Pennies In Your Path

In today's episode, Jodi discusses the cost of unforgiveness. When we allow the unforgiveness to take root, we are hindering our relationship with God. We allow other roots of bitterness, anger, and self-righteousness to dig deeper than we ever intended. Jodi also shares the question God tends to ask her when she is struggling through forgiving someone. It's a question that instantly brings her to her knees.

Here are the three key scriptures shared:

1.) "If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened." (Psalm 66:18)

2.) "Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you so that he will not hear." (Isaiah 59:1-2)

3.) "Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many." (Hebrews 12:14-15)

I would be honored to pray for you as you work through unforgiveness. Please go to JodiAiken.com to leave a prayer request in my contact form, and I promise I will be praying for you.

Also, share this encouraging word with a friend and leave a review on iTunes to help spread the word.

LINKS: Click below to learn more about Jodi.

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In today's episode, Jodi shares a childhood memory and explains why the honeysuckle reminds her of the Word of God. She will also share a S.T.O.P. (Scripture Today for One to Ponder) from Psalms 119:103.

"How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" (Psalm 119:103, NIV)

Please share this encouraging word with a friend and leave a review on iTunes to help spread the word.

LINKS: Click below to learn more about Jodi.

Website

iTunes

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Spotify

If you are receiving this in your inbox click here to listen.

During this episode, Jodi chats with Stephanie Shott about several different topics. Stephanie shares her testimony from being conceived, as a result of rape, and God's redemptive story in her life. They also discuss her book, "The Making of a MOM" and chat about the impact of speaking words of wisdom towards our children and the need for moms to mentor other moms by putting Titus 2:4-5 into action.

About Stephanie Shott:

Stephanie Shott is the founder of The M.O.M. Initiative, a ministry devoted to making mentoring intentionally missional. She is an author and a popular speaker who helps women live full, fearless and faithful lives.

Stephanie's painful past and diverse backstory allows her to relate to women of all ages and in all seasons of life as she not only makes her places of pain a platform of praise but with Indiana-Jones style she takes audiences with her on an adventure to unearth treasures in Scripture that can change their lives.

Also, check Pennies In Your Path out on iTunes and leave a review! :)

LINKS:

Parenting with a Plan and a Purpose

Stephanie Shott Ministries

The MOM Initiative

The Making of a Mom book

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In today's episode, Jodi interviews Barb Raveling. Barb is an author, podcaster, blogger, and a coach. Barb shares about her book, "The Renewing of the Mind Project." She offers some practical ways to go deeper in transforming your mindset and choosing truth over lies. Barbs unique way of renewing your mind is likened to a hands-on workshop. She offers insightful suggestions on how to focus on one area of your life at a time while seeking to make changes with God's help.

Barbs resources are numerous, but here are a few. Check out BarbRaveling.com for more tools.

Links:

Barb Raveling

Coaching with Barb

Christian Habits Podcast

Taste for Truth Christian Weight Loss Podcast

Renewing of the Mind Tools

Christian Weight Loss App

To purchase Barb's books, go to Amazon.com.

Here is a list of the books for you to check out.

The Renewing of the Mind Project (Going to God for Help with your Habits, Goals, and Emotions)

I Deserve a Donut and Other Lies That Make You Eat

Bible Studies by Barb:

Rally (A personal growth bible study.)

Taste for Truth (A 30-day weight loss bible study.)

If you would like to help spread the word about "Pennies in Your Path" podcast then go to iTunes by clicking here and leave a review. Thank you for your support!

Today's episode is a "STOP"-Scripture Today for One To Ponder from Psalm 103:2

"Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits."

If you collect scriptures on 3x5 cards, this is a terrific one to write down. It first leads us to ponder on how our souls can bless the Lord. You can't help but be drawn into a state of heart worship! Then it leads us to ponder on all His benefits.

It's simple yet so deep.

Both thoughts could lead to hours of reflecting who God is, His lovingkindness, and compassion. For the sake of time, I would like us to focus on the second portion of the scripture, "forget none of His benefits."

Allow me to expound on the scripture reading and share with you Psalm 103:1-5. Listen carefully for a few of the benefits we have in Christ.

"Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; Who pardons all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases; Who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; Who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle."

The presence of God is woven throughout our daily journey. God is personal and is interested in you and loves you. No matter what emotion, circumstance or situation you are in don't forget His benefits. Consider what He has done and still does for you?

Did you hear the five benefits in the verses I just read to you?

1) Pardons all your iniquities 2) Heals all your diseases 3) Redeems your life from the pit 4) Crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion 5) Satisfies your years with good things

As Easter is approaching, I am reminded of the most significant benefit we have in God. His saving grace through His Son Jesus Christ.

Those that believe in Him benefit by having all their iniquities pardoned. That was the first benefit mentioned.

He has paid our debt. This is critical to comprehend!

Our iniquities (sins) have separated us from God, and the wages (debt) of our sin is death (Isaiah 59:2, Romans 6:23). But there is good news! God knew we all would sin and fall short of His glory so He had His one and only son, Jesus Christ, to suffer for our sins so that when we believe in Him, He will bring us to God (Romans 3:23-24,1 Peter 3:18).

God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8).

I love John 1:12, "But to all who did receive Him, who believe in His name, He gave the right to become children of God." Then Romans 10:9, "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved."

Jesus was crucified, buried, rose on the third day and ascended to heaven.

All this took place so that we would have the benefit of spending eternity with Him.

Don't miss out on these benefits. The value is life!

What a word Psalm 103:2 offers us to ponder on not just today but every day!

Photo by Tim Foster on Unsplash Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

In today's episode, Jodi takes us on a unique journey where God revealed six trusted truths from a penny she found during a walk. She ends with some practical steps to create a natural habit in recognizing God throughout your day.

There are some days that we feel down and out and need God to remind us that He has already equipped us to fight the battle, but it's up to us to use the tools He placed before us.

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God…" (Ephesians 6:12-13)

The following are six truths that can be trusted to point us to God: (Pennies printed from 2010-present have the shield on them.)

1.) The Union Shield >>> SHEILD OF FAITH

"In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one." (Ephesians 6:16)

"As for God, His way is perfect: The Lord's word is flawless; He shields all who take refuge in Him." (2 Samuel 22:31)

2.) The Scroll draped across the shield "One Cent">>>THE BELT OF TRUTH

"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place." (Ephesians 6:14)

"Righteousness will be His belt and faithfulness the SASH around His waist." (Isaiah 11:5 ")

3.) E Pluribus u num (out of many, One) The motto of the US at the top of the shield>>>ONE TRUE GOD

"For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus." (1Timothy 2:5)

"To you, it was shown that you might know that the Lord, He is God; there is no other besides Him." (Deuteronomy 4:35)

"Know therefore today, and take it to your heart, that the Lord, He is God in heaven above and on the earth below; there is no other." (Deuteronomy 4:39)

"There is one body and one spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling. One Lord, One faith, One baptism, One God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all." (Ephesians 4:4-6 ")

4.) IN GOD WE TRUST= (Has been inscribed on the front of the penny since 1909)

"Some trust in Chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God." (Psalm 20:7)

"In that day they will say, "surely this is our God; we trusted in Him, and He saved us. This is the Lord, we trusted in Him; let us rejoice and be glad in His salvation." (Isaiah 25:9)

5.) Liberty>>>FREEDOM IN CHRIST

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." (Galatians 5:1)

"You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (Galatians 5:13-14)

6.) The penny represents people that are marred and overlooked by others, but not by God.

The following women are examples of marred lives redeemed and restored by our loving God. The world condemned them, but Jesus had compassion on them. Jesus saw them as valuable and worthy of His forgiveness and love. Look up their stories for a more in-depth study.

⇒ Some women healed of evil spirits: Luke 8:2-3

⇒ Woman with Issue: Luke 8: 42-50

⇒ Woman Caught in Adultery: John 8:1-11

⇒ The woman at the Well: John 4:1-42

The following three scriptures are some encouraging truths from God's word I want to share with you as I wrap this episode up.

2 Corinthians 4:6

"For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God's glory displayed in the face of Christ."

Psalm 113:4-7

"The Lord is exalted over all the nations, his glory above the heavens. Who is like the Lord our God, the One who sits enthroned on high, who stoops down to look on the heavens and the earth? He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap."

Matthew 10:29-31

"Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So, don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."

When our minds focus on seeking His presence, then our thoughts will be held captive in Christ. It's one of the ways I fight the battle on the battlefield of my mind. I believe it will be useful for you as well. If you are new at seeking His presence daily then begin with a simple practice of acknowledging Him several times throughout your day. Once you find that you are naturally doing that without much effort, then add prayers when you recognize Him. They don't have to be long or complicated, nor do you have to be in a particular position. Simply converse with God. I believe once you've exercised these new habits you will find that God will begin opening your eyes to seek and see Him in the simple things.

I would love to hear from you. Also, if this has blessed you please share it with a friend. If you would like to help me get the word out about "Pennies In Your Path" please take a minute to sign into iTunes and leave a review. Be blessed!

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Photo by Catherine McMahon on Unsplash

In today's episode Jodi shares, that we are invited to sit with "Mercy" for a while. No matter who we are, where we come from, nor our past, Mercy invites us in to spend time in His Powerful Presence. She also prompts us to lift the lid of the Ark of the covenant to see what items are inside and how the history represented within enhances the power of His presence.

Here are some scriptures she references:

Exodus 25:21-22, "You shall put the mercy seat on top of the ark… There I will meet with you; and from above the Mercy seat, from between the two cherubim which are upon the ark of the testimony, I will speak to you about all that I will give you in commandment for the sons of Israel.

When we open up the Ark of the Covenant we will see:

1.) A golden jar with preserved manna. (Exodus 16:33-36, Hebrews 9:4)

2.) Aaron's budded rod. (Numbers 17:1-13 but specifically vs. 10)

3.) The tables of the covenant (10 commandments). (Exodus 25:16, Deuteronomy 31:26)

God's history with the Israelites has proven over and over that He is faithful, holy, and Sovereign.

What history do you have with God?

What items could you place in a special box to remind you of the history you have with God?

As we ponder on our history with God, it strengthens us and stirs us to be courageous in the calling He has placed on our lives. It draws us into the heartbeat of God for the lost, afflicted, and the prisoner. They need to know that they too can have a history with God if they would only meet Him.

I pray you have been encouraged to sit with Mercy for a while today. I would love to hear from you. Please leave a comment below or go to my website at www.JodiAiken.com.

Also, I could use your help getting the word out about "Pennies In Your Path." Simply log into iTunes, look up my podcast or my name, Jodi Aiken, and leave a review. Thank you!

As promised here is the link Jodi referenced at the beginning of the show.

Relationship-Wellness-Workbook

BrokawPringingCo

And be sure to get your gift of 20% off anything in the store by entering JODI20

www.Etsy.com

Since it is February or also known as the "Love Month", I thought I would do a 4-part series on "Enhancing Your Marriage." The first two will be via podcast and the second two via my blog at www.JodiAiken.com

If you haven't heard Part 1: "Enhancing Your Marriage" click here and listen then come back to Part 2.

In today's episode, Part 2 of "Enhancing Your Marriage", I share an interview with my husband, Chris. We discuss oneness in marriage and teamwork is the strategy.

We have a lot of fun doing this together as we share and reflect on 30-plus years of marriage. I pray you will glean insight and learn how to apply God's word in your relationship.

I'd love to hear how this episode has encouraged you and would be honored if you would leave a review on iTunes. Reviews help get the word out about "Pennies in Your Path". Click here to leave a review.

Also, don't miss out on your free download of 10-One Sentence Prayers to Enhance Your Marriage!

P.S. Share this with someone you care about.

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Since it is February or also known as the "Love Month", I thought I would do a 4-part series on "Enhancing Your Marriage." The first two will be via podcast and the second two will be via my blog at www.JodiAiken.com

In today's episode, I interview my husband, Chris Aiken.

We cover two questions in depth:

1.) How would men, in general, like to be communicated with?

2.) What are some best practices to show men, husbands in general, that they are respected?

We have a lot of fun doing this podcast together as we share and reflect on 30-plus years of marriage. I pray you will glean insight and learn how to apply God's word in your relationship.

You can find Chris blog at ChrisAikenOnline.com.

I'd love to hear how this episode has encouraged you and would be honored if you would leave a review on iTunes. Reviews help get the word out about "Pennies in Your Path".

P.S. Share this with someone you care about.

Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes.

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Trusting God,

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In today's episode, Jodi talks about the struggle of transitioning from one place to another and the need to look for God's presence.

Have you ever relocated your family for a job assignment? We moved several times while in the military. Each move required packing up our belongings, emotions, and what was familiar. Uncertainties of when we would move, where we would go, and how long we would remain was part of military life. We were at the mercy of orders handed down from Command. We learned to depend on God for comfort, wisdom, and guidance.

Are you in the process of a move? Listen to how God reveals Himself to the Israelites and be encouraged knowing we too can seek His presence every morning.

Click here to read the original devotion on When to Stay-When to Go.

Visit Jodi's website for more encouraging messages from her blog and podcast at JodiAiken.com

If this podcast has given you hope please consider sharing it with a friend that could benefit from it as well. As always I would appreciate it if you would help me spread the word about "Pennies In Your Path" by leaving a review on iTunes. Thank you and be blessed. Jodi