Title: Why and how I fasted for 6 days

Introduction:

Welcome back to Proverbs and Pearls! In today's episode, we embark on a profound journey of faith as we explore the why and how of fasting for six days. Join me as we delve into the biblical foundation of fasting, drawing inspiration from the courageous act of Queen Esther.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Esther's Fasting Example:

• Introducing the theme of fasting for divine guidance and intervention with a reference to Esther 4:16.
• Reflecting on Esther's call for a fast in Susa as a demonstration of deep faith and commitment to seeking God's intervention.

2. Hunger for Jesus:

• Bringing attention to the spiritual hunger emphasized in Matthew 4:4, where man is urged to live on every word from the mouth of God.
• Exploring the notion that the benefits of fasting extend beyond temporary physical discomfort, emphasizing the spiritual nourishment derived from seeking God's word.

3. The Significance of Fasting:

• Discussing the biblical context of fasting and its various purposes, including seeking God's guidance, demonstrating repentance, and expressing profound faith.
• Drawing parallels between Queen Esther's courageous fast and other instances in the Bible where fasting played a pivotal role.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, fasting is not merely a physical act but a spiritual discipline with deep roots in the Bible. From Queen Esther's brave call for a fast to the early church's practice for divine guidance, the act of fasting carries profound implications for believers seeking a closer connection with God. As we reflect on the biblical examples, may we find inspiration and understanding in the significance of fasting for divine guidance and intervention.

Title: New Year’s Resolution as a Christian (It’s not what you think)

Welcome back to Proverbs and Pearls! As we step into the New Year, join me in exploring a fresh perspective on planning and living a purposeful life. If you're a Christian who loves scouting for cute planners in December, you're in for a treat.

Key Points Discussed:

1. The Planner Predicament:

• Reflecting on the familiar scenario of filling out planners with ambitious goals each December, only to face frustration when plans fall through.
• Acknowledging the normalcy of dreaming and planning but recognizing the need for a shift in perspective.

2. A Shift in Perspective:

• Sharing a personal realization about relying on individual strength to shape life based on worldly desires.
• Introducing the wisdom from Proverbs 19:21, highlighting the prevailing purpose of the Lord over personal plans.

3. Aligning with God's Plan:

• Embracing the Christian journey as a submission to the Lordship of Jesus.
• Navigating the challenge of planning for the year while recognizing the importance of aligning with God's plan rather than expecting Him to align with personal desires.

4. The 4 R's for the New Year:

• Introducing the concept of the 4 R's: Rest, Rely, Remember, and Read. Rest in God's Presence (Job 11:18)Reflecting on the assurance and safety found in God's presence.
• Rely on God's Strength (Psalm 55:22)Casting cares on the Lord and finding sustenance in His strength.
• Remember His Promises by Reading His Word (Romans 15:4) Highlighting the encouragement and hope derived from the Scriptures.

Conclusion:

As we embark on a new year, let's embrace a shift in our perspective. Instead of resolutions, focus on the 4 R's—Rest, Rely, Remember, and Read. Join me in seeking alignment with God's purpose and finding peace in His presence. Wishing you a blessed and purposeful New Year! Stay tuned for more wisdom on Proverbs and Pearls.

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Title: Why Who You Pray to Matters

Introduction:

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Proverbs and Pearls. In today's exploration, we delve into the profound question of why the recipient of our prayers matters. Join us as we uncover the significance of addressing our prayers to the right source and the impact it has on our spiritual connection.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Praying to God:

• Observations of prayers seemingly unanswered, prompting reflection on who individuals are truly addressing in their prayers.
• Questioning the relationship dynamic when conversing with Jesus without a sense of reverence and acknowledgment of His lordship.

1. Biblical Perspective on Prayer:

• Drawing on Isaiah 59, affirming that the Lord's power to save and His attentiveness to our prayers are unwavering.
• Defining prayer according to Philippians 4:6 as a means of communication with the Lord, acknowledging the common question of why we pray if God already knows everything about us.

1. Understanding the Purpose of Prayer:

• Emphasizing the importance of aligning our will with God's through prayer, despite His omniscience.
• Drawing a parallel to childhood experiences of admitting faults to parents who already knew the truth, highlighting the awareness that prayer brings to our own intentions.

1. The Significance of Names:

• Differentiating between titles like God, Lord, and Father and the personal names of God and Jesus (YAH and Yeshua/Jesus).
• Exploring the biblical foundation for praying in Jesus' name and the promise associated with it (John 14:13-14).

1. The Path to the Father:

• Understanding the separation caused by sin and the reconciliation provided through Jesus, who exchanged our sin for His righteousness.
• Emphasizing that our approach to the Father is made possible only through taking on the righteousness of Jesus.

Conclusion:

In this thought-provoking episode, we've uncovered the depth of our communication with God and the significance of recognizing His titles and names. Addressing the who in our prayers aligns with biblical truths and enhances the intimacy of our connection with the Almighty. Join us next time on Proverbs and Pearls as we continue to explore timeless wisdom and spiritual insights. Stay blessed!

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Episode 4: The Never Ending Search for Self, Part Two

I had to re-record this episode in obedience to what the Holy Spirit instructed me to. In this episode, we revisit the fundamental aspects of our identity as Christians, shedding light on the misconceptions often associated with the search for self. We redirect our focus towards the spiritual truths that ground our identity in Christ, transcending the temporary pursuits of this world.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Rediscovering True Identity in Christ:

• Revisiting the misguided notion of attaching identity to negative or positive life experiences, highlighting the need to refocus on our divine connection with God.
• Emphasizing the essential truth that as Christians, our identity is rooted in being children of God, referenced in Romans 11.

1. Embracing the Love of God and Exercising Free Will:

• Reflecting on the profound love of God and the gift of free will bestowed upon us to choose a life of love and devotion to Him.
• Drawing parallels between a loving relationship and the voluntary commitment to follow God.

1. Understanding Our Set Apart Identity:

• Exploring the spiritual reality of feeling disconnected from this world and the scriptural affirmation that as Christians, we are set apart for our heavenly citizenship, as indicated in Philippians 3:20.

1. Combatting Deception and Embracing Divine Truth:

• Recognizing the deceptive nature of the enemy and the importance of aligning our thoughts and beliefs with the truths of the Bible.
• Acknowledging the significance of acknowledging God's understanding of our innermost being and the dangers of seeking validation and purpose in the world.

Conclusion:

The journey of self-discovery often leads us astray when we seek our identity in the transient experiences of this world. By embracing our identity as children of God and aligning our beliefs with the divine truths of scripture, we can find genuine purpose and fulfillment. May this episode serve as a reminder to center our focus on the eternal truths of our heavenly citizenship and the profound love of our Creator.

In this episode, we explore the common human struggle of searching for identity and purpose. Often, this quest leads us to attach our sense of self to external experiences, leaving us feeling unfulfilled and empty. Through introspection and spiritual insight, we delve into the true source of identity and fulfillment.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Misplaced Identity and Its Impact:

• Analyzing the tendency to attach our identity to negative experiences such as trauma, sins, and failures.
• Reflecting on the consequences of anchoring our self-worth to achievements and positions in our professional lives.

2. The Quest for Purpose:

• Delving into the human desire to understand one's purpose and direction in life, often leading to a continuous search for fulfillment.
• Discussing the common pitfall of seeking purpose in external factors, resulting in feelings of frustration and disappointment.

3. Rediscovering Identity in Faith:

• Emphasizing the need to shift focus towards Jesus as the true source of identity and fulfillment.
• Focusing our eyes on Jesus as He is the author and perfecter of our faith, encouraging listeners to anchor their sense of self in Him.

4. Finding Fulfillment in Spiritual Truths:

• Exploring the transformative power of grounding one's identity in spiritual truths and principles.
• Encouraging listeners to look beyond external circumstances and seek inner fulfillment through a relationship with Jesus.

Conclusion:

The never-ending search for self and purpose often leads us astray, as we attempt to find fulfillment in external experiences and achievements. Through this episode, we recognize the need to shift our focus to Jesus, who serves as the ultimate source of identity and fulfillment. By embracing our faith and understanding our connection to Him, we can find true peace and purpose that surpasses any earthly pursuit.

Proverbs and Pearls

Episode 2: Just Jesus

In this episode, I share the personal journey of my decision to embrace Christianity and make Jesus the focal point of my life by acknowledging His Lordship. Through heartfelt reflections and scriptural insights, I illustrate the transformative power of God's love and grace.

Key Points Discussed:

1. The Ultimate Sacrifice:

• Understanding the profound love of God, as depicted in John 3:16, and the sacrifice of Jesus for the redemption of humankind.
• Reflecting on the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and the debt He paid, highlighting the unmatched love and devotion of God.

2. Choosing Baptism and Overcoming Fear:

• Sharing the contemplation behind the decision to get baptized, despite previous baptism as an infant.
• Discussing the internal struggle of not wanting to offend others while recognizing the need to prioritize a relationship with Jesus above all else.

3. Religion vs. Relationship:

• Delving into the distinction between religion and relationship, emphasizing the transformative power of the relationship with Jesus.
• Exploring the concept of Christianity as the finished work of Christ Jesus on the cross, contrasting it with the idea of religious obligations.

4. Nurturing the Relationship with Jesus:

• Emphasizing the importance of daily meditation on the Word of God and fostering a deep, personal relationship with Jesus.
• Drawing inspiration from Psalm 1:2 and Matthew 22:37, which encourage the delight in God's law and the love for God with all one's heart, soul, and mind.

Conclusion:

My journey toward embracing Jesus as my Lord and Savior has been a transformative experience, marked by the understanding of God's unconditional love and the significance of building a personal relationship with Him. Through this episode, I hope to inspire others to prioritize their relationship with Jesus and experience the profound joy and peace that come from knowing Him intimately.

Mentioned in this episode:

Welcome to Proverbs and Pearls Podcast

Here we talk about Godly Wisdom, Biblical Christianity, and all things Jesus! Together we’ll Laugh, Learn, and Love the Lord on this Faith Journey!

Proverbs and Pearls

Episode 1: Podcast Intro

Introduction:

In this episode, we delve into the journey that led to the creation of this podcast. I share the pivotal moments and realizations that compelled me to start this ministry and embrace a life devoted to serving Jesus.

Key Points Discussed:

1. The Struggle Within:

• Reflecting on the initial reluctance to embrace the calling due to a desire to live a double life.
• Realizing the need to align my heart with the teachings of Christ and relinquish earthly desires.
• Understanding the significance of not being ashamed of the gospel, drawing inspiration from Romans 1:16.

1. Embracing the Call:

• Overcoming the initial lack of knowledge about podcasting through the providential arrival of individuals equipped to help.
• Recognizing God's equipping of those He calls, emphasizing His ability to empower despite our limitations.

1. Deepening the Connection:

• Responding to an intensified burden to minister in a world grappling with spiritual battles.
• Nurturing a profound relationship with Jesus through immersive scripture study and focus on faith.
• Witnessing a transformative shift as my desires realigned with God's will, referencing 2 Corinthians 5:17.

1. Total Surrender:

• Experiencing a profound transformation as the Holy Spirit took control of my life, as stated in Galatians 2:20.
• Acknowledging the privilege of sharing this journey to encourage others in their own walks of faith.

Conclusion:

Through my personal journey, I have come to understand the transformative power of God's love and grace. I hope that my story serves as a source of inspiration and encouragement for all those on their own spiritual paths. Thank you for joining me in this endeavor to spread the life-changing message of Jesus Christ.

Mentioned in this episode:

Welcome to Proverbs and Pearls Podcast

Here we talk about Godly Wisdom, Biblical Christianity, and all things Jesus! Together we’ll Laugh, Learn, and Love the Lord on this Faith Journey!