Determined to Dance Podcast

Welcome my friends to season 3 of the Determined to Dance podcast. My prayer is that you’ll be encouraged to persevere daily in our chaotic world. Today’s episode, God’s Faithfulness, focuses on finding safety in God’s hands.

Show Notes: God’s Faithfulness

This week’s episode could be considered the second part of the dance of trust. God is faithful and longs for us to trust Him. In Daring to Dance with God, Jeff Walling tells the story of his family visiting the ocean when he was a boy. He was afraid of the big waves. His father convinced him to walk into the ocean while holding his hand. He felt fear in the beginning but ultimately enjoyed the ocean and its waves.

Walling then says: “Those memories are so much like the way God deals with us. He offers his hand, and we fearfully take hold. But our lack of faith and trust keeps us from enjoying the water. What might happen tomorrow? What if it brings a really big wave? (In Psalm 139) David reminds us that God’s hand is strong and sure. There is no wave that can tear us from his loving grip.”

God is faithful. But even the strongest Christian can struggle at times to believe this. Here are four ways the enemy tries to pull our focus from the Father.

By temptation. 1 Corinthians 10:13: “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” NKJV

By trials and tribulations. 1 Peter 4:12-13: “Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world.” NLT

By distraction. 1 Peter 5:8: “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” NLT

By fear. Psalm 34:4: “I sought the Lord, and He heard me and delivered me from all my fears.” NKJV

I’m sure there are other ways but I find these four rank pretty high in my daily life. In one day, I might be tempted to bad mouth someone, take care of a sick grandchild, binge-watch a TV show, and fight against fear over an unexpected bill.

Am I the only one who’s had a day like this? I didn’t think so. Sometimes my focus remains on God despite the ploys of the enemy, but at times I lose my train of thought. It’s like when I start to say something and forget right before I get the words out of my mouth. One minute I know what I’m going to say, the next the words are gone. Into thin air.

The main lesson I’ve discovered through it all is no matter how I react to struggles, positively or negatively, God is still faithful. If we run into the waves by ourselves and find we are floundering, we just need to reach out a hand and God is right there.

Every single time. Let’s pray: Father God, we love You and thank You for being faithful. No matter how the enemy tries to turn us away, You never leave us. Your hand is outstretched and You are waiting for us to call. There is nothing greater than being Your child. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.

Today’s featured author is Fay Lamb, author of The Ties that Bind romance series. Looking for some good summer reads. Take a trip to Florida and fall in love with four Florida natives, Charisse, Libby, Hope, and Delilah. These books, and all of Fay's books are available on Amazon and at all book retailers. Learn more at FayLamb.net.

Next week, we’ll talk about trusting His lead. Until then, stay determined to dance…

Click to tweet: Today’s episode of the Determined to Dance Podcast, God’s Faithfulness, focuses on finding safety in God’s hands. #ChristianPodcast #faith

Links:

My website

My debut novel, Jessie’s Hope

Determined to Dance Podcast

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together

https://youtu.be/S1NSU2Lqo-g

Welcome my friends to season 3 of the Determined to Dance podcast. My prayer is that you’ll be encouraged to persevere daily in our chaotic world. Today’s episode, The Dance of Trust, focuses on the secret of dancing in the dark.

Show Notes: The Dance of Trust

Have you ever struggled to trust people? I have. People are very human and sometimes by accident and sometimes on purpose, they lie, manipulate, scheme, and we are left broken, afraid to trust again. As a child, another kid I hoped was nice teased me for crying during my first day at a new school. As a teenager, a pastor told me to join his church if I wanted to see my dad healed. And as an adult, I’ve met people in the community, school, family, and church who were not who they pretended to be.

It left me jaded. Bewildered. And most of all, afraid to trust anyone again. I believe you totally understand where I’m coming from. Some of you listening are nodding your heads, an image conjured in your mind of untrustworthy people.

How can we trust in a world with crooked politicians, business leaders, and even church leaders and people in education who go astray? What does God say?

John 2:23-25: “Because of the miraculous signs Jesus did in Jerusalem at the Passover celebration, many began to trust in him. But Jesus didn’t trust them, because he knew all about people. No one needed to tell him about human nature, for he knew what was in each person’s heart.” NLT

Jesus knew all about people. Some might be evil, but many were probably just weak, shy, nervous, or busy. Just like us. Jesus still loved people. But He put His faith in God, not those around Him.

Here are three verses I love to read when I have trust issues.

Psalm 56:3: “Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.” NKJV

Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” NKJV

Isaiah 26:3: You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You because he trusts in You.” NKJV

God says don’t fear or be dismayed. He will strengthen, help, keep, and uphold. In other words, we can trust Him. It’s found again and again throughout the word of God. God is trustworthy.

So, what can we do to twirl and whirl with God, trusting Him with everything in our lives?

Spend time with God in prayer. We learn to trust as we draw closer to Him.

Spend time in God’s Word. We study and learn what a mighty God He is.

Surrender our will to Him. We follow Him, who knows us best.

Remember the ways God has shown up when we needed him.

Find wise counsel when you struggle. A trustworthy friend or family member is worth more than gold.

Understand now that there will be struggles. People have disappointed me before and it will probably happen again. My focus is to love people the best I can, separate from those who have violated trust and are not repentant, and find wisdom and discernment through prayer, the Word, and honorable people who love the Lord.

We must make sure to take time and heal after trust has been broken. Many relationships can be mended if the other person is willing to change. We should seek any fault we may have ourselves so the relationship will be whole and fulfilling to both parties.

We’ll never find a perfectly trustworthy person on this earth, but Jesus lived a sinless life and is ever interceding for us in heaven. The Holy Spirit resides in us and can help us avoid unfaithful people if we seek His wisdom.

Let’s pray: Father God, we come to You today and thank You for being a trustworthy God. We’ve been hurt and disillusioned by unreliable people and need your healing touch in our lives. Show us our faults so we can repent and move on. Thank you for Jesus who prays for us daily and the Holy Spirit who helps us along life’s paths. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.

People can disappoint us, but God is always there, reaching out in love.

Today’s featured author is Donna K. Stearns, author of The Nazarene’s Price, a Biblical fiction novel. The rich young ruler pleaded with Jesus to tell him the secret to eternal life, only to refuse the way. Was that the end of his story or did the pursuing love of Jesus eventually capture his heart? What would it cost Matthias to find peace? The Nazarene holds the answer. How will Matthias respond? Learn more at https://believe4147.wordpress.com/

Next week, we’ll talk about God’s faithfulness. Until then, stay determined to dance…

Click to tweet: Today’s episode of the Determined to Dance Podcast, The Dance of Trust, focuses on the secret of dancing in the dark. #ChristianPodcast #faith

Links:

My website

My debut novel, Jessie’s Hope

Determined to Dance Podcast

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together

https://youtu.be/qv-SXz_exKE

Welcome my friends to season 3 of the Determined to Dance podcast. My prayer is that you’ll be encouraged to persevere daily in our chaotic world. Today’s episode, The Storms of Life, looks at times when our world falls apart.

Show Notes: The Storms of Life

Life is tough. Bad things do happen to good people. You know it and so do I. And I believe the storms of life are hardest to take when they immediately follow a good season. You know, when everything is going right, the grass is greener on your side of the fence, and dreams are being realized right and left. You’ve fought the good fight and won.

In his book Pursuing the Will of God, Jack Hayford said: “Spiritual warfare will culminate in victory when we war in the will of God. But you will always find that after the victory there will be another subtle approach of the enemy—in a very different sort of attack…while we’re wrapping up with our victory lap, waving at the cheering crowds, the serpent slithers in again from a totally unexpected angle. While we’re celebrating and feeling good about the outcome of the great battle, the enemy immediately sets to work contriving another—and usually very different—sort of trap. It’s oh-too-easy to fall flat on our faces right after we have won a victory and our face is aglow with joy.”

This is oh-so-true. And at times I find myself in the middle of enjoying life waiting for the other shoe to drop. I mean, life is good, calm, and peaceful. Instead of relaxing and building up myself in the Lord, I’m worrying. Anxious. Stressed.

No wonder God says that sufficient for today is its own trouble. Why can’t I believe that?

Maybe because:

I trust in my ability to control my life. I find it hard to hand over the reins of life to God.

I’m afraid if I don’t handle it, who will? I mean, God’s busy, right?

I believe in the lies of the enemy instead of the word of God.

Now I’m really depressed. How can I change?

I can start by admitting my pride, and my need to control. It’s a daily battle, but one I must fight if I'm to stop the anxiety. I can then hand my fear to God. Let faith answer when fear knocks. God is interested in every facet of my life, no matter how small. And get into God’s word. The word is the sword and how can I fight lies if I don’t know the truth?

Jeff Walling says: “…He calls out to the Lord. And God’s response is shocking in its consistency…He just does what God does best—he loves him forever…Like Jesus on the boat with his disciples, God stills the waves and brings peace.”

I still struggle when the storms hit, especially when I don’t see them coming. But I'm learning more and more to turn to God and watch him meet my needs.

Let’s pray: Father God, we love You and need You every day, especially when we are facing storms in our lives. Help us to remember to turn to you and not get caught up in pride, fear, and deception. You are our only hope. Thank you that you can handle every problem that comes our way. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.

Today’s featured authors, Deb, and Bruce Potts, wrote Love on Life Support, a second-chance romance. Chris and Amy’s on-again, off-again faith leaves them unprepared when the unthinkable happens. As calamity topples their world, Chris and Amy struggle to deal with the greatest trial of their marriage. Learn more at http://marriagementoring.info.

Next week, we’ll discuss how to whirl and twirl like a child. Until then, stay determined to dance…

Click to tweet: Today’s episode of the Determined to Dance Podcast, The Storms of Life, looks at times when our world falls apart. #ChristianPodcast #faith

Links:

My website

My debut novel, Jessie’s Hope

Determined to Dance Podcast

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together...

https://youtu.be/6sqy1URx4mg

Welcome my friends to season 3 of the Determined to Dance podcast. My prayer is that you’ll be encouraged to persevere daily in our chaotic world. Today’s episode, Choices: Right or Wrong? focuses on how God loves us despite our wrong choices and helps us choose wisely.

Show Notes: Choices: Right or Wrong?

I am an adult. One of the things I never really considered when I married and moved away from my folks was making my own choices or decisions. As a know-it-all eighteen-year-old, (yes, I married too young) I felt ready to leave my mom and Dad and all their rules. I would be on my own, me and hubby, and do what we wanted.

Except that’s not how it works.

With adulting came bills, a job, and lots of unsolicited advice from both families. I quickly realized that we had a lot of choices to make, decisions that would determine our future. And suddenly, I wanted to move back home, crawl into my four-poster bed, and pull the covers over my head. What had I done?

But I stayed and together, we made decisions. Some good, some foolish. We made purchases that got us into debt. Like the quarter horse, we had to have when we’d only ridden horses a few times. A silly choice.

Then when we struggled to pay our bills, we felt more than foolish. We suffered from guilt and shame. We didn’t want anyone to know about our bad decisions.

Proverb 13: 10-18 has so much good advice when you struggle with choices:

“Pride leads to conflict; those who take advice are wise. Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows over time. Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life. People who despise advice are asking for trouble; those who respect a command will succeed. The instruction of the wise is like a life-giving fountain; those who accept it avoid the snares of death. A person with good sense is respected; a treacherous person is headed for destruction. Wise people think before they act; fools don’t—and even brag about their foolishness. An unreliable messenger stumbles into trouble, but a reliable messenger brings healing. If you ignore criticism, you will end in poverty and disgrace; if you accept correction, you will be honored.” NLT

Let’s break this down and find out what advice the writer of this book, King Solomon, gives:

Pride only hurts. It’s okay to ask for advice from wise people who’ve already experienced much of life. But this doesn’t mean advice from your friends who are making the same mistakes you are.

Hard work is the way to go, not get-rich-quick schemes. Shortcuts in life usually lead to roads that you don’t want to travel.

Respect those who offer advice even if you don’t agree. While thinking it through, you might change your mind.

Think before you act. Ponder major decisions for days or weeks. It might save you a lot of heartache.

Live a disciplined life.

When making decisions, we want to ask, think it through, and make choices with the future in mind. Have you heard the expression, “Would you like a quarter today or a dollar tomorrow?” Kids tend to want what’s right in front of them. As do we, adults.

So, what do we do if we’ve already made a foolish decision? Or maybe a better question is what does God do?

Jeff Walling says: “God is ready to forgive even the most foolish of sinners. If we will only be smart enough to call out to him in the darkness, he will restore hope and joy to a heart full of shame. It is this message that Christian families must embed in their children’s minds. The love of the Lord endures forever! It’s never too late for him to restore the prodigal who’s willing to come home. And he will do it with the simplest of remedies.

“He sent forth his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men.” Psalm 107:20-21 NIV

It is the truth of God that the fallen fool needs to hear: his love never fails and his divine care is always available! The word of the Lord will renew the spirit and give the former fool a song of thanks to sing…and even a dance or two of praise!”

What a wonderful thought. Our God longs to restore us even when we are foolish.

Let’s pray: Father God, we love You and thank You for your forgiving, restoring love. We want to do the right thing, but often we move from Your path onto our own. We are sorry. Forgive us and show us the path of life. Help us to find and listen to wise people. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.

Making right choices is easier when we turn to the Lord.

Today’s featured author is Jennifer Hallmark, the author of Jessie’s Hope, a Southern family novel. Years ago, an accident robbed Jessie Smith’s mobility. It also stole her mom and alienated her from her father. When Jessie’s high school sweetheart Matt Jansen proposes, she worries that she cannot hold on to those she loves.

Determined to heal from her past, Jessie initiates a search for her father. Can a sliver of hope lead to everlasting love when obstacles–including a spurned woman and unpredictable weather–hijack Jessie’s dream wedding? Learn more at jenniferhallmark.com/books

Next week, we’ll look at the storms of life. Until then, stay determined to dance…

Click to tweet: Today’s episode of the Determined to Dance Podcast, Choices: Right or Wrong? focuses on how God loves us despite our wrong choices and helps us choose wisely. #ChristianPodcast #faith

Links:

My website

My debut novel, Jessie’s Hope

Determined to Dance Podcast

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together.

https://youtu.be/OoEr8BSsrxg

Welcome my friends to season 3 of the Determined to Dance podcast. My prayer is that you’ll be encouraged to persevere daily in our chaotic world. Today’s episode, God’s Forgiveness, focuses on our failures, His forgiveness.

Show Notes: God’s Forgiveness

Sin. Not my favorite subject for a podcast. That’s probably why I named it God’s forgiveness. I’d much rather focus on His forgiveness than on the reason I need it.

We all sin.

It says in Romans 3:23-26: “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he makes sinners right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.” NLT

Made right by believing. What glorious news.

Every year, I choose a word or phrase to focus on. I pray and ask God to point it out and at some point, in November or December, the word or phrase shows up. This past December, I was reading a devotional, and all of a sudden the word honest seemed to leap from the page. I cringed. That’s my word for 2023? Some of you might say ‘No biggie,’ but it is for me. I don’t like to confront or upset people, so sometimes I might say a little less than is true to keep the peace. I can also exaggerate. I knew God was calling me to consider my words in a different light than ever before. It’s been difficult and I’ve had to backtrack a time or two on what I’ve said but I’m learning an important lesson. Telling a little white lie or omission is just as bad as someone who is deceitful and always lies. Scripture says that Satan is the father of all lies. Yipes. Let’s go back to my earlier statement. We all sin. Surely God is yelling at us for our mistakes, after all the blessings we’ve received from Him. But God…

Jeff Walling says, “No wonder we try to crawl away and hide when sin brings us down. If that’s the kind of response we imagine from God, we’d have to be crazy to call out to him for help. But the writer of Psalm 107 stands by his first verse: “The love of the Lord endures forever.” Even the willful sinner can dance in the dark if he will look to the Lord. And when he does, he will find grace, not disgust, in those eyes.”

The blood of Jesus is such a beautiful truth in scripture. The fact that He loved us as sinners, died on the cross and bore those sins, and covered them with his blood is truly miraculous. He loved us when we didn’t even acknowledge Him. Hallelujah.

Our part is to believe. And to keep seeking Him over and over to grow so close to Him that we don’t sin as often. We aren’t repeat offenders, not caring how we live because if we ask, He’ll forgive. We want to walk free from sin.

I John 1:7: “But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.”

We believe, we are cleansed, and we walk by His side, crucifying our flesh every day. We all sin but we can all be forgiven.

Let’s pray: Father God, we’ve all sinned and fallen short but You chose to send Your son to take our place. We believe in You and Your Son and the Holy Spirit. Thank you for a gift that is beyond our minds to truly comprehend. We love You, staying close so we can always walk in Your ways. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.

God forgives when we ask.

Today’s featured authors, Deb, and Bruce Potts, wrote Love on Life Support, a second-chance romance. Chris and Amy’s on-again, off-again faith leaves them unprepared when the unthinkable happens. As calamity topples their world, Chris and Amy struggle to deal with the greatest trial of their marriage. Learn more at http://marriagementoring.info.

Next week, we’ll look at making right or wrong choices. Until then, stay determined to dance…

Click to tweet: Today’s episode of the Determined to Dance Podcast, God’s Forgiveness, focuses on our failures, and His forgiveness. #ChristianPodcast #faith

Links:

My website

My debut novel, Jessie’s Hope

Determined to Dance Podcast

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together

https://youtu.be/CUGD4gsQ3C0

Welcome my friends to season 3 of the Determined to Dance podcast. My prayer is that you’ll be encouraged to persevere daily in our chaotic world. Today’s episode, Tough Times, looks at what we can do when our world is rocked by pain and darkness.

Show Notes: Tough Times

Tough times. Calamity. Crisis. Trouble. We all long for a world free from suffering and pain, and those who surrender their lives to Jesus will one day enjoy a heavenly home spoken of in Revelation 21:3-4 NLT

“I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.”

It’s hard to imagine such a place but it is God’s promise. But what do we do in the meantime? I believe it depends on the severity of the tough times that you’re dealing with. There are everyday troubles we deal with: a stomach virus, a broken appliance, a problem at work, or an upset child or spouse. A lot of the time we can handle these on our own or find help from our family or friends.

What about when life rachets it up a notch? A cancer diagnosis, house fire, lay off from your job, or your spouse leaves you. What then?

I’ve not always handled tough times in a good way. I tend to stuff everything, pretend it doesn’t matter, and only when I totally fall apart, admit that maybe I need help. Here is what has aided me when trouble strikes:

Admit my feelings to God, then to a counselor, trusted friend, or family member. I quit pretending that I’m not sad, angry, disappointed, troubled, anxious, or depressed. So, I start by owning my emotions.

Think about the issue and see if there is a new perspective or way to solve the problem. Often, I overreact and overlook a simple solution.

Ask for help from family members or friends. If it’s a large problem, like extensive medical bills or natural disaster destruction, often local organizations, churches, and whole communities are willing to carry the load for you.

Pray often. Two things I need during times of distress are wisdom and discernment. If there are multiple ways to look at the issue, I need God to speak to me and direct my path.

Give myself and others time to heal. With major problems, we often have to trust God day-by-day, hour-by-hour, and minute-by-minute. Make self-care a priority.

Make gratitude a way of life. Instead of always looking at the negative, try to see any nugget of good—no matter how small—and concentrate on it. Thank God that He never leaves us or forsakes us, no matter what.

And there is nothing like scripture. I find so much comfort in Psalm 23. I’ve memorized it and I sometimes lay in bed at night and repeat it to myself. Six simple verses that bring calm and comfort to my heart.

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

Jeff Walling says: “Maybe the best rule of thumb is that our cry of thankfulness to God today should be as loud and long as our cry for deliverance was yesterday. All the better for others to hear and God’s name to be praised.”

Ouch. I’m afraid my thankfulness is not as loud and long as my whining but I want it to be. When I follow the steps above, praying and showing gratitude, I find peace, even when my problems don’t get better. Losing my dad when I was twenty-eight years old was one of the most difficult things I’ve dealt with in my life. It was so sudden and we were all in shock. But I remember a time at the funeral home when peace literally enveloped me and helped me make it through. The peace of God. Ready and available when you need it most.

Let’s pray: Father God, thank You that when we are dealing with tough times, You are with us. We cry out and You answer with peace, comfort, wisdom, and discernment. Help us to find gratitude among the problems and to seek You always. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.

Calamity and crisis are inevitable on the earth but You are with us now, preparing a heavenly home for our future. When times are difficult, we can lean on God’s promises.

Today’s featured author is Betty Thomason Owens, author of The Visitor Has a Ball, a Cozy Mystery Novella. When Samantha Carr asks her Aunt Connie B. Wright to help with her mom, she doesn't bargain for a burglary to happen just before her aunt's arrival. Hopefully, between the two of them, there can still be some restoration. Unless there are repeats of the burglary. Learn more at writeintegrity.com/thevisitor.

Next week, we’ll look at God’s unfailing love and divine forgiveness. Until then, stay determined to dance…

Click to tweet: Today’s episode of the Determined to Dance Podcast, Tough Times, looks at what we can do when our world is rocked by pain and darkness. #ChristianPodcast #faith

Links:

My website

My debut novel, Jessie’s Hope

Determined to Dance Podcast

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together.

https://youtu.be/dy9nwe9_xzw

Welcome my friends to season 3 of the Determined to Dance podcast. My prayer is that you’ll be encouraged to persevere daily in our chaotic world. Today’s episode, The Problem of Pain, focuses on how hurting can move us closer to or farther away from God.

Show Notes: The Problem of Pain

Pain. It comes in many forms: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. I’ve dealt with it all at one time or another and I’m sure you have also. Pain can be a problem because it has a tendency to either push us closer to God or pull us far away from our heavenly Father. There is no neutral “resting place” when you are experiencing pain.

Dealing with the hurt is like being in a dark room alone. Others could be in there with you but no one can know exactly where you are. Take a broken leg. Five people could break their tibia and each would experience different levels of physical pain from the break, mental pain from dealing with loss of motion and stability, emotional pain from lost activities and possibly job-related issues, and some could even note spiritual pain when dealing with the question of “why did this happen to me?”

Pain is experienced by everyone but no one can truly understand what you are personally going through. Except for God.  Jeff Walling says: “…one of life’s really big questions…comes in various forms, but the bottom line is always the same: “Will you catch me?” “Are you gonna walk out when the going gets rough?” “Will you love me tomorrow?” “Can I really trust you?” If anyone knew how to answer these queries, it was the psalmist. He understood the fears of little boys and big men who look down the dark passages of life and pray, “Father, will you see me through?” He understood the challenge of dancing in the dark, the struggle of trusting and obeying when things look bleak.”

Psalm 34:18 is an example: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” NLT

Isaiah 41:10 is one of those verses that helps me through painful times. “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’ NKJV

The Message Bible says it this way: “Don’t panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you.”

When I’m hurting, I need a firm grip. Strength. And the peace that keeps me from panicking. Don’t you?

When pain attacks, how can we make sure we turn in the right direction, toward our heavenly Father?

Take all your questions and concerns to God. He is big enough to hear all you have to say. You can be honest with the Father.

Take all your anger, sadness, and remorse to God. He is compassionate enough to bring comfort.

After you’ve poured your heart to Him, listen. Take time to hear the directions He may give you in pointing to friends, remedies, and advice to help you in this distressful time.

Back in December, I woke one morning with ringing in my ears. The doctor gave me antibiotics, figuring it was a sinus or ear infection issue. It didn’t go away. Over the next months, I read everything about this annoyance that gave me mental and emotional pain. Many tests of my hearing (it is excellent) and an MRI of my head showed nothing out of sorts and there has been no explanation of why I have this problem. It is a day-by-day walk as I deal with the “cicada” noise in my head, sometimes soft and often very loud. My mind is slowly learning to tune it out for much of the time and I am grateful. I pray for healing and the ability to deal with the emotional stress that bothers me, especially at bedtime.

For now, when I’m struggling most, I go through the three steps above. I want to cry out “Why me?” but we live in a fallen world and there will be pain of all types until we finally make it home. Dancing in the dark, and deciding to trust God is the only decision that brings me peace.

Let’s pray: Father God, we love You and thank You that even when we experience pain, You are always with us. We don’t understand why all pain can’t be healed instantly when we pray but You see the overall picture and we choose to trust you daily. Bring healing and peace to those around us who suffer more than we do. Help us to run to you when we struggle. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.

God understands our struggles when we feel pain and is waiting for us to turn to Him.

Today's featured author is Lois Kennis, the award-winning author of Rise on Eagle's Wings, a contemporary novel set in Iowa. Orphaned at thirteen, it isn't long until Talitha Joy Dahlen is a married teen mother. Talitha's wry sense of humor helps in raising her sons, but can she let go of past hurts to trust a guide she cannot see? Learn more at https://loiskennis.net/

Next week, we’ll look at God’s unfailing love when times are tough. Until then, stay determined to dance…

Click to tweet: Today’s episode of the Determined to Dance Podcast, The Problem of Pain, focuses on God’s unfailing love when times are tough. #ChristianPodcast #faith

Links:

My website

My debut novel, Jessie’s Hope

Determined to Dance Podcast

Remember: The Problem of Pain

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together

https://youtu.be/BRPGRdbGHSs

Welcome my friends to season 3 of the Determined to Dance podcast. My prayer is that you’ll be encouraged to persevere daily in our chaotic world. Today’s episode, Don’t Give Up the Dance, focuses on sin and how it can move us off of the dance floor.

Show Notes: Don’t Give Up the Dance

I am not perfect. In fact, I’m far from it in thought, word, and deed. Yes, Jesus lives in my heart, the Holy Spirit is within me as the helper, and God listens to my prayers, but I still mess up. Often. I sin.

What is sin, exactly? The most basic meaning is to miss the mark. Fall short of a goal. Mess up. I have to admit that sometimes I’m jealous, I gossip, I follow thoughts I shouldn’t, and I can hurt others with my words and deeds. I miss the mark.

And what usually follows close behind sin? Guilt and shame. I believe God lets us experience a godly sorrow so we can turn back to Him, the only One who can forgive our sins. Jesus lived a perfect life, then died and was resurrected so we could experience forgiveness. We have only to ask.

II Chronicles 7:14 shows us the right way to move past sin. “… if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

We have a part to play:

We humble ourselves, admitting we need God.

We pray to God, asking for forgiveness.

We continue to seek God’s face so we don’t fall back into sin.

We turn from sin and wickedness. We don’t put ourselves in the position to sin again.

God takes it from here:

He hears. Our cries are never ignored.

He forgives. He removes our sin as far as the East is from the West.

He heals. He makes our broken parts whole.

What a great God we serve. But sometimes the guilt and shame try to hang around. Jeff Walling explains what has been done: “Shame from sin doesn’t just evaporate. It can’t be expelled by wishing it away. In the court of God’s will, someone must answer for the crime. Jesus was willing and able to be that someone. He allows me the chance to dance again, even after I sin—if I will give him my shame. Having faced and acknowledged my culpability, I hold out my guilt, which he graciously accepts … It is essential that once shame has been acknowledged, it be released to Christ. I must trust him with my shame. Only through allowing Jesus to bear our shame are we free to dance…”

For the shame and guilt to disappear, we must first admit the sin, then give it to Jesus and refuse to hang onto the guilt and shame and the self-pity that tends to go along with them.

To continue to dance with God, we must do this. No one can dance while carrying the burden that comes with sin. It’s just too heavy.

Let’s pray: Father God, we humble ourselves before you and admit we have sinned. We have followed our own way instead of your way. We ask for forgiveness and will seek Your face daily so we won’t get pulled back into wickedness. We turn from our old ways and follow your ways. Every day. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.

I might miss the mark but God forgives me when I ask.

Today’s featured author is Rosemary B. Althoff (ALL’-TOFF), author of the Christian sci-fi novels in the Soul’s Warfare series. Rosemary wants to show God is active in science and working for people who need recovery. In Book 2, THE CAVE CHAMBER, Lewis tries hard to stop the enemy from conquering two worlds—including Earth. Meanwhile, his little brother Patrick wants to be a hero, and his friends want to find and help him, but as for his sister Gracie, … how can a little girl save the universe? Rosemary B. Althoff’s books are available to order from Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and Target.

Next week, we look at the problem of pain. Until then, stay determined to dance…

Click to tweet: Today’s episode of the Determined to Dance Podcast, Don’t Give Up the Dance, focuses on sin and how it can move us off of the dance floor. #ChristianPodcast #faith

Links:

My website

My debut novel, Jessie’s Hope

Determined to Dance Podcast

Remember: Don’t Give Up the Dance

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together

https://youtu.be/0LxJ52urGB8

Welcome my friends to season 3 of the Determined to Dance podcast. My prayer is that you’ll be encouraged to persevere daily in our chaotic world. On today’s episode, How to Deal With Envy, we’ll focus on being grateful for what God has given us.

Show Notes: How to Deal With Envy

When I decided to create a podcast episode on envy, I thought I’d better look up exactly what it means. Jealousy, envy, coveting: they all can get mixed together. Dictionary.com says that envy is a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to another's advantages, success, possessions, etc.

That makes sense. Who hasn’t been discontented over someone else’s life at one time or the other? Envy is a tough vice to overcome. Just this week, I heard that a friend of mine had won a big award for her novel. And deep down, I’m so happy for her. But the first thought that jumped into my mind was “I read her book. I don’t think it was better than mine. Why didn’t I win?”

Ouch. That’s envy showing its ugly face in my thoughts. My next thought was “Okay, now how am I going to deal with this?”

How do you deal with envy? Do you stuff it deep inside, praying it won’t surface? Do you talk to three people about why it isn’t fair? Do you whine? Whining is what I tend to do. But I want to change, don’t you?

Jeff Walling uses the example of envying others' gifts. He says: “God gives his gifts in the way he chooses. While I must never close the door of my heart to what God may wish to provide, I cannot spend my spiritual life trying to attain what someone else seems to have.”

I didn’t win that particular award. But that doesn’t mean I won’t someday. And if I spend my life trying to win that award instead of following the direction that God is leading me in, I’ll miss his purpose for my life. And that would be beyond sad.

Walling goes on to say: “Keep your eyes on the One who deserves your attention, and keep your attention from the ones who don’t need your scorn. You will be helping their dance by honoring the freedom that Jesus died to give them. And you’ll be aiding your own dance…”

How do we stop envy in its tracks?

Get close to God and find out what His plan is for your life. Then focus your energy in that direction.

When the temptation to compare yourself to others attacks you, focus on what God has already done in your life. Remind yourself that you are an individual in His eyes.

When envy is difficult to overcome, purposely bless the person you are envious of. A kind word, a card, a note of congratulations, or a job well done. We do unto others as we would have them do unto us.

If you’re still struggling, make a list of the many ways God has blessed you and the gifts and blessings He has bestowed on you. Gratitude can stomp out envy.

There is still a part of me that wishes I could have won. Or placed higher than I did. I realize that is my flesh and for the rest of my life, it has to be put in its place. But I have God on my side, helping me in every way. I have only to ask…

Let’s pray: Father God, we love You so much and the blessings You’ve bestowed on us but we still struggle with envy. The grass looks greener on the other side, but it's not on our side. Help us to be grateful for where You have placed us and the gifts and talents we have. We want to focus on Your plan for us and not compare ourselves to others. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.

Envy will always be around, but we can overcome it with the help of our heavenly Father.

Today’s featured author is Lane Jordan, author of Evangeline, a historical romance novel.

Take the beautiful, biblical story of Esther, change the lead character’s race from Jewish to biracial, place the location in New York City during the 1960’s era of turmoil at the time of the civil rights movement, and you have a modern-day parallel to the story of Esther. King and Evie beautifully portray this timeless tale of romance and righteousness in action.

Learn more at www.LaneJordanMinistries.com

Next week, we’ll look at how to deal with sin and not give up the dance. Until then, stay determined to dance…

Click to tweet: Today’s episode of the Determined to Dance Podcast, How to Deal With Envy, focuses on being grateful for what God has given us. #ChristianPodcast #faith

Links:

My website

My debut novel, Jessie’s Hope

Determined to Dance Podcast

Remember: How to Deal With Envy

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together

https://youtu.be/s7eVr-OUYkQ

Welcome my friends to season 3 of the Determined to Dance podcast. My prayer is that you’ll be encouraged to persevere daily in our chaotic world. In today’s episode, How to Face the Critics, we’ll focus on how to deal with the people who aren’t pleased with our dance.

Show Notes: How to Face the Critics

Let’s get one thing straight right now. There will always be critics. I’m not talking about constructive criticism delivered with kindness and a genuine desire to help. I’m speaking of people who just enjoy being critical. Whether you’re dancing with God in ministry, raising a family, working at your job, or even buying groceries, these people are lying in wait to ruin your day. They could even think they’re doing you a favor, with words like:

Why don’t you pray an hour a day like me?

Don’t you think you should homeschool? Or go to public school?

You aren’t as efficient as our last secretary.

You don’t seem to be qualified to lead this ministry.

Why in the world aren’t you clipping coupons to save money?

Does it drive you to distraction too? I want to scream, mind your own business instead of mine. How in the world can we face these critics that seem to be everywhere? First, we can keep our eyes on our dance partner. Jeff Walling says: “Training the eyes of our heart on God will free our dancing in more ways than one. First, keeping your eyes solidly on your dance partner keeps you from being distracted by onlookers.

Hebrews 12:1-2 says: “Therefore since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author, and perfecter of our faith.” NIV

Distractions are endless and people will try to pull us from our focus on God. Keep the eye of your heart on the One who loved you enough to die for you. He is truly for you.

Secondly, don’t keep your eyes on others. You can doubt yourself if others aren’t doing what you are or the way you are doing it. As a writer, I study and read a lot. Sometimes, I’ll read a novel and think: this is the best book I’ve ever read. I wish I could write like that. Or I wish my podcast was as popular as so and so’s. Or my website looked more professional. Maybe I’m too weird or subtle or boring or something. Before I know it, I’m depressed, throwing a pity party, and not following the path that God laid out for me.

Jeff Walling says: “…we are judged by God alone. He is the only audience that matters. His opinion is the only one we should constantly poll.”

It’s extremely important to keep our eyes on Jesus and off of others. What else can we do to help us dance with abandon?

We walk in love. God calls us to love Him and love our neighbor. That’s not only our best friend neighbors but the grumpy ones too. We can pray for God to help us to be more loving.

We walk in truth. God’s word is true. If someone slanders the way we worship, we look to God and His Word. We pray. We follow truth and not what might be popular opinion.

We walk in faith. We believe God has a plan and purpose for us and He will light our path. Sometimes we might have to sit and wait but we trust in the One who loves us most.

We walk in hope. There is never a reason to abandon hope when the critics are harsh. “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40: 31 NIV

Love, truth, faith, and hope. When we walk with these virtues in our hearts, we can face the critical with heads held high.

Let’s pray: Father God, we come to you with hearts often burdened by critics. We want to be teachable but many want to drag us through the mire. Give us the wisdom to discern what we should do. Fill us with love, truth, faith, and hope so we can follow your path daily. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.

There will always be critics but we can dance in spite of them.

Today's featured author is Lois Kennis, author of Rise on Eagle's Wings, an award-winning contemporary novel set in Iowa. Orphaned at thirteen, it isn't long until Talitha Joy Dahlen is a married teen mother. Talitha's wry sense of humor helps in raising her sons, but can she let go of past hurts to trust a guide she cannot see? Learn more at https://loiskennis.net/

Next week, we’ll look at how to deal with envy. Until then, stay determined to dance…

Click to tweet: Today’s episode of the Determined to Dance Podcast, How to Face the Critics, focuses on how to deal with the critical people in your life. #ChristianPodcast #faith

Links

My website

My debut novel, Jessie’s Hope

Determined to Dance Podcast

Remember: How to Face the Critics

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together.

https://youtu.be/UoHrBNTfzIs