last awhile. If we are not careful, thinking about past wrongs can turn our hearts into simmering pots, bothered and bitter. There are a few things we can do to help us think about past wrongs that leads to a deeper trust in our Lord and a lighter heart that has forgiven.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode250 Fruitful Bible Study: sheprovesfaithful.com/shop/spf250 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Do you ever recall something in your past - whether triumphant or terrible and it seems to sabotage your thoughts? The way we think about past memories matters. It can lead to bitterness or worship of the Lord. It can lead to despair or thankfulness to God. It can be a stumbling block, or a launching pad into a deeper trust of the Lord. Today I am sharing three things we can do to prove faithful with past memories. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode249 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Laws and principles are not for the times when there is no temptation: they are for such moments as this, when body and soul rise in mutiny against their rigor; stringent are they; inviolate they shall be. If at my individual convenience I might break them, what would be their worth? - Jane Eyre; Today I am sharing about the blessedness of good theology to guide us through hight intensity emotions and how God's grace and God's Word helps us prove faithful.   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful   Earthley Affliate Link (supports podcast):  https://www.earthley.com/ref/lauren.hlushak/   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode248

The word authority often leaves a bad taste in people’s mouths because authority implies submission and submission is frowned upon as servile. These thoughts have been translated into modern day parenting advice discouraging parental authority. Today I’m sharing truth about the parent’s biblical authority to raise up their children in the knowledge of the Lord and the blessings and freedoms it gives them and share a few practical house rule tips. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode247

Sometimes we miss the point of the plod. God made the plod. Sharing Christ, living for Christ, exalting Christ in our daily work takes faithful, patient diligence. It's a slow but rewarding work. Today I'm sharing how we can prove faithful in the plod.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode246 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful    

The Lord has called us to do good works and they are for our joy. Our good works glorify God and are a gift for us that bring us joy, purpose, challenge, opportunity, and build character. But what happens when we are not joyful in our good works? Today I'm sharing three things that rob us of our joy in doing good things.  Support SPF $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode245

When we set our minds on the things of men, there will be stumbling. Jesus confronts Peter about this very thing in Matthew 16 telling him he is a hinderance to him for he has his mind set not on the things of God but on the things of men. Today I am sharing three ways we can prove faithful in setting our minds on the things of God.   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode244

Jesus teaches us in Matthew 12 Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. How do we identify fruit as good or bad when it’s being deceptively packaged as kind, loving, or helpful? And as Christians, how can we prove faithful in bearing good fruit in our own lives? Support SPF with $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode243  

“Judge not!” does not mean don’t judge at all, but judge with right standards and without a critical, or judgmental attitude. Today I’m sharing what we can do to throw off a critical spirit, and to love others even in confrontation. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode242 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Earthley Wellness Products: https://www.earthley.com/ref/lauren.hlushak/ (Use Code NEWTOEARTHLEY to receive 10% off your first order)

Pilate infamously asked, “What is truth?” when Jesus was on trial before him. Why is truth so important and why is it impossible for us all to live our own truths? And why is having thick skin and soft hearts important in our quest as ministers of truth? Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode241 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Puritan Steven Charnock “Our Savior joins the promise and the petition together; the promise to encourage the petition, and the petition to enjoy the promise.” We have the blessedness of partaking in the promises of God everyday. Jesus tells us to ask in His name. Today I am sharing truth about asking and waiting in prayer. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode240 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What are some superstitions Christians practice? What is the motivation behind being superstitious and what is the biblical response? Today my husband, Andy, joins me on the podcast to talk about Christians and the object of their worship.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode239 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Support through Earthley Wellness Products: https://earthley.com/ref/lauren.hlushak/?campaign=SPF

Have you ever had these epic moments of trusting God in the midst of the impossible or difficult and are completely amazed at His faithfulness and provision and then wake up a few days later only to meet the next trial with crippling doubt. Well you’re not alone. Today I’m sharing some encouraging examples from Scripture and give a few truths to combat that doubt. Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode238 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

There are enemies, and then there are people that shouldn’t be enemies that we make into our enemies. Today I’m sharing how envy can turn us against our biggest allies.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode237 Support $5 Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

1 Corinthians 15:13 says, “Do not be deceived, bad company ruins good morals.” Can one bad apple spoil the whole bunch? Today I’m sharing a few places to be mindful of bad company and the blessedness of good company.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode236   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 

“There’s always enough time in our day to do what God wants us to do.” Today Kendra Paulton, a Rancher wife and mom of six, joins me on today’s podcast to encourage moms with truth to help us trust God, and do the next thing.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode235 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

When we learn about the loyal steadfast covenant love of the Lord, we are able to lay the foundation for cultivating that love within our family. Today I’m sharing about covenantal love and how that can help cultivated friendships among our children.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode234 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Loyalty is the virtue of faithfulness to a commitment or cause or person. For the Christian, we are to be loyal to Christ our Lord, and as Christian’s in a family, we are to be loyal to one another and to the household of God. This kind of faithfulness demonstrates a binding love and secure identity. Today I’m going to share some thoughts of how we can cultivate loyalty in the home out of a loyalty to Christ. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode233 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What can we learn from the temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4? Today I'm sharing how we can prove faithful when we are tempted to put our identity in other things and tempted to doubt the goodness of God. Plus one simple thing to do to resist temptation.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode232 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful  

There’s a lot of talk about revival circulating right now. What is true revival and where does it happen? Today I am looking at a few Scriptures to encourage us that revival brings us out of darkness and out of hardness of heart and into an obedient faithfulness in the everyday plod.    sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode231   Support $5 a Month: Patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Charles Spurgeon wrote: Be it ours to remember the lovingkindness of the Lord, and to rehearse his deeds of grace. The compassion of God is tender, great, and never ending. But what about the times when it seems like God lacks compassion towards us? Today I am sharing truths to help our hearts and minds rehearse God’s deeds of grace and compassion.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode230 Support $5 a Month: Patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Sometimes we encounter rude, thoughtless, or inconsiderate words from another. Whether it was intentional or accidental, how do we respond as a Christian woman? Today I am sharing a few ways we can cultivate gracious words and the blessings they bring to others as well as ourselves.   Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode229   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful   Dollar Downloads: sheprovesfaithful.com/shop

What are the Old Testament Feast Days and what can we learn from them as Christians of the New Covenant? This part one in a two part series.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode228 Support $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Colossians 4:2 says. "Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” Today I’m sharing some practical ways we can give thanks to God and my husband jumps on and shares his thoughts about turkey and the thanksgiving holiday.    Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode227 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful  

Spurgeon called contentment a flower of heaven, and JC Ryle says a contented spirit is the secret of a light heart and an easy mind. Though contentment is a treasure, it is contrary to natural man and must be learned. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/spf226   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Momento Mori is a latin phrase that means, “Remember, you must die.” As a Christian should we be thinking about death? If so, why and does it make us overly morbid? And should I get a skeleton? History says, it might be a good idea. Today I’m discussing all this and more.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/spf225   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Charles Spurgeon once preached "WE cannot too often turn our thoughts heavenward, for this is one of the great cures for worldliness.” Today I am discussing glorification and what happens when a Christian dies. How does the teaching of glorification impact our daily living? Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode224 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What is sanctification? How can we be encouraged that God is working in us even when it seems like we struggle every day with sin? And how does the doctrine of sanctification impact our daily living? Support SPF $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode223

What is Justification? And how does knowing this doctrine impact our every day living? Today I’m sharing how justification actually helps us prove faithful in the day to day things? Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode222 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Prudence has been described as having wisdom in our conduct. Proverbs says a prudent wife is from the Lord. Today I am sharing truths about the prudent woman and growing in this invaluable virtue. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode221 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

We’ve heard the cry of meaninglessness or vanity of vanities in Ecclesiastes, but does that really mean everything under the sun is meaningless? Today I am exploring the joy, humility, and lessons on the Sovereign God from Ecclesiastes and how we can prove faithful when that dish you just washed, gets dirty again. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode220 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What is Christian Universalism and how can we spot the lie when it sounds like it holds to many doctrines of the true Christian orthodox faith? Today I’m sharing how to be on the look out for this false teaching and why it matters. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode219 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

There is a lot of temptation to trade the things of God for the things of this world. After all, sometimes what the world promises can seem better, more fulfilling and satisfying. But don’t take the bait. Today I’m going to share about two things that want to deceive you and pull you away from true fruitfulness.  (Addressing "Boss Babe" and Respecting Husbands)   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode218   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What is patriarchy and should we smash it? Today I’m sharing about biblical patriarchy and how we can prove faithful when we are tempted to believe the patriarchy is toxic? Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode217 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Proverbs 30:17 says, “The eye that mocks a father and scorns to obey a mother will be picked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the vultures.” Today I’m sharing the importance of being faithful in training up our children with their souls and eyes, in mind. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode216 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

The two of the most common titles used for Jesus in the New Testament are Lord, and Son of Man. What is their significance, and how does it give us direction to prove faithful as women?   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode215   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Where is a woman’s worth? Is it tied up in positions and what she’s allowed to do, including inside the church? Is it wrapped up in achievement or success? Who defines what achievement and success are for the woman? Today I am addressing three lies toxic feminism preaches to women and what we can do be woman who are “faithful in all things” as it says in 1 Timothy. This is part 2 in a 2 part series.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/espisode214 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Where is a woman’s worth? Is it tied up in positions and what she’s allowed to do, including inside the church? Is it wrapped up in achievement or success? Who defines what achievement and success are for the woman? Today I am addressing three lies toxic feminism preaches to women and what we can do be woman who are “faithful in all things” as it says in 1 Timothy. This is Part 1 in a two part series.  Show Note: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode214 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

By what authority? Today I am sharing a simple tool that allows us to get to the root of moral relativism and how moral relativism impacts pro and anti abortion.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode212   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

RC Sproul once preached, "The Heavenly Father never allows anything to happen to you that is not for your ultimate good. If we could believe that, we could face anything.” The Sovereignty of God is on full display in the Bible and in our own lives, but what happens when we doubt God? How can we prove faithful in believing His goodness for us?   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode211   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Christians are part of the Kingdom of God and with that Kingdom comes a culture. There are biblical aspects of Christian culture that all believers share and today I’m going to talk about Sunday Worship and practical tips to get children in church with you.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode210   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

“But, sensible of our desert, and impressed with the number and greatness of thy benefits, may we bless and praise thee at all times.” - Valley of Vision As Christians we are called to give thanks in all circumstances. Today I am sharing why and how we can truly be thankful because truly if we are in Christ, we are never as miserable as we might thing we are.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode209   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Sometimes when we go through something hard, we think, surely it’s going to be easier next. But what happens when it just gets harder? Today I am going to share some encouragement when difficulties increase and why we can trust our good and Sovereign Father.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode208   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Modesty is a hot topic in the Christian world, but often the heart of the issue is overlooked. Today I am sharing a biblical perspective on modesty that I never heard in youth group.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode207   Support $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 

This is Lauren’s favorite things 2.0 - a second version of fun and helpful resources from bread recipes to books that bless the heart.   Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode206 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Fear is a quintessential human issue, and one of the greatest things that comes from fear is that it drives us to our Savior who is our strength and our refuge. Today I am sharing how we can prove faithful when we are fearful and how we can always have hope.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode205   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Jeremiah Burroughs says, “Christian contentment is that sweet, inward, quiet, gracious frame of spirit, freely submitting to, and taking complacency in God’s wise and fatherly disposal in every condition.” What are some things that are not in opposition and are in opposition of a quiet contented heart? Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode204 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

It's that time of year again! It's time for the Christmas Spectacular - laugh with us and be encouraged that God's blessings flow as far as the curse is found! Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode203 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Ever wonder what the 12 days of Christmas is all about? Or have you celebrated advent and easter but wondered about the Christian liturgical calendar? Have you thought of celebrating as worship and warfare? Have some fun with me today as I discuss these things and share some seasonal encouragement.  Support $5 a Month: Patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode202

Waiting for Christmas is fun. Waiting while you walk through the valley of the shadow of death is not so much fun. Today I’m sharing a bit about the hopefulness in the wait, even if it’s walking through a trial. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode201 Patreon Support $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

I am celebrating 200 podcasts episodes with my husband Andy. He asks me some questions and then we talk about the world and if things are getting better. Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode200

Good conversation, increased vocabulary, imagination, and wisdom - these are just a few reasons why reading aloud to our kids is important. But how do we incorporate a Christian worldview and how do we choose a good book to read to our kids? Today I have a special guest, Nina with Strawberry Mountain Books, to share some wisdom and tips when it comes to reading to our children.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode199   Support the Podcast $5 a Month:  patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful   Find Nina with Strawberry Mountain Books: https://www.instagram.com/strawberrymountainbooks/

Theology can often be dismissed in really helping our every day issues. But when we study the Scriptures, learn the doctrines of grace, and seek to know the God who created all things - it really does help. Theology has so much to offer including the ability to teach the anxious heart. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/198 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Get 15% of Bend Soap with code FAITHFUL15 bendsoap.com

Post Tenebras Lux is a Latin motto of the 16th century Reformation that means After Darkness, Light. These were dark times of corruption within the church and critical doctrines were at stake. Today we are looking at justification and why one man, Martin Luther, called God’s righteousness and alien righteousness. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode197 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What does victory look like for a Christian? I’ll give one hint: when we understand how tough it’s going to be, we know the victory is worth while. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode196 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Last week we talked about adding to our faith virtue, or moral excellence, but does that mean we are in danger of becoming self righteous? What is the fruit of self righteousness and how can we rest in the work of Christ?     Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/195 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What does it mean to be a virtuous woman? What is virtue and what is biblical virtue vs worldly virtue? Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode194 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

One of my frequently asked questions is what is a catechism and why is it important? I am answering this today on a very practical episode of the She Proves Faithful podcast. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode193 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

When someone wants to discuss something but tells you to leave the Bible out of it as to both come to the table as neutral parties, can you actually achieve neutrality? Today I'm discussing with my husband, Andy, why neutrality is a myth and that you should always bring your Christian worldview to the discussion table. Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode192 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

We are made to worship, but it is often directed at ourselves instead of God. What does self glory look like and what happens when we come in contact with the authority of Christ? Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode191 Patreon Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

The Puritan William Perkins defined theology as science of living blessedly forever. But is theology really that practical?  Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode190 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

There is a lot of parenting advice out there, but today’s guest, Ginger Hubbard, gets to the heart of the problem when it comes to verbal offenses our children commit. How can we approach instructing our children in a biblical way and bless them in the process? Today Ginger Hubbard shares how to Tame Your Child’s Tongue.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode189 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Today I share some encouragement for moms as we persevere and prove faithful with raising the arrows in our home. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode188 Support SPF $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

No one is above temptation, it will come, so what do we do when it comes knocking? Today I’ll be sharing a few insights about temptation and how we can prove faithful when sin is crouching at our door.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode187 Support SPF $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Scripture is foundational for the Christian faith. But in a progressive Christian movement, people are now arguing that the Scriptures are authoritative but cannot be accurately interpreted. Is this true? Plus I review two popular Scriptures that get twisted by two different Christian camps. They have to do with judging and gathering. Today we will look at the context of Scripture and how we can prove faithful in interpreting what God says in His Good and Holy Word.    Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode186   Support SPF $5 a Month: Patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 

The heart can make rebellion look and feel good and that puts us all on a trajectory away from the only Savior. Today I’m breaking down two arguments of a “descontructionist" - someone who was a Christian but now is coming into a more authentic faith, and encourage us to cling to Christ.    Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode185   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 

Scripture is full of examples of people who hardened their hearts against God. What causes these hard hearts and how do we keep our hearts soft?   Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode184   Support $5 a Month: Patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful   SPF 110: What do we do when we don’t like something in the Bible sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode110 

Marriage is like a garden that needs to be cultivated. Today I have a few lessons passed on by a pastor that I think are beneficial and lead to blessings within a marriage. I include some commentary from my personal life looking back as single and engaged, and now married.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode183 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Having a strong mind is important. But what is a strong mind, and how does a Christian maintain one? Today I will share a few ways to be faithful with our thinking. (And maybe I mention the enneagram in this one.) Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode182 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

I want to clear up today is what the law is and why it’s seemingly restrictive nature is important and a blessing to us today.    sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode181   $5 a month support: Patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful SPF 117 Daughter of the King: http://www.sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode117 SPF 120: Are Obedience and Faith at Odds with Each Other?: http://www.sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode120 SPF 164: Should Christians Care About Politics?: http://www.sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode164

RC Sproul is famous for saying sin is cosmic treason. Every person under their fallen nature is not only estranged from God by at war with Him. Thanks be to God, He has made a way for us to be reconciled back to Him. Today I am sharing what an acceptable sacrifice was under the Old Covenant, how Christ atones for our sin, and how to prove faithful in our devotion to Christ.    Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode180   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Did you know hospitality is not a spiritual gift? Did you know it includes welcoming strangers? Did you know that it creates a stronger church? Today I’m sharing four hospitality lessons and their practical applications to help us practice hospitality.    Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episod179   Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 

There’s a lot of pressure to conform to culture, but what is the church’s role in standing for truth? Today were are going to look at Ezekiel and see the importance of pastors teaching the distinction between light and darkness.        Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode178 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Civil Magistrates are supposed to ministerial not messianic. What do we do when Government overreaches and starts trying to be the savior? What is the Christian response? Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode177 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

There’s been a lot more government involvement these days. What is the biblical role of government? Does government have to submit to God? In order to understand government better and answer questions we may have, we must know more about authority and the biblical spheres of authority. This is part 1 in a series.    Show Notes with Resources: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode176 Support $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Wives should love their husbands, but what about when we get our feelings hurt? How do we love our husband then? Today I am going talk about three things that hinder our love toward our husbands and how to prove faithful with loving our spouse.        Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode175 Support $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 

Life can be good and life can be tough; there are days of laughter and days of suffering. How do we live like a Christian in any circumstance? Today we are going to talk about how we can prove faithful as we experience trials of various kinds.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode174   Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Unity and important for Christians and the church. But what unifies Christians? What causes division? Should we be unified for the sake of unity? How can we prove faithful when holding the line of truth? Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episdoe173 Support $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

“Better to present truth in her native plainness than to hang her ears with counterfeit pearls.” Thomas Brooks Today I am talking about judgement in Jeremiah and being faithful Christians. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode172 Support Podcast $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Need some encouragement about messes, government, and trusting God? Look no further. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode171 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

It’s the 2020 Christmas Special with special guest, Andy Hlushak. This year we are talking about singing, and Christmas hymns and some of their history. Support $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode170

**There is a correction coming on this episode - I meant to say pro-choice but instead said pro-life around minute 17. AND we are justified by FAITH ALONE not by our belief in when life starts. Upcoming episode on SOLA FIDE** Who is Boniface and why did he chop down Thor’s oak tree? And more importantly, why does his story help us make a change in our current culture for Christ? Get ready for some tree chopping, idol toppling fun. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode168 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What are the means of grace? Why are they important, and how might we be neglecting them? Today we are giving thanks for the gifts God gives us to fortify our faith and keep us firm until the end.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode167 Support the Podcast $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Morals are principles that distinguish what is right and wrong. But since we live in a world where are many different faiths and belief systems, is it right for Christians to be public about morality or should these principles be kept private for self governance only? Today I invited my husband on the podcast to think through the question, “Should Christians keep their morality private?” Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode166 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Gone are the days of cultural Christianity. Now what? The time is ripe for Reformation! Let’s Ad Fontes - Go back to the source and put our hope in Jesus Christ. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode165 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Should Christians care about politics? Are politics and faith at odds with each other? I have so many questions especially in light of this up coming election, that I invited Allie Beth Stuckey from the Relatable Podcast to answer some of my burning questions about politics. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode164 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

How does one speak truth with love? Today I’m going to share some wisdom from Psalms and Proverbs about the words we use to engage people thoughtfully, lovingly, and purposefully. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode163 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

The truth will set you free. Truth equals freedom, But that doesn’t mean you won’t meet critics, cynics, or naysayers when we love truth and abide by it. So what do we do? Today we are talking about Truth and some obstacles to knowing it, and ways we can prove faithful in clinging to it. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode162 Support SPF $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

There is a lot of work to be done as a faithful believer and woman of Christ, but how do we get up the courage to do some of these tasks, especially the ones that aren’t popular or exalted by the world’s standards. Today I am going to share a few insights on courage and a few practical ways we can grow in being courageous. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode161 Support the Podcast: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What’s the difference between a revolution and a reformation? Today we are exploring the differences and how to be a part of a trajectory of God-glorifying, Kingdom building change.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode160 Support the Podcast $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

There are small judgements of the Lord and there will be a final judgement. What do we do in either case? You know I like a good message on repentance and belief. Today we will be looking at the Prophet Joel in the Old Testament and see how the message of repentance applies to us even now.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode1599   Support $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

How do we prove faithful with our attitudes when the weather is ripe for grumbling? Today we are going to look at how to turn a heart that grumbles to one that is full of faith and full of cheer.     Support the Podcast $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode158

Proverbs says A soft word turns away wrath, but does that mean our words should always be soft? Is there a time for hard words and how can we prove faithful with them? Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode157 Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Today I’m sharing a collection of things that I’ve been learning and doing. It’s a delightful mash up that’s biblically minded. How can we bless the Lord, using the morning to bless our kids, and a little Charles Spurgeon is good for the soul.

Something is in the air among Christians lately. The Gospel is being minimized, water down, and neglected. There is only one Gospel and it is the power of God for the salvation of those who believe. Today we are going to look at a few threats to the Gospel and how it really is the saving grace we all need right now and forever.     Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode155 Support SPF with $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

He who defines wins. Accurate and correct definitions matter because words have meaning. But what happens when people start re-defining words? The narrative changes, cultures change. Without objective truth there cannot be right or wrong. On today’s special Faithful War edition, my husband Andy joins me as we talk about the battle for meaning.     Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode154 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Why is oppression often linked to women being in the kitchen? Today, I talk to my friend Natalie about the role of women being in the kitchen and the story behind her hashtag #kitchenofoppression. Plus learn more about hospitality, God’s Sovereignty in the kitchen, and loving our family well. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode153 Support $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What is history? Why is it important and How does the Bible help us rightly interpret the world and culture as it is happening today?    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode152   Support the Podcast $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

It’s no secret that 2020 has been quite chaotic. From a virus to riots to government overreach to social media melt downs and everything in between, it is clear that the world is broken and fallen. So what can we do when everything around us is chaotic? Whether in our homes, or in the world, Scripture has the solution. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode151 Support $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

These are strange times for everyone, including pastors shepherding and teaching our local churches. Pastors are having to navigate confusing federal and local government suggestions and orders, as well as concerns from members of their body, all while maintaining true to God’s Word to preach the Word and care for the flock. Today we are going to explore what the Bible has to say about pastors as well as one important way we can help them. Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode150 Support $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

How Do We Discover God's Will for Our Lives? This is one of the most asked questions among Christians. Today we are going to learn about a few mistakes we can fall into when trying to understand God’s will as well as 7 principles to help us make decisions. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode149 Support $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

There is so much going on right now all over the world. Liberties being stripped, people scared, documentaries coming out, judges being unconstitutional, conspiracy theories, corruption, the list goes on. One thing is for sure, the Word is fallen and we are living in it. How can we as Christians live well in a fallen world?   sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode148 Support: Patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

When we are Christians we are saved from our sin and the death we deserve. Our salvation is a true and blessed gift from God and we are thankful!   So Why Do I Keep Sinning? And what about that one sin that I seem to keep falling into? Today I am going to talk about besetting sins, and some practical encouraging truths to help us throw off the sin that so easily entangles.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode147 Support the Podcast $5 a Month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Are we commanded as Christians to be less anxious or to not be anxious about anything? Today were are talking about two ways God gives His perfect peace so we can say goodbye to being anxious and fretful women. Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode146 Support $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Efficiency is being productive without wasting time or expense. Is efficiency the same as 'making the most of every opportunity?' What happens when our days are hectic and we just can't get everything done? How can we be at peace and have more joy when we go about our to-do lists? I'm covering these questions today and how we can prove faithful with our daily worship of God no matter how "efficient" we are with our day. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode145 Support the Podcast: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

This is quite the season we are all going through with the COVID-19 virus sweeping the world. Today I am here to provide a little perspective as we seek to be faithful with where we are at with the circumstances we’ve been given.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode144   Support Lauren and SPF $5 a month: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

One of the most asked questions coming into my inbox is, “How do I start teaching my kids about God?” I am here today to tell you how you can start or continue, teaching your little ones about God and laying a solid and important foundation for the rest of their lives. This is No. 3 in the Faith and Practice series.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode143   Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

There’s nothing like a birthday special. Today I turn 37 and I am sharing my top 5 things I am loving and thankful for as I eat cake.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode142 Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

There is a feast that is open to anyone. The best feast, described as bread for the soul and sweeter than honey. This feast is on the word of God and today I’m going to share a few ways to feast and how to engage in better Bible reading this year. This is a SPF Faith and Practice series  No. 2    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode141   Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 

Just like there are seasons that divide the year with weather patterns and day light, there are seasons the mark a faithful woman’s life. Today on the Faith and Practice series I will share some wisdom about some common seasons marked for women and how we can be encouraged and prove faithful in them. This is SPF Faith and Practice No. 1.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode140   Patreon: Patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

It's the 2019 Christmas Special with guest Andy Hlushak. We talk traditions, gift giving, Christmas curmudgeons, Isaiah 2, and more! Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode139 Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What does submission have to do with Christmas? Today is all about the posture of the heart as we look at how God has created order and how that impacts our living including our duty and the blessing it brings. After all, there is nothing more Christmas-y than authority and submission ;) Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode138 Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful  

Part of being a keeper of the home is to practice hospitality. Hospitality is often done right around a table. Today we are going to be talking about our work of practicing hospitality around the table. This is part 3 in a 3 part series. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode137 Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesefaithful

Titus 2:5 teaches us that women are to be workers at home, or keepers of the home. Today I am sharing why the home is important and ways women can be faithful keepers of the home. This is part 2 in a 3 part series. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode136 Support SPF: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

The Bible talks a lot about work. We were created to work, and as God’s children we have specific work we are called to do. Today I am sharing four truths about work. This is part 1 in a 3 part series. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode135 Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

In 1517 Martin Luther nailed 95 theses on a church door in Wittenberg Germany on October 31st. We credit this event as the catalyst to a Reformation of getting the church back to the Scripture being the authority for faith and practice and salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, through Christ alone. Today I want to share a bit about the Reformation but also about two Pre-Reformers that came 100 years before. This is an SPF History episode!     Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode134   Patreon Support: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Suffering is real and it is hard. What is the Christian’s ultimate hope in suffering? How can we ready ourselves when the hard times come?  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode133   Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Love has over 1.6 billion tags on Instagram. It’s something that people have a lot of opinions about and something everyone hopes to experience. Today I am going to share four truths about love that will spur us on to love with biblical action and also give glory to God for His incredible love.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode132   Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Can Christians be deceived by their own hypocrisy? Today I’m going to share a few surprisingly common ways we all fall into hypocrisy as Christians and what we can do to avoid that deception.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode131   Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

How do we know what is false? We have to know what is true. In this episode I follow up about deception concerning women’s biblical roles with the Truth of God being Adonai which means Lord, and Jehovah El Emeth which means The Lord God of Truth.     Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode129   Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 

How do we know what is false? We have to know what is true. Today I will be sharing a few lies encountered lately and the Truth we can know through two of God’s names: Adonai and El Emeth.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode129   Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

We do ourselves a disservice when we make Christianity about ourselves instead of the glory of God. Today is a mirror mirror moment to give us a clearer picture of God and ourselves when we consider how He is the Potter and we are the clay. I will talk about Romans 9, Job, and three characteristics of clay. This episode has me eating some humble pie. 

Can I woman be a pastor, or preacher of a church? Let’s go to the good authoritative Word and find out!   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode127 Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Spiritual dullness affects all Christians at some point. Some symptoms are wanting to hear what we want to hear, coming to the Word with our own presuppositions on how things should be and being wooed by the world - we must pay careful attention lest we drift away.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode126   Patreon Support: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful.com 

Coram Deo is a Latin phrase translated “in the presence of God” that came out of the Reformation. It’s a phrase that summarize the Christian life of living in God’s presence, under His authority, to His honor and glory. Today we are going to talk about how all of life has purpose, what it means to live in God’s presence, and how Coram Deo can bless you every day.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode125   Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

JC Ryle once said, “too many persons presume they are forgiven, who have no evidences to show.” What are some evidences of a truly forgiven sinner? How is God at work in those He’s redeemed that show His grace and forgiveness at work in their lives? Today we are talking about 5 marks of a Genuinely forgiven sinner.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode127   Patreon Support: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

No knowledge is neutral. there are things we learn that are raised up against the knowledge of God or those that promote the knowledge of God. So why does it matter and how can be more discerning to avoid false knowledge?    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode123   Patreon Support: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

God has revealed Himself in His written Word, the Bible, and in what He has made. Creation is constantly testifying about God and as we study it, we get to know the Creator more! Today I’m going to share some amazing facts about God’s creation and spur us on to be students of what He made. And today we are talking about . . . evolution. This is Part 2 in a 2 part series.

God has revealed Himself in His written Word, the Bible, and in what He has made. Creation is constantly testifying about God and as we study it, we get to know the Creator more! Today I’m going to share some amazing facts about God’s creation and spur us on to be students of what He made. This is Part 1 in a 2 part series.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode121   Patreon Support: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Good works, obedience, submission to Christ, the 10 commandments are these at odds with things like grace and faith? On today’s episode I invite my husband Andy to discuss some possible reason behind some of the hesitancy and resistance of words like obedience and how we can take great joy in the whole Gospel and the power that is at work in the believer’s life.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode120   Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 

Summers are a season that usually have a bit of a difference pace. To make the most of our summers, I’m offering a few ideas to plan out a purposeful three months. I’ll share my number one idea with a few insights I’ve already gathered after just two days! It’s the summer special! Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode119 Patreon Support: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What if I told you there was a worldview that sounded like Christianity. and has slipped into many churches, Christian books, and is definitely all over Instagram, but it’s actually far from the True Gospel. It’s called Moralistic Therapeutic Deism and we are looking at the five beliefs of MTD, ways they impact Christianity, and the True Good News of Jesus Christ, the Righteous.   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode118   Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

At some point in your Christian faith, you may have heard the phrase or read it on a card or coffee mug “you are a daughter of the King.” It sounds lovely and special, but what does it really mean? Today we are talking about being daughters of the King, which comes through our adoption as children of God, and some of our privileges and responsibilities that go with it.    Show Notes: www.sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode117   Patreon Support: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What is purpose-full living? Is their really meaning in a regular day doing regular things? What about personality tests? Do they help with figuring out my identity? I’m answering these questions and more on today’s podcast. This is part 2 in a 2 part series.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode116 Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 

Who am I and what am I created for? Is my identity created by God or do I create it? Today we are talking about identity and some secular influences that can derail the truth about who we are, plus learn about our call to fruitfulness. This is part 1 in a 2 part series.   sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode115 Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Addiction, purpose, freedom, legalism. You won’t find these words directly in Roman’s 6 but out of God’s teaching about being dead to sin and alive with Christ we find some major answers to questions about those topics. Today I’ll address why Sin is not Your King, how we can practically be free from sin, and how God’s grace helps us take action to be tools and weapons for God’s glory. sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode114 Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Before Jesus went on trial and before he hung on a cross, He fell to His face and prayed in the garden. Today we are going to explore five instructive features of our Savior’s prayer in the midst of His biggest trial to help us when we face trials and how to prove faithful with prayer.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode113 Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.” God’s wisdom means that God knows the best way to the highest end, which is His Glory and our good. God’s glory and His wisdom are intimately connected. Today we are talking about the wisdom of God and three things He does through His wisdom, plus ways we can prove faithful when considering the wisdom of God. Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode112

Proverbs 29:25 says,The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trust is in the Lord is safe. What happens when we fear man? Why does fearing the Lord bring freedom and peace into our lives? How do we fear God? Today we are looking at the difference of fearing man verses fearing God and learning the blessedness of allegiance to the Lord of Hosts. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode111

What do we do when we get to those Bible passages that we maybe don’t agree with? Maybe we don’t understand them, or maybe we have a hard time embracing them. Today I’m going to talk about how we can prove faithful when it comes to tackling the problems we face with these passages. Better Bible Reading Show Notes: She Proves Faithful Announcement: No new shows in February - listen to episode for more information  

Sometimes we are tempted to ask the question “Why doesn’t God _____” When we are searching for answers, there are two things we need to look at - the attitude of our hearts and the truth that God is actually not silent on the most important questions. 

Goals are made because we treasure a particular outcome. Goals can be about finances, health, business, creating, writing - you name it. But today we are going to look at one goal that Paul had - the goal that treasured Christ above all. Show Notes: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode108

That’s right, we’ve reached that special time of year - it’s time for the SPF Christmas Spectacular with guest Andy Hlushak. We are talking all things Christmas today. Get ready for some festive history and christmas cheer as we celebrate when love came down at Christmas! show notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode107

Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers - what is significant about the genealogy of Christ and how does it teach us about the meaning of Christmas?

There a seasons to everyone’s life. In lean season we often find our hearts set on God moment by moment, but in prosperous times, when our hearts a little fat and blessed, they can be filled with pride. Today we are looking at the first two things that tend to go when prosperous times come our way. And we will explore a few ways to prove faithful in times of plenty or want. And why knowing history is so important. show notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode104

We have ever reason in the world to be grateful AT ALL TIMES because of Christ. Today we are talking about the spiritual work of gratitude and a little first thanksgiving history.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode103

Acknowledging God is connected to our joy. Today we are talking about ways we sometimes do not acknowledge God and how we can acknowledge God, learning that one leads to destruction and the other to a deep joy rooted in the truthfulness of God.

Answering questions from listeners to celebrate 100 episodes! Show notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode100 Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Instagram: @sheprovesfaithful

Today I invited my husband to discuss some biblical principles of femininity AND masculinity. We talk a bit of culture and land on guiding prinicples of the Word when it comes to what is feminine and masculine and how to live out our roles with enthusiasm and thanksgiving. This is part 3 in a 3 part series.

Feminism is a women’s liberation movement that extends through centuries and is currently as loud and prominent as ever. Today we are going to discuss three characteristics of feminism and it’s impacts on the Christian woman. This is part 2 in a 2 or 3 part series.  sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode98

Who is woman? What is her purpose? To answer these questions we must start at the very beginning when God designed woman and said His work was not just good, but very good. Belief in God as Creator lays the framework of WHO we are, WHAT we do, HOW we do it, and WHY we do it. Today we are looking at Three biblical truths about the feminine design. This is part 1 in a series. sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode97  

When we sin, we feel guilt. When we are sinned against we can become bitter. So does that justify bitterness? The Bible does say to not let any bitter root grow and to get rid of all bitterness. But it’s not my fault, right? Today I am sharing a story of my personal bitterness and how God used a book and conviction from the Holy Spirit, and He sweet empowering grace to get rid of a big ol bitter root in my heart.    Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode96 Instagram: @sheprovesfaithful Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What is the will of God for my life? How do I live faithfully in the times of mystery? Am I responsible for my actions? Today we talking about God’s Sovereignty, His hidden will, His revealed will, and how we can prove faithful in knowing and not knowing every day. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode95 Instagram: @sheprovesfaithful Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

What is true isn’t always popular and what is popular isn’t always true. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode94  

"He established a testimony in Jacob and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers to teach to their children, that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, and arise and tell them to their children, so that they should set their hope in God." Psalm 78:5-7a "Moms and Dads you are the first and best disciples of your children" - Jenna Hallock, Director of Family Time, is on today's show to talk to us about family discipleship, and a great resource to help us prove faithful in the home. Plus she has a special offer for SPF listeners. Show notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode93 Instagram: instagram.com/sheprovesfaithful Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Virtue Signaling is something we probably come in contact with multiple times a day. Though a relatively new term, we can see virtue signaling in the Bible. Today we are talking about this issue and three things we need to be aware of when it comes to signaling some virtue.  Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode92 Instagram: @sheprovesfaithful Patreon (support the podcast $5 a month!): patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful    

Truth and Encouragement to live gospel-centered lives everyday!

Why do families exist? What is God's plan for the family? Answering these questions provide a foundational understanding to God's plan of reaching the ends of the earth with His salvation. Homes are not spiritual delegation centers, but parent led discipleship centers. In this two part series we will learn God's plan for the family and how to practically turn your home into a hub of gospel-centered discipleship. Today we are getting practical answering HOW do we prove faithful in the home?  How do we make our homes discipelship centers?   Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode90   Instagram: @sheprovesfaithful    Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Why do families exist? What is God's plan for the family? Answering these questions provide a foundational understanding to God's plan of reaching the ends of the earth with His salvation. Parents are not spiritual delegation centers, but parent led discipleship centers. In this two part series we will learn God's plan for the family and how to practically turn your home into a hub of gospel-centered discipleship. Support SPF -  Three Ways to Do it Hey! Have you been encouraged by the podcast? If so, consider supporting this work in one of these ways: 1. Become a member by giving $5 a month on patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful and get access to member only resources - including exclusive sneak peeks at the upcoming DWELL Handbook. 2. Check out audible for free - that's right, when you sign up with my link, you get to try Audible for free, you get two free audiobooks and it supports the podcast! Go here to try Audible for free (affiliate link). 3. Clink Amazon links on the show notes! I get a small kickback for referring resources to you that I love :) Life Hack - Fresh Summer Meats Going camping? Having a day trip to the lake? It's hot! Keep the meat fresh by prepping some hamburger patties ahead of time and freeze them. When it's time to go, put them in a ziplock bag and place them on the bottom of a cooler and cover with ice. God's Plan for Family God's plan for the family is throughout Scripture. It teaches us so much about our roles and responsibilities as women and disciple-makers. Genesis 1-3 - shows us God's plan from the very beginning: to fill the earth with people who worship and love God Genesis 6-9 - shows us God's plan reiterated - fill the earth with people who worship and love God Genesis 15 - God's promise to Abraham is about future generations of people more numerous than the stars in the sky who worship and love God Deuteronomy 6 - God's people are about to go into the promise land and they are given a sermon on the covenantal law reminded them of God and His plan - which happens to be for people to love God and worship Him and for people to teach their kids to love God and worship him, and gives a way to do this. Malachi 2 - God rebukes His people for flippant divorce because it impacts His desire for godly offspring! Malachi 4 - God makes a promise before 400 years of silence to come and turn the hearts of fathers to their children. Matthew 28:19-20 - Jesus gives the final command to "Go and make disciples." The Great Commandment in Genesis 1 (be fruitful and multiply, fill the earth and subdue it) lines up with the Great Commission to make disciples. Make disciples = be fruitful and multiple  Of all nations - fill the earth Teach them to obey - subdue it “Being great commission Christians begins in your house. Every little child given to us is an opportunity to make disciples.”  - Dr. Rob Reinow Resources God's Grand Vision for the Home By Dr. Rob Rienow Family Shepherds: Calling and Equipping Men to Lead Their Homes By Voddie Baucham Jr. Instructing a Child's Heart By Tedd Tripp, Margy Tripp Fit to Burst : Abundance, Mayhem, and the Joys of Motherhood By Rachel Jankovic    

How did the fit on the ark? How did the dinosaurs become extinct?  Are we sure that dinosaur bones are not millions of years old? Answers to these questions reveal a worldview that impacts other areas of belief. Scientist Jonathan Sarfati taught me a lot about dinosaurs at a recent conference and I’m sharing a few Dino facts that make sense through the lens of the most accurate history book we will ever have.   Support the SPF Podcast Support SPF -  Three Ways to Do it Hey! Have you been encouraged by the podcast? If so, consider supporting this work in one of these ways: 1. Become a member by giving $5 a month on patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful and get access to member only resources - including exclusive sneak peeks at the upcoming DWELL Handbook. 2. Check out audible for free - that's right, when you sign up with my link, you get to try Audible for free, you get two free audiobooks and it supports the podcast! Go here to try Audible for free (affiliate link). 3. Clink Amazon links on the show notes! I get a small kickback for referring resources to you that I love :) Life Hack - Summer Activity Go on a dinosaur excavation!! (Or any small toy excavation Dino excavation summer activity.) Here's what you need: ice tray or muffin tin small toys or plastic dinosaurs food coloring (optional) small tools (paint brushes, plastic hammers, etc) freezer ;) Fill ice tray with water (or color water in pitcher first, then add to ice tray). Add little toys (it's ok if they are sticking out!). Freeze until solid. Take out and play! Usborne Books Flying Dinosaur Paper Airplanes These are just so fun for an afternoon of paper airplane races and dino themed: https://new.myubam.com/p/6877/100-pterosaurs-to-fold-and-fly (I am not an Usborne book seller, nor is this linked to a specific seller.) Creation.com Magazine Offer - Free Gifts with Subscription Creation.com is giving She Proves Faithful listeners two free gifts with a quarterly magazine subscription to Creation Magazine. This is a creation based science magazine perfect for families. When you subscribe to the quarterly subscription (and stay subscribed for at least 1 year - 4 issues), you will receive two gifts free: The book The Greatest Hoax by Dr Sarfati and the other a dvd Evolution's Achilles' Heels Just use the code Faithful1 at checkout and the gifts will automatically add to your cart! This code is good until December 31, 2018. To order the magazine or learn more about it: subscribe-creation-magazine Dinosaur Questions Answered - Part 2 Were the dinosaurs on the ark? According to Genesis 6 two of every kind of animal went aboard the ark How did the dinosaurs fit on the ark? The arc was huge.  450 long 75 feet wide 45 feet tall Imagine 6 semi trucks wide for 1/2 a mile standing at four stories tall It was a sea worthy vessel and could not capsize  Page 243 Only about 55 kinds Dinosaurs didn’t have to be fully grown Most dinosaurs were relatively small Why aren’t humans buried with dinosaurs if they were alive during the same time? Evolutionists claim the order of the fossil record (trilobites at the bottom, humans at the top) is due to a succession of life-forms on Earth, which occurred over many hundreds of millions of years But since Fossils are a record of death, creationists believe that most of these fossils and their subsequent order were formed by the year long global flood Consider order of death during the flood With the flood starting with the fountains of the great deep sedentary sea creatures would be buried first, then swimming sea life,  And as flood waters rose, shore river animals and plants Then small mammals, amphibians, dinosaurs, low land forests And last, large mammals, birds, and upland forests How did the dinosaurs become extinct? Many died in the flood The rest died out through illness or at the hand of men Find out more: To learn more about dinosaurs visit creation.com or any of these resources:      

Are dinosaurs in the Bible? Why really happened to the dinosaurs? Answers to these questions reveal a worldview that impacts other areas of belief. Scientist Jonathan Sarfati taught me a lot about dinosaurs at a recent conference and I’m sharing a few Dino facts that make sense through the lens of the most accurate history book we will ever have. Support SPF -  Three Ways to Do it Hey! Have you been encouraged by the podcast? If so, consider supporting this work in one of these ways: 1. Become a member by giving $5 a month on patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful and get access to member only resources - including exclusive sneak peeks at the upcoming DWELL Handbook. 2. Check out audible for free - that's right, when you sign up with my link, you get to try Audible for free, you get two free audiobooks and it supports the podcast! Go here to try Audible for free (affiliate link). 3. Clink Amazon links on the show notes! I get a small kickback for referring resources to you that I love :) Life Hack - The Cast Iron Skillet This is an essential kitchen tool and a FANTASTIC wedding gift that is usually not on registries (because people don't know the amazing wonders of this pan!). The best part, you can get a great deal on a Lodge brand cast iron skillet at Target - $19.99 for a 12'' skillet (and if you have a REDcard you get free delivery!). Cast Iron Benefits: you can grill with it goes from stove top to oven (oven safe) used for camping easy to clean hard to hurt (I burned mine and brought it back to life) not toxic Dinosaur Questions Answered Why it's important: Evolutionary thinking naturally leads to atheism, belief in no God, and secular humanism which means man can chart his own course without God. How we understand dinosaurs tells us how we view the world- it tells us one of our basic assumptions about life. It shows a theistic worldview where God created everything purposefully and for His glory. Humans have inherent dignity because they are made in the image of God; we love one another because God loved us first; we forgive because Christ forgave us; we live to serve God and others rather than pursue the fleeting pleasures of this world. Or it shows an acceptance of evolutionary thinking that everything we see arrived at natural processes and that there is no meaningful design and that God is not necessary for life or creation; basically the designed thing designed itself. This is seen in Romans 1 - that the knowledge of Creator God can be known by everyone since God has made it plain by what He’s created. But verse 21 says, "For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened." When did dinosaurs exist? God’s Word is a history book It tells us when dinosaurs existed - on Day 6 God made the beasts according to it’s kind That word kind is important because it tells us that creation was not evolving or changing  Humans were also created on day 6 which means humans and dinosaurs co-existed The word dinosaur is not in the Bible. But word dinosaur was not invented until Sir Richard Owen in 1841 English versions of the Bible were set in the 1500s and 1600s with the Geneva bible and KJV versions  Dinosaurs are seen in the Bible as we read Job, the first book ever written - it’s not the first chronologically but first written where the Behemoth is talked about  "There are even strong indications that people living in the post-flood world encountered dinosaurs." "From Europe across Asia and into china there are historical references to dragons with features that often match scientists modern reconstructions." - Safarti  Resources Christian Home Educators of Colorado - CHEC.org Creation Ministries International - creation.com Institute for Creation Research - icr.org Get a free magazine from the Institute for Creation Research - http://www.icr.org/icr-magazines This is the book I referenced - it's SO good and easy to understand! The Creation Answers Book:   The Creation Answers Book By David Catchpoole, Jonathan Sarfati, Carl Wieland The New Answers Book: Over 25 Questions on Creation / Evolution and the Bible By Ken Ham Dinosaurs for Kids By Ken Ham T is for T.Rex: Some of God's Most Amazing Creatures from A to Z By Terry P. Beh The Greatest Hoax on Earth? Refuting Dawkins on Evolution By Jonathan Sarfati PhD The Genesis Account: A theological, historical, and scientific commentary on Genesis 1-11 By Jonathan Sarfati              

Have you ever been praying and lost focus, or maybe you get stuck and are not sure what to pray? Maybe you’ve faced some obstacles to praying or maybe you want to learn to pray God’s Word - well today we are learning all about praying God’s Scripture with five benefits of praying through a Psalm and 3 easy methods you can practice today. Support the Podcast Want to be a part of keeping SPF going? Here are a few simple ways to support the podcast: 1. Give $5 a month - patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful - plus get exclusive member benefits with a special website and resources just for members! 2. Try audible on Amazon for a month for free - plus you get two free books to keep! Click here to try audible: https://amzn.to/2JNfFla 3. Check out any recommended resources. Easy & Awesome Father's Day Gift Father's Day is a few days away and if you're looking for an easy and awesome gift that kids of all ages can make - try homemade firestarters! Great for camp outs, and backyard bonfires - these are easy to make and you probably already have the supplies in your house. Supplies: cardboard toilet paper roll dryer lint newspaper or brown kraft paper Directions: Stuff cardboard roll with lint wrap with newspaper roll ends with your hands like a tootsie roll candy wrapper When it's time to use - stick under some kindling and light paper on fire Prayer prayer is communicating to God our dependence we thank Him we ask for help we are giving God glory for being God Obstacles to Prayer prideful attitude tired and unfocused overwhelmed by "logistics" of how to pray we forget to pray / busy 5 Benefits of Praying through a Psalm Praying through a Psalm teaches us about God Praying through a Psalm helps us focus, and focus on what is most important Praying through a Psalm helps us dwell on what is truthful Praying through a Psalm helps us express ourselves rightly Praying through a Psalm glorifies God 3 Methods of Praying Through a Psalm The Basic Read a Bible verse and pray it back to God The Observe and Pray Read through a few verses in a Psalm, make some observations, define some words, and pray back what you learned to God The 3 R's Read a verse and look for one (or more) of the 3 R's: Rejoice - What did I read that causes me to rejoice, be glad, or give thanks? Repent - Is there anything I've read that brings to light sin in my life? Request - How does this Psalm inform me to pray for others, or myself? (The 3 R's were from an article on pray on Christianity Today) Psalm Suggestions Psalm 1 - righteousness vs wickedness Psalm 15 - great understanding of God's righteousness and holiness Psalm 16 - God's Faithfulness Psalm 19 - God's Glory in creation and His incredible Word Psalm 23 - God's Sovereignty and Right view of circumstances Psalm 51 - David's prayer of repentance Psalm 100 - Giving Thanks Psalm 103 - The Blessedness of God Psalm 112 - Righteous man characteristics Psalm 130 - Waiting and persevering Resources Amazon links are affiliate links. I make a very small commission that goes toward the show when you click on products! ESV Study Bible By ESV Bibles by Crossway Holiness Day by Day: Transformational Thoughts for Your Spiritual Journey By Jerry Bridges Family Worship (Family Guidance) By Joel R Beeke I have not read this Psalms - the prayer book, but I do admire Dietrich Bonhoeffer and am interested in this resource. Psalms: The Prayer Book of the Bible By Dietrich Bonhoeffer          

What does the Bible say? What does the Bible mean? Great questions and Today we are talking more about how to accurately interpret Scriptures when we are reading them or even listening to people teach them.   Listen to Part One Here: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode84 Try Audible for Free! + Two Free Books Do you like books? Do your kids like books? This is a great time to engage the imagination and listen to some great reads this summer! Plus when you try it, you are supporting the SPF podcast! Woo! Learn more here! Some of our favorite books: Paddington Bear books, Winne the Pooh, Little House on the Prairie Books, The Jesus Storybook Bible. Summer Drink: Spicy Lemonade This is a recipe from Trim Healthy Mama called Good Girl Moonshine. Adjust these measurements according to your taste buds. 1 Quart of water with ice 1-2 TBSP of Lemon Juice 1-2 TBSP of Apple Cider Vinegar 1 TSP Ground Ginger Sweetener to Taste (I like about 20 drops of liquid stevia) Stir to mix and sip sip sip! Interpreting Scripture Part 2 Two red flags of personal interpretation: 1. Relativism: If we read the Bible and come away thinking - this doesn’t apply because it was a different culture or time, we are coming away with a view that the Bible is relative. 2. Subjectivism: is when the truth of a statement is absolutely determined by the subject. This happens when we read Scripture and distort the objective meaning of the terms to suit our own interests. If subjectivism is true regarding God’s Word, then it would mean God is hypocritical, contradicting Himself, because there would be many different meanings for different people. Eisegisis - coming to the text and read into the text something that isn’t there at all Exegesis - coming to the text and drawing out of the text what is there Hermeneutics The primary principle of hermeneutics we talked about last episode is Scripture is to interpret Scripture. The second principle is the Bible should be interpreted according to it’s literal sense. Literal comes from the latin word “litera” meaning letter. To interpret something literally is to pay attention to the litera or the letters being used. RC Sproul writes “the Bible may be a very special book, being uniquely inspired by the Holy Sprite, but that inspiration does not transform the letters of the words or the sentences of the passages into magical phrases. Under inspiration a noun remains a noun and a verb remains a verb. Questions do not become exclamations, and historical narratives do not become allegories." To be accurate interpreters we need to know the rules of grammar, and know what is called genre analysis.  Genre analysis is the study of things like literary forms, figures of speech and style. Keep Learning, Keep Growing, Keep Trying “We fail in our duty to study God’s Word not so much because it is difficult to understand, not so much because it is dull and boring, but because it is work. Our problem is not a lack of intelligence or a lack of passion. Our problem is that we are lazy.” RC Sproul A few things you can do to keep growing in your skills as an interpreter: Learn the rules of hermeneutics Brush up on grammar Learn the historical information about the book of the Bible you are reading - who wrote it, when? To who? What was going on at the time? This will help you accurately understand what was being written and help you apply it personally to your life. Invest in some resources for your bible study like an ESV Strong's Concordance Read Scripture - get to know the stories and history to become better at cross-referencing Resources: Hermeneutic Principles: http://www.generationword.com/notes_for_notesbooks_pg/hermeneutics_web_files/psoft.masonry(1).htm Ligonier.org - RC Sproul's ministry will a ton of free resources Try Audible: https://amzn.to/2JxsGiF Amazon Links are affiliate links: Knowing Scripture By R. C. Sproul Bible by Olive Tree HarperCollins Christian Publishing Strong's Complete Word Study Concordance [With CDROM]   [STRONGS COMP WORD STUDY CONCOR] [Hardcover] AMG Publishers.        

What joy must have flooded the hearts of many a person when Martin Luther got German Bibles into his fellow country-man’s hands and people were reading the Word of God in their own language. With that came a responsibility to understand how to interpret what we read in the Bible. Today we are talking about personal interpretation and a quick lesson in how to handle the Scriptures correctly. Try Audible! We love audible. We use it every day. For rest time, long car times, when a wait is very long for little ones, audio books are a great resource! We like audible because we get one free credit to buy a book (any price) and it's ours forever! Even if we stop subscribing to audible. Plus - if you try audible using the SPF affiliate link - even just to try it out - you get TWO free books AND you support the SPF podcast. Try it out! Let me know what you think! Some of our favorite family books: Little House on the Prairie series, Winne the Pooh, Paddington series, Charlotte's Web, etc. Knowing Scripture The word Thesaurus comes from a greek word “thesauros”which means treasury or storehouse. The Bible is our treasury. A storehouse and wealth of truth. "There is a treasury of significance and application in every single verse. Every verse is pregnant with significance for our lives.” You could not exhaust one verse of Scripture in our lifetime. The Scripture is a treasury but there are things we must recognize about the Holy Scriptures or we can have this treasury yet come up wanting, or worse yet, on a wrong trajectory. The Bible is Objective "It has often been charged that the Bible can’t be trusted because people can make it say anything they want it to say. This charge would be true if the Bible were not the objective Word of God, if it were simply a wax nose, able to be shaped, twisted, and distorted to teach one’s own precepts.” RC Sproul The Analogy of Faith To prevent unbridled, speculative, and fanciful interpretations of Scriptures, the Reformers put forth a fundamental truth that should govern all biblical interpretation called the "Analogy of Faith" which means: Scripture interprets Scripture. Look at the overall meaning of the Bible when we are trying to interpret the meaning of a specific verse. The “analogy of faith” is a reformed hermeneutical principle which states that, since all scriptures are harmoniously united with no essential contradictions, therefore, every proposed interpretation of any passage must be compared with what the other parts of the bible teach. In other words, the “faith,” or body of doctrine, which the scriptures as a whole proclaim will not be con tradicted in a ny way by any passage. Therefore, if two or three different interpretations of a verse are equally possible, any interpretation that contradicts the clear teaching of any other scriptures must be ruled out from the beginning. - Monergism.org If any interpretation contradicts the whole of Scripture, we can know that that interpretation is not correct. Guiding Principles of Personal Interpretation There are boundaries set as we personally interpret the Scriptures in our own time in the Word. Remember! There is one correct meaning, but many applications. Stay tuned for Part 2 on episode 85! Resources Olive Tree Bible App with the ESV Strong's numbers Ligonier.org - Knowing Scripture talks: https://www.ligonier.org/learn/daily-video/2018/05/14/private-interpretation/ Amazon links are affiliate links Knowing Scripture By R. C. Sproul Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Minds By Jen Wilkin        

The preeminence of Christ sounds like a $10 word - at least to me - but the word simply means superior. Christ is preeminent over all things but today we are taking a closer look at 5 areas of Christ’s superiority and why it practically matters in our day to day living. From hurt feelings, to tempers, to purpose, to hope, Christ’s preeminence will wow us and guide us.  Are you Encouraged by the Podcast? Consider becoming a partner and invest in SPF through a $5 monthly donation on Patreon. You get access to some exclusive dowloads and help me keep teaching biblical Truth to women across the globe. For more information go to: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Life Hack Bathroom rugs: ditch the fluffy bathroom rugs for flat woven rugs. It will not show foot traffic and keep you from having to do laundry more often. Take a look at these bathmats from Wayfair (I literally just did a google search - we got ours at Target . . . seven years ago!) NOPE! Ditch the fluffy mats - they get matted down by foot traffic too quickly! BINGO! A flat woven mat is where it's at! Cotton washes and dries well too. The Preeminence of Christ & How it Changes Us Preeminence: The fact of surpassing all others; superior (dictionary.com) You can find the verses for these topics on the free worksheet under resources below. No 1. Christ is superior because He has always existed No 2. Christ is superior because He created all things and He created them for Himself No 3. Christ is superior because He is holy/sinless No 4. Christ is superior because He is head of the Church No. 5  Christ is superior because He had dominion over death Right belief in Christ's preeminence changes our daily living. 1. Humbles us 2. Gives us great joy (and hope) 3. Gives us perspective (with our emotions and with who we fear - God or man) Resources Free Worksheet Download a free worksheet on the preeminence of Christ. Read Scriptures and underline key words, and gather verses for your own study. Get the worksheet here: Preeminence of Christ Sermon Jam - John Piper Ligoneir article on the Sinlessness of Christ Books I love (affiliate links) Eve in Exile and the Restoration of Femininity By Rebekah Merkle The Gospel-Centered Life: Study Guide with Leader's Notes By Robert H. Thune, Will Walker The Ology: Ancient Truths, Ever New By Marty Machowski        

Whether you’re in an official leadership position or not, as Christians we are leaders in some regard - whether as a mother, or a bible study leader, or discipling women, or teaching a class or sharing the Gospel, the Bible has great practical instructions for us in the area of godly leadership. Today we are looking at Acts 27 and contrast a centurion’s hurtful leadership with Paul’s helpful leadership and learn 3 ways we can graciously lead others. Love the Podcast? There are a few simple ways to support the podcast: 1. Partner with me on Patreon with a $5 monthly gift. Get access to some exclusive goods and downloads! learn more hear patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 2. Try Audible for free + get two free books to keep forever! (Even if you drop your subscription. And yes! This helps support the podcast! This is an affiliate link.) Learn more here: 3. Check out my affiliate links on Amazon in my recommended resources on podcast episodes. Eagle Lake Camps Are you a college student looking for a summer job? Not just a job but an opportunity to share the Gospel with children and enjoy God's creation?! or Are you a mom looking for a summer camp that you can trust? That will teach your children about God and His Word? Check out Eagle Lake Camps! Tell them you heard about camp from me! (They like me ;) I'll actually be up there to train counselors on praying the Scriptures this month! Distinctly Christian Leadership John Piper wrote a brief article about distinctly Christian leadership having our goals as leaders defined by Scriptures. 1. we are to take people and move them toward godliness, towards worship, towards honoring Jesus, towards loving people. 2. that those we lead would not exclude people based on a prejudice we have - God will have people from every tribe and language 3. our goal as a christian leader is not to make our name great famous, nor are we the authority; it is our goal in leading others to make His name great. There is a christian attitude of humility and service in distinctly christian leadership. Luke 22:25-26 Duties of a Christian Leader vary - some may include: Wash feet John 13:1-17 rebuke Matthew 16:23 discipling Matthew 18:15-20 serve at our own expense 1 Cor 9:7 issue strong imperatives 1 for 5:2, 11:16 Christian Leadership Example in Acts 27 Acts 27 Three things we learn hurtful leadership from Julius: He feared failure - blind to good judgement, fear of failure can impair the safety of those under us. It can hold us back from doing what needs to be done, especially in times of trouble He trusted in his own authority - we do have authority but we must remember to submit it to the Lordship of God - we can make choices and decisions but not to elevate our own name and our own dreams and theories and ideals - we make God’s name great He despaired in trouble - the centurion along with all the sailors were feeling very hopeless, they were throwing things overboard they were panicked - they were not going to the one in whom there is always hope to be found; There things we learn about helpful leadership from Paul: Takes initiative - he spoke up many times even though he had no office - first of all he was respected - we know this because after they crash the soldiers want to kill the prisoners to make sure none escape but Julius favored Paul and wanted him to live. Paul initiated in sharing wisdom about the ship and sailing and then he stood up again and gave instruction and great encouragement in trouble - he wasn’t saying I told you so - that’s not helpful! He wasn’t about his own pride - he was about pointing people to the Gospel and using any opportunity to do so. Spoke with authority - he instructs people about God and he does it with authority because God is true. He has conviction and is on mission. It could have made him look crazy, but when we know the truth we can stick our neck out knowing that God will eventually open the eyes of everyone to see - if not now, at Judgement He encouraged and strengthened others - with a supernatural calmness too - we have to remember that chaos breeds chaos; godly leaders lead others to the Truth to encourage and strengthen them Application How can you take initiative take people and move them toward godliness, towards worship, towards honoring Jesus, towards loving people? Ideas: we can take initiative - invite women to get together and read the bible We can know the Scriptures and be bold when we share them - not a jerk, but confident we can encourage and strengthen others with truth - do you know the Word well enough to encourage someone to hope? Are you learning and growing in the nutrition of the pure word? And are you engaging with those you are leading with the Word? Resources John Piper Leadership article: https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/what-is-leadership Video referenced about Cory Asbury - this is not to create drama, but in case anyone would like to investigate and be discerning. God is King - not me - honor Him :) Minute 8 is where I addressed. https://m.youtube.com/watch?list=RDMM6xx0d3R2LoU&params=OALAAQE%253D&v=6xx0d3R2LoU The Gospel-Centered Life: Study Guide with Leader's Notes By Robert H. Thune, Will Walker          

How can we be gracious with people in our lives that we just don’t click with? The people I like to call, our spiritual sandpaper? Today we looking at what the Bible says about loving one another, even the people who chew really loud. Ways to Support the SPF Podcast Have you been encouraged by the SPF Podcast? Consider supporting the podcast in these ways: 1. Become an SPF teammate with a monthly gift of $5 or more on patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful and get exclusive access to some digital resources! 2. Try Audible by Amazon - this is our favorite way to enjoy audiobooks! My daughter listens to audiobooks every day for her rest time. You get 1 free book credit a month and you keep the books forever - even if you decide Audible is not for you. When you try Audible for the free month, you help support SPF! Click here to try it for a month free and get TWO FREE books to keep forever:   Get Your Toddler to Talk  My friend Adrienne is a Speech Language Pathologist and helped me get my toddler talking with her video course. It was so encouraging that I became an affiliate to share her program with others! This course is a 7 step process all in 30 minutes that you have life-time access to and is practical and simple to implement. For more information and to check out her course here. See her You Tube Channel here (she has over 15K subscribers!): Learn With Adrienne YouTube Learn 300 Signs in 30 days! Adrienne also has a course to learn 300 signs in 30 days! If you've ever wanted to learn sign language, this is a great course. Try the first lesson free! **These are affiliate links, meaning I receive a portion of the sale if you purchase, but at no cost to you - But I recommend these courses and Adrienne. How Do We Love Those we Don't Click with? God is sanctifying us to be set apart from the world! God uses a variety of things, including people to mature us for His glory and our good. When answering how do we love those we don't click with we need to consider what the Word says about loving one another. 1 John 3:23 And this is his commandment, that we believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us. the commandment is to believe in Jesus and love another- is inseparable  Our creed is shown by conduct - what we believe will come out in our actions, and how we behave will show what we believe loving one another is bound up in our faith in Christ to be the one who forgives our sins and gives us everything we need for life and godliness There are blessings to loving others: loving others shows assurance of our salvation - 1 John 4:7, 1 John 3:14, 1 John 3:10, 1 John 4:8, 1 John 2:9-10 loving others shows the world that we are disciples of Christ - it is evangelism that proclaims the existence of God by how we treat fellow believers! John 13:35 Galatians 5:13-15 For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another. We are in freedom to love because we get to love out of the fullness of Christ in our hearts. We are not slaves to the flesh - to the empty ways of trying to satisfy ourselves. Don’t return to those things, those ways. Practical Truths about Love Love in the 1 John 3:23 verse is in the present tense - this means to love calls for a continual practice of selfless, sacrificial, God-like love. Love is not a feeling, but a choice  We are called to imitate how God loves us - specifically, sacrificially, does not require it to be reciprocal NOT ONLY IMITATE - John Piper talks about this - “Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. Yes, but not by copying my fruit, but by connecting to my vine. You don’t mainly imitate. You participate. Your love for each other is not a simulation of mine, but a manifestation of mine. You are the branches. I am the vine. If you abide in me, you can bear fruit, and prove to be my disciples. This its how all people know you are truly my disciples.” SHOWING LOVE TO OTHERS IS ONLY POSSIBLE because we are grafted into the vine - into the life and love of Christ. We love as he loved because we love with his love. Questions to Ponder So when I think of how can be gracious to people I don’t click with, I need to be asking myself, how can I obey God in loving others. How can I be patient with others? How can I put aside pure preference of things rather than starting fights and quarrels about them How can I serve out of the joy of my salvation? The freedom I have in Christ? How can I be objective about loving others rather than relying on a feeling. Resources John Piper article about loving one another: https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/the-new-commandment-of-christ-love-one-another-as-i-have-loved-you https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/as-i-have-loved-you-love-one-another SPF 018: Do Feelings Triumph over Truth? Table Talk - Ligonier Magazine https://www.ligonier.org/tabletalk/

Is God who You think He is? John 4:24 Jesus tells us to worship God in spirit and in Truth and later on in 8:28 Jesus says that the truth sets us free. We are to worship God, which means the true things about God, but we can get mixed up with our feelings, with good songs, with our past that can distort our view of God. Are we worshiping God in truth or are we believing lies about God? Today we are looking at  attributes of God found in His Word to help us worship the ONE TRUE God.  Be a Teammate of the SPF Podcast! Check out Patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful and consider becoming a donor at $5 a month! Plus get access to exclusive materials. Is God Who You Think He Is? God is God and He has attributes that can be known about Him as studied in the Word of God. Though we can never fully exhaust God or ever comprehend all He is and all He does and will do, He still allows us to know Him. “A spiritual and saving knowledge of God is the greatest need of every human creature. The foundation of all true knowledge of God must be a clear mental apprehension of His perfections as revealed in the Holy Scripture. An unknown God can neither be trusted, served, nor worshiped… something more than a theoretical God is only truly known in the soul as we yield ourselves to Him and submit to His authority , and regulate all the details of our lives by His holy precepts and commandments." - AW Pink The Attributes of God Scriptures talked about: Job 1-2 Acts 17 Attributes of God First as we study God’s attributes we need to know that there are two main classifications of His attributes. No. 1  Incommunicable attributes - meaning he does not share these attributes with anyone or anything  aseity, eternal, omnipresence, immutable, omnipotent, No. 2 Communicable attributes - meaning God shares these attributes with other beings. righteous, merciful, good, loving, just, wrathful Application Pick an attribute of God and look it up in Scripture. Study it with your kids or with a small group of women. After writing down verses ask yourself what does this attribute of God mean for your daily living? Find the free infographic of God's Attributes here: https://www.challies.com/visual-theology/visual-theology-the-attributes-of-god/ Find the Sheologians Podcast on Reckless Worship here: https://www.sheologians.com/reckless-worship/ Find the Douglas Wilson Post - Obedience of Cancer here: https://dougwils.com/resources/personal/the-obedience-of-cancer.html Find the Todd Friel Anxiety: A Biblical Cure Bible Study Here: https://www.wretched.org/product/wretched-worldview-anxiety-the-biblical-cure/ None Like Him: 10 Ways God Is Different from Us (and Why That's a Good Thing) By Jen Wilkin The Attributes of God By A. W. Pink, Arthur W. Pink Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine By Wayne Grudem Redemption: Freed by Jesus from the Idols We Worship and the Wounds We Carry By Mike Wilkerson        

Should women know theology? What is theology? Why is it important? Let’s find out. Plus 5 ways theology has changed me. Partner with the SPF Podcast! The SPF Podcast happens with the support of generous ladies across the globe. Want to join in? Here are a few ways: 1. Partner with SPF on Patreon for $5 a month + get member perks! Find out more: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful 2. Explore my Amazon links - they are affiliate links of my most recommended resources and your clicks and purchases from the links go to funding this podcast! At no cost to you!! Woo! 3. Try Audible for a month on Amazon FREE + get two FREE audiobooks to keep forever. Learn more here: Banner of Grace Boutik Check out with sister's Rachel and Becca are doing over at bannerofgraceboutik.com - Rachel is helping her sister contribute and develop a skill and use her gifts for God's glory by painting pictures and selling them. Rachel and Becca are twins, but Becca has cerebral palsy. Check out their site and artwork here: http://www.bannerofgraceboutik.com/ http://www.bannerofgraceboutik.com/ Should Women Know Theology? Should women know theology - yes - actually, I think it’s imperative that we as women pursue the knowledge of theology. I think it’s imperative we become better THEOLOGIANS! Theology: the study of God Theology is not just an understanding of God, but an application of our understanding of God. But everyone is a theologian because we all have a view of God. Why is it imperative for women to know theology? Because it gives us a right view of God. It gives us a right view of ourselves. It gives us a right view of our circumstances. It shows Gods Lordship, Sovereignty, Wisdom, Love, Justice, Holiness - over all things. It is TRUTH. and the truth sets us free. “Truth works" High view of theology with lead to more and more freedom.  Practical Theology for Women Practical Theology for Women: How Knowing God Makes a Difference in Our Daily Lives By Wendy Horger Alsup Wendy Alsup has an excellent book called, "Practical Theology for Women" that I recommend! She talkes about good theology is important because it gives us an accurate faith. Reminds us that theology is incredibly practical - it gives us the foundation of our faith and Hebrews tells us without faith it is impossible to please God Theology is about knowing God but also appropriating that truth to our lives!   Five Ways Theology has Changed Me Better interpretation of Scripture which has given me greater joy and assurance  Helped me defend the faith and articulate it more clearly - to instruct what is right and good and true Theology has helped me understand the biblical role of church and pastors Theology has helped me leave behind anxiety Theology has helped me do hard things Great Resources for Growing in Theology Here are some great ways to grow as better theologians: Read the Bible whole chapters at a time and research the book of the Bible - who wrote it, to who, why, what was going on at the time? Study the Word - do a inductive or investigative Bible study - templates are online Read good theologians - J.C. Ryle, Charles Spurgeon, Wayne Grudem Listen to good sermons - R.C. Sproul, Steven Lawson, Charles Spurgeon Websites that are helpful: gotquestions.org biblegateway.com logos.com (there is a free lite app version) Matthew Henry Commentary Ligoneir.com     Christian Beliefs: Twenty Basics Every Christian Should Know By Wayne Grudem, Elliot Grudem None Like Him: 10 Ways God Is Different from Us (and Why That's a Good Thing) By Jen Wilkin Holiness By J. C. Ryle   Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine By Wayne Grudem 1 Peter: A Living Hope in Christ - Bible Study Book (Gospel Coalition) By Jen Wilkin Stressed Out: A Practical, Biblical Approach to Anxiety By Todd Friel            

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. Family Worship is a dedicated time of teaching our children the Word of God and helping them worship the Lord together with the entire family. Andy Hlushak is our guest today sharing why family worship is important, explains the paideia of God, and we share what we do with our family around the breakfast table that is helping them know and worship the God of the universe. Show notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode78 Instagram: @sheprovesfaithful Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful

Stewardship is managing the time, talents, and treasures that God has given to us FOR the glory of God during our days here on earth. We have great freedoms, joy, and some hard work as faithful stewards and today we are talking about the home and motherhood and five principles of good stewardship in these areas.  It’s one of those practical episodes. This is part 2 of a 2 part series.    Ways to Partner with SPF Podcast Give $5 a month (and get some perks!): patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Explore my Amazon recommended resources. Try Audible (we LOVE audible) and get two free books and a free month: Stewardship in the Home There are two important passages of scripture that point to us learning to be good stewards of the home: Titus 2:3-5 the Greek word for home is oikouros meaning caring for or working at the home For women, biblically, there is a homeward orientation 1 Timothy 5:14 And whether widows or not, we see instruction here for women - marry, bear children, and manage their household the Greek word used for household is oikodespoteo - is to manage family affairs There is a charge her for women to manage or STEWARD their household and care for the needs of the home and those in the home.  5 Principles of Stewardship in our Home 1. Order our days right by putting God first Make reading the Word and prayer a priority in your day Prayer shows are dependence on the Lord "Prayer is not so much an act as it is an attitude—an attitude of dependency, dependency upon God." - A.W. Pink Deuteronomy 6:6-9 We must learn the Lord's commands too, not just expect our children to learn them.  Family Worship - read the Word with your kids - sing with them When you don't "feel" like reading the Bible - repent! When you don't have time, make time later 2. Steward our attitudes We create the atmosphere of our home - it can be one of joy or eggshells We need to manage our hearts and tongues - Luke 6:45, Ephesians 4:29, Colossians 3:16 Repent quickly, forgive quickly, be thankful, rejoice, sing! 3. Steward our time well by being diligent hard workers hard work is hard, it's not a bad thing idleness is shunning labor, it's a laziness idleness leads to sins like being busybodies and gossips - 1 Timothy 5 "She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness." Proverbs 31:27 Don't expend our time and energy on unfruitful and unproductive things (like social media or pet causes, or waiting for things to direct our day) Pray about your tasks as you move about your day 4. Steward our home well by being prepared 1 Samuel 25 Abigail was prepared Be prepared in our hearts to give and be generous, to practice hospitality Prepare by meal planning or having food to nourish our families well 5. Head in the right direction Wisdom from Kristina from https://www.bear-squirrel.com/ We may not know what to do in a certain situation - but we can head in the right direction. If we are in the Word we know things we can do that will help us even if we're not sure exactly what to do Do each day what we DO know how to do Take heart in these truths - that what you do matters and God will give you the grace to carry on. He is FOR us in the stewardship of His things. He wants us to succeed.  Take heart in Titus 2 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. Recommended Resources Bear and Squirrel - GREAT Christian parenting resource SPF Free Bible Reading Plan - sheprovesfaithful.com/bible Family Worship By Donald S. Whitney ESV Family Devotional Bible By ESV Bibles by Crossway The New City Catechism: 52 Questions and Answers for Our Hearts and Minds (The Gospel Coalition) By Kathy Keller      

King David said But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able thus to offer willingly? For all things come from you, and of your own have we given you. Today we are talking about stewarding all the things God has given us and what happens when He will return and we give an account. This is part 1 in a 2 part series on stewardship.      Ways to Partner with SPF Podcast Give $5 a month (and get some perks!): patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Explore my Amazon recommended resources: Try Audible (we LOVE audible) and get two free books and a free month:   Riot and the Dance Want to learn more about gospel-centered biology curriculum? Check out the Riot and the Dance curriculum on Canonpress.org: http://canonpress.com/search.php?search_query=riot+and+the+dance&Search= Life Hack - Dinner Prep This comes from SPF listener Serena! "During busy, busy seasons of life, making dinner can be one of my hardest daily tasks. Dinner comes at the end of the day, after hard homework discussions, loads of laundry, a toddler’s failed naptime, etc, when I am at my lowest energy point of the day. BUT! Creating and cooking meals to nourish the bodies of my loved ones is one of my favorite ways to show my love for them all. So what’s my life hack? After cooking breakfast, I immediately start cooking and/or prepping dinner. If it’s taco night, the beef is browned & seasoned, the veggies are chopped and placed in appropriate containers. I toss the cook ware in the dishwasher and clean up. When it’s time to serve dinner, it’s a basic “heat and eat” meal that is still homemade and from my heart - but the mess of cooking is already cleaned up and I can focus on enjoying the company of my family." Stewardship 1 Chronicles 29:10-16 Stewardship is managing what God has given us for His glory. Verse 14 says, "All things come from you and of your own have we given." Matthew Henry says, “Whatever we have, the property of it is God’s, we have only the use of it, and that according to the direction of our great Lord.” Stewardship also has an expiration date. Verse 15 says, "For we are strangers before you and sojourners, as all our fathers were. Our days on the earth are like a shadow, and there is no abiding." Other verses on fleeting life: 1 Peter 1:24 Psalm 103:15-16 James 4:14 Psalm 39:4 Job 8:9 How Then Shall We Live? Matthew 25:14-30 The point of this parable isn’t salvific information. We cannot earn our way into heaven. Jesus is teaching this parable to illustrate stewardship.  1. This passage is about the coming Kingdom of Heaven 2. The master gave according to their ability (and even our ability comes from God) 3. The master comes back and the servants give an account of what they've done. Two types of servants First two servants: worked hard, invested, and labored - and they did it on behalf of the master. They did it because they loved him and they trusted him, they did their best, they wanted their work to mean something, they took a risk and succeed - which that success what from the hand of GOD! They worked on behalf of the master. Third servant: wicked and lazy, hide the coin on behalf of himself; scared and lived for himself. This parable shows two ways to answer these questions: Why do we exist? and Why does God give us talents/abilities? Is it for God or for ourselves? We are to live purposeful lives in light of the coming again of our Lord and the judgement of our God. Romans 14:11 says that each of us will give account. Take A Risk We cannot be too scared. We cannot live in fear. Fear of God should not paralyze us but spur us on. sin is not our master anymore we do not have to fear what people think of us -  when we care what we think of ourselves or what others think of ourselves vs fear God we will not be good stewards.  we have a promise that the Kingdom will advance SO WE TRY YOU ARE a steward of things of God. And you have a set time to prove faithful with the things entrusted to you, including your time, your talents, and your treasures. Time: Ephesians 5:15-16, 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Talents: Ephesians Treasures: 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 Persevere Stay in God’s word to be sanctified - it gives us peace! Look at what you have now and knowing tHIS:  it’s from God and to God and your time is limited - knowing those facts, how then shall you live? Set your face like flint - and be free (repentance and belief, rest in Christ’s goodness) And Look back at the servants with the talents - they entered their masters joy. We steward well for the JOY of God the Father set before us - just as Jesus endured the cross with the joy set before Him. Hebrews 12:1-3 Resources Great resources to help you prove faithful: Virtuous: A Study for Ladies of Every Age By Nancy Wilson Eve in Exile and the Restoration of Femininity By Rebekah Merkle The Riot and the Dance: Foundational Biology By Gordon Wilson The Riot and the Dance Adventure Book By Dr. Gordon Wilson The Gospel-Centered Life: Study Guide with Leader's Notes By Robert H. Thune, Will Walker Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Minds By Jen Wilkin      

Encouragement is more than just a feel good word to put our hope in - its a calling to something. Today we are looking at four encouragements Paul called the Ephesian elders to and how to spot a wolf that wants to destroy the flock.   Become a SPF Podcast Teammate! Help bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to other women across the globe by giving $5 a month to the SPF Podcast. Learn more at patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful The Riot and the Dance For one night only, on Monday, March 19th, The Riot and the Dance, a nature documentary praising God and attributing the marvels of creation to the Creator. Take a look at the trailer - buy tickets and show your support for films that honor God! Learn more and find a theatre: http://riotandthedance.com Encourage - Called to Acts 20 Paul encouraged = The word used in Acts 20:1 is the Greek word parakaleō which means to call to something. Our faith in Christ is an active thing. Not passive. We don’t just exist; we exist to the glory of God! Four Things We are Called to: We are called to gather - Acts 20:7 / Hebrews 10:24-25 - We are to learn the Word of God together and break bread together (eat!). We are called to serve the Lord with all humility - Acts 20:19 - We are called not to consume but to contribute We are called to be a people on mission and to persevere - Acts 20:24 - our lives are about Christ and we are called to make disciples. When we get tired, take comfort in Christ's perseverance for us. We are called to be on guard against wolves - Acts 20:28-31 - there will be people from among us that rise up and teach twisted things. Wolves & What the Teach A wolf is a metaphor used to describe someone who is greedy, cruel, and/or destructive. Paul describes them as speaking twisted things. Biblical Times Wolves: Judaizer - taught a combination of God's grace and human effort - Acts 15 Pagans - worldly, materialistic, worship created things - Romans 1 Current Wolves Examples: Universalists - claim that everyone will go to heaven Sexual revolution - claim that there is not just male and female Romans 1 Prosperity Gospel - preaching that Jesus is about man and what we can get from Him Opposite of a Wolf Through Paul's example we see what is opposite of a wolf: Does not shrink back from teaching what is profitable Proclaims the whole counsel of God Warns and admonishes against sin Commends people to the Lord and assures them of eternity Does not covet Resources Acts 20 sermon from New City Church - http://newcitydenver.org/sermons/how-jesus-builds-a-great-church/ Holiness By J. C. Ryle      

I think we’ve all heard it before “Christians are just a bunch of hypocrites” People expect a certain standard of living and behavior from Christians and when they don’t see it, the word Hypocrite is immediately assigned. Since Christians are not perfect, how do we avoid being a hypocrite? How do we prove faithful when we still sin? Become a SPF Podcast Teammate! Help bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to other women across the globe by giving $5 a month to the SPF Podcast. Learn more at patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Life Hack - SOAP Amanda sent in a life hack to put a rubber band on the soap dispenser shaft to keep from pumping too much soap out. Give it a try, especially for little hands that use too much soap! Also! Amanda is running a Face Mask sale on her site AJapothocary.com during the month of March! I LOVE the Natural Radiance Mask - it smells amazing and leaves my skin feeling so soft. https://www.ajapothecary.com/product/natural-radiance-mask/ Christians can be Hypocrites Greek Word - hypokritēs means actor/pretender Two ways we can be hypocrites as Christians: we can know the truth and do something different (Example: Paul confronting Peter in Galatians) we can act out what we know is right but our hearts are far from worshipping God (Example: Jesus rebuking the Pharisees and scribes in Matthew 23) Bottom line - as Christiasn we are new creations with a new heart able to live lives to God. If our hearts are new, we live according to the newness. So anytime we sin, we are actually being hypocrites. We are living according to the flesh instead of according to the spirit.  What do we do when we still sin? We repent and believe the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We turn from evil, because we can through the power of Christ. We live out 1 John 1:9 - When we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to cleanse of our sins and forgive us of all unrighteousness.  Turning from hypocrisy does these things: Glorifies God assures us of our salvation shows the world God's authority, holiness, and forgiveness to sinners When confronted with hypocrisy in our lives remember this verse: God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble. James 4:6 Two ways to respond: pride vs humility Pride: Annanais and Sapphira Acts 5 Humility: Israel and Samual 1 Samuel 12 Practical humility in 1 Samuel: Fear only God Serve Him faithfully with all your heart Consider the great things He has done for you (in Bible, and in own life) Three Ways We Can Prove Faithful by Turning from our Hypocrisy 1. Turn from evil and obey the Lord 2. Think like a Christian by developing a biblical worldview 3. Ask for forgiveness - seek restoration of relationships Resources A Survey of Church History - https://www.ligonier.org/store/survey-of-church-history-complete-dvd-package-collection-parts-1-6/ Acts and Facts Magazine - http://www.icr.org/icr-magazines Answers in Genesis (has kid resources too!) - https://answersingenesis.org T is for T.Rex: Some of God's Most Amazing Creatures from A to Z By Terry P. Beh Trial and Triumph: Stories from Church History By Richard M. Hannula Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History By Richard M. Hannula Meet the Puritans: With a Guide to Modern Reprints By Joel R. Beeke And Randall J. Pederson      

In your anger do not sin. Huh. We’ve all been angry a time or two, so important to look at God’s Word when we think about this common and powerful passion that often directs our thoughts, tongue, and actions. Today we are talking about where anger comes from, what it produces, and a few biblical ideas to put it away. Support the SPF Podcast If this podcast has encouraged you and you want to be a part of helping women prove faithful, consider becoming a teammate! To learn more or to donate go to patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Life Hack - How to eat More Veggies Thank you to SPF Listener Kim for today's life hack: Kim suggests loading up on the veggies at the grocery store and then chopping them all up when you get home. Store them in the fridge and use as needed! When your veggies are chopped and prepped you're more likely to use them, plus it makes a easy side to any meal: Roasted Veggies Preheat oven to 375 degrees Spread prepared veggies on pan tossed with olive oil, garlic, salt, spices you love Roast for 30-45 minutes The Truth About Anger Anger is not always a sin - Anger is an emotion that tells us where our heart is at. Where does anger come from? Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also - Matthew 6:21  From out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks - Luke 6:45 We must be keenly aware that our heart is not always for God; many times in our anger our heart is in it for ourselves.  Two Questions Why are we angry? and Where is it going? Why are we angry? Righteous Anger: is getting angry when the law of God is violated and God himself is blasphemed Unrighteous Anger: the reasons are endless (I'm not in control, my feelings are hurt, I am offended, I want to be right, I want to be comfortable, etc) Where is unrighteous anger going? Stirs up more anger - Proverbs 15:1 Leads to evil - Psalm 37:8 Does not produce the righteousness of God - James 1:20 An angry and hasty spirit is soon provoked to ill things by afflictions and error and ill opinions that become prevalent through the workings of our own vile and vain affections. - Matthew Henry In our Anger - Do Not Sin In your anger do not sin, do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. Ephesians 4:26 Ephesians 4 and Colossians 3 tells us to put off anger and put on the new self We need to STOP ---> THINK ---> REPENT (turn from our sins and turn to the grace of God) Sometimes anger feels productive and fruitful, but 2 Peter tells us what really makes us fruitful and productive: "His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire. For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins." 2 Peter 1:3-9 Righteous Anger A great example of righteous anger is Paul in Athens in Acts 17. When he saw people worshiping idols he was provoked (angered) and preached the Gospel to help people turn to the living God. "Paul’s love for God and His standards meant he had a corresponding hatred for that which was offensive to the Lord. The idolatry of Athens produced a strong and sharp emotional disturbance within him, one of exasperated indignation." - Greg Bahnsen Four Helpful Ideas to help when we are angry Memorize verses about anger Know God's law and character so we can discern if our anger is righteous Become familiar with passages about God's justice and judgement (and pray for repentance for people) Repent of our sin in anger and be quick to forgive (Ephesians 4:32) Resources How to be Free from Bitterness, and Other Essays on Christian Relationships By Jim Wilson    

We are coming up on two years of the SPF Podcast and today we are talking about four ways we can prove faithful as Christian women and I share a little bit about how the SPF podcast started way back with my emails in High School. Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode72 Instagram: @sheprovesfaithful Become a Supporter: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful  This Podcast is Made Possible by People like You! THANK YOU to all the women who sacrificially give each month to help this podcast keep going. It is a huge blessing to me as I can continue teaching and encouraging women with the Gospel over the airwaves. Have you been encouraged by the podcast? Consider being part of the SPF team with gift of $5 a month! patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Life Hack: Phone + Focus This life hack is brought to you by SPF listener, Fallon. "I recommend turning off all your post notifications on your social handles. By doing this you aren’t constantly being notified when someone “hearts, likes or comments” on your post. It helps you not checking your social handles 24/7 and makes you more aware of your surroundings. Plus it’s like a little prize later when u pull it up and see all your notifications." I agree and have been doing this for a while and it's given me better focus and presence during my day! Thank you Fallon! Four Ways to Prove Faithful No 1: Proving faithful with the Gospel message "This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.  Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful." 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 If we are believers we are entrusted with the mystery of God and need to be found faithful stewards of it. The mystery of God is Christ - in the fullest sense, it’s God’s plan of salvation through His Son. We would have never been able to understand the way to eternal life without Jesus, His death and resurrection.  “My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:2-3 If we are believers, God has unveiled to us the very great and wonderful mystery of salvation! We are now stewards of this message. "Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us. We plead on Christ’s behalf:as “Be reconciled to God.” He made the one who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."  1 Corinthians 5:20-21 No 2: Prove faithful in our roles and responsibilities as women, wives, mothers We have purpose on earth - God gives us roles and responsibilities as women, wives, and mothers. Some of these roles and responsibilities are in Genesis 1-3 and we see a feminine charge throughout Scripture including in Titus 2, and general callings such as making disciples of Christ in Matthew 28. No 3: Prove faithful by pursuing holiness Jesus return is a reality and as Kevin DeYoung puts it from his book Taking God at His Word: “And when Jesus comes again we will all realize, even if it is too late for some, that ungodly living is inconsistent with the glory of Christ.” Holiness is the calling of all believers and it’s different from legalism.  Legalism is a pursuit of righteousness to earn salvation from God. Holiness is a pursuit of obedience because of Christ’s righteousness given to us. "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness," 2 Peter 3:9,11 Pastor R.C. Sproul writes this about pursuing holiness: "At the same time, we do not know who all the elect are, nor do we know when they shall all be gathered in. Therefore, we should not be complacent when we hear the command to repent. The elect will lead lives of repentance, and those who persistently refuse the command of God reveal themselves to be at emnity with God. Those who claim to know Christ but will not submit to Him as Lord through repentance, faith, and obedience dangerously presume upon God’s grace. We all must repent lest our deaths or Jesus’ return make it too late." No 4: Prove faithful by thinking biblically about God, ourselves, and our culture As children of God we must develop biblical thinking and critical thinking when it comes to God, ourselves, and our culture. It takes time and practice We are immersed in a world of sin, flesh, desire, temptation and it is easy to be misinformed, misguided, tricked, lied to and deceived.  I have moments where I’m trying to disprove the word because I think I see something different, OR my feelings feel something different.  We need to know what Scriptures teach us about God, ourselves, and culture so we can have true understanding, be discerning, and live above reproach. and so we can walk in FREEDOM In Matthew 7:18-20 Jesus tells the story about good and bad fruit: "A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.  Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them." What is one sign of good fruit? Good fruit looks like a person who delights in the law of the Lord - Psalm 1 The Law of the Lord enlightens the eyes according to Psalm 19 Learning to think biblically puts God’s Word as the authority and helps us apply God’s Word to our lives and culture It takes time - and it takes practice As we learn it helps us become better evangelists for the glory of God and salvation of others Prove Faithful by Holding it up to the Word of God As a last exhortation, let the Bible be our standard and plumb line for living and knowing God. Do not follow anyone (including me) blindly. :) Resources R.C. Sproul article about Holiness and Godliness: https://www.ligonier.org/learn/devotionals/holiness-and-godliness/ More about legalism: https://www.ligonier.org/blog/3-types-legalism/ Taking God At His Word (Paperback Edition): Why the Bible Is Knowable, Necessary, and Enough, and What That Means for You and Me By Kevin DeYoung Eve in Exile and the Restoration of Femininity By Rebekah Merkle            

You may have heard of a conversion story, but what about a de-conversion story? There is a temptation to turn away from the good and certain Word of God when we don’t understand something, instead of pressing into the Scriptures. Today we are talking about uncertainty, certainty, and four reasons the law of God is a gift to us. Become a Teammate! Want to be a part of helping women hear the Gospel and think biblically? Join the team with a gift of $5 a month on patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful (or find out more info). Other ways to support the show: Leave a review on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 Explore Amazon Affiliate Links - by clicking on links and exploring products I love, you can help support the podcast. Like Audible! We LOVE audible! You can try it free for a month and get two audiobooks free (and you get to keep them even if you don't continue your audible subscription)   Opportunities Friends of a Feather Podcast Take a listen to Friends of a Feather Podcast where Wren asked me questions about my open heart surgery, miscarriages, and how I've hoped in God. Friends of a Feather Podcast episode Spiritual Spring Cleaning Webinar with Rachel Jankovic Canon Press is hosting a four week webinar with author and mom, Rachel Jankovic. You can sign up with a group of women and receive a discount! For more information and to register: http://canonpress.com/spiritual-spring-cleaning-live-webinar-with-rachel-jankovic/ The Deconversion Story The article my husband sent me that set this whole thing off:  Jen Hatmaker - Changing my mind about the Bible Kruger writes an incredibly articulate article about the Power of Deconversion stories Christian testimonies are a powerful way to explain our faith in a God who saves us from our sin De-conversion story is not for the lost necessarily but for the Christian Kruger says the purpose is to “convince them that their outdated naive believes are no longer worthy of their assent.  They thought they’ve seen the light, but now they’ve REALLY seen the light One element common of deconversion story - the Word of God is just not certain. But! That's a lie. The Bible is certain. In all the uncertainties of life, isn't the certainty of God's Word a comfort to us?! The Certainty of God's Word 2 Peter 1:16-21 Two evidences of the certainty of Scripture: 1. Eyewitnesses 2. Trustworthy documents SPF Podcasts about the Word: Podcast http://www.sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode39 How to rightly handle the Word of Truth Are God’s Words enough for our lives http://www.sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode27 Is the Bible True http://www.sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode25 One HUGE Reason it’s important to be sure about God’s Word It tells us where and what darkness is It tells us how to overcome it How is the darkness overcome? John 1 : 1-5  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life,[a] and the life was the light of men. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. Colossians 1:13-14  He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Four Blessings of the Law Displays God’s Glory Reveals our depravity - Romans 3:20  For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. Demonstrates God’s grace and power (to give us a heart to obey, and a WAY TO OBEY) Show us to be God’s people - good fruit, called to a holy life Be Watchful! 2 Timothy 4:1-4 James 1:25 Be sober minded and watchful - there are false teachers that will pander to our emotions, to worldly passions. Resources Ligonier Sermon (I believe this is the one that speaks about the man who was converted because of the accuracy of the historicity of the Bible) https://www.ligonier.org/learn/sermons/zeus-and-hermes/ Taking God At His Word (Paperback Edition): Why the Bible Is Knowable, Necessary, and Enough, and What That Means for You and Me By Kevin DeYoung Here are two of Rachel Jankovic's books. I've read Fit to Burst and really enjoyed it! Fit to Burst : Abundance, Mayhem, and the Joys of Motherhood By Rachel Jankovic Loving the Little Years: Motherhood in the Trenches By Rachel Jankovic    

Self care is a cultural trend taking social media by storm. What is self-care all about and is it biblical? Today we are addressing the cultural dominance of self-care and look at it through the wisdom of God think biblically about rest and restoration. Become a Teammate! Want to be a part of helping women hear the Gospel and think biblically? Join the team with a gift of $5 a month on patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful (or find out more info). Other ways to support the show: Leave a review on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 Explore Amazon Affiliate Links - by clicking on links and exploring products I love, you can help support the podcast. Like Audible! We LOVE audible! Try Audible and Get Two Free Audiobooks Life Hack - Coats & Car Seats This life hack comes from listener Paula who said, put your kid's coats on backwards - when it's time to buckle up, slip off the coat and then put them back on! It's safe and warm for car seats. Thanks Paula!! Is Self Care Biblical? First things first: 1. It is not my intention to shame anyone for ever using the hashtag “self care” or posting about it. It’s not a sin to use this hashtag. The purpose of this episode is to explore a worldly view of self vs a biblical view of self and to not be deceived by cultural trends. 2. This episode is not to say we need to neglect good hygiene or not take care of ourselves. This is about looking to the source of rest and restoration.  We are going to address the cultural dominance of self-care and look at it through the wisdom of God. What is self care? Psych Central says, “any activity we do deliberately in order to take control of our mental emotional, physical health.” Habits of Well Being says, “A personal journey and each day is changing, so its important to continually look after yourself (i.e. make it a habit) and reflect on your health and well-being. English Oxford Dictionary says, “the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one’s health.” Cultural Self care is really about OUR ability to achieve rest and restoration to be our best selves even if it comes at the expense of our duties, responsibilities and worship of God. Two Troubles: Culture wants us to believe we have trouble remember ourselves but It’s really impossible to forget about ourselves and our needs. This trend can lie to us and say we’ve forgotten all about yours truly. I spend too much time loving my neighbor and not enough time for me. One quick # search again on IG would prove otherwise: #loveyourself has 19.7 million vs #loveyourneighbor 90K #selflove has 12.7 million vs #loveothers 311K 2. Self care turns into a humanistic source of giving our weary souls rest and restoration. It’s about looking inward for that settled and rested heart, mind, and soul.  That there is some activity or thing we can do to achieve this for ourselves - is this thinking not leaving behind God and forging our own savior? In order to rightly discern self care, it’s important to develop a right view of our self. Cultural View of Self: Embrace Self / Love Self Put Me First Think about Now (Temporary) Rest and Restoration come from me Run from hard things - escapism Biblical View of Self Die to Self - Luke 9:23 Put others first - Matthew 20:28, Philippians Eternal Focus - Colossians 3 Restoration and Rest (care) Come from God - Isaiah 40 Hard things can be for our good - Hebrews 12:11 Here’s the best part about dying to self-care - is the great amount of freedom it brings!! I think as biblical women we can change the conversation to REALLY help other women -  That we can turn from self preservation to a submission of self to Christ - to ENTRUST OURselves to our faithful creator and keep doing good.  1. Go to God first 2. Become biblical thinkers when it comes our struggles - Check out Truth in Love Podcast by Heath Lambert for biblical wisdom and encouragement. 3. Embrace the hard things as a gift and press into the Lord. 4. Know our limitations because we are not God: learn to say no, get sleep, love sacrificially, be in community, ask for help.   The Ology: Ancient Truths, Ever New By Marty Machowski Holiness By J. C. Ryle

Idolatry simply put is created things worshiping created things instead of the Creator. It’s a snare to the Christian heart and only leads to suffering. Today we are looking at a few idols in Biblical times as well as some modern day idols and two solutions to idol worship.  Become an SPF Teammate for $5 a month Do you enjoy the SPF podcast? Would you consider coming alongside me with a $5 monthly gift? This helps take the financial pressure off hosting fees and equipment and software costs. Plus you get exclusive access to some member-only goodies!! To become a teammate or learn more go to www.patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Life Hack - Saving for Christmas A dance mom friend told me this great idea to save for Christmas gifts throughout the year: at the end of each month use whatever cash is leftover to buy a gift card to a store you like to shop at (Target, Amazon, etc). Then at Christmas you can use those gift cards to shop for gifts without adding extra financial pressure to that month. Idolatry: Then and Now Idolatry is the worship of created things rather than the ONE and Only Creator.  Romans 1:25 because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. Idolatry is dangerous because we get to decide who God is and what God does. Asherath and Baal - idols of the past goddess and god of a particular power changed per culture worshipped through immorality and depravity including prostitution, child sacrifice, and self mutilation proved to be snares to God's people mutable - always changing to fit desires and needs of culture only powerful in certain areas Joshua 24 and Judges 2 But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. IDOLATRY TODAY Looks a little different - we don’t carve images really But it’s evident what idols are vying for our hearts when we look at our culture. Learning from men like Dr. Greg Bahnsen and Dr. Joseph Boot my husband says, “Culture is the public expression of private worship; whatever is worshipped the most privately, will be the dominate force publicly.” Dominate force publicly - socialism  Private idol is greed and covetousness  Dominate force publicly - fluidity of gender Private idol - feelings Dominate force publicly - social media addiction Private idol - self modern day idols: Social media addiction - an endless feedback loop of affirmation Government - looking for salvation from the government Naturalism and Science - a rejection of biblical creation and worldview and embracing atheistic evolution and earth preservation Self-care - self care is rooted in self worship of my needs. I’m not saying it’s a sin to want to go get coffee by yourself or to have some peace and quiet time, but to say it’s necessary takes it to worship. It all boils down to SELF AGGRANDIZEMENT - which means the fulfillment of the self to the exclusion of all others and their needs and desires. What’s the solution to idolatry? Know the true God and obey his commands Do you duty - your calling as Christians - to teach your children and tell others. Joshua 23:6-8 Acts 14:15-17 Judges 2:10 “God is not a God who tolerates you. He is God who loves you. He is a God who desires you.” Paul Washer Recommended Resources: Got Questions article on modern day idolatry: https://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-modern.html SPF Podcast Episode 49: Social Media Battle with Laura Ferguson Free Bible Reading Plan: Sign up here www.sheprovesfaithful.com/bible Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Minds By Jen Wilkin Family Worship Bible Guide By Joel R Beeke Ph.D. The New City Catechism: 52 Questions and Answers for Our Hearts and Minds (The Gospel Coalition) By Kathy Keller          

Self Deception is deceiving. We don’t know we are deceived until we see correctly and the correct vision comes from God’s grace and knowing the Truth of the Word. Today were are going to talk about the dangers of self-deception and how to live in the reality of this world God created.  Be an SPF Podcast Teammate! Partner with me in bringing this podcast to other women! For $5 a month you can help me keep SPF up and running. For more information or to donate go to patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Life Hack For those people are hard to buy gifts for - here's an idea I found on the internet: Tell the person you got them a gift and to try and guess what it is - then you'll have a list of things they want! Happy Birthday January babies! Self Deception Self Deception is deceiving. We don’t know we are deceived until we see correctly and the correct vision comes from God’s grace and knowing the Truth of the Word. The first time we see deception is in the garden - Genesis 3:1-3 Satan is crafty and wants to deceive us He wants us to believe the lie that we know better than God - that our way is better We are self-deceived because we want to be like God. We see the results of this self-deception ALL OVER Scripture  Jeremiah 17:5-7 Matthew 7:21-27 Dangers of Self-deception  hell. That’s a freebie from my husband We will never face up to our sin with any realism - blame shift, justify, down play, ignore We will not face up to the state of our future with any realism - in death and the path of choosing our selves as lord in this life We place our trust in idols because we can develop a false Jesus. - You don’t get to make up your own Jesus. We can be deceived by our own desire for comfort or justification and make Jesus into someone He is not. We are not the source of what is true. We are not the authority in this world. We need the truth to renew our minds and show us where we are trying to be God. Wake Up from Self-Deception Know the True God of the Bible Be doers of the Word - workers of lawlessness Be in community “We all have our blind spots, and God, in order to keep us on our spiritual toes has enable us to see everyone elses.” Pastor Doug Wilson Body Image We cannot self-love ourselves out of our insecurities. Confidence in the way we look comes from understanding who God made you to be. That outward beauty fades, but inward beauty grows We are created to work - have babies, use our bodies, get wrinkles and gray hairs We are created to worship our Creator not the created - and give thanks for the gifts He gives us Recommended Resources SPF Podcast Episode 52 - Body Image Struggle The Gospel-Centered Life: Study Guide with Leader's Notes By Robert H. Thune, Will Walker Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Minds By Jen Wilkin The Ology: Ancient Truths, Ever New By Marty Machowski      

Got Goals? Got dreams? God ideas of a new you? We are going to talk about the true agent of change and expose the secret sauce to REVIVIng the soul. Ready to prove faithful this year? Show Notes: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode67 Instagram: @sheprovesfaithful Patreon: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Soli Deo Gloria!!!!

It's that time again! Time for the festive Christmas episode with my special guest, Andy Hlushak. Today we are answering some of your Christmas questions and having a jolly good time too! Merry Christmas! We had a lot of fun doing this show - laughing and remember Jesus in all things. Here are some highlights: Christmas Lifehack Andy: use a staple gun and duct tape to wrap presents Lauren: boil water, pour in a glass and then dump it out, then put glass over a refrigerated stick of butter to bring it to room temp in a minute (I think mine was the more helpful life hack ;) Favorite Christmas Song Andy: O Holy Night and Joy to the World Lauren: O Come O Come Emmanuel Theology of Gifts Learn more about the theology of gifts--  on episode 64 of the SPF Podcast and Doug Wilson's sermon Why is the birth of Christ celebrated on December 25th? The importance of celebrating Christ's birth is to celebrate it; the date doesn't matter because it doesn't get us closer to the Lord, prove our salvation, or determine when Jesus is coming back. The important part is to make Christ known and to use Christmas as a time of worship and proclamation! What do we do with all the Santa stuff? Andy challenges us to not lie to our kids about the truth of Santa- it adds no value to their lives. Instead, share the great legacy of St. Nicolas and when we see a Santa rejoice in the symbol of generosity during Christmas! What will you eat for Christmas breakfast? Andy: Sushi.  (But not anymore hahaha) Lauren: craving Panera Bread treats or homemade cinnamon rolls Favorite Christmas Resources: Christmas Favorites List:  sheprovesfaithful.com/christmas God Rest Ye Merry: Why Christmas is the Foundation for Everything By Douglas Wilson The Christmas Star from Afar Advent Calendar - Christmas Advent Nativity For Kids - Great Christian or Catholic Gift For Children By Natalie Ard God Is in the Manger: Reflections on Advent and Christmas By Dietrich Bonhoeffer      

God’s Timing is perfect even when we’re a little skeptical. If the Lord’s timing is perfect, then there is some waiting on our part. Whether a few hours or decades, there are some biblical principles on waiting that can encourage our heart and help us prove faithful as believing women in Christ. Partner with me! If you've benefited from the SPF podcast, consider supporting it on Patreon with a $5 monthly gift. You can learn more and give here: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Norwex Looking to get rid of harsh and harmful chemicals in your home? Are you looking for ways to have your kids help out with cleaning? Looking for Christmas presents? Check out Norwex products! I am loving my kitchen towels, window towels, Pet to Dry towels - all of it to help reduce germs and bacteria in my home, without chemicals and with a cloth that purifies itself in 24 hours! Check out SPF Christmas favorites at sheprovesfaithful.com/christmas The Cow Tongue The Lord's Perfect Timing The inspiration for today’s episode comes from 2 Peter 3, my pastor’s sermon on Sunday, and the advent season. Today’s take away is - THE LORD’S TIMING IS PERFECT My timing is not so good. But God’s timing - it’s always spot on. Perfect. We can see it with the arrival of Christ! In Jeremiah - just like we talked about last week - at the right time God would send a Savior: In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David, and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land.In those days Judah will be saved, and Jerusalem will dwell securely. And this is the name by which it will be called: ‘The LORD is our righteousness.’ “For thus says the LORD: David shall never lack a man to sit on the throne of the house of Israel,and the Levitical priests shall never lack a man in my presence to offer burnt offerings, to burn grain offerings, and to make sacrifices forever.” Jeremiah 33:15-18 And Romans 5:6 tells us: You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly." God has a perspective and a wisdom and  a knowledge and a Sovereignty that we don’t have! The arrival of Christ came at just the right time. His death came at just the right time. His resurrection three days later came at just the right time. And his second arrival will be at just the right time. Three wrong directions we can go when waiting We lose heart and get discouraged or become bitter and scoff - 1 Samuel 13 We forget what we are waiting for - Second Coming 2 Peter 3 We advance our own kingdom and agenda - Matthew 6:33 How to prove faithful while we wait on God's Perfect Timing Be diligent to be found in Him without blemish or spot 2 Peter 2:14 Know the character of God 2 Peter 3:15 Don't get carried away with the error of lawless people 2 Peter 3:15-17 Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ 2 Peter 3:18 Take Heart in the WAIT God is teaching us how to endure waiting for Him to return by waiting for other things. The difference is that we can have hope in Christ and His promised return, knowing He will come back a the right time. God wants us to know Him and the wait allows us to know God-- His goodness and greatness. Resources Sermon from Pastor Aaron Carlson at New City Church: http://newcitydenver.org/sermons/advent-2-a-gospel-message-for-christmas-scoffers/ Sermon from Pastor Doug Wilson on 2 Peter (overview of book): http://www.canonwired.com/featured/1921/ God Rest Ye Merry: Why Christmas is the Foundation for Everything By Douglas Wilson Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History By Richard M. Hannula The Christmas Star from Afar Advent Calendar - Christmas Advent Nativity For Kids - Great Christian or Catholic Gift For Children By Natalie Ard None Like Him: 10 Ways God Is Different from Us (and Why That's a Good Thing) By Jen Wilkin          

What is so distinctive about our hope? Today were are looking at some Old Testament promises and prophesies to blow open our hearts about the reality of our hope. It’s time to get even more excited about the best time of they year.   Support the SPF Podcast Help fuel the podcast with a monthly gift! This helps me with equipment costs, web hosting fees, and getting the word out about this podcast! Thank you so much for considering it! patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Free Monthly Bible Reading Plan Want to join me and other ladies in reading the Word every day? Get a free Bible reading plan by signing up here: sheprovesfaithful.com/bible Canon Press Books Discount Looking for great resources or Christmas presents? Check out the books at canonpress.org and use code SHEPROVESFAITHFUL for a 30% discount until December 12th! Need some ideas? Check out some of my favorites at sheprovesfaithful.com/canon If you see this before 9pm MST on 12/6/17 check out the giveaway on my Instagram account for the book Radiant - 50 Remarkable Women in Church History. G I V E A W A Y ➕ “One day Sabrina was moved to a new prison. A guard brought her to the commandment’s office. “In this place, Mrs. Wurmbrand, he told her, “you must know that I am more powerful than God. Now— have you seen through the sham of religion? Have you realized in a communist society, you don’t need God anymore?” . “I see that you are powerful,” Sabrina answered, “and probably you have documents there about me that can decide my fate. But God keeps records, too, and neither you nor I would have life without Him. So whether He keeps me here or sets me free, I’ll accept that as best for me.” Excerpt from Sabrina Wurmbrand’s story - 1944 Romania - from Radiant by Richard Hannula . ➕ I’m giving away one of my favorite books of all time: Radiant - 50 Remarkable Women in Church History.➕ . Every story is captivating and convicting. I see God moving His Kingdom forward from the first century to the 21st century using these brave women. Some are martyred, some imprisoned, some widowed, some on thrones, all faithful in their homes and communities, and all given the faith to prove faithful with the message of Jesus Christ as Savior and King. There is no other way and their conviction and boldness gives glory to God and hope to a hopeless world. . P L U S ➕ get a copy of Blah Blah Black Sheep for a little one in your life. It’s adorable. . Remember you can get 30% off @canonpress books (including these titles) with code SHEPROVESFAITHFUL unto December 12th. . To Enter: 1️⃣ Make sure you’re following @sheprovesfaithful (that’s me 🙋‍♀️) 2️⃣ like this photo 3️⃣ comment and tell me your favorite place to read a good book 📖 ➡️ bonus entry - tag a friend who would be encouraged by Radiant . . . **This giveaway is not sponsored by or affiliated with Instagram. Open to US residents only (sorry sweet international friends!) 18 or older. Giveaway closes Wednesday 12/6/2017 9pm MST. An extra entry will be given to participants who participated on SPF Friday Introductions LIVE show on 12/1/17 🎉❤️** . . . . #gospelcenteredliving #solideogloria #soluschristus #history #greatcommission A post shared by Lauren Hlushak 💕 Colorado (@sheprovesfaithful) on Dec 5, 2017 at 7:21am PST Life Hack: Wrapping Wrapping Paper What do we do with a roll of flapping wrapping paper? Here's a hack: Take an empty toilet paper tube and cut it lengthwise; wrap it around the roll of wrapping paper and secure with a rubber band - no more crinkles or tape-ripped paper! Our Hope: The Lord is Our Righteousness God raises us Jeremiah to be His prophet and deliver hard messages - good ones, but hard ones considering the audience - repentance messages of a people who aren’t really bothered by their choices.  Jeremiah 2:4-13 We see a people who have forgotten God, priests who were not leading the people in the worship of God but in idols, same with prophets and rulers. they “walked after things that did not profit.” “For my people have committed two sins/evils: They have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, to hewn for themselves cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water." Jeremiah 2:13 They have forsaken God They made themselves their own false saviors Judah fell by God's grace and God made a plan to redeem them. Jeremiah 33:1-9 "Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known." Jeremiah 33:3 Jeremiah 33:14-18 "In those days Judah will be saved, and Jerusalem will dwell securely. And this is the name by which it will be called: ‘The Lord is our righteousness.’" Jeremiah 33:16 Christmas is the beginning of this fulfillment!  His resurrection is the completion! WE get to see the fulfillment! Centuries pasted by - waiting waiting waiting - and we get to see it. Immanuel - God with us. Jesus the ruling King.  The celebration of Christ’s birth is truly amazing - it is a reckoning of ourselves to the Lord THROUGH Christ. It is a Savior that will perfectly obey the law and be OUR righteousness. Let’s prove faithful with this message by SHARING IT and DECLARING IT. Invite people to your church's Christmas Eve service Invite people into your home to experience Christian Culture at Christmas time Say "Merry Christmas" Make cookies for your neighbors Give generously Have a Favorites Swap or a Book Exchange with friends, family, neighbors Pray before meals with guests Resources Check out my Advent blog post on Display Grace: http://displayinggrace.com/2017/11/22/guest-post-o-come-o-come-emmanuel/ The Theology of Gifts: Sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode63 How Then Shall We Live - Advent: www.sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode20 A Spirit of Generosity: www.sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode21 Christmas Favorites List: sheprovesfaithful.com/christmas   Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History $18.00 By Richard M. Hannula God Is in the Manger: Reflections on Advent and Christmas $8.91 By Dietrich Bonhoeffer The Christmas Star from Afar Advent Calendar - Christmas Advent Nativity For Kids - Great Christian or Catholic Gift For Children $34.99 By Natalie Ard   Come, Let Us Adore Him: A Daily Advent Devotional $10.79 By Paul David Tripp God Rest Ye Merry: Why Christmas is the Foundation for Everything $9.70 By Douglas Wilson      

Why do we give gifts at Christmas? God has given us the greatest gift and now we get to serve him through giving to others. Today we are talking about the theology of giving gifts and how God’s grace changes the whole Christmas giving paradigm.  Thank you Supporters! A HUGE thank you to the gifts I've received from all my SPF supporters on Patreon. It means so much that you would help be a foundation to this podcast and ministry! If you'd like to learn more about supporting the She Proves Faithful podcast with a monthly gift of $5, visit patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful to donate or find more information. Star From Afar Star From Afar is a fun Christmas game that points us back to the true meaning of Christmas.  Not only do you get a wooden nativity set, but a book and game to play with your kids this Christmas. Move the star and have the kids find it. When they do, move the wise men to the star as the travel to see the baby King. The book includes Scriptures for each day. From Tuesday, November 28th - Saturday, December 3rd, you can get 10% off your Star From Afar game with code SPF10. Go to starfromafar.com to order. See our video of Star From Afar:   Canon Press Books I recommend a lot of books and resources on the SPF podcast, and many of them can be found on Canon Press. Our library is full of these books that honor God and teach rich theology on all subjects. They even have some great kid and youth books. Want to see some of my favorite books? Check out my special Canon Press page here. From November 28th - December 8th you can get 25% off your purchase using the code SHEPROVESFAITHFUL - Thank you Canon Press! The Theology of Gifts Check out Doug Wilson's sermon: A Theology of Gifts What does the Bible have to say about gift giving? Why do we give gifts at Christmas? How much should we spend? How do I cultivate a biblical attitude about giving gifts? These are questions that bounce around in my head around the Christmas season. Thankfully my husband pointed me to a Doug Wilson sermon that really infused me with a lot of joy and excitement about the WHY behind giving gifts. Why Gifts at Christmas? 1. We are celebrating Christ's birth! 2. We are remembering the gifts that the Wise Men gave to Jesus that represented His Kingship, His Divinity, and His death. 3. We give because God gives to us and it serves Christ. How Does Giving Gifts Serve Christ? Giving gifts is part of fulfilling the law of Christ (Mark 12). We love God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength, AND we love our neighbor as ourselves. Giving gifts is part of our sacrifice and service to the King. It is a reflection of God's love and generosity to us. Hebrews 6:10 Matthew 10:42 Matthew 25 "If we don't understand gifts, we don't understand grace, and if we don't understand grace, we don't understand anything." - Doug Wilson Three Sins of Gift Giving There are probably a lot more sins, but here are three that we can fall into when giving gifts: 1. Giving out of grumpiness - John 12:5 Judas was grumpy about giving (it that came from a greedy, idolatrous heart) 2. Giving to our neighbor instead of God - When we are not honoring God with our gift giving, but instead thinking of ourselves and our benefits. 3. Giving to God and not giving to our neighbor - This is what the Pharasees did by making a tradition to neglect God's commands. They thought giving to God only, was more holy, and neglected to love their neighbor by giving gifts to them. How to Prove Faithful in Gift Giving Proving faithful in gift giving really starts with a biblical attitude. Remember these two truths to encourage your heart in this season: I give to God by giving to my neighbor because my neighbor is an image bearer of God, whom I'm called to love. Give generously and give intelligently - giving is not about being foolish and going into debt. Be a wise steward of your time and resources, but don't fall into stinginess. Rejoice in what God has provided you to spend to love others. Resources For shopping deals I love checking out hip2save.com For Christmas ideas and discounts visit sheprovesfaithful.com/christmas Doug Wilson's sermon about Christmas: http://www.canonwired.com/featured/1648/      

Sometimes prayer can appear to be more complicated than it really is. But when we throw off our misunderstandings about prayer, we learn that prayer is actually all about putting our trust in God. Today we are talking about 7 biblical principles of prayer and how prayer can help you prove faithful. Support the SPF Podcast Join the Team and support the SPF podcast! Just $5 a month helps me keep this podcast going for equipment, supplies, and marketing! Not only do you help keep this podcast up and running but you also get access to exclusive SPF content.  Find out more here: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful SPF Christmas Favorites: Featured Shops! Courage & Birch These adorable handmade birch signs can be found on Etsy at: https://www.etsy.com/shop/courageandbirch Rachel is offering 10% off your purchase from November 20th - November 27th with code: SPF10 MagSoul Headbands I love my knottwisted headbands! I have three of them and they help me get out the door on days when the hair just can't happen! You can find these headbands here: https://magsoulshop.com/ Mags is offering a 20% off your purchase with code: SPF Find more at sheprovesfaithful.com/christmas Thanksgiving What is the purpose of Thanksgiving? To advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ! Read more about the history of Thanksgiving here: http://www.apuritansmind.com/the-christian-walk/the-first-thanksgiving/ “The first Thanksgiving Proclamation was issued by the revolutionary Continental Congress on November 1, 1777. Authored by Samuel Adams, it was one sentence of 360 words, which read in part: “Forasmuch as it is the indispensable duty of all men to adore the superintending providence of Almighty God; to acknowledge with gratitude their obligation to him for benefits received…together with penitent confession of their sins, whereby they had forfeited every favor; and their humble and earnest supplications that it may please God through the merits of Jesus Christ, mercifully to forgive and blot them out of remembrance…it is therefore recommended…to set apart Thursday the eighteenth day of December next, for solemn thanksgiving and praise, that with one heart and one voice the good people may express the grateful feeling of their hearts and consecrate themselves to the service of their Divine Benefactor…acknowledging with gratitude their obligations to Him for benefits received….To prosper the means of religion, for the promotion and enlargement of that kingdom which consisteth ‘in righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost.’” — Samuel Adams Free Thanksgiving Printable! Give thanks to God according to His Word! Download and print this free printable!   The Simplicity of Prayer Some common misunderstandings about prayer: Prayer is often used or thought of as a way of controlling our circumstances or future Prayer can change God's mind If I pray about it, it will happen ("claiming" it) Prayer is a spiritual experience about me Seven Biblical principles about prayer: Prayer helps us center our lives on Jesus Prayer shows our dependence on God but also is a way to get to know the nature and character of God in a personal way Prayer helps us to Praise and Honor God because we are remembering WHO He is and what He has done and can do! Prayer helps us to fix our minds on eternal things and think beyond the present moment as we persist in prayer Prayer helps us know God as we eagerly wait for Him to answer in His way Prayer casts our worries and anxieties on God because He is Sovereign and in control and He has a plan and it will not be thwarted Prayer exposes idol worship in our hearts - as we pray God often reveals sin and we confess it to Him Reasons We Pray Remembering God Persistence in our trust Eagerness in What He will do Hope in Him and eternity Revelation of Sin “Prayer sanctifies us.” Scriptures Acts 12 Habakkuk 1-3

How do we give a defense for the hope that we have? Let’s start with a few questions that every person wrestles with in their lifetime. Who am I? Why am I here? What is wrong with the world? How can the wrong be made right? Today we are answering these questions from two vorldveiws: secular humanism and Christian theism and how relying on the Truth of God’s mercy helps us prove faithful. Become an SPF Teammate! Join the Team by becoming a monthly sponsor on Patreon. Not only do you help keep this podcast up and running but you also get access to exclusive SPF content.  Find out more here: patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful SPF Christmas Favorites List Does gift giving stress you out? Give life to your soul? Are you a last minute shopper or have you already purchased AND wrapped all your Christmas goods?  Whatever your feelings or styles are with gift-giving, you won't want to miss these SPF Christmas Favorites! That's right - a list compiled of some great ideas for gifts. It's kind of like Oprah's Favorites only more affordable . . . and more awesome because there are some giveaways and exclusive discounts to SPF Listeners. So check it out! It's LIVE today! www.sheprovesfaithful.com/christmas Cultural Apologetics  The word "apologetics" is scary to me. It feels like I'm not smart enough to even get near the topic. But we are called to give a "defense" or apologia, for the hope that we have, and with gentleness and respect.  Today is about answering four questions through two different worldview. We expose the issues with one and see the goodness of the other. 1.  Who am I? 2. Why am I here? 3.  What’s wrong with the world? 4.  How can the wrong be made right? Voddie Baucham addresses these in a talk that is EXCELLENT here: https://vimeo.com/203890559 Secular Humanism: Secular humanism is by definition "an outlook or system of thought attaching prime importance to human rather than divine or supernatural matters. Humanist beliefs stress the potential value and goodness of human beings, emphasize common human needs, and seek solely rational ways of solving human problems." (Merrium Webster dictionary) Christian Theism: The belief that God is the Creator of the universe and reigns Supreme. We have rebelled against His holy law and are dead in our sins. We need a Savior to take the punishment for our transgressions, which came through Jesus Christ, God's only Son. Through Christ alone can our sins be forgiven and can we stand before the most Holy God without blemish. Secular Humanism answers the four questions with humans being the solution to the problems. More government and more education are often the solutions they stand behind, but they do not work. For example, the drug problem. Check out recidivism - rearrests for the same crime for drugs: Recidivism is measured by criminal acts that resulted in rearrest, reconviction or return to prison with or without a new sentence during a three-year period following the prisoner's release. Bureau of Justice Statistics studies have found high rates of recidivism among released prisoners. One study tracked 404,638 prisoners in 30 states after their release from prison in 2005.[1] The researchers found that: Within three years of release, about two-thirds (67.8 percent) of released prisoners were rearrested. Within five years of release, about three-quarters (76.6 percent) of released prisoners were rearrested.  Of those prisoners who were rearrested, more than half (56.7 percent) were arrested by the end of the first year. Take directly from https://www.nij.gov/topics/corrections/recidivism/Pages/welcome.aspx  Look at the potential effectiveness of Red Ribbon Week from a mother: - why wearing camouflage will not help you in the crack battle: Christian Theism answers the questions with a worldview and belief that God is Creator, we are creation, and that the problem in this world is sin, therefore God is the only solution. If sin is not the problem, then humans are the answer. If sin is not the problem, then God is not the answer. Does the Bible say that we can fix our own problems? No, we are not righteous! That means God is the answer. Sin is the answer to what is wrong. There is no other answer. Sin gave way to a world that is in chronic decay, progressive immorality, and death VB More education just leads to smarter sinners More government control leads to more law breakers and less freedom Christ came to set us free. Read Colossians 1 and Ephesians 2 Be aware of where secular humanism impacts our theology Examples: Going to church to serve our needs How we view and care for the unborn How we view sin How we treat one another How we structure our days God’s mercies are so deep. They reached into the deepest parts of all our ugliness, all our evil, and made us right with Him. Other Resources Know What You Believe By Paul E. Little Know Why You Believe By Paul E. Little

Here I am God, Send me! Go and make disciples. Ummmm...  Discipleship can be tough and there can be some obstacles that make us a bit reluctant. Today we are talking about Acts 9, being a reluctant disciple-maker and 5 reasons God gives us to be hopeful about our calling.  member only access! If you support the SPF Podcast with $5 or more each month, you get access to the SPF Members-Only page! Check out patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful to get access and to become a member! LIFE HACK: Easy Fall Dessert for a Crowd It would cost me our entire Christmas budget to bring a PSL to everyone at group get-togethers. Fret not, there is another easy dessert that won't break the bank, tastes like fall, and feeds a crowd. Easy Crock - Pot Cinnamon Apples *Note, that this is a Lauren recipe, which means I do a little of this and that - you make this your own! It would be hard to mess up - unless it caught on fire somehow. That's a hard recovery ;) Feeds: 8-10 Time: prep 20 minutes   -    cook time varies (2 min to 3 hours) Ingredients: 10-12 apples (I mix tart and sweet, like granny smith and some pink lady's or gala's) peeled, cored, and sliced 2 tbsp lemon juice (keep apples from browning) 1/2 cup of liquid like apple cider, pumpkin spiced cider, (i've even used some apple sauce diluted with water) 1 - 2 Tbsp corn starch 2 Tbsp melted butter 1/4 cup or less of sugar or brown sugar (to your taste) drizzle of molasses (to taste) sprinkle of cinnamon (to taste) I use about 1 tsp Vanilla icecream Instructions: coat apples in lemon juice and put in crock pot or insta-pot in a separate bowl, mix corn starch and cider (or liquid) until lumps are out add melted butter, sugar, molasses, cinnamon, to liquid mixture and stir drizzle over apples and stir to coat Set crock pot to low for 3 hours or Instapot to 2 minutes high pressure (then manual release). After cooked to desired softness, ladle over two scoops of ice cream   The Reluctant Disciple-maker God has given every Christian a calling: to go make disciples of all nations. Matthew 28:19-20 A disciple is a student or follower of Christ. Discipleship isn't just about intellect or organization! Sometimes there are obstacles to fulfilling our calling and it makes us reluctant to obey. Today we looked at Ananias in Acts 9:10-25 and how we can be encouraged to GO even when it seems impossible, painful, intimidating, and unknown. Five Hopes for the reluctant disciple-maker NO 1: Go anyway We need to be obedient even when we don’t understand because WE CAN TRUST God! NO 2: It's not about us. God reminds Ananias that He is God and that God needs to be at the center of God’s universe. “He is a chosen instrument of MINE” NO 3: God has a greater purpose than we can see When we are reluctant we need to remember that God has a great purpose especially when there is suffering. Because there will probably be suffering if you are following Jesus. NO 4: Remember that God transforms hearts not us There is no limit to God's power at work: within days Saul when from killing people who said Jesus was the Messiah to preaching Jesus was the Messiah!! NO 5: Keep growing and maturing Sometimes we feel reluctant because we are scared we don’t know the answers, but remember we are called in 1 Peter to give a defense for the hope we have - that word defense means apologia - we are to be apologists of the faith. We need to be faithful with the intellect and the sphere of influence God has given us. That means growing and maturing in our knowledge and love and faith. My Reluctance It's hard to keep making disciples when we get hurt by people. When they are mean, or just vanish, or even flaky. I have found myself violating God's command to love others as I love myself. When we struggle to love others we need to repent and ask God for help. We need to cling to passages like Ephesians 4:32 "Be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ forgave you."   Discipleship Resources These are resources I mentioned on the show. Amazon links are affiliate links.   Discipleship Plans: Foundations 7.00 Digital File - PDF Get instant access to eight discipleship plans covering foundational principles of growing in Christ: Lordship Plan 1:  What is Lordship? Lordship Plan 2:  Repentance and Belief The Word Plan 1:  The Word of God The Word Plan 2:  How to Spend Time in the Word (Quiet Time) Prayer Plan 1:  What is Prayer? Prayer Plan 2:  Praying with Confidence Fellowship Plan 1:  What is Fellowship? Fellowship Plan 2:  Confronting and Forgiving These eight mini bible studies are an excellent resource for one on one and group discipleship. Encourage other women to know Jesus through discussion questions and topical Scriptures, or use them for personal study to learn more about foundational principles of growing in Christ. Access these on you iPad, smart phone, or computer - instantly! Add To Cart Know Why You Believe $12.63 By Paul E. Little   Discipleship Plans: Identity 7.00 Digital File - PDF Get instant access to three discipleship plans on the topic of Identity in Christ: Plan 1:  What is Identity Plan 2:  Jesus is Our Representative Plan 3:  The Old Self and The New Self Plan 4:  In Christ Plan 5:  Living Out Our Identity These five mini bible studies are an excellent resource for one on one and group discipleship. Encourage other women to know Jesus through discussion questions and topical Scriptures. Or use them for personal study to learn more about identity in Christ. Access these on you iPad, smart phone, or computer - instantly! Add To Cart Know What You Believe $12.09 By Paul E. Little The Gospel Project Big Picture Cards Lifeway has a preschool and elementary version (pictured is preschool - Jesus Saves pack). Additional Resources   Organic Discipleship: Mentoring Others Into Spiritual Maturity and Leadership (Revised Edition) $11.95 By Dennis McCallum, Jessica Lowery Handbook for Christian Maturity: Bible Study (Ten Basic Steps Toward Christian Maturity) By Bill Bright The Gentle Art of Discipling Women: Nurturing Authentic Faith in Ourselves and Others $14.90 By Dana Yeakley   The Master Plan of Evangelism $5.57 By Robert E. Coleman Personal Disciplemaking: A Step-By-Step Guide for Leading a New Christian From New Birth to Maturity $15.99 By Christopher Adsit

Reformation didn’t stop with the end of the 17th century. Every generation is prone to it’s own waywardness. Even the first century church struggled! Today we are looking at a familiar pattern in historical Reformations, and our role in our generations Reformation. We are wrapping up our Reformation Series with Part Three - Our Role in Reform. Support the SPF Podcast Thanks for listening and letting me be a part of your day! I'm looking for a support team to help me keep the SPF Podcast going by teaming up with me to help cover website hosting, software and materials expenses. Be a part of the team for $5 a month by signing up at patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful LIFE HACK Family Time discipleship resource! Sign up for the Family Time newsletter and get free family activities that are discipleship focused for your family! There is a season activity called The Pumpkin Parable too! Sign up for the newsletters here: famtime.com Three Patterns of Reformations NO 1: There is a deviation from God's Truth 1 John 2:15-17 NO 2: God is faithful. He raises us bold men and women who go back to the Truth of Scripture in order to know who God is, who we are, our condition, and how to be right with God. 1 Peter 1:17-21 NO 3: Suffering for standing up for Biblical truth 1 Peter 3:13-18 Examples of this pattern: - Early Church - Stephen Acts 6,7 - 8th Century - Iconoclasm - 16-17th Century - Reformation Our Role in Reformation We have a role in reforming were the church is erring.  We have a role of reforming in our own lives and homes. The directive is the Word of God. Ideas for our Role in Reform In the Church: Attend a bible-believing church and be involved, learn, grow Pray for those locked on a false gospel Learn to give a defense for the hope that we have - with gentleness and respect Stand firm on Truth Don't be surprised at suffering In our own lives: Know the Word of God Teach the Word of God Pray for God to reveal personal religious systems and be humble Be free in Christ Reformation Resources She Proves Faithful Podcast: The Reformation Part 1 - The Spark She Proves Faithful Podcast: The Reformation Part 2 - Reformation Women She Proves Faithful Podcast: The Five Solas She Proves Faithful Podcast: The Woman Who Fears the Lord Pastor Jim Savastio - is doing a current sermon series on the Reformation https://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?SpeakerOnly=true&currSection=sermonsspeaker&keyword=Jim%5FSavastio Our Reformation Heritage by Pastor Albert N. Martin https://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=10270222537 Dr. Richard Gamble has a three part series on the History of the Reformation: Part One http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=421089674 Part Twohttp://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=42808832220 Part Three http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=512081059562 Calvinist - the documentary - Les Lanphere See the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axjzInqdzBI Website: http://leslanphere.com Reformation Day Ideas Amazon Links are affiliate links meaning if you click on my link I get a small commission for my recommendation at no cost to you.   Heralds of the Reformation: Thirty Biographies of Sheer Grace $15.00 By Richard M. Hannula Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History $18.00 By Richard M. Hannula Institutes of the Christian Religion $26.58 By John Calvin Reformation Women: Sixteenth-Century Figures Who Shaped Christianity's Rebirth $13.98 By Rebecca VanDoodewaard The Church History ABCs: Augustine and 25 Other Heroes of the Faith $15.58 By Stephen J. Nichols, Ned Bustard The Barber Who Wanted to Pray $12.17 By R. C. Sproul Martin Luther: A Man Who Changed The World $9.44 By Paul L. Maier Church History 101: The Highlights of Twenty Centuries $5.43 By Sinclair B. Ferguson, Joel R. Beeke, Michael A. G. Haykin    

It’s Part 2 in a three part series on the Reformation. Today we are talking about some women in the reformation and how their faithfulness encourages us to bear fruit in our own faithful service to God  We will learn about five characteristics the Reformation Woman possessed and be encouraged by a few reforming women’s stories.  Support the SPF Podcast Thanks for listening and letting me be a part of your day! I'm looking for a support team to help me keep the SPF Podcast going by teaming up with me to help cover website hosting, software and materials expenses. Be a part of the team for $5 a month by signing up at patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful LIFE HACK We don't always have time to pour over history books, but it doesn't mean we can learn and teach our young children. We are loving this book - great for elementary school and younger. Reformation ABC's Amazon Links are affiliate links meaning if you click on my link I get a small commission for my recommendation at no cost to you. Reformation ABCs: The People, Places, and Things of the Reformation―from A to Z $15.29 By Stephen J. Nichols The Women of the Reformation 500 years ago on October 31st 1517, Martin Luther nailed 95 theses to a church door in Wittenberg Germany.  The Reformation is quite remarkable and shows the amazing complex web God weaved to bring necessary reformation to the church. Two Books These are two great resources to learn more about these faithful women. The five characteristics of women in the Reformation were taken from Reformation Women by Rebecca VanDoodewaard. Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History $18.00 By Richard M. Hannula Reformation Women: Sixteenth-Century Figures Who Shaped Christianity's Rebirth $13.98 By Rebecca VanDoodewaard   Five Characteristics of Reformation Women NO 1:  They were devoted to the protestant church "Sometimes their contributions to the Protestant church were direct, issuing edicts, writing theological works, establishing congregations, some involved indirectly by supporting their husbands, reviewing book manuscripts, sheltering refugees, AND EDUCATING their children to carry on the work. " - Rebecca VanDoodewaard Joel 2:6-13 NO 2: If they were married to believers, they were devoted to their husband’s work These faithful wives fanned giant flames of the Reformation by supporting their husbands, facilitating the work of preaching and pastoring that they were unable to do themselves. The Reformation THRIVED because of supportive faithful wives. NO 3: They were given to hospitality They took in  visiting pastors, orphans, refuges running for their lives, many times from other countries all because they were believing and confessing Scripture. They fed them, clothed them, encouraged them, sacrificing a great amounts of time, energy, and finances.  NO 4: They stewarded their intellectual abilities “Their education was a means of using God-given intellect in order to bear more fruit." - Rebecca Vandoodewaard These women were part of raising up a next generation of theologians! That’s us too - discipling women to Read the Word and obey the Words of God, teaching our children the commands of God, training us, our friends, our children to be thinkers and learners flushing all things through God sufficient word. NO 5: They were BRAVE! God opened the eyes of these women to the Truth and they saw it stood in stark opposition to the climate of their countries. They knew the course of action they needed to take and they obeyed God rather than man. Reformation Women Soup Lady - saving Geneva by faithfulness in her home - story in Reformation ABC's Margarethe Blaurer - Story in Reformation Women Anne Askew - Story in Radiant Other Women: Jeanne D'Albret- Story in Radiant and you can read her story online here Katie Luther - Story in Radiant and you can read her story online here Reformation Resources She Proves Faithful Podcast: The Reformation Part 1 - The Spark She Proves Faithful Podcast: The Five Solas She Proves Faithful Podcast: The Woman Who Fears the Lord Our Reformation Heritage by Pastor Albert N. Martin https://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=10270222537 Dr. Richard Gamble has a three part series on the History of the Reformation: Part One http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=421089674 Part Twohttp://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=42808832220 Part Three http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=512081059562 Calvinist - the documentary - Les Lanphere See the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axjzInqdzBI Website: http://leslanphere.com Reformation Day Ideas Amazon Links are affiliate links meaning if you click on my link I get a small commission for my recommendation at no cost to you.   Heralds of the Reformation: Thirty Biographies of Sheer Grace $15.00 By Richard M. Hannula Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History $18.00 By Richard M. Hannula Institutes of the Christian Religion $26.58 By John Calvin Reformation Women: Sixteenth-Century Figures Who Shaped Christianity's Rebirth $13.98 By Rebecca VanDoodewaard The Church History ABCs: Augustine and 25 Other Heroes of the Faith $15.58 By Stephen J. Nichols, Ned Bustard The Barber Who Wanted to Pray $12.17 By R. C. Sproul Martin Luther: A Man Who Changed The World $9.44 By Paul L. Maier Church History 101: The Highlights of Twenty Centuries $5.43 By Sinclair B. Ferguson, Joel R. Beeke, Michael A. G. Haykin    

It’s the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther nailing his 95 theses to the church door in Whittenberg Germany. In this episode we are going to take a look a Christian history and how God orchestrated an amazing Reformation in the church that fanned a flame of loyalty to Scriptures above every human institution. Today we are learning about Erasmus and Martin Luther and Four Blessings of the Reformation.  Support the SPF Podcast Thanks for listening and letting me be a part of your day! I'm looking for a support team to help me keep the SPF Podcast going by teaming up with me to help cover website hosting, software and materials expenses. Be a part of the team for $5 a month by signing up at patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Help Puerto Rico! Hurricane Maria Victims Until Friday, October 13, purchase this $5 print and directly support hurricane victims. Your money goes to buying batteries, battery operated fans, and insect repellent wipes. Buy the print here: sheprovesfaithful.com/shop/pr Reformation Ideas Teaching church history to our kids doesn't have to be difficult or dry. It's incredibly exciting and amazing to learn about God's reformation of His church. Check out Christina Fox's blog for book and movie ideas for teaching your kids about the Reformation: http://www.christinafox.com/blog/2017/8/17/celebrating-the-reformation-with-your-children Reformation ABC's I just got this book for my kids! I'll let you know how it is! Reviews said it's thorough and has enough information for even an older elementary school child (not just an alphabet book). Amazon Links are affiliate links meaning if you click on my link I get a small commission for my recommendation at no cost to you. Reformation ABCs: The People, Places, and Things of the Reformation―from A to Z $15.29 By Stephen J. Nichols The Spark of the Reformation 500 years ago on October 31st 1517, Martin Luther nailed 95 theses to a church door in Wittenberg Germany.  The Reformation is quite remarkable and shows the amazing complex web God weaved to bring necessary reformation to the church. Ad Fontes It starts with this movement among Renaissance Humanists to "go back to the source" of their reasoning and thought. Protestant Reformers also returned to the Bible as the primary source of their faith. Erasmus and Luther Erasmus - Roman Catholic who translated the New Testament to Greek (to be more accurate than the Latin Vulgate. His work exposed Scriptures that were being taught incorrectly. He wanted reform in the Catholic church but moral reform. Luther - Martin Luther was a monk who started to read the Greek translation of the Bible and his heart was lit on fire for the Word of God. He saw that salvation was by faith alone and that the Roman Catholic Church was teaching a works based, paid based salvation. He wanted reform - for the Pope and the counsels to submit to the authority of God's Word. He nailed 95 theses to the church door in Wittenberg. Eventually he was excommunicated from the Catholic Church. Four Blessings of the Reformation There are SO many more, but here are four: That we have a Bible in our our language! Scripture is self-authenticating - because Scripture are God’s Words - we can be certain it’s true The Church isn’t the authority on what people need to know, or the authority on who has salvation - the Bible is the Authority and God is the grace giver The great exchange: Jesus takes our sins, we take on His righteousness - justification by faith alone hat salvation by faith alone is being preached without fear or threat of being burned at the stake. Reformation Resources She Proves Faithful Podcast: The Five Solas She Proves Faithful Podcast: The Woman Who Fears the Lord Dr. Richard Gamble has a three part series on the History of the Reformation: Part One http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=421089674 Part Twohttp://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=42808832220 Part Three http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=512081059562 Ad Fontes - Four Articles on Erasmus https://www.nsa.edu/ad-fontes-part-iv/ Calvinist - the documentary - Les Lanphere See the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axjzInqdzBI Website: http://leslanphere.com Amazon Links are affiliate links meaning if you click on my link I get a small commission for my recommendation at no cost to you.   Heralds of the Reformation: Thirty Biographies of Sheer Grace $15.00 By Richard M. Hannula Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History $18.00 By Richard M. Hannula Institutes of the Christian Religion $26.58 By John Calvin The Church History ABCs: Augustine and 25 Other Heroes of the Faith $15.58 By Stephen J. Nichols, Ned Bustard The Barber Who Wanted to Pray $12.17 By R. C. Sproul Martin Luther: A Man Who Changed The World $9.44 By Paul L. Maier Church History 101: The Highlights of Twenty Centuries $5.43 By Sinclair B. Ferguson, Joel R. Beeke, Michael A. G. Haykin    

First Peter says we are a holy priesthood offering up spiritual sacrifices to God. How do we prove faithful as a holy priesthood? What is a spiritual sacrifice and what keeps our worship from being a form of self righteousness? Today we are talking about spiritual sacrifices of worship and four biblical spiritual sacrifices a Christian can give.   Hurricane Maria Relief in Puerto Rico You can help people in Puerto Rico recovering from Hurricane Maria in a tangible easy way by going to sheprovesfaithful.com/shop and purchasing the verse print "For Puerto Rico" for $5. Your donation will go directly to buying batteries, battery operated fans, and insect repellent wipes. SPF is not a non-profit organization so this gift is not tax deductible. My dear friend, Isabella, who was on episode 33 sharing wisdom about Biblical Counseling, will be taking a trip and hand delivering items to people in need. You can follow her story on Instagram to get updates: asojourner1 Buy Print Here Life Hack Don't let your toes stay cold. Wear a pair of socks and in the morning ball them up and put them behind your pillow. They'll be waiting for you when you go to bed. Holy Priesthood & Spiritual Sacrifices 1 Peter 2:4-8 God indicates who we are in Christ: living stone built up as a spiritual house holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. Living Stones: Uur identity: we are living stones, part of the temple of God where God dwells with His people.  “In Him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit." Ephesians 2:2 Holy Priesthood: We are a priesthood set apart for God, not in that we offer animals to atone for people’s sins, but that we do a work unto God every day.  We are selected by God to serve Him, to serve others, to offer our bodies, souls, and our affections, prayers, and other Christian duties to God.  Because we are a Holy Priesthood: Spiritual Sacrifices are my duty of worship and honor to God. And it all happens THROUGH CHRIST. He is the great high priest through whom all our sacrifices and services are accepted. Before they were filthy rags, but now, they are an offering to God.  Four Spiritual Sacrifices of A Christian Number 1: Repentance and Humility Psalm 51:17 Number 2: Our Physical Bodies Romans 12:1 Number 3: Sharing the Gospel / Evangelism Romans 15:15-16 Number 4: Praise, Doing Good, Generosity Hebrews 13:15-16 Resources Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning when you click or buy, a small percent goes to me at not additional cost to you! 1 Peter: A Living Hope in Christ - Bible Study Book (Gospel Coalition) $12.99 By Jen Wilkin None Like Him: 10 Ways God Is Different from Us (and Why That's a Good Thing) $11.04 By Jen Wilkin Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History $18.00 By Richard M. Hannula

In the early church Christians were devoted to fellowship. What did that mean and what does biblical fellowship look like today? what are some of the benefits of this biblical fellowship? Today we are discussing the churches koinonia and and give some practical tools to jump the hurdles of living it out in our every day living.  Be a part of the SPF Podcast Help support this podcast for only $5 a month! Become a monthly donor on Patreon (a platform for creatives) and receive exclusive content as a big thank you! Go to patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful to learn more or to join the team! Life Hack SPF Podcast listener, Olivia, had a great idea to get conversations going at the dinner table or on a road trip by using Chat Packs. You can get them on amazon or you can use a homemade version I featured on the blog! (Amazon links are affiliate links.) SPF Blog Learning to Engage in Meaningful Conversations - Free Resource Chat Pack: Fun Questions to Spark Conversations $10.10 By Question Guys   Devotion to Fellowship And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Acts 2:42 "Devoted" - the Greek word for devoted is eimi and means “I exist” to be, to exist, to happen, to be present. My existence now is to know Christ and to make Him known. "Fellowship" - the Greek word for fellowship is koinonia means it’s a participation in fellowship and community. Biblical Fellowship involves: serving loving investing Examine some Scriptures to help us live out this biblical fellowship: Galatians 5:13-15 1 Peter 4:7-11 Four benefits of fellowship: You are not alone A place to heal Unified eternal purpose Eternal hope with others Practical Ideas to Prove Faithful in Fellowship Practice Hospitality Pray together Be on mission together Learn to ask meaningful heart level questions Pray for the Holy Spirit to help you to fellowship Questions and Ideas from YOU! I reached out and asked listeners on Instagram and Facebook and ask if you had any favorite questions you like to ask or resources you use to help engage in meaningful conversations. You ladies provided some really great ideas and I've compiled them to help each other! A big thank you to everyone who participated! What have you been reading (in the Bible)? How is your heart? - Carissa What's God been teaching you? - Lindsay How can I be praying for you? - Jessica What's your testimony (How did you become a Christian)? - Brittany What have you been encouraged by lately? - Alexa What is Christ working on in you? - Blythe How did you grow up? - Deb What brought you to church? What urges you to seek Christ? - Keri What have you been encouraged by lately? - Alexa What are you learning in the Word? Erin Describe your week (instead of just "how's your week") - Abell Tip - show no partiality but show intention to each person in your group/study -Jannette Ask about family, occupation, goals, interests, dreams - Olivia Tip - be willing to be vulnerable first - Heather What books are you reading right now? - Leah What has God been teaching you/doing in your life lately? - Alesha Read the Bible with a Friend Sign up for SPF in the Word free monthly Bible reading plan! It's free and every month you get a Bible reading plan sent straight to your inbox. Take the guess work out of where to read the Bible and join the plan! Plus, read it with a friend to build quality fellowship. Sign up at sheprovesfaithful.com/bible Resources Olive Tree Bible App New City Church Sermon - Devotion SPF Podcast Dealing with Sin in Our Children Part 1 SPF Podcast Dealing with Sin in our Children Part 2 SPF Podcast How to Practice Biblical Hospitality SPF Blog - Hospitality: Learning to Engage in Meaningful Conversations Amazon links are affiliate links and provide a small kickback for my recommendation if you click on a link or purchase at no additional cost to you. Chat Pack: Fun Questions to Spark Conversations $10.10 By Question Guys Chat Pack Conversation Icebreaker Cards for KidsConversation $9.39 By Questmarc Publishing Church History 101: The Highlights of Twenty Centuries $5.43 By Sinclair B. Ferguson, Joel R. Beeke, Michael A. G. Haykin

Theology is simply the study of God. It’s knowing who God is revealed in the Bible. But sometimes our theology takes a little left turn - I’ve been there - and our culture certainly doesn’t help us get back on track. Today we are looking at biblical Jesus and Modern day Jesus (which is false) and learn to be discerning, wise, and more full of worship of the One True God and Savior.  Become a She Proves Faithful Supporter - Only $5 a month Have you been encouraged and blessed by the SPF Podcast? Would you prayerfully consider becoming a teammate for just $5 a month to fund this podcast? Your support will help upgrade my equipment and fund training and more materials for you! Visit patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful to learn more and to become a teammate! Happy Fall - 7 Tips to Prepare your Home These tips came from the blog Thistlewood Farm to help us prepare our homes for the fall season. You can find the post here: Seven Tips to get your house ready for fall Sort through your fall bins - get rid of the fall “non sense” Find a cozy throw Paint your front door Replace your welcome mat Create a fall pin board Add a wreath Add textured pillows “fall is all about texture” Biblical Jesus vs Modern (false) Jesus Check out this chart from Roberta - Vegaslady42 on Instagram Resources Q and A Discerning Women Teachers and Authors - She Proves Faithful Podcast Episode 26 New City Church Acts 2 sermon - Classic Acts - UNAVAILABLE - such a bummer, but due to technical difficulties the sermon was not recorded. But you can read Peter's sermon in Acts 2:14-41! Voddie Baucham sermon on discerning God's will - Sermon Audio Amazon Links are affiliate links - when you click on them, a small (very small) kick back goes to SPF at no additional cost to you. Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Minds $8.64 By Jen Wilkin Family Worship Bible Guide $19.98 By Joel R Beeke Ph.D. How to Study the Bible $7.78 By John MacArthur I have not read John MacArthur's book on How to Study the Bible, but he is a trusted source.        

Have you ever wondered if there’s a better way to read the Bible? There are many methods of storing up God’s Word in our hearts, but there are some pitfalls we need to watch out. Today we are learning out to read our Bible better by engaging our minds. Be a She Proves Faithful Teammate for Just $5 a Month! Hey! Are you enjoying the SPF Podcast? I'd love to have you as a SPF Teammate to keep this podcast up and running and keep producing great content. Consider a $5 a month partnership with me at patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful LIFE Hack: Cream of Yum Soup You don't have to use those cream of yuck soups in the store - simply follow this recipe! 2 TBSP Butter 2 TBSP Flour 1 Cup of Milk Favorite seasonings and salt Spinach, mushrooms, cooked chicken, etc Simmer butter and flour together for a few minutes, add milk and spices and stir. Add chopped spinach, or chopped mushrooms, or cooked chicken. Add it to soups, casseroles, etc. Easy Crowd Pleasing Chicken and Rice Casserole This is a great recipe to feed 10 people. Depending on the size of your casserole dish, you may need two. 4 chicken breast cooked in slow cooker with a little water or broth and salt - shred it 2 cups cooked rice Cream of YUM soup recipe above - double it with chopped spinach shredded mozzarella or cheesy blend salt and seasoning to taste Mix shredded crock pot chicken and two cups of cooked white rice in large bowl Pour cream of YUM over chicken and rice and mix with spoon until nice and creamy Add any extra seasoning to taste Pour into casserole dishes and top with cheese If chicken and rice are already warm - bake at 350 for twenty minutes then broil HI until cheese is bubbly. If chicken and rice are cold (from being previous cooked) - bake at 350 for 40 minutes or until warmed through and broil HI until cheese is bubbly. Sola Feels Sometimes we read the Bible with our feelings first, when we need to engage our minds and let our feelings follow. Babylon Bee (a fake satirical "news" site) published an article called Sola Feels to illustrate the Christian culture's bent toward feelings. Read the article here (remember it's fake): http://babylonbee.com/news/progressive-evangelical-leaders-meet-affirm-doctrine-sola-feels/ Facts first - know the Truth of God's Word Faith second - put faith in the Truth Feelings third - let them fall in line with the Truth and be carried to true joy! Some ways we put our feelings first when reading the Bible: When we interpret the truth in a different way because it messes with our feelings Xanax approach - going to isolated Scriptures to make us feel better making the Bible about serving us and making us feel better Pinball approach - good intentions but we miss the wholeness of God's plan and can fail to give us context that engages our mind Magic Eight Ball - the Bible doesn't provide answers our whims and isn't just used to give us personal direction about our decisions Telephone Game - when we know the Word through other people's books instead of gaining Bible literacy through reading the Bible Numbers 2-5 come from Jen Wilkin's book Women of the Word which you can purchase on Amazon or local Christian bookstore. Better Bible Reading When we read the Word with our minds first and let our feelings follow, that is better Bible reading. Luke 10:27  “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” Romans 12:2"Do not be conformed to this world,[c] but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." Luke 5:1-11 Peter saw Jesus differently when He obeyed Him and one of the first things he saw was his sin. Reading the Bible should convict our hearts of sin and righteousness and the character of God. Tips 1. Read the Bible with our minds to gain understanding, not just to feel something 2. Understand the context and history of the book to gain a better understanding 3. Wrestle with the Scriptures before going to the commentaries 4. Know what the text says first before we decide it's meaning 5. Read the Bible to know the Lord of Glory Resources Read Psalm 39 :) Good Questions to ask for Better Bible Reading: 1. What does this say about God? 2. What is God like? What has God done? 3. Who am I in light of this passage? How do I respond to God? Amazon links are affiliate links: Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Minds By Jen Wilkin 1 Peter: A Living Hope in Christ - Bible Study Book (Gospel Coalition) By Jen Wilkin            

What do we do when we feel the body blues? Many women struggle with body image - how we perceive the way we look. It can be crippling as we move through our days, affecting our attitudes, our joy, even our intimacy with our husbands. Today we are looking at one of the root causes of the body image struggle and four truths to help us with this spiritual issue. Become an SPF Teammate! I need some help keeping this podcast running and creating more resources for women to help them prove faithful. I'm asking for a team of faithful listener friends to help me by pledging thei support of $5 a month. Check it out here:  www.patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Life Hack - Meal Planning If you've ever struggled with meal planning, here is a really easy solution! Think of all your favorite recipes and write them on an index card - one recipe per card. You can include the ingredients, recipe, or where to find this information (ie Pinterest, Cookbook). Then give it a shuffle and pull out the first 7 cards and write them down in your calendar. You just meal planned your week! Add new recipes by creating new cards. Skip a meal card if it's out of season or you're not feeling it. Use the cards to write down the ingredients you need. #brilliant My friend Lindsay gave me this idea - you can check out her vlog on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdx3wfaQNaDf2C6Gpg9aORw The Body Image Struggle The body image struggle is a spiritual issue:  body and soul are not separate - the only time we will be separate from our body is at our death. we were made in God’s image and bear his glory as Creator our bodies are created to work for a purpose for God’s glory - we are created for physical thing A main reason we struggle with body image is living in a culture of comparison. We need to stop looking at others and look to the Truth of God's Word. Four Helpful Truths Remember that God is the Creator Isaiah 29:16 Outward beauty is fading, but inward beauty can grow Proverbs 31:30 God made our bodies to work and that means wear and tear Ecclesiastes 5:18-20 We are need to be grateful for the gift our our bodies Psalm 28:7 Resources Truth in Love Podcast - Association of Certified Biblical Counselors - Episode 113 Body Image and Your Spouse The Gospel Coalition - As You Start that Diet: Three Truths About Body Image Virtuous: A Study for Ladies of Every Age $12.00 By Nancy Wilson

Have you ever had seasons in your life where you poured out your heart to God only to get crickets? It churns up a lot of emotions in our hearts. Today we are talking about what do we do when God is silent? How does it help our faith? We will look at two people who experienced God’s silence and give you a practical faith building tip in the silence. PLUS this episode is super special because there is a free musical resource especially for SPF listeners!  Connect with me on Instagram @sheprovesfaithful Become a Faithful Teammate Help me grow the She Proves Faithful podcast and continue encouraging women around the world with Gospel-centered content! Go to https://www.patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful to become a monthly partner and get exclusive access to resources. Free Music Bundle Download from Lantern Music Andy Johnston creator and musician of Lantern Music has a free exclusive download bundle for She Proves Faithful listeners.  https://lanternmusic.bandcamp.com/album/she-proves-faithful-bundle Click on "Digital Album" and put $0 in price to download the album free compliments of Andy Johnson. If you love these songs and they bless you, I encourage you to purchase more of his music! When God is Silent How do we pray and have faith when we don’t know if God will answer? It has to start with rooting our faith in the TRUTH OF God’s Character.. We have to develop a right theology of who God is through the Word of God in order to have right thinking about the times when He is silent to us. We must know and trust the character of God in the silence. Because if we love God for what He gives us (including answers to all our requests and questions) then we will hate God for what He takes away. How to Build our Faith in the Silence So how do we trust in His character? How do we come to know it? - Read the Bible (SPF reading plan) - make notes of character traits of God and how the play out in life (Creator = pot/clay) - memorize and teach them Two Examples The Canaanite Woman Matthew 15:21-27 Jesus Crucified Matthew 27:45-56, Isaiah 53 Favorite Resources Phylicia Masonheimer:  http://phyliciadelta.com Dr. Joel Beeke's sermon on How Christ Matures Mothers:  http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?m=t&s=62151628229 Become a teammate of the She Proves Faithful Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/sheprovesfaithful Lantern Music Download:  https://lanternmusic.bandcamp.com/album/she-proves-faithful-bundle Bebo Norman Beautiful Scandalous Night: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6iCRyvcZrc

It's episode 50 and to celebrate I'm sharing my top ten things - some life hacks, some resources, some ideas, and some Truth. Today's show is jam packed with lots of fun! Lauren's Top Ten *Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning if you click on them I receive a small kick back for my recommendation, at no charge to you! Plus, these are my TOP TEN so I of course, highly recommend (and own) all that I mention here! No. TEN OCHO organic candy bars. They are practically vegetables ;) I buy mine at Costco for around $10 for 50 mini candy bars. OCHO Mini Peanut Butter Pouch 8oz Ocho Candy No. NINE Pants with elastic waist lines - I'm laughing out loud typing this out - I found some great ones at the Loft and Target (maternity!). No. EIGHT Church History 101 - a short, very informative read about church history from the 1st century to the 20th century! Church History 101: The Highlights of Twenty Centuries By Sinclair B. Ferguson, Joel R. Beeke, Michael A. G. Haykin No. SEVEN The Happy Planner - I love how it's customizable and pretty and functional! You can get it at Hobby Lobby with at 40% of coupon if it's full price! Or get free shipping on Amazon! me & my BIG ideas Create 365 The Happy Planner, Live Loud, Jul 2017 - Dec 2018 MAMBI No. SIX Sermonaudio.com is an incredible library of sermons. It's like a cup of morning coffee for your brain. I love that you can do a search within a search! No. FIVE The MuTu System - a workout system to help get a core and pelvic floor that work. This is a great program for women who have given birth two months ago or 6 years ago. I have loved the program and when I'm consistent with the workouts I feel stronger and I actually learned how to tone and strengthen the mysterious pelvic floor! LEARN MORE ABOUT THE 12 WEEK PROGRAM HERE No. FOUR The Six Second Kiss - trying giving your hubs a little six second smooch before he leaves or your leave. The physical affection show love and respect. No. THREE Life Hack! Make your own foaming hand soap! Get a foaming soap pump (amazon or grocery store) and Dr. Bronner's castille liquid soap. You need about 7 parts water and three parts soap. Adjust soap and water levels to your desired soapiness. Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap, Lavender, 32 Fluid Ounce Dr. Bronner No. TWO There are some fun SPF products in the works including a Bible Study on biblical faithfulness in the grit of motherhood. You can check out SPF mini bible studies and the Anchored Bible study in the SPF store. Discipleship Plans: Foundations 7.00 No. ONE Patient faith: James 1 and James 5 Resources used: Matthew Henry commentary - free on the biblegateway.com app!  

It’s no secret I love the Instagram. I love the pictures, I love the stories, I love the likes. Smart phones and social medial platforms have been inserted into our daily routines. They make life better in so many ways, but there are some heart level issues when it comes to our social media usage. Today I talk with guest, Laura Ferguson about some red flags to look out for on social media and six boundaries for ambassadors of Christ.  Some of my Favorite Take-Aways Often we want to know that we are chosen in others areas, by other people, when being chosen by God is what will really satisfy. Social media can lead to a distracted mind rather than a sound mind. Before we are filled with other people's words (on social media), let's be filled with God's Words and be like the mighty and strong tree in Psalm 1 Six Boundaries for Ambassadors of Christ Laura came up with six boundaries that we can implement to help our hearts severe ties with a need for social media. Social media isn't inherently good or bad, it's a tool, but can sometimes become an idol. When you notice your heart strings singing for Instagram or to be noticed and liked by others to validate you, take a look at some of these boundaries: Set limits on the times of day you use social media Utilize the privacy feature to shut down notifications at certain times of the day Protect your purity when it comes to who you follow Honor your husband with your social media usage Never choose your phone over your kids Get time with the Lord before you get time with social media Recommended Resources 12 Ways Your Phone Is Changing You By Tony Reinke Amazon links are affiliate link which means SPF gets a small commission if you click or purchase from these links at NO additional cost to you! Thank you! 12 Ways Your Phone is Changing You - Reinke I have not personally read this book, but statistics from the Podcast are referenced from Tony Reinke's research and the forward is written by John Piper. You can see an info graphic from this book HERE         About Laura Laura lives in Minnesota with her hunky Canadian husband and two children, Malachi and Hazel. She loves talking about the Lord, singing about the Lord, and contemplating the every day happenings of her life with the Lord. She loves coffee and is an extroverted introvert and loves instilling God's truth into the lives of women. You can learn more about her HERE. Read more about her social media fast on her blog: Life with the Fergusons

God graciously gives parents biblical means to accomplish biblical goals - and that includes dealing with sin in our children. Today we are covering a few biblical methods that truly get to the heart of of the matter. This is part two in a two part series.  Small Wins with Toddlers - Teaching Language Building Blocks Check out this simple online class taught by a Speech Language Pathologist and sweet friend. You will learn some basic building blocks to language and it helps parents overcome some communication hurdles with their kiddos. I've really enjoyed the class. Click here for more information:  Small Wins with Toddlers This is an affiliate link meaning I receive a small commission from any sale. But I have been through the class and recommend it to my listeners! Dealing With Sin in our Children - The Means (i.e. Methods) We need biblical approaches to accomplish biblical goals. What’s our biblical goal? That our children might know the living God, repent of their sins and walk in obedience to His ways. Psalm 78:5-7 "He established a testimony in Jacob and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers to teach to their children, that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, and arise and tell them to their children, so that they should set their hope in God and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments" MEANS NO. 1 The first means God gives us to deal with sin in our children is by giving us Authority as parents - honor your father and your mother - Exodus 20:12, Deut 5:16, Ephesians 6:1-3 Parents maintain their authority over their children by - first fearing God - showing that there is a higher Authority than themselves. - repenting and being humble when we sin - We need to not be lazy or complacent and diligently lead our children in instruction of God’s Word, but also in correcting them and disciplining them when the sin.  MEANS NO. 2 Another means God gives us in dealing with sin in our children is correction and discipline. Proverbs 13:1 A wise son hears his father's instruction, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke. - when we teach them the law of God and they disobey the law of God our discipline of their choices show them there is a big Authority - the ultimate Authority to whom we are accountable to - in our discipline of their sin we teach them that there are consequences to sin. - Proverbs 29:15, 17 The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother. Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart. MEANS NO. 3 “As parents we need to be giving our children a worldview, an understand of themselves as creatures that’s large enough to support the things we say to them during our times of correction and discipline.”  Tedd Tripp Instructing a Child's Heart -Scripture is our personal history. -Teach Children to develop Godly habits that reflect the truth. - Apply Scripture to everyday life. - Model spiritual vitality for our children. - Grow in to a mature relationship with our children. We have a big task but it is God that works in us to will and to act according to His good purpose. Recommended Resources I am so excited to share with you these resources. Amazon links are affiliate links and provide a small kick back to me at no cost to you if you click on the link or purchase through the link. Truth in Love Podcast Episode: When You Can't Spank Your Kids Shepherding a Child's Heart By Tedd Tripp Under Loving Command (24 pages, 1 copy), 8.5cm x 21cm [3.5" x 8.5"] By Pat and Al Fabrizio Dealing with Sin in Our Children By Arthur Hildersham Instructing a Child's Heart By Tedd Tripp, Margy Tripp Family Worship Bible Guide By Joel R Beeke Ph.D. The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name By Sally Lloyd-Jones

It’s not secret our children sin. But how do we respond to their sinful nature as their mothers? How do we not grow wearing in their instruction? Today is all about three motivations behind why we should desire to help our children in the area of sin. And it’s not so we can finish a whole cup of coffee without a single reheat. This is Part 1 in a two part series. Life Hack For camping, for picnics, for lunches, get rid of those blue-filled-goo-filled frozen things. Buy some water bottles, freeze them, and use them as the ice packs for your coolers. That way you can drink the water as they defrost. Double use! The SHORT Book Arthur Hildersham gave three sermons about dealing with sin in our children and it's all in a little book. It's filled with wisdom and biblical Truth to help us diligently instruct and teach our children and deal with their sin - the very thing that separates them from God! Dealing with Sin in Our Children $4.00 By Arthur Hildersham Our Motivation to Deal with Sin in our Children 1. In regard for our children - We are motivated to deal with their sin out of compassion for their eternal soul and for their joy in the Lord. For their is no one on earth who a child is more connected with, than his or her parents. 2. In regard for ourselves - Our souls should be greatly distressed at the condition of our children’s souls. So it is a comfort and a peace that we share and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and ask Him to open their eyes- to see their nature healed of and saving grace covering their souls. 3. Out of duty to God - We have an authority, one whom we are accountable to. He’s given us quite the trust - precious children. But not only has He given us a trust but a charge concerning our children:   that they are born to us from God and for God therefore God has charged us educate them and bring them up for His glory. Mamas need to be Good Forgivers We have to remember Ephesians 4:32 as much as they do “Be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” We need to be good forgivers and we need to be faithful diligent mothers to keep believing God’s good Truth of this ministry of dealing with sin in our kids. Additional Resources Dr. Joel Beeke has 62 sermons on sermon audio on children - it has something for everyone! Look at these topics: Teaching Your Children How To Read the Bible Training Our Children in Godly Living How to Train Children to Respect their Mother and Father Building Convictions in Your Children Preparing Our Children to Leave Home Listen for free here:  Sermon Audio - Joel Beeke Shepherding a Child's Heart $8.87 By Tedd Tripp Instructing a Child's Heart By Tedd, Margy Tripp

Neutrality is a myth. But the world wants you to believe the lie that there is middle ground, a safe zone, a compromise. Tomato Tomato - But that’s all a lie and today we are going to unravel this myth and talk about three essential things in developing a biblical worldview.     HOSPITALITEA is in the HOUSE She Proves Faithful is excited to offer two organic loose leaf tea blends! These are perfect to brew up for friends that come for a visit, or to give as gifts, or to enjoy as you read the Word of God. As a thank you for listening to the SPF Podcast, I'm offering 10% off with the code SPFPODCAST at check out. Order quick! Inventory is limited :)  Go to sheprovesfaithful.com/shop Stay Well Tea Blend - sheprovesfaithful.com/shop/staywell Neutrality is a Myth There is no one neutral. We know this because Jesus says in Matthew 12:30, "Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.” James 4:4 says, "You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God." There is a for God and against God. There is fearing the Lord and not fearing the Lord. Everyone has a worldview Everyone has a worldview - it’s the lens through which we interpret and understand the world and our lives; it’s the reason behind what we do; it’s our belief system that is they why behind our what. Our worldview is either biblical or worldly. The Worldly Worldview rooted in Secular humanism: secular humanism is by definition "an outlook or system of thought attaching prime importance to human rather than divine or supernatural matters. Humanist beliefs stress the potential value and goodness of human beings, emphasize common human needs, and seek solely rational ways of solving human problems." (merrium webster dictionary) Secular Humanism seen in the Bible - Romans 1:18-32 We need to heed Colossians 2:6-8: "Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits[a] of the world, and not according to Christ. We are either rooted in Christ or rooted in empty deceit and human tradition." Three Essential Truths to Develop a Biblical Worldview It starts with knowing God. God is Creator - Genesis 1,2, Isaiah 40, Romans 1 God is Most High - Romans 11 God is the Divine Providence - Eccl 3:14 Write those three beliefs out - teach them to yourself - and to your children. Find verses that correspond with them. They are foundational to our worldview. From those truths found in scripture will begin to flow the reason for the life we live and have implications on ETERNITY. Voddie Baucham said in regards to worldview: "Scripture overrides and over arches everything unless we are actively intent on conforming our worldview to Scripture, what happens is we allow scripture to be conformed by our worldview. and we re-read things and try to make them fit instead of asking ourselves “why am I committed to this position in the first place? what is it that’s making me committed to this position in the first place?” Recommended Resources   Total Truth - Nancy Pearcy An incredible tool in understanding and developing the Biblical Worldview. Total Truth (Study Guide Edition): Liberating Christianity from Its Cultural Captivity $12.57 By Nancy Pearcey   Voddie Bauchum Sermons on Worldview: Sermon Audio Biblical Worldview Sermon Audio The God Who Created Everything The Gospel Centered Life - Thune / Walker This is my favorite study to help develop our foundational beliefs about sin, repentance, Jesus and purpose. I love it. The Gospel-Centered Life: Study Guide with Leader's Notes $13.12 By Robert H. Thune, Will Walker      

There is a necessary faithfulness to motherhood, to marriage, to our places of ministry, that will endure the grit of every day. It shows our allegiance, our steadfastness to the Glory of God. Today we are talking about some hallmarks of faithfulness and how they impact our daily roles and responsibilities. Life Hack - S'mores 2.0 There is no dessert more summery than a campfire s'more. But the hard brick of hershey's chocolate - no bueno. Try this little summer trick - replace the cold hard chocolate witha spreadable chocolate like Nutella or Trader Joe's Cookie and Cocoa Spread. Amazing. Favorites Here are my two favorites right now - these are probably a little cheaper in store, but if you can't get them in your area, try through Amazon and if you have Prime, it's free two day shipping ;) Trader Joes Speculoos Cookie & Cocoa Swirl - Pack of 2 $10.49 Trader Joe's Nutella Chocolate Hazelnut Spread 35.3oz Jar $14.99 Nutella Three Hallmarks of Biblical Faithfulness  "There is a necessary faithfulness to motherhood, to marriage, to our places of ministry, that will endure the grit of every day. It shows our allegiance, our steadfastness to the Glory of God.” - Lauren Hlushak There are the highs and lows of life, but inbetween there is there every day grit. Where you just have to get ‘er done. Where there are little joys and little set backs, where there has to be dinner, encouragements, little lessons of hope and truth, and a whole lot of grace and repentance. The grit can wear us out. It’s like sand in the shoe - it can be really irritating after awhile unless we understand that that faithfulness is an unrelenting drive to glorify God.  1. Believe what the Bible says about God - His existence, His character, His work. 2. Endurance in the Truth rather than the fleetingness of feelings. 3. Live by faith and not by sight. Our Hope in Faithfulness God is faithful 2 Timothy 2:13 “if we are faithless, he is faithful for he cannot deny himself.” Faithfulness is a fruit of the Spirit so we can grow in it! Galatians 5:22 Favorite Resources Try Amazon Prime (free 2 day shipping on millions of products) for only $3 for 30 days! The Confessions of St. Augustine $5.00 By Saint Augustine Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History $18.00 By Richard M. Hannula

I little life update, and a marker of grace. I’m sharing with all my SPF friends and listeners four gifts of grace during a time of grief in miscarriage. Four Graces of Comfort “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” — Hebrews 4:16 Grace No. 1: The Living and Active Word of God God's Word points to His plan and purpose of His Glory and what He has done for us! Read: Psalm 103 Grace No. 2: Perspective and Thanksgiving God gives us perspective in times of grief. Read: Colossians 3:15-17 Grace No. 3: Community God uses the Body of Christ to provide comfort. Read: 2 Corinthians 1 Grace No. 4: Sovereign Joy in Sovereign Pain God uses sovereign pain in our lives to advance the Gospel and that is a joyful thing. Read: Philippians 1 “If you love God for what He gives you, you’ll hate God for what He takes away” — Benham Brothers Resources Advancing and Thriving sermon from New City Church, Denver Benham Brothers

God is a Sovereign God who has graciously given us clear and good instructions for our living. The book of Ezra demonstrates these two Truths so well, I just had to share some history and some encouragement to hide in our hearts. The days are long but the years are short. Let us not drift away. Life Hack: Try Amazon Prime free for 30 days Try Amazon Prime free for 30 days I love the two day free shipping! Easy returns too and a great selection of movies and TV shows that are included in the membership. Annual membership is $99 *This is an affiliate link Or GIFT Amazon Prime to someone! Maybe a great gift idea for Father's day! Annual membership is $99 *This is an affiliate link Three Lessons From Ezra 1. God makes things happen according to His Will The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will. Proverbs 21:1 2. The enemies of God are enemies of God and will be our enemies too Romans 5:10 - we are enemies of God before Christ 1 Corinthians 15 - God is putting all enemies under the feet of Christ John 15:18-25 - If you are of the world, the world will love you 1 Peter 2:18 - endure when we suffer for God 1 corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 1 Peter 5:9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 3. God’s Word shows us our sin and sin must be called sin for forgiveness to be known Ezra 10:10 "break faith" is what sin is - not believing who God is and entrusting ourselves to the world instead. We need to come before God with humble hearts. What’s the worldly call in your life? What’s calling out to you? Join She Proves Faithful in the Word FREE: sheprovesfaithful.com/bible Books for your Consideration The Gospel Centered Life This is my favorite Bible Study to do with new and mature believers. IT IS SO GOOD. Seriously. I'm doing it for a third time. Try it! (*affiliate link) The Gospel-Centered Life: Study Guide with Leader's Notes $12.25 By Robert H. Thune, Will Walker Heralds of the Reformation If you liked the book Radiant - you'll love this book! Rich church history of the saints who persevered in the midst of persecution to see the Word of God and the grace of God reach people. (*affiliate link) Heralds of the Reformation: Thirty Biographies of Sheer Grace $15.00 By Richard M. Hannula        

Joy is an uncontrolled hope in the God who Is. Joy delights in God and His ways, and can be present no matter the circumstances. This sounds very appealing, but how do we cultivate this heart of joy? Today we are talking about joy, the struggles, and a few examples that will help us understand it all a little better.  Life Hack Get Hoopla!  Check out this free library app for your phone and tablet. Check out ebooks, audio books, and movies! Check out this episode where I talk with Emily about how the Word of God has blessed me in many practical ways throughout my life. Joy of the Lord The joy of the Lord begins with abiding in Christ - John 15 Joy is a fruit of the Spirit - Galatians 5:22 What Do Joyful People Do? Joyful people share the Gospel - Matthew 28 Joyful people have fellowship with others - 1 John 1:7 Joyful people delight in what God delights in - Psalm 103 Joyful people are thankful - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Joyful people serve - Romans 12 Joyful people worship and sing to the Lord - Colossians 3 The Struggles and Solutions There are struggles that can steal our joy but the Bible gives solutions: Complacency / Repentance Romans 3:1-3 Fear of Man / Fear of God 2 Samuel 6, Psalm 112:1 Pain (emotional and physical) / eternal perspective Luke 22, Hebrews 12:1-2 Anger and Bitterness / Repentance Psalm 37:8 Bible Examples and Personal Study Read John 4 and Philippians 4 at these two examples of contentment and joy. What is the source of joy? What are some of your struggles with joy? What is the biblical solution? Resources What is Biblical Counseling - Interview with Isabella - Episode 33 The Woman Who Fears the Lord - Episode 41 Sign up for the FREE SPF Bible Reading Plan: Sheprovesfaithful.com/bible Counseling the Hard Cases A great book to give us wisdom as we make disciples and come across hard issues. Counseling the Hard Cases B&H Academic Virtuous A great little read on virtues of Christian women. Virtuous: A Study for Ladies of Every Age $8.29 By Nancy Wilson        

Proverbs 31:30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. Today we are talking about the fear of the Lord, what it produces in our lives and be spurred on and encouraged by some stories of women who feared the Lord and thus were a great influence in the advancement of Christianity.  What is the Fear of the Lord? Knowing the holiness, awesomeness, supremity of God and responding with reverent fear of who He is and who we are. God is the uncaused cause God has always existed God created everything that ever was or is or will bee God has supreme power and authority - including over our bodies AND our souls Isaiah was full of dread in the presence of the Holy God Job put his hands over his mouth after questioning God and realizing Job was made from dust Perfect love casts out fear because fear has to do with punishment. We don't have to fear eternal punishment if Jesus has forgiven our sins Scriptures to read: Isaiah 6:1-6 Job 38-42 1 John 4 Hebrews 2:1-4 Check out the Salt and Light Podcast Episode on the Fear of the Lord: Episode 31 Salt and Light Good Fruits that come from the Fear of the Lord The fear of the Lord produces a God-centered Worldview Colossians 1:16, Acts 17:24-27 The fear of the Lord produces an awareness of sin 2 Corinthians 7:1 The fear of the Lord produces wisdom Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the Lord fuels our evangelism 1 Corinthians 5:11 The fear of the Lord frees us from the fear of man Proverbs 29:25, Psalm 56:11 Women in History who Feared the Lord On this podcast episode I read portions from two chapters out of the book "Radiant - 50 Remarkable Women in Church History" by Richard Hannula Please grab a copy and be encouraged and spurred on by these women who loved the Lord and feared Him alone. Stories we discussed: Perpetua - Early Church / 181-203 / martyred for her faith in Christ Margaret Nisbet - Reformation / 1635-1683 / persecuted for her faith and exiled Buy the book here: This is an affiliate link which means I make a small portion to help keep the SPF Podcast going at no additional cost to you. Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History $18.00 By Richard M. Hannula      

The mother’s calling. The Bible not only tells us of the blessedness of mothering but also gives some clear instructions on how to do it. Today we are going to look at the big picture of motherhood that will help us run this mothering race with perseverance and look at 3  instructions for mother’s in the Word of God. Big Picture Scriptures for Mothering Psalm 127 Psalm 128 Proverbs 31:10-31 Proverbs 14:1 "The wisest of women builds her house, but folly with her own hands tears it down." Proverbs 14:1 Three Biblical Instructions for Mothers Be learners and doers of the Word - Titus 2:3-5, Isaiah 50:4 Instruct our children in the ways of the Lord - Ephesians 6:4, Deuteronomy 6:4-11 Discipline our children to teach about the gospel, authority, and for your children to grow wise - Hebrews 12:5-7, Proverbs 29:15 Who can mother? The vision of motherhood is greater than our own children. The essence of motherhood is about revealing God to the world - as all things are. The world is waiting to know the caring heart of God. "Every woman can blossom as a mother, wither she gives birth to her own children or not. All she needs to do is allow the nursing instinct that God has put within her by divine creation to flow from her life.” - Nancy Campbell The Power of Motherhood Examples of mothering others: 1 Timothy 5:10 Proverbs 31 Romans 16:13 For God and Through His Grace There is no perfect mother. We mother for the glory of God and through His grace. There is forgiveness when we fall short and grace when it's difficult, and joy when we rely on God. Mothering is a sanctifying work completed with diligence through the power of Christ. Recommended Resources There are so many resources I talked about on the show today! Amazon links are affiliate links meaning I receive a small commission if you purchase through my link. It does not cost more for you and I only recommend products I truly love.   Praise Her in the Gates - Nancy Wilson A very practical read through biblical motherhood. Sick days, holidays, education - she covers it all. Some of the content may challenge our worldview, but I encourage you to use is as an opportunity to study God's Word on the topics! Praise Her in the Gates: The Calling of Christian Motherhood $10.71 By Nancy Wilson Shepherding a Child's Heart - Tedd Tripp This book laid foundational biblical principles about discipline for me and my husband. I was challenged and humbled by my view of what discipline is and why it matters. I learned how to share the Gospel with my children through this book. Shepherding a Child's Heart $8.87 By Tedd Tripp Radiant - 50 Remarkable Women in Church History - Richard Hannula This has got to be one of my favorite, most compelling books I own. I am shocked and humbled by the faith of these women and how God used them to advance His Kingdom. We are truly living in blessed times because of the faith and perseverance of the ladies. I will be doing a podcast in the future about some of these women. Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History $18.00 By Richard M. Hannula   Instructing a Child's Heart - Tedd and Margy Tripp This book is so practical in how to instruct our children in the ways of the Lord. Tedd and Margy give great examples and remind us of the foundational truths of why we do what we do as God-fearing parents. Instructing a Child's Heart $11.47 By Tedd Tripp, Margy Tripp The Power of Motherhood - Nancy Campbell This is an intensive workbook that takes you through Scriptures about all areas of motherhood and femininity, including things like birth control and pregnancy. I have not yet worked through the entire workbook and so I cautiously leave this link here - but wanted to share it because I referenced it in today's show. I caution you to take things you have questions about to the Word of God and to your husband and to your pastor. If anything this is an excellent book to help us look through all areas of womanhood and discover God's purpose, desires, and plans. The Power of Motherhood: What the Bible Says About Mothers By Nancy Campbell iTunes University - Free listen to the book being taught by Tedd Tripp https://itunes.apple.com/us/itunes-u/shepherding-a-childs-heart/id550437815?mt=10

The Bible - there is not a book like it - but how do we become women who, as 2 Timothy 2:15 says, “rightly handles the word of Truth.” How do we read the Bible, interpret the Bible, understand the Bible - are you dizzy with excitement yet? Today is a dose of practical Truth on how to study the Bible.  Listen on iTunes or leave a review: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 Sola Scriptura The scriptures alone are the authority of life, inerrant, infallible authoritative. Scripture is infallible, inerrant, and authoritative because it is the Words of God: Take a look at these verses: 1 Corinthians 2:13 13 And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual. 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God[a] may be complete, equipped for every good work. 1 Peter 1:20-21 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— If God's Word is Authoritative - What does this mean for us? Know the overarching story of Scripture Know how to respond to Scripture Know how to test what is taught Know how to answer the question of the day Learn more about Sola Scriptura: New City Denver sermon How to Correctly Handle the Word of Truth Scripture is about know God Scripture is complete and completely useful: Hebrews 1:1-2, 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Exegesis vs eisegesis (see gotquestions.org information) Read for objective reality Learn to ask good questions Obey what the Bible says (John 15) Recommended Resources John Piper article: how to read the Bible for yourself Three Tips for better Bible Reading - Desiring God the Five Solas SPF Podcast: sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode17   Knowing Scripture $13.60 By R. C. Sproul ESV Large Print Value Thinline Bible (TruTone, Tan, Ornament Design) $13.72 By ESV Bibles by Crossway   Reformation Study Bible (2015) ESV, Crimson Hardcover $41.76 By Reformation Trust Publishing    

Giving thanks to God might roll of the tongue when the heart is joyful - like   when He answers those long awaited prayers with a yes, or when your kids play together without fights or fits, or when those shoes are on super final clearance and they are your size. But what about on the days when God says no, or your kids are a hot mess, or you can’t find two matching shoes anywhere in your house? How do we cultivate a thankful heart at all times and how do we teach our children? Today is packed with Scripture and four ways to cultivate a thankful heart. SUBSCRIBE ON iTUNES or leave a rating and review and help other women find gospel-centered Truth!  Find SPF on iTUNES here. Wisdom says: Be Thankful! Ephesians 5:15-20 - Ways to walk in wisdom includes being thankful mentioned three times in this passage: Understand what the Lord's will is - to give thanks 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 1 Peter 2:9 Make melody in our hearts to God - rejoice because God is good James 1:17 We give thanks always and for everything - it's a sign of our faith Hebrews 13:15 Why can we Continually Praise God? "We have all His wondrous works to praise Him for and that will give us plenty of material to fill our hearts with thanksgiving." - Nancy Wilson, Virtuous "The believer who is in a spiritually healthy state rejoices mainly in God himself; he is happy because there is a God, and because God is in his person and character what he is. All the attributes of God become well-springs of joy to the thoughtful, contemplative believer; for such a man says within his soul, "All these attributes of my God are mine: his power, my protection; his wisdom, my guidance; his faithfulness, my foundation; his grace, my salvation." He is a God who cannot lie, faithful and true to his promise; he is all love, and at the same time infinitely just, supremely holy. Why, the contemplation of God to one who knows that this God is his God for ever and ever, is enough to make the eyes overflow with tears, because of the deep, mysterious, unutterable bliss which fills the heart." - Charles Spurgeon Check Out Charles Spurgeon's sermon on Joy HERE Fruits of a Thankful Heart Cheerfulness Proverbs 15:13 Eternal Perspective Hebrews 13:14-15 Peace Philippians 4:6-7 God Centered Living Psalm 100:2 Isaiah 66:5 Four Ways to Cultivate a Thankful Heart Model thankfulness to your children and friends Praise God for answered prayers kd Serve Check out these resources from this Episode Seeds Family Worship Great way to hide God's Word in your kid's hearts (and yours!). They are currently having a sale 30% and free shipping on all DVD's and videos using code SEEDSVIDEO (not sure when sale ends) Or you can use code sheprovesfaithful for 15% of their other seeds products anytime. Virtuous - Nancy Wilson This is a great little devotional book for ladies. The short chapters cover christian virtues and are succinct and challenging. A great little bed time book to help us focus on God before we shut our eyes. I read parts from the chapter on Gratitude in this episode. *This is an affiliate link, meaning a get a very small percentage if you choose to purchase this book through my link. Thank you! Virtuous: A Study for Ladies of Every Age $12.00 By Nancy Wilson

Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. That’s what Psalm 37:4 instructs us. What are our REAL heart desires? To be understood? To live pain free? To be in control? How can we tell if they are good or not so good? Today we are discussing how our desires can get muddled and can turn into idols - and how that affects our daily living including living out the greatest command to love God with all our heart mind soul and strength. Plus get four tips on cultivating a heart for God’s Glory. Today's Resources: Free Bible Reading Plan each month: sign up free at sheprovesfaithful.com/bible Whole Magazine Recommended Resources: List of Blogs, Podcasts, Apps Martha Peace - The Excellent Wife - see Amazon Link at bottom of page Desires, Idols, False Saviors Martha Peace said, “An idol can be anything. It may even be a good thing. But if we want it so badly that we sin if we don’t get it or sin to attain it, then we are worshiping an idol rather than Christ.” This is a game changing sentence. A life changing sentence. This is saying that there are times when we want something so bad, even good things, like affection and understanding from our husbands, and when we don’t get it = we either sin because we don’t get it (like yell or become cold and unloving) or we sin to get it (manipulate, shame, etc).  The greatest command in Scripture is to love the lord you God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength and the second is like it love your neighbor as yourself. Our number one desire should be to love God with all we have. That means that even when our feelings are hurt, our needs go unmet, or we aren’t being cherished or appreciate as wives, we still are called to love God.  That means live for His glory and say no to sin. A Desire to Glorify God Instead of setting our heart’s desires on a certain feeling, or action from our husbands, we need to ask God to give us a desire like the psalmist in Psalm 119.  Over and over he writes about desiring God and His commands - Here are a few: how blessed are those who seek Him with all their hearts vs 2 with all my heart I have sought thee vs 10 I shall delight in your statues vs 16 My should is crushed with longing after your ordinances at all times vs 20 Your testimonies are also my delight, they are my counselors.24 Make me walk in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it. vs 35 Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to dishonest gain vs 36 Behold I long for your precepts, revive me through your righteousness.  A hearts desire like in Psam 119 is a gift of grace from God to the believer. God will change our desires as we delight in Him. What is really important to you? Getting your way? Being understood? Is it worth sinning to get it? or do you believe God will care for you and honor you and bless you if you seek Him instead. What you have your heart set on will make all the difference in the world in your fulfillment and your joy. Ask God to give you new desires, then proceed to seek after God with the same passion and energy you are currently expending on idolatrous desires. Four Ways to Set Our Hearts on God's Glory Delight in the works of God Build contentment through thanksgiving Pray and ask God to give us new motives Invest more time in Scripture The Excellent Wife - Martha Peace The topic from today's show was inspired by chapter 7: Christ - The Wife's Heart. I highly recommend this book, though it is challenging to the heart. *This is an affiliate link. The Excellent Wife: A Biblical Perspective $9.70 By Martha Peace

When there is sin, relationships hurt, fellowship breaks, days are long and grinding. What is the God given solution to sin? Repentance - and repentance is more than saying "sorry" today we are taking about repentance and what it looks like in our everyday living, plus five ways to live a more fruitful life.  Subscribe on iTunes or leave a rating and review: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 Wedding Pic! Andy shaved his beard for our wedding - so people think that I have these random wedding pictures up on our fridge! Seeds Family Worship - Free Album and 15% off Get Seeds of Courage for free by April 8th. It's a free digital download because the kind folks at Seeds want to bless us with the Word of God in music. Get your free album here by April 8th 2017: Seeds of Courage If it's after April 8th, use code sheprovesfaithful for 15% off your purchase. Follow them on instagram and facebook! Repentance Repentance literally means to change your mind, to reverse. When we repent we acknowledge our sin before a Holy God. Sin does not honor or glorify God, so turn from walking in sin, so I can receive mercy and grace for my sin and walk in a way the glorifies God. When we don't repent, we may be minimizing sin. Here are a few ways: defending faking hiding exaggerating blaming downplaying Bear Fruit in Keeping with Repentance The fruit of repentance is holiness - an abundant life in Christ. Scriptures referenced today: Matthew 3:7-10 Bear fruit in keeping with repentance Psalm 51 - a demonstration of a repentant heart Five ways to keep repentance and live a flourishing life: Counteract our sinful tendency to shrink the gospel by constantly pursuing biblical truth (reading and hearing the Word of God) Develop a bigger view of God’s holiness - by knowing him - try reading Job 38-42 Develop a biblical view of sin - like David did in psalm 51 Recognize when you are minimizing your sin and repent ;) Repent - just do it! My Favorite Bible Study: The Gospel Centered Life This is by far my most favorite Bible Study. Perfect for every adult no matter where they are in their journey with the Lord. *This is an amazon affiliate link, meaning I get a very small commission if you click this link or buy this book through this link. It doesn't impact the price at all. The Gospel-Centered Life: Study Guide with Leader's Notes $12.85 By Robert H. Thune, Will Walker

Is Jesus my home boy? My boyfriend? I mean what about at the very least, My sugar daddy? Our culture tosses around some characteristics of Jesus that sound hip, or cool, or go down smooth to the listen, but are they true? If not, are there dangers in believing things that Jesus isn’t? Today we are discussing five things Jesus is AND isn’t. Let us build up our faith by knowing the true characteristics of God! TShirt Theology - 5 Things Jesus Isn't - and IS Jesus is my boyfriend : Jesus is the Husband to the Church Jesus is my cheerleader : Jesus receives our praise because He is God Jesus is my fairy god-mother : Jesus is Sovereign - our Authority Jesus is my fire insurance : Jesus is our Grace, which allows us to obey Him Jesus is my homeboy: Jesus is our Lord We need to learn to recognize when our catchy, trendy phrases do not accurately describe or represent our Lord and Savior. Otherwise, our minds can start to believe what is untrue about God, but also we represent false things about our Lord to the world. Learn to be good stewards of the Gospel by rightly understanding trending phrases or ideologies about God. Learn about the Lordship of Jesus Christ! A great resource to gain discernment and understanding is to look at the Lordship of Jesus Christ in the believer's life. She Proves Faithful has three mini studies on the Lordship of Christ in the shop. This digital download is a fantastic resource for personal growth or to lead other women through. Discipleship Plans: Lordship 5.00 Digital File - PDF Get instant access to three discipleship plans on the topic of Lordship: Plan 1: What is Lordship Plan 2: Repentance and Belief Plan 3: A Yielded Heart These three mini bible studies are an excellent resource for one on one and group discipleship. Encourage other women to know Jesus through discussion questions and topical Scriptures. Or use them for personal study to learn more about Lordship. Access these on you iPad, smart phone, or computer - instantly! Add To Cart More Great Resources Here are a few more of my favorite resources for growing in Christ. Amazon links are affiliate links and I receive a very small kick back if you click through and purchase using my link. The money earned from Amazon purchases keeps the SPF Podcast going. I only recommend products I love or my husband, a pastor, has highly recommended.   The Gospel-Centered Life I'm about to go through this study for a third time with a friend. I love it so much I'd do it just for me. This study has basic principles that are critical for Christians to grasp when understanding the Gospel and new life in Christ. It is not baby food though. It takes the Gospel to the root of everything go on in your life. Boom. The Gospel-Centered Life: Study Guide with Leader's Notes $12.78 By Robert H. Thune, Will Walker   SPF Discipleship Plans: Identity This is another digital group of mini bible studies perfect for discovering who we are in Christ. This helps you walk another friend through the Bible and gives great discussion starters and scriptures to read through. Discipleship Plans: Identity 7.00 Digital File - PDF Get instant access to three discipleship plans on the topic of Identity in Christ: Plan 1:  What is Identity Plan 2:  Jesus is Our Representative Plan 3:  The Old Self and The New Self Plan 4:  In Christ Plan 5:  Living Out Our Identity These five mini bible studies are an excellent resource for one on one and group discipleship. Encourage other women to know Jesus through discussion questions and topical Scriptures. Or use them for personal study to learn more about identity in Christ. Access these on you iPad, smart phone, or computer - instantly! Add To Cart    

How do we find balance between doing and being? Whether type A or type B or type anything in-between Balance is difficult for any woman, But at the heart level God has some very clear instructions for us about our identity and living. We are diving in to indicatives and imperatives that help us live the abundant life in Christ.   How do we live a balanced life between being and doing? Is there such thing as balance? Like I said, I swing from being the most meal planned, scheduled mom one week to having no  bras to wear are the next because I haven’t switched over my laundry load in a week. Maybe i should have penciled in ‘put clothes in dryer’ on the schedule and made it happen. But really I began to think - this is all way more about the issues of the heart than a color coded planner or a laid back go with the flow mentality. Indicatives and Imperatives Indicative  - an indication of something - it’s a statement of a fact - for example who we are in Christ Imperative  - of vital importance - a command- how we should act as a result Both are of equal importance - it’s vital we know who we are in Christ and it’s vital that we obey Him and walk in His ways. But there is an important order. We must first know who we are in Christ and out of that is an overflow of obedience.  Ephesians is a great example of this who we are and then how we should act business - Chapters 1-3 are saturated with gospel indicatives and Chapters 4-6 are filled with Gospel imperatives. The first 3 chapters Paul gives us a robust understanding of what it means to be a child of God - our identity that is found in Christ. The last three chapters are all about living out of who we are in Christ - walking in a manner worthy of our calling. Bible Study Tool Make a T chart and write on the left side "indicatives" and on the right side "Imperatives." Read Ephesians chapters 1-3 and write out indicatives you see of you who you are in Christ. Then read Ephesians chapters 4-6 and write out imperatives you see of how then we should live. See me talk about this bible study tool on FACEBOOK   Recommended Resources This is a great resource that walks through really difficult counseling situations but uses the Word of God to provide counsel. I learned more about indicatives and imperatives through this book and the chapter on Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. This is an affiliate link. Counseling the Hard Cases: True Stories Illustrating the Sufficiency of God's Resources in Scripture $15.58 B&H Academic This is my favorite Bible Study of all time. This study has helped me develop right thinking of who I am in Christ and living out of our new selves for the glory of God by the power of Christ. This is an affiliate link. The Gospel-Centered Life: Study Guide with Leader's Notes $12.76 By Robert H. Thune, Will Walker Spring Special: Order before March 27 to receive 20% off the following titles and our floral greeting cards! Use coupon code FLOWERS pic.twitter.com/BFI0luB3iS — Canon Press (@canonpress) March 21, 2017

Biblical counseling is one way to share the lasting hope of Jesus Christ with others. But what is biblical counseling? And what does it have to do with us? Today you’ll hear from my dear friend Isabella about the Gospel, grace, and all about this ministry of biblical counseling. What is Biblical Counseling? Biblical counseling is a deep discipleship that brings love and Truth together. We care for our sisters in Christ by listening and bearing one another's burdens, but also by bringing the Word of God into the situation. God's Word is the True and Perfect counsel for our lives. What happens when we exchange God's counsel for a lie? Romans 1:24-25 our foolish hearts become darkened Anyone can do biblical counseling - in fact, we are all called to disciple others by teaching the commands of God (Matthew 28:18-20). But it's a sacrifice and an act of obedience and worship to God. Biblical counseling starts with us being transformed by God's Word and encouraging others with the Truth, learning to apply it to their specific situation. Keys to Biblical Counseling:  Understand our own need for grace and the process of sanctification  Grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ (through the study of the Word)  Engage with the women around you by asking good questions and listening  Learn to apply the Word to life Recommended Resources for Biblical Counseling *amazon links are affiliate links - I make a very small commission if you purchase through these links Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands: People in Need of Change Helping People in Need of Change (Resources for Changing Lives) $12.81 By Paul David Tripp Counseling: How to Counsel Biblically (MacArthur Pastor's Library) $21.90 By John F. MacArthur, Wayne A. Mack, Master's College Faculty A Theology of Biblical Counseling: The Doctrinal Foundations of Counseling Ministry $16.31 By Heath Lambert

Do not be anxious about anything. Anything? Well, what do we do when we are anxious about something? Or fearful or worried for full of dread? Today we are looking at 3 anxiety relievers that God gives us when we get the sweats and the heart palpitations. This is part 2 of a two part series.  You can listen to Part 1 about anxiety on episode 31 sheprovesfaithful.com/podcast/episode31 Just Plant - We Can't Control the Outcome Check out this two minute video about just planting - just start - don't let fear take you down. What's fears are keep you from just trying? Three Anxiety Relievers God provides us with some pretty great anxiety relievers in His Word. When we know what these anxiety relievers are, we are able to put our trust in them and let our feelings follow - even if it takes a little bit of time. Anxiety Reliever #1: God’s Sovereignty Sovereignty means supreme ruler, ultimate authority - God is the ultimate authority. Psalm 115:3 says, “Our God is in the heavens, he does all that he pleases.” Lamentations 3;37 says, “Who has spoken and it came to pass, unless the Lord commanded it?” Proverbs 19:21 says, “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it si the purpose of the Lord that will stand.” God’s Sovereignty is an anxiety reliever for two reasons: God’s Sovereignty means He is in control God’s Sovereignty  means He is able to do what He promises. And that’s a big comfort when we consider the mercies and grace we need in light of our sinful condition.  Anxiety Reliever #2: God's Word God’s Word teaches us how to live the abundant life in Christ and that includes how to not be anxious. Because when we are anxious we are being idolators and that is not the abundant life. God’s Word is an anxiety reliever because it gives us a firm foundation to stand.  John 8:31-32 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples,  and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” We need to stop asking ourselves WHAT IF and start asking our selves WHAT IS. Anxiety Reliever #3: Eternal Focus 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 "So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.  For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal." When things are troubling to us in this present moment, when we fret or have dread or fear, it is critical to remember eternity. that our troubles are light and momentary compared with eternal glory! that inwardly we are being renewed and growing! that the temporary things are transient - not forever the things that are unseen are eternal - forever Recommended Resources Anchored Bible Study - free shipping with code DENVER Anchored: 7 Anxiety Relievers to Build Authentic Faith 12.00 Do you struggle with some sort of anxiety? Are you worried about something? Or overwhelmed by fear?  God did not create us to be anxious, but to flourish! DOLLAR SHIPPING for 1 - 2 books! For local (Denver) delivery OR if you want to order 10 or more studies - email lauren at sheprovesfaithful.com for information on discounts. Quantity: Add to Cart Amazon links are affiliate links - no extra cost to you - I just get a very small commission if you make a purchase through my link. Chosen by God $9.59 By R. C. Sproul Trusting God: Even When Life Hurts $12.54 By Jerry Bridges  

There’s a verse in the Bible that says “do not be anxious about anything.” um, excuse me, have you ever lived in my shoes? Sometimes we think our anxieties about life are just a byproduct of living, sometimes we deal with them or cover them up, but somedays they ultimately defeat us. Today we are looking at what the Bible says about anxiety and uncover the root of why our hearts are really anxious. This is part 1 of a two part series.  Biblical Worship Music for Your Kids! Seeds Family Worship has incredible resources to help your family (or church or youth group) learn the Word of God through song. Check out some of their incredible resources by visiting www.seedsfamilyworship.com and get 15% off any purchase by using the code sheprovesfaithful Here are some of my favorites: Seeds of Courage CD or Digital MP3 album Seeds of Courage DVD - videos to help learn the Words of God Lullaby's and Scriptures Songs for your little lambs Seeds of Easter CD and DVD Combo pack - get ready for Easter! Anxiety - A Faith Misplaced Psalm 34:4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Anxiety is often diagnosed as a thinking problem. If we just changed our thought patterns then we could manage our anxieties - as if the problem is rooted in manifesting positivity.  But From a biblical worldview anxiety is a faith issue. It’s rooted in our belief system. We are anxious when we put our faith in something other than God. When we put our trust in other things, anxiety will fill our hearts.  We need faith in a right view of God and His promises - not just in what we think about God.  Wendy Alsup in her book “Practical Theology for Women” says, “many of us come to God with unbiblical notions of who He is and what He does. We’ve let our culture and upbringing, rather than the Bible itself, determine the character traits we attribute to God." Authentic faith comes from an understanding of God’s true nature and promises found in Scripture alone. Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Hope in Repentance and Belief The hope in being honest about a lack of faith is that we can repent of that sin and turn back to God and His Truth. When we repent for not trusting God, God forgives us and restores us and blesses us.  Psalm 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise. Part 2 Anxiety Relievers - Episode 32 Coming Soon Anchored: 7 Anxiety Relievers to Build Authentic Faith Bible Study Check out Shannon's IG stories as she goes through the Anchored study Order yours with free shipping with code DENVER at checkout Anchored: 7 Anxiety Relievers to Build Authentic Faith 12.00 Do you struggle with some sort of anxiety? Are you worried about something? Or overwhelmed by fear?  God did not create us to be anxious, but to flourish! DOLLAR SHIPPING for 1 - 2 books! For local (Denver) delivery OR if you want to order 10 or more studies - email lauren at sheprovesfaithful.com for information on discounts. Quantity: Add to Cart    

What does a hopeful woman look like? Is hope all up to us? What is this hope stuff anyway and how do I hope when things just hurt? We are answering those questions and more on today’s episode about the woman who hopes. Find She Proves Faithful on iTunes and Google Play and Stitcher! (sometimes there is a delay after clicking play if you are listening via website) Join the conversation on Facebook! Yes! Life hacks, biblical Truth, and helpful resources all to help you live gospel-centered lives! Like She Proves Faithful on Facebook and follow along to use Facebook as a tool to grow! www.facebook.com/sheprovesfaithful Who is the Woman Who Can Hope? First - the woman who doesn't hope is heart sick - Proverbs 13:12 "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life." Second - the woman who does hope puts her expectation in her righteousness found in Christ alone and looks to eternal glory. - Proverbs 10:28 "The hope of the righteous brings joy, but the expectation of the wicked will perish." Three Attributes in Proverbs of a Woman who Hopes A woman who hopes turns from sin - Proverbs 19:18 A woman who hopes fears the Lord - Proverbs 23:17-18 A woman who hopes is humble - Proverbs 26:12 Is Hope up to Me? Hope will not disappear if we "loose hope!" Hope is firm and secure because of what Christ accomplished on the cross! Hope is not dependent on our performance or optimism. Read Hebrews 6 for this encouragement! Life Hack - Clean Your Shower Curtain Liner! Resources Wisdom and the Optimist Club - New City Church, Denver - Sermon by Pastor Aaron Carlson Anchored: 7 Anxiety Relievers to Build Authentic Faith - Pre-Order and get free shipping!        

Why is church important? Is it even necessary with sermons readily available through the internet. Isn’t church wherever two or three gather together? Church is part of God’s plan of administering grace and bringing Himself glory. Today we are talking about the purpose of church and 4 problems that might keep us from committing. Purposes of Church (boiled down to two, by yours truly) To Glorify God and advance His Kingdom We are not meant to live the Christian life alone Common Problems we have with Church We make church about us (and our preferences) instead of about God We despise authority and we do not believe pastors are shepherds for our souls We have plenty of access to good preaching and spiritual material so we "don't need" church We are a part of the global church so we don't need a local gathering What can we do to grow? Find a church and be the best church members. Explore the scriptures about your role in the body If you don’t have “great” churches, find the one that is the most bible-centered and bet the best church members. Remember it’s not about you. Scriptures to Study about Church Ephesians 2:19-22 Hebrews 13:17 Ephesians 4:11-16 Matthew 5:16  John 13:35 1 Corinthians 12 Ephesians 3:1-10 Life Hack: Homemade Hand Sanitizer - Alcohol Free What you'll need: 2 oz spray bottle like this from Amazon (Affiliate) Nutribiotic Grapefruit Seed Extract (Amazon Affiliate) Lemon Essential Oil (Amazon Affiliate) Water (from your tap) Here's what you do: Drop 15 - 20 drops of Grapefruit Seed Extract in bottle Add 2-3 drops of Lemon Essential Oil Fill up with water and give it a good shake Carry it around with you and spray away after playground and museum trips, before eating snacks, and even spray on grocery carts or restaurant tables (I'm that mom). Nutribiotic Gse Liquid Concentrate, 2 Fluid Ounce $10.87 Nutribiotic Related Podcasts Episode 27: Are God's Words Enough for Life? Episode 17 : The Five Solas of the Reformation Episode 15 : The Gospel and Control Related Resources Voddie Baucham's Talk at the G3 conference in 2017 session 13 called "The Need for Reformation in Evangelical Ecclesiology (you need to download the FREE G3 app to access this talk. There are so many great ones!) Get the app here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/g3-conference/id1192776791?mt=8 Josh Bruice blog post: http://www.deliveredbygrace.com/church-membership-biblical/ *amazon links are affiliate links Members of One Another: How to build a biblical ethos into your church By Dennis McCallum Total Church: A Radical Reshaping around Gospel and Community (Re: Lit Books) $14.36 By Tim Chester, Steve Timmis

Disappointment is the pits. What do we do when we face missed expectations, failed dreams, unmet desires, or when God simply says, “no.” Today we are discussing the hope in disappointment, what disappointment can turn into left unchecked, and 5 ways to help a disappointed heart.  Disappointment is a tool in the hand of the Lord: exposes our sin builds our faith (and blows up the carnal worldview) 5 Things To Help a Disappointed Heart Put your hope in God Believe in God's Plan Give your burdens to the Lord Practice Thanksgiving Repent of Sin and Believe the Nature of God (according to Scripture) Favorite verses to help with Disappointment Psalm 42:11 Isaiah 55:5-9 Psalm 55:22 Psalm 79:13 Psalm 73 Ephesians 1 Ephesians 3 Please Pray Please pray for my friend's Kyle and Katherine and their son. For continued hope, and perseverance and for healing for their son. Recommended Resources: *Amazon links are affiliate links The Gospel-Centered Life: Study Guide with Leader's Notes $12.77 By Robert H. Thune, Will Walker Heaven Misplaced: Christ's Kingdom on Earth $15.00 By Douglas Wilson    

Is the Word of God sufficient? Is it lacking any information or directives we need for this life?  Does God give extra-biblical revelations? We are going to discuss why the Bible is enough for everything there is to do with life and godliness. Plus identify three struggles that sometimes cause us to look to outside sources. The Bible Is Sufficient for Life 2 Timothy 3:14-17 1 Peter 1:3-4 The Bible is useful to instruct us in this life - including the basic fundamental understanding about God, our condition, and our purpose. The Bible teaches us: Who is God? What is man's condition? How does God save man? How should man live? Ephesians 2:1-10 is a great summary of these fundamental instructions. Three Struggles we have with the Sufficiency of Scripture: Discontentment of our life and calling Not understanding our purpose through a lack of knowledge of the Word of God Our hearts are idol factories and we are attracted to worship other things Learn Scripture through Song: Seeds Family Worship We are using this in our home and church to help our kids (and me) hide God's Word in our hearts. Each song teaches word for word Scripture and its fun to sing! In addition to music there are music videos with animation to show the words. It's a great resource. Use this link to get 10% off your purchase: Seeds Family Worship 10% off Join SPF IN THE WORD - Free Bible Reading Plan From the website: "If the Reformation was about a recovery of the gospel, as it was, then it will never be possible for the central issues generated in the Reformation to become dated. As long as sinners need forgiveness, which promises to be a long time, the Reformation will continue to be relevant. Reformation 500 is dedicated to exploring a number of different ways in which this is so." Join the free SPF in the Word Bible Reading Plan by signing up here: sheprovesfaithful.com/bible Tim Challies Blog Tim Challies has an excellent blog that also contains resources and book reviews of popular Christian media. http://www.challies.com/ The Grace Agenda A free reformed conference in Moscow, Idaho. From the website: "If the Reformation was about a recovery of the gospel, as it was, then it will never be possible for the central issues generated in the Reformation to become dated. As long as sinners need forgiveness, which promises to be a long time, the Reformation will continue to be relevant. Reformation 500 is dedicated to exploring a number of different ways in which this is so." http://graceagenda.com/

There are a lot of Christian voices out there dropping books and conferences like toddlers drop food at the dinner table. Some of it seems so good, but sometimes the people that we’ve grown to love or follow go south. Or at least seem to be on a whole new trajectory. How do we become wise women who can identify bad theology? Today Andy Hlushak joins the SPF Podcast to give 8 great filtering questions we can ask to be discerning women. Question and Answer: Which Women Teachers Can We Trust? I recently received a question about how to discern what is good and biblical when looking to purchase Bible studies and books by Christian women. "I know critical thinking is what is truly needed, but what red flags can we look for?" What a great question! So I brought my husband on this episode who gives us 8 things to look for to make us discerning women.  Before the questions - you can always go to your pastors/elders at your church. They should have good recommendations and discernment to help guide you to a study or book. AND - this applies to all bible studies and book authors, not just women - the question received was specifically asking about women teachers.  Which women can we trust? Ask these questions: 1. How do they view Scripture? 2. How do they view the sovereignty of God? 3. What is their reputation? 4. Who are her friends who are her enemies? 5. Is she anthropocentric or theocentric? 6. Is her worldview to change or discover? 7. How do they apply the gospel to all of life? Or are they dualistic, separating faith and life? 8. Where do they fall in history? If you feel overwhelmed: Start with Scripture! You don't need a Bible study to study the Bible! Go old school - check out old Christian authors who have proved faithful and finished well. Puritans like Jonathan Edwards and William Bradford; Charles Spurgeon. Feel freedom to stop a study if you think it's not a biblically sound choice after starting it. Resources Inductive Bible Study Guide - from Andy Hlushak / www.newcitydenver.org Join us for a fun bible reading plan and challenge for the month of February. Free tips and tools and a plan! Click through! www.sheprovesfaithful.com/bible

What if someone asked you, “Why do you believe the Bible is true?” How would you answer? There is more to believing the Bible than our personal experience or blind faith. Today we will help answer the question Why I believe the Bible as we look at 2 Peter 1 and even explore some mathematics.  Subscribe on iTunes or write a Rating and Review https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 The Bible is True, not just because of Personal Experience After attending Voddie Baucham's workshop, "Why I Believe the Bible is True" at the Christian Home Educators of Colorado Conference in 2014, my faith and confidence grew just by being able to articulate why I believe the Bible. Check out Voddie's talk here: Why I Choose to Believe the Bible “The Bible is true because it is a reliable collection of historical documents written down by eye witnesses during the lifetime of other eyewitnesses. They report to us supernatural events that took place in fulfillment of specific prophecies and claim to be divine rather than human in origin. ” — Voddie Baucham Based on 2 Peter 1:16-21 16 For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son,[i] with whom I am well pleased,” 18 we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain. 19 And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, 20 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. 21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. Resources to Examine the Authenticity and Historicity of the Bible Bibliographical Test - http://www.ccel.org/contrib/exec_outlines/ca/ca_06.htm Professor Peter Stoner's the odds of 8 prophesies coming true - http://www.bereanpublishers.com/the-odds-of-eight-messianic-prophecies-coming-true/ The Gospel Coalition - Jesus and Caesar sources compared - https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/sources-for-caesar-and-jesus-compared You Can Trust the Bible - John MacArthur - http://www.gty.org/resources/positions/P10/You-Can-Trust-the-Bible

2017 is here and you’ve probably been met with a million messages to be the change you want to see this year. Wait, can we be the change? What’s the Bible say about this? Today we are looking at 2 Corinthians 5 about our true nature and give Ghandi a little run for his money. Plus learn my favorite way to defeat a cold.  Leave a Review on iTunes: !. Search for She Proves Faithful in the search box or click this link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 2. Click on my show (not on an episode, but on the She Proves Faithful Podcast - the "album" cover has She Proves Faithful on it with some lady arms. 3. Click "Ratings and Reviews" tab above all the episodes 4. Rate away. Can I Be The Change? New Year's means New You and you can be the change you want to see in the world! Remember, that we must hold these statements up to the Truth of God; shed light on what is real, otherwise we will be trapped in a cycles of failure, performance, achievement, and humanism. According to 2 Corinthians 5:17 change start by Jesus taking away our old nature and giving us a new nature. Our old selves before Christ could do nothing but sin and be self focused on pleasure. Now, in Christ, He changes our hearts to obey Him - and want to obey Him - and makes us free from sin and death. New You starts with Jesus Christ and if we want to see change in us, we must look to Him and fight sin. Read today's passage: 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 Cold Season Life Hacks "Spicy Lemonade" This is a warm turmeric, ginger, lemon, honey drink to help your body fight the good fight of germs. Turmeric supposedly has a lot of benefits like anti-inflamatory properties, is an antioxident (prevents oxidization), among other useful things. Lemons are packed with vitamins and ginger achy muscles. Honey also has medicinal benefits but in this case, you need something to make the medicine go down ;) Remember, I am not a doctor nor do I claim superior medical knowledge. Find the Recipe here: http://thewholejourney.com/turmeric-and-ginger-tea/ (Ps We drink this hot.) Lymphatic Massage for Sinus Drainage Desperate times call for crunchy measures. I just googled some videos on how to do this. Now, I am not into ying yang chi tea auroa or whatever eastern medicine calls for. This is applying pressure and massage to get juices flowing and move toxins out of the body. No mamajuju here. Watch the same video I watched a year ago: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QA-wi0d7-Ro New City Church Sermon on 2 Corinthians 5:16-18 Be encouraged by more truth on this topic by listening to this sermon by my husband Andy Hlushak: http://newcitydenver.org/sermons/new-year-same-creatures/ #SPFintheWord Read the Bible every day with us - new reading plan every month! And fun along the way. Visit www.sheprovesfaithful.com/bible for more info and sign up. It's free :) Anchored Bible Study Here is the Bible Study I wrote about anxiety. It's will take you to the Word through the whole thing. I only have about 15 copies left right now. Anchored: 7 Anxiety Relievers to Build Authentic Faith 12.00 Do you struggle with some sort of anxiety? Are you worried about something? Or overwhelmed by fear?  God did not create us to be anxious, but to flourish! DOLLAR SHIPPING for 1 - 2 books! For local (Denver) delivery OR if you want to order 10 or more studies - email lauren at sheprovesfaithful.com for information on discounts. Quantity: Add to Cart    

There’s nothing like a little fireside chat discussing our warm winter wishes. Today is a special episode where my husband and I invite you into the background of our Christmas traditions, what makes this holiday a holy day, and discuss the forgotten line in Joy to the World. It’s festive, it’s fun, it’s a Christmas spectacular podcast.  Fireside Chat with Andy Hlushak Discover some of our childhood Christmas traditions and what we are doing with our family now and learn a great way to form opinions and traditions by some learned wisdom from an old guy with a sweet mustache. This really is such a fun, cheery Christmas episode. We hope you laugh a lot and learn about the JOY given to this world. Tree Bark Recipe! Now I want you to know, I was making this long before Miss Trisha Yearwood posted this but she's got a little video and great instructions - so take it away Trisha! Here's the recipe for the toffee bark (sans graham crackers -ew Andy). My TWO changes - don't use a whole cup o brown sugar. You just need 3/4 cup. Save at least one tooth from a cavity this Christmas. Good luck to all the others! ;) And sprinkle some chopped walnuts on top to balance the sweet. Make 2017 More Gospel-Centered This is something you don't want to miss - making 2017 more gospel-centered. Let's get into the Word every day this year. . . together! Sign up for a free monthly reading plan and other goodies sent to your inbox each month. Subscribe to SPFintheWord Get the free monthly reading plan and other fun goodies throughout 2017! First Name Last Name Email Address Sign Up No email sharing. No spam. Pinky Promise. Thank you!

It’s that time of year. When we spend the most special magical Christmas meal with people we hardly know - family. Maybe this season brings you to some awkward family time or even digs up some hardship or hurts. Whatever the case, this Christmas can be about Christ no matter the circumstance. Today I’m talking about 5 heart level biblical principles when it comes to sharing the holidays with family. Hey! Subscribe to the SPFPodcast on iTUNES free! Leave a rating and review! Today we are talking awkward family gatherings. That magical time of the year where you eat the most festive lovely feast with people you hardly know.  Five Biblical Opportunities to Make the Most of Awkward Family Christmas 1.  Love Each Other.  1 Peter 4:8 2.  Practice Hospitality without grumbling. 1 Peter 4:9 3.  Use Your Gifts to Bless. 1 Peter4:10-11 4.  Pray for you family and entrust your soul to the Lord. 1 Peter 4:12-19 5. Remember Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:50-58 Truth in Love Podcast Get the 8 minute episode here about Awkward Family Favorite Things Gift Swap Get the Favorite Things Gift Swap here!

When people think Christmas Santa and presents frequently come to mind, especially if your under the age of adult. How can we cultivate a spirit of generosity during this festive time and learn how to carry it into the new year and the months after? And just who is this Santa Clause fellow and how should Christians address this to our children? Today we will discuss what the bible has to say about generosity, address some giving hurdles, and what to do about this Santa fellow. For faster play time, to leave a review (BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT YOU COULD GIVE ME ;) ha! go to iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 Our Christmas 2016   Jolly Ol St. Nick Saint Nicholas was a 4th century bishop who inherited a large family fortune and gave it away to help the poor, afflicted, and orphan children. A famous legend has him at the Council of Nicea standing up for truth with a man named Arius tried to persuade everyone that Jesus was neither alive nor divine. It is said the Good ol St. Nick slapped him right across the face. Some history on how he came to be red suited, jolly, and a present delivery machine: The Scandinavians brought their conception of him as an elf. The Dutch brought their name for him SinterKlass In 1808 Washington Irving wrote a story of him as a jolly Dutchman In 1822 a poet named Moore wrote the Night Before Christmas which tells us all about Santa’s present delivery system and gave us reindeer and a sleigh - flying reindeer at that! In 1863 Thomas Nast, a cartoonist drew the popular conception of Santa we all know today. The hat. The belt. The holly. The belly. The point of all this history and legend it 1. we must remember to tell of our Christians heritage so the world sees and knows that God is real. Imagine if Christians kept telling the real St. Nick story - who would Santa be now? 2. we get to tell our kids about the real man behind the red suit and point them to Christ. What Does the Bible Say about Generosity? First of all when we think of generosity it must start and be rooted in Christ’s generosity towards us. Philippians 2:4-11 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,[a] 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,[b] 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant,[c] being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Romans 5:6 For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Romans 5:8 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:15 But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man's trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. Romans 8:34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. And how then shall we live with such generosity bestowed to us? We no longer live for ourselves, but we live for Jesus who died for us. 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. We bear fruit for God’s glory.  Romans 7:4 Likewise, my brothers, you also have died to the law through the body of Christ, so that you may belong to another, to him who has been raised from the dead, in order that we may bear fruit for God. Giving Hurdles Sometimes there are some barriers to giving and being generous - here are the three we discussed: a stingy heart Financial hardship or struggles An over abundance of ministry financial requests Resources from Today's Show She Proves Faithful 25 days of Advent Scriptures FREE www.sheprovesfaithful.com/blog/advent-scriptures God Rest Ye Merry: Why Christmas is the Foundation for Everything $16.00 By Douglas Wilson   White Punch Paper Star Lantern $10.95 Whirled Planet    

Christmas is here bringing good cheer! Advent is all about celebrating the anticipated arrival of the Messiah but we also are currently anticipating the arrival of Christ again! How then should we live each day anticipating the day when Christ returns? We are talking about battle armor, Lordship, shopping, and Facebook and three ways to practice this anticipation. Access the SPF Podcast on iTunes free https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 New City Church Sermon - Now is the Time by Aaron Carlson http://newcitydenver.org/sermons/now-is-the-time/ Verses Romans 13:11-14 Ephesians 2:8-10 Ephesians 4:17-24 Three Ways to Practice Living with Advent in Mind 1. Teach your children or a friend at church the truth about sin. Read Romans 13:11-14 and discuss it with each other. Ask questions about each verse. 2. Repent of your sin - if you know there are sins you make provisions for, if you know there are areas of darkness you are holding on to, repent and turn from those things and believe that God has forgiven you to walk in a manner worthy of Him 3. Fight sin with a friend - expose your weaknesses to a friend to help you fight sin together. Let her pray for you and encourage you with truth. My friend Lindsay helped me in the social media area - I told her my struggle a couple years ago and she did not excuse it - like ooh that’s hard for everyone. But she acknowledged it took my focus away from the Lord. She told me the truth of how that must change my day when I am distracted from God and she prayed for me. Resources for You If you chose to buy these resources through these links, SPF receives a small commission. This is a great way to support SPF at no cost to you. Chat Books An easy, quick, inexpensive way to print your memories from Instagram. For only $8 you can get a beautiful, clean book filled with your Instagram pictures. It makes a great gift and great baby/kid albums to document our kids' growing up years. Use this link to try chatbooks! GUESS WHAT! Chat books is offering 20% off using the code MERRY20 by Wednesday, November 30th 2016. Fist pump!   God Rest Ye Merry - the advent book we are reading with our family this year. God Rest Ye Merry: Why Christmas is the Foundation for Everything $16.00 By Douglas Wilson   God is in the Manger - another great book we have used for advent in past years. God Is in the Manger: Reflections on Advent and Christmas $9.91 By Dietrich Bonhoeffer

These invisible boundaries and cause disrespect to our husbands - even when we didn’t mean to! Today SPF guest Katie Brown is laying down the 411 on this Man Code and giving us some insightful tips to show respect to our men and help our marriages. Subscribe on iTunes and leave a review: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 What is the "Man Code?" Ephesians 5:33 says, “Let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband." The "Man Code" not exposing negative or weak things of our husbands in the public sphere. There is a general set of topics that are safe to steer clear of talking about in public. They should be reserved for just you and your husband out of respect for him. There are four areas that men generally like to keep quiet about: finances health feelings failures We show great respect to our husbands when we try and understand these sensitive topics that we can avoid in public conversations. Respect is discovering what honors our husbands and what dishonors him. Respecting our husbands actually serve to advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Two Solutions for Respecting the Man Code 1. Talk to your husband about the issue in private and come to a resolution 2. Ask for permission from your husband if you want to share that information with someone else Meet Our Guest: Katie Brown I am a wife to a runner and mom to one cute red-headed boy named Ace. We live in Savannah, GA. On any given day, I can be found doing social media and training for a local university, recording voice over in my home studio, or taking a quick stroll to the playground, tracking steps and playing hard. I drink tea daily and play my ukulele as often as possible. I love singing with others, and I live for body-of-Christ community. Team of Two - Life Coaching Want more christian marriage resources? Check out Dave and Dawn Lind's website: www.teamoftwocoaching.com eMeals - Meal Planning Help Need help meal planning? Podcast guest, Katie Brown, has been using eMeals to help her stay on track and on budget. Try it free for 14 days free! emeals.com (referral link).

Follow you heart! Or not. What do we do when we can’t reconcile our feelings with the Truth of God’s Word? Today is all about the feels with an easy to remember illustration to keep us on the right track. Get this episode and leave a review on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 Questions To Ask Ourselves Do you believe our hearts are prone to wander?  Jeremiah 17:9 "The heart is more deceitful than all else And is desperately sick; Who can understand it? Proverbs 16:25 “There is a way that appears to be right but in the end it lead to death?” Do we believe we will never know the depth of our sinfulness?  Proverbs 19:12-13 Who can discern his errors?     Declare me innocent from hidden faults. 13 Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins;     let them not have dominion over me! Then I shall be blameless,     and innocent of great transgression. Do you believe that God’s Word is the standard of Truth? J John 17:17 Sanctify them by your truth, your word is truth Psalm 119:160 The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever. Proverbs 19:7-8 The law of the Lord is perfect,[c]     reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure,     making wise the simple; 8 the precepts of the Lord are right,     rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure,     enlightening the eyes; Do you believe Sola Scriptura? Sola Scriptura means that God’s declaration in Scripture is that it and it alone, is this final authority in all matters of faith and morals. Fact, Faith, Feeling Train Resources One way to keep it True is to know the Word of God. Check out SPF discipleship plans to help you and a friend know the God of the Bible. Discipleship Plans: Foundations 7.00 Digital File - PDF Get instant access to eight discipleship plans covering foundational principles of growing in Christ: Lordship Plan 1:  What is Lordship? Lordship Plan 2:  Repentance and Belief The Word Plan 1:  The Word of God The Word Plan 2:  How to Spend Time in the Word (Quiet Time) Prayer Plan 1:  What is Prayer? Prayer Plan 2:  Praying with Confidence Fellowship Plan 1:  What is Fellowship? Fellowship Plan 2:  Confronting and Forgiving These eight mini bible studies are an excellent resource for one on one and group discipleship. Encourage other women to know Jesus through discussion questions and topical Scriptures, or use them for personal study to learn more about foundational principles of growing in Christ. Access these on you iPad, smart phone, or computer - instantly! Add To Cart

There are five "solas" that represent the five foundations of Christianity brought about in the 16th century through the Reformation.  When we know them and teach them we gain wisdom, understanding, faith, and a biblical worldview for the glory of God.  Today we are talking about the five sola’s and five ways to teach them, to ourselves, our children, and others. Hey! Thanks for listening - make this podcast more accessible by rating and review on itunes! It would bless my socks - and blessed socks are very nice ;) https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 The Five Solas Sola Scriptura (“Scripture alone”) "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17 "I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119:11 "For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope." Romans 15:4 Sola Fide (“faith alone”) "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.  For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:8-10 Sola Gratia (“grace alone” "In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight." Ephesians 1:5-8 Solus Christus (“Christ alone”) "For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time. For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth." 1 Timothy 2:5-6 "He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son." Colossians 1:13 Soli Deo Gloria (“to the glory of God alone”) "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:17 How Do We Teach the Sola's? 1. Teach one sola a week with your kids, your spouse, a friend. Look up supporting Bible verses. 2. Learn to ask "is it biblical?" 3. Learn hymns that have foundational Christian doctrine. Check out this SPF blog post on Making Melody in our hearts to God with a great list of hymns and YouTube links: http://www.sheprovesfaithful.com/blog/sing-praise 4. Start a memorizing a catechism. Here is the Westminster Short Catechism 5. Read biographies of men and women in the Reformation. Look for the five sola's in their stories. Resources and Links The Gospel Coalition article on Why Teach Our Kids about the Reformation A Brief Statement about the Five Solas by Dr. Gregg Strawbridge Search on monergism.com about the five solas Heralds of the Reformation: Thirty Biographies of Sheer Grace $15.00 By Richard M. Hannula Radiant: Fifty Remarkable Women in Church History $18.00 By Richard M. Hannula

Today is a special edition of the SPF Podcast! My husband, Andy Hlushak, has graciously accepted my invitation to answer my questions on the SPF podcast. I always have questions and my husband does an excellent job bringing me to the Word and answering with humility, wisdom, and grace. Today's question is all about God's glory - Does God love His glory more than He loves us? Things that make you go wwaaaaaah?? You're probably wondering how I ever thought of such a question. Well, it started with a John Piper book and here we are. No no! It's not broken! It takes FOREVER to load the audio here ----> Access SPF Podcasts on iTunes - subscribe and write a review! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 God and His Glory - Resources Brothers, We Are Not Professionals This question came from John Piper's book "Brothers We Are Not Professionals." This book is a great resource for Pastors or any person really ;) It is recommended by my husband and can be purchased on Amazon. *This is an affiliate link. Scriptures Used Isaiah 48:9-11 Psalm 23:3 Psalm 25 Redemption Great book about worship and idolatry. We quote the author, Mike Wilkerson, about being creatures created to worship and we can't shut that worship off - ever. We are like water hoses that are always on full blast and we can't turn off the water (worship) but we can choose where we point the water: finances, our children, our future, Jesus, etc. Redemption: Freed by Jesus from the Idols We Worship and the Wounds We Carry $10.75 By Mike Wilkerson Brothers, We Are Not Professionals: A Plea to Pastors for Radical Ministry, Updated and Expanded Edition $12.38 By John Piper

Why do we believe we are in control? Over circumstances, over people, over tomorrow? I think it all boils down to the fact that we do not have a correct view of who we are or who God is. Today we’ll talk about the root issue of control and learn how to anchor into the fact that God is God. Hey you! Subscribe on iTunes and get a quicker playback woo! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 Life Hack: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Five ingredients to this amazing, mouth-watering, creamy dish AND eat more veggies: noodles butternut squash cheese milk butter Get the recipe here: http://www.myfussyeater.com/butternut-squash-mac-and-cheese-kids-toddlers/ Scriptures for the Podcast James 4:13-17 Isaiah 50:10-11 Acts 27 Character of God Worksheet Get this free SPF worksheet to help you search the Scriptures for the characteristics of God and how He demonstrates them in the Bible in in your life. Access the worksheet here. Additional Resources Here are some additional SPF resources to help you build up your faith. When you purchase an SPF resource you are helping fund this podcast - thank you! Discipleship Plans: Identity 7.00 Digital File - PDF Get instant access to three discipleship plans on the topic of Identity in Christ: Plan 1:  What is Identity Plan 2:  Jesus is Our Representative Plan 3:  The Old Self and The New Self Plan 4:  In Christ Plan 5:  Living Out Our Identity These five mini bible studies are an excellent resource for one on one and group discipleship. Encourage other women to know Jesus through discussion questions and topical Scriptures. Or use them for personal study to learn more about identity in Christ. Access these on you iPad, smart phone, or computer - instantly! Add To Cart      

Welcome to another dailygrind edition of the SPF Podcast. There are a few thoughts rattling around in my head and heart that I wanted to get out, plus I had to tell you a story about a grasshopper's big day out . . . in my pants. Don't forget, this Saturday, October 1, 2016 you are invited to the New City Denver Women's Training Day. Go to www.newcitydenver.org for more information. Get faster play time and subscribe for free on iTunes (and you can leave a review!) Training Up Our Children If our kids go to church is that enough? (show notes bonus: Check out this article from the Babylon Bee - remember, it's satirical! Babylon Bee Article (remember this is satire!) “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” — Proverbs 22:6 Verses to examine: Deuteronomy 6:5-9 Proverbs 22:6 Judges 2:10 Making Melody in Our Hearts Singing to the Lord is a great way to teach your children to praise Him. Learn to be discerning in what you teach your children. Words mean things, so it matters what we sing. A great place to start is with good ol hymns. Check out this post to see a list of hymns and songs that we love: Sing Praises!   The New England Primer New England Primer By David Barton This little book was the first textbook in America for children. Knowledge starts with the fear of God (Proverbs 1:7). This book allowed children to learn through the context of Truth. Can you imagine if this primer was still in our curriculum today?! I highly recommend getting this book and teaching your children from it. Whether you are homeschooling or not, this is a book that will lay a foundation of Truth. *affiliate link

What does it mean to worship God? Is worship different than praise? Today I will share three things I’m learning about worship and how it extends beyond our prayers and music.   To subscribe to the SPF Podcast on iTunes, go here! Help Other Women Find SPF Podcast: Leave an iTunes Review Have you been encouraged by the SPF Podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes so that other women can find it and hear biblical truth too! Follow the link, then open up the podcast in iTunes, click "ratings and reviews" on the top menu above the episodes. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-she-proves-faithful/id1116242133?mt=2 New City Church Women's Training Day October 1, 2016 - The Gospel and Control Three Things about Worship 1. It's different than praise Praise involves worship with our mouths and speech Psalm 34:1, Hebrews 13:15 It is always befitting to praise the Lord Psalm 33:1 2. Worship involves our whole body: heart, mind, and physical body After being cleansed Isaiah doesn’t just give praise - he presents himself to God and says, send me - use me! I am yours! Isaiah 6:1-8 Present our physical bodies as a living sacrifice to God Romans 12:1 Offer our "members" as instruments of righteousness Romans 6:19 3. Knowing the holiness of God leads to worship Doug Wilson says, “holiness is darkness to make a sinful man tremble.” Psalm 97 Basic Christian Living: A Survey Course on Practical Christianity $18.00 By Douglas Wilson Get the Basic Christian Living Workbook I learned so much about biblical worship from this workbook. This is an incredible resource to developing a biblical worldview, which means to interpret the world through the Bible. Chapters cover subject matters like: Resisting Temptation Contentment Living the Will of God Christ Hidden in Your Calling The Meaning of Masculinity / Femininity Relationships Authenticity Handling Money and lots more ;) * This is an affiliate link

We are created to bring God glory with our lives! How then can we be good stewards of our lives? Today we are talking about five ways to lead a gospel-centered life to live in freedom as we glorify the God of all creation. And how this includes work, raising children, and even having backyard ducks.  *audio takes a moment to load. To access podcasts more quickly visit the SPF Podcast on iTunes here. Show Notes Five ways to live a more God-centered life from The Gospel Coalition's article by Josh Moody. (Read the article here: Five Ways to Live a God-Centered Life) 1.  Immerse yourself in the all-sufficient wonder of the God who is. 2.  Commit to a local Bible-teaching church. 3.  Forgive, fear, fight. 4.  Pursue the unfashionable virtues. 5.  Use your mind. Scripture References Colossians 1:15-23 Isaiah 40 Job 40 - 42 Additional Resources Abundant Permaculture - Growing your Own Eggs (and more) 100 days of growing food You Tube Channel Chickens vs Ducks: 10 reasons to raise backyard ducks         Virtuous: A Study for Ladies of Every Age $12.00 By Nancy Wilson *amazon links are affiliate links

Entertaining seeks to impress, hospitality seeks to bless. Today we will discuss biblical hospitality and why God wants us to practice it and I’ll throw in a few practical tips including feeding a crowd without blowing up your grocery budget and how to take some of the stress out of preparing your house for guests. *Sometimes the audio player takes a few seconds to play. You can also check out the SPF podcast on iTunes free! Easy Recipe for hospitality Home + Food + Meaningful conversation Hospitality Scriptures Hebrews 13:2 Romans 12:13 1 Peter 4:9 2 Kings 4 - Elisha and Shunammite Woman Exodus 2 - Moses and future Father in Law Acts 16 - Lydia and Philippian Prison guard Crowd Pleasing Lasagna* - Gluten Free / Quick Feeds 10 - 12 2 pounds ground beef, turkey, or chicken 3 jars(12 oz) of tomato sauce - or make your own! 1.5 TBSP Italian seasoning 1 TBSP granulated garlic salt and pepper to taste 1 box of prewashed spinach 16 oz of cottage cheese 2 eggs 3 cups mozzarella cheese Instructions Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees Cook meat in skillet. Add seasonings and salt and pepper to taste. Drain fat. Heat sauce in pan and add cooked meat. Simmer for 15-30 minutes (longer the simmer, the better the flavor) Blend in blender or food processor eggs and cottage cheese until smooth Use 9x13 baking dish - line bottom with half of meat sauce mixture Next generously layer spinach over sauce. Drizzle liberally half the cottage cheese egg mixture over the spinach Sprinkle 1 cup cheese over cheese egg mixture Layer again! Add the rest of the meat sauce mixture Layer more spinach Drizzle the rest of cheese egg mixture Top with two cups cheese Bake in oven for 30-45 minutes until cheese is nice and bubbly. *Note - Measurements are not my favorite ;) This recipe is hard to mess up - and can probably be made in a bigger pan or two smaller pans! **This recipe is adapted from the Trim Healthy Mama Lazy Lasagna - you can find the recipe here. Resources Savory Spice Shop Thompson Chain Reference Bible (Style 309black) - Regular Size NKJV - Bonded Leather $54.99 By Frank Charles Thompson Thompson Chain Reference Bible One of the best study tools I own.      

Jesus Gave it All, should we give it all too? We are talking bread and fish and not holding back even the crumbs of our lives.  Today is all about everyone's favorite topic: surrender. Yep. Less of us, and more of Jesus. Today's Resources and Scripture Readings Elisabeth Elliot's Passion and Purity Luke 9:10-17 Jesus Feeds the 5,000 Luke 9:23-25 Take up your Cross and Follow Jesus The Pathway to Surrender Ask the Lord to reveal the things you’re withholding Repent when he reveals it to you Ask the Holy Spirit to help you keep those things submitting to the authority of Christ.   Passion and Purity: Learning to Bring Your Love Life Under Christ's Control $8.66 By Elisabeth Elliot Get Passion and Purity (affiliate link) This book is the incredible story of Elisabeth and Jim Elliot submitting one of the most difficult things to the Lord: love. Elisabeth tells her story of passion (yes) and purity through her friendship and courtship with her first husband Jim. There is no other love story (except for mine ;) that keeps me on the edge of my seat. Elisabeth helps women uncover what is really going on underneath the wily, sly, and fickle emotions and feelings and thoughts when a man catches our eye, and heart. I recommend this book for single women, or women meeting with single women.

Our little ones are sponges and are ready to absorb all that’s in their environment. Today we’ll discuss ideas on getting the Word into the hearts   of our children (and in ours too!). *The audio takes a minute to load on the website.  For a faster audio play and to subscribe to the SPF podcast follow this link to iTunes. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. Remember: It takes diligence to hide God's Word in our hearts and our children's hearts. “There will come a time when our lives will reveal whether we’ve based our lives on reality or on triviality. ” Start Today with this FREE SPF Resource Head on over to this blog post and get a free memory verse to print out and hang in your house AND learn a fun little ditty with hand motions to get it rooted in your mind and heart. Follow this link to the blog post Memorizing Scripture with Your Kids Recommended Resources Fighter Verses Memorize Anything Verse Packs for Scripture Memory Cards   Topical Memory System $15.14 NavPress Topical Memory System: Life Issues, Hide God's Word in Your Heart $15.23 NavPress

Is conflict in a marriage ok? How can we use conflict to draw us closer to our husbands instead of using it as a repellent? Today we have three communication tips when things get a little heated in marriage. *If playing the podcast here, it takes a minute to start playing. You can also access this podcast on iTunes free. I used to be embarrassed to admit that my husband and I experienced conflict here and there in our marriage, like we were different or something was wrong. But the truth is I am a sinner who married a sinner and conflict is a guarantee. The mark of a gospel-centered marriage is not the absence of conflict but the presence of repentance, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Now that is a marriage that points the world to God, and kindles that closeness and intimacy we crave. We are only 5 years into forever with our marriage but we've learned a few valuable communication tips that work for us when we have conflict. These have given us a safer space to communicate with each other even when the tensions are high. Three Communication Tips for Marriage Conflict Tip 1: Never use the word "divorce" in conflict, especially as a threat. Tip 2: Stay away from using absolutes like "always" and "never." (Ex: "You ALWAYS leave your clothes on the floor.") Tip 3: Be quick to repent and ask for forgiveness. This episode dives into each of these tips and will encourage you with Truth from God's Word. Recommended Resource The Gospel-Centered Life 9 Week Bible Study This is hands-down my favorite Bible study that is both basic and deep. Every time I do this study, the Lord blows my mind with what the Gospel is and what it does in our hearts. It's a big deal. I highly recommend this study for married couples and small groups! Transforming Intimacy - Voddie Baucham MP3 When it comes to marriage and family relationships, we encourage friends to check out Voddie Baucham's message on Transforming Intimacy. (Note: This talk is from a homeschool conference ;) but his message about submission and love and sacrifice and respect is the best I've ever been taught from Ephesians 5.) You can purchase the MP3 from Resounding Voice for $4.     The Gospel-Centered Life: Study Guide with Leader's Notes $11.91 By Robert H. Thune, Will Walker

It’s a #DailyGrind podcast today! I’m talking through some highs and lows in the Hlushak household an doc course dishing out practical ways to live gospel centers lives. Today’s daily grind is all about ideas for Family Worship, friendships, budgeting, and one big way to win in marriage. You do not want to miss the part about marriage - it’s a game changer. (If you don’t have time for the entire podcast, skip ahead to 23:26 for a little wisdom on marriage conflict.)   Recommended Resources Family Worship Song Ideas Amazing Grace Be Thou My Vision All Creatures of Our God and King Mighty Fortress Onward Christian Soldiers Doxology A Puritan Family Devotional by Jon J. Cardwell This is an incredible robust resource on Family Worship complete with catechism, devotional, Scripture readings (and even the London Baptist Confession). We adapt this because our children are young but this is an incredible resource for any family! A Puritan Family Devotional $7.95 By Jon J. Cardwell   A is for Adam by Ken Ham This is a great resource to teach children the timeline of history in an engaging way that leads to the Gospel on every page. I love this book to because it physically stands in a way to show the kids the pictures so you can read the text and questions on the back. This book helps kids apply logic to creation that always points back to God. *Note, we skip a few pages with our young kids now - like Cain and Abel - but will come back to it when our kids are ready. A Is for Adam: The Gospel from Genesis $14.58 By Ken Ham, Mally Ham Follow my other daily grind adventures on instagram!  

Vacations are an incredible reprieve from the daily grind, until you have to take them with kids. Then the daily grind just seems to happen in another location you had to shell out money for. Today’s episode we will learn 5 tips on how to take a family vacation so that no matter the age of the kids, you too can recreate and re-create on your vacation.   Tip No 1. Vacation always starts by PREPARing YOUR HEART Prayer - bring it all to God; often. Offer thanksgiving, ask for your time to be blessed. Search the Scriptures - search keywords in the Bible like "rest" "refuge" "peace" and ask God for wisdom on how to apply truth to your life. Be in communication with your spouse - (and/or other adults who are taking the trip); talk about expectations and ask where each person needs help in preparing for the trip; discuss times and ways each parent can lighten the load so the other can take a real breather. Tip No 2. BUILD ANTICIPATION Vacation Money Jar - growing up my brother and I painted old glass spaghetti sauce jars and glued shells and other things on them, punched a hole in the top and started filling it with all the change we could find and money we earned. Decorating the jars gave us a physical reminder that vacation was coming and that we could work hard to earn spending money for souvenirs, ice cream, floaties- you name it! Prayer Countdown Chain - make a paper chain with not only a countdown to vacation, but on each paper link, write down something to pray for that day as a family. This is a great way to build anticipation through prayer and go before the Lord with your trip. It teaches us to lay our requests before the Lord and eagerly wait for His answers. Family Planning Night - dedicate a night (or two) to dream up the adventures everyone wants to have while on vacation. Talk about what you want to bring, where you want to go, and list some activities you can do together. This is a great opportunity for parents to set some expectations for the trip. Plan a Surprise - it doesn't have to be anything big, but try and keep something a secret about the trip. For older kids you can have them guess at dinner one night while you give clues. For little ones, get them excited about a surprise activity or tasty treat. I know as a kid Dippin' Dots would have sent me off the thrilled deep-end; or space ice-cream?! So fun! Prepare Together - getting reading for a vacation can be a big task for dad and mom. Dividing up responsibilities can encourage the family to work together so they can play together. Preparing might look like a big laundry day, or preparing road trip snacks, or getting the yard ready. Tip No. 3 Make a PLAN BUT BE FLEXIBLE Create a calendar of days that you will be gone and where you will be. Jot down some ideas of activities you could do for each of those days. Think through museums, water parks, zoo's, and other places that may charge admission. Research area attractions, restaurants, and activities. Plan down time and be sure to think through the personalities of each family member and what they would enjoy doing. Going in with a plan is a type of preparedness that can alleviate the stress of planning and deciding while on vacation. But be sure to hold plans with an open hand. If Tuesday is beach day and it's raining outside, it's a great exercise is adjusting expectations for the kids (and ourselves). Tip No. 4 CAPTURE MEMORIES Take pictures and videos and put together a family slideshow to watch after the trip Have older children participate in the making of a digital slideshow Print off some pictures and have younger ones make a scrap-book or cards to send to grandparents Before you go on vacation, look at past vacation pictures and talk about what you enjoyed that trip Tip No. 5 LET TRAVEL BE PART OF THE VACATION (NO MATTER HOW STRESSFUL IT IS) Bring a special snack reserved only for trips (one family would only buy Swedish Fish when it was time to travel - the kids would get so pumped to see those little red fishes appear) Make a picture book to take along (for younger children) filled with snapshots of where you're going, who you'll see, to build excitement Plan for special treats at the airport or rest stops. Nothing like a starbies and a giant pastry to make me smile while sitting on a tarmac. Practice thanksgiving - for parents write down and meditate on things you are thankful for; or make it a tradition, that every time you turn on the car (whether at the beginning of the day, or after a rest stop) have everyone say 3 things they are thankful for (thankfulness changes attitudes) Share pictures, videos, memories on the way back. Let each person share their favorite memory or a "rose and a thorn" from vacation (something they loved, something that was difficult). Have a big family prayer of thanks when it's time to travel home.

God calls us to live wisely with our time, making the most of your time. Today we will discuss three of the biggest time wasters and how we can trade them for the will of God.    Top Three Time Wasters: social media tip: turn off push notifications indecisiveness tip: grow in your identity in Christ to avoid people pleasing and pressure to perform worry tip: learn to cast all your cares on the Lord Recommended Resource She Proves Faithful Discipleship Plans are a great resource to help you grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ and help someones else grow too! This is a discipleship resource to help you go and make disciples with easy to use mini bible studies. Get the Lordship Discipleship Plans FREE for being a listener of the She Proves Faithful Podcast! Use code DPFREE to get your free digital download of these three mini bible studies. She Proves Faithful Discipleship Plan Life Hack: Breakfast Sausage Cut down on time in the kitchen at breakfast. Pre-cook sausage links by cooking them in the oven at 350 for about 20 minute or until cooked through. Remove pan from oven and cool for 5-10 minutes and then place in freezer on pan. Once frozen, remove links and put them in a ziplock freezer bag and store in freezer until you are ready for sausage. Take a link out and microwave it for 30 seconds. I highly recommend Kodiak Cakes pancake mix. It has protein in the mix and more protein can be added with the addition of eggs and/or milk. We get ours at Costco, but here is a link on amazon for the same product.   Kodiak Cakes Power Cakes: Flapjack and Waffle Mix Whole Grain Buttermilk 4.5 Lb $26.99 Kodiak Cakes

Being intentional about praying can be difficult. There are a million distractions and our prayers can sometimes    feel flat and dry. If prayer is about communicating with the God of the universe can’t they be more real and deep?  Today you’ll learn a creative way to be intentional about prayer so you may know God and engage with Him in a deeper way.  Top Five Reasons to Pray through a Psalm Because as my husband says, “Psalms are already prayers.” So that’s nice. Teaching someone to pray can feel awkward - praying through a Psalm gives a template to pray though.  Psalms address every life issue - from joy, to sadness, to hope, to affiliation, to shame, to people chasing after you with swords. There are 150 scenarios for you to pray from. Psalms always teach us to give God glory no matter what the circumstances  Praying through a Psalm is such a simple way to get people reading the Word of God and praying at the same time.  Psalm Suggestions Psalm 1 Psalm 16 Psalm 23 Psalm 84 Psalm 95 Psalm 103 Psalm 145 Recommended Resources Eagle Lake Camps She Proves Faithful Praying Through a Psalm Worksheet Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God $9.99 By Timothy Keller Timothy Keller's book: Prayer, Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God (Amazon Affiliate Link)        

You have a story to tell. One of God’s redemptive work in your life. How do you share and five reasons why you should share it on this podcast! Plus Life Hack: How to maximize space in bathrooms by adding an inexpensive way to store towels. Simple Method to Sharing Your Story: Start with the BEFORE What was your life like before Jesus transformed you (before you were a Christian, or before you were free from a struggle or from guilt or shame) What was the biggest struggle? What are some things you tried to do to be free of your struggle? Why did they not work? Next, explain the HOW How did Jesus transform your life? What did He use to get your attention? What was a key moment, experience, verse, person in this story? Finally, explain the NOW How is your life different now? Explain a bit of the transformation? How does your new way of living, your new freedom, your new etc, impact your day to day living? Write it out! There's nothing like practicing to help our stories of transformation be communicated with passion, intention, conviction, and also with clarity. Then practice your story over and over so you become so comfortable with it, that your stories of Jesus's work in your life are a part of your conversations.    

Do you struggle with the size of your home? Do you find yourself thinking you need more? Do you hold on to things because you might need it . . . in ten years? Is it difficult for you to let go of things? Today’s show is all about trusting God and practicing contentment with the living space He’s provided for us. Plus, you’ll get three practical tips on how to live with less and still lived blessed. God is the Provider - He provides for us. We are not lacking with God. Letting go of stuff helps keep our hearts in check Jesus is the only thing that satisfies Three Tips to Maximize Your Living Space: Declutter Give everything a "home" For gifts, consider purchasing memberships and trips instead of things Life Hack Cut down on clutter and freshen up your home decor! Change out pictures in your picture frames and leave old picture in the frame behind the new picture. It keeps them safe from being bent, ruined, or lost, and you can showcase it again whenever you'd like! Change out pictures to keep home decor fresh! Recommended Resource Happy Home Media Podcast: Large Families Living in Small Homes

On today’s show we talked about how women are the tone-setters of their homes. As women we have so much power in creating the atmosphere of our home. Our attitudes and beliefs affect the atmosphere of our homes. We have the ability to create a cheerful, peaceful home, or our homes can be marked by irritability and a heaviness of burden.    Life Hack: 6 Freezer Meals in 60 Minutes Freezer Meals are a great way to save time and stress when it comes to prepping dinner! From Your Freezer To Your Family: Slow Cooker Freezer Recipes For Every Season $29.08 By Mrs Stephanie Brandt Cornais One of the ways to created more peace in the home is to not be hungry with no plan. Here are 6 meals you can make in 60 minutes, freeze them, and pop them in a crockpot any time you want a delicious dinner later on. CLICK HERE TO GET THE SIX RECIPES (free!) And if you like those recipes, check out the recommended resource for more freezer meal ideas: Recommended Resource I recommend the cookbook, From Your Freezer to Your Family by Stephanie Brandt Cornais. It is a great freezer meal cookbook for beginners with very simple but delicious recipes. I used recipes in this book to prepare freezer meals for my family before the arrival of our second baby. This cookbook is an affiliate link.

Welcome to the She Proves Faithful podcast! This podcast is a woman's guide to gospel-centered practical living. It will encourage you and spur you on to make Jesus the center of all we do. Today's podcast dives into what the SPF podcast will deliver to you! Plus you'll hear how I survived a poop-nado in the car. Life Hack - Keeping Herbs Fresh Looking for a money-saving life hack that keeps your cooking game on point? Try keeping your tender herbs fresh in the fridge with this method for up to two weeks!on how to keep fresh herbs fresh for up to two weeks! To keep herbs fresh, make a herb bouquet in the fridge using a glass of water and a plastic bag. Directions: Take your fresh herbs, leave them unwashed, and cut off the bottom inch of the stems. I just lay the whole bunch on a cutting board and in one slice with a chef’s knife, the ends are off.  Then fill a sturdy tall cup with water - enough water for your herbs stems to rest in Place your trimmed herbs inside the glass container Take a gallon plastic zip lock bag, or even the produce plastic bag from the grocery store and cover the top of the herbs Place on a shelf in the fridge where it won’t get knocked over easily When you are ready to use some herbs, remove the plastic bag, and snip off what you need, and give them a wash. Return the plastic bag and keep the rest of you rherbs fresh at your disposal. If the water starts to discolor, just dump the water and add fresh water. This technique works with tender herbs like  cilantro, parsley, dill, mint, and tarragon. Get pictures and more information about herb storage here: http://www.seriouseats.com/2015/04/the-best-way-to-store-fresh-herbs-parsley-cilantro-dill-basil.html Recommended Resource Click here to visit the recommended resource page for She Proves Faithful recommended resources.