When life gets loud and when distractions multiply, emotions surge, routines slip, and pressures rise, our first instinct is usually to run faster, try harder, or grasp for control. But Jesus gives us a different invitation:

"Pay close attention to what you hear…" —Mark 4:24–25 (NLT)

In this episode, Rose Ann shares a deeply personal devotional about learning to listen closely to God in seasons of chaos and in seasons of comfort—when things were falling apart and when they seemed to be going well.

She also opens up about the subtle drift that happens when we stop listening, the consequences of losing our spiritual focus, and the neuroscience that confirms what Jesus taught: what you repeatedly pay attention to will shape your entire life.

If life feels loud right now, this episode is your reminder to listen closer.

🧠 In This Episode, You'll Discover:

• Why Jesus tied listening to understanding and wisdom
• How early spiritual fire can fade when life returns to "normal"
• The pattern of drifting from God after answered prayers — and how to break it
• How volunteering, Bible studies, and community brought Rose Ann back into daily obedience
• The science of attention: how your brain rewires itself based on what you focus on
• Why God's Word quiets fear, anxiety, comparison, and the noise of the world
• A wisdom-filled quote from Craig Groeschel:

"Your life is always moving in the direction of your strongest thoughts."

🔍 Key Verse

Mark 4:24–25 (NLT)

"Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given…"

💭 Reflection Questions

1. Where has life felt "loud" lately—and whose voice have you been listening to most?
2. What simple daily rhythm (Scripture, devotional time, prayer) could help you pay closer attention to God again?
3. Could serving or joining a Bible study help anchor you in consistent community and spiritual growth?
4. What are your strongest thoughts right now—and where are they leading your life?

🙏 Closing Prayer

Father, I desire to pay closer attention to your voice and your Word. I want to receive greater understanding and wisdom in my life. I commit to listening closely—every day. In Jesus' name, Amen.

🕊 If This Episode Spoke to You…

Rose Ann would love to hear from you. Send a short email to [email protected] sharing how this devotional resonated with your heart and what kinds of wisdom topics you'd love to hear more about in future episodes. Remember to visit www.choosefreedom.today for more resources.

#ChooseFreedom #SayGoodbyeAndImagine #GodlyWisdom #RenewYourMind #ChristianDevotional

In this episode of Say Goodbye and Imagine, Rose Ann transitions from the 12 Core Concepts into a brand-new exploration of godly wisdom—how Scripture guides our choices, shapes our mindset, and strengthens our self-control.

Rose Ann shares the behind-the-scenes process of how her devotional writings begin: through daily Bible reading, reflection, and noticing what God highlights in His Word. Today's insight comes from Genesis 4:7, a passage where God gently warns Cain that sin is crouching at the door—but also affirms that Cain has the power to subdue it.

This episode dives into:

1. Why this moment in Genesis reveals a patient and loving God
2. How unchecked emotions (like anger) open the door to life-interfering behaviors
3. The Hebrew imagery of sin "crouching" like a predator
4. How this connects to 1 Peter 5:8 and moments of temptation
5. Why godly decision making begins with recognizing that the Holy Spirit empowers us to choose what is right
6. How renewed neural pathways and spiritual self-control work together

Rose Ann also shares her heart behind her next devotional project on godly wisdom and invites listeners to participate by sending the Scriptures that have shaped their own decision-making journey.

She closes with a prayer from her devotional draft and a reminder that resources for substance or behavior struggles are available at www.choosefreedom.today.

If this episode encourages you, reach out and let her know at [email protected]. Your encouragement helps guide the direction of this new series.

#ChooseFreedom #GodlyWisdom #ChristianLiving #DailyDevotional #BiblicalWisdom

In the final episode of this 12-part series, Rose Ann Forte brings it all together with the powerful truth that we're not just facing a behavior challenge—we're fighting a spiritual battle. Drawing from Ephesians 6, this episode unpacks the Full Armor of God in practical, relatable ways and ties each piece of armor to the mindset shifts you've explored throughout the Core Concepts.

You'll learn:

• Why mindset is your greatest defense against relapse
• How spiritual armor protects you in your most vulnerable moments
• The real reason we keep going back to what hurts us—and how to stop
• Why accountability is non-negotiable for lasting change
• How to stand firm in your identity and step into freedom

If you've walked through all 12 Core Concepts, you're not the same person you were at the start. You've been rewiring your brain, retraining your responses, and now it's time to protect what you've built.

📖 Scripture Reference:

"Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil." —Ephesians 6:11 (NLT)

📚 Mentioned Resources:

• The Plans He Has for Me
• Prepare to Quit
• Transformed by His Promises
• Join the Choose Freedom Program

🙌 If this series has blessed you:

Please consider sharing the podcast with someone who needs encouragement. Also, take 30 seconds to leave a review for any of the devotionals on Amazon—your review helps others find freedom too.

#MindsetTransformation#SpiritualWarfare#ChooseFreedom#FaithAndNeuroscience#ArmorOfGod

Why do we keep going back to the things we say we don't want to do? What if the problem isn't a moral failure—but a hijacked reward system in the brain?

In this episode, Rose Ann Forte dives into the neuroscience behind addiction and why willpower alone isn't enough to break free. With biblical wisdom and brain-based understanding, she reveals the powerful biological process God designed—and how addictive substances or behaviors take advantage of it.

If you've ever wondered "What happened to me? I used to be goal-oriented... joyful... motivated…"—this episode will help you make sense of that confusion, without shame.

You'll learn:

• What dopamine is and how it works in normal vs. addictive habits
• Why addictive behaviors crowd out joy from everyday life
• What Scripture says about these destructive cycles (Proverbs 23:31–35, Ephesians 5:15–18, Romans 12:2, Galatians 5:1)
• Why renewing your mind is scientifically and spiritually possible
• How the Choose Freedom® Program and resources like Prepare to Quit can help you rewire your brain and reclaim your joy

📚 Mentioned in the Episode:

• Prepare to Quit book on Amazon »
• The Plans He Has for Me devotional »
• Join the private Facebook group for The Plans He Has For Me: click here »

💡 Don't forget to:

• Subscribe to this podcast
• Leave a review (honest, anonymous, short is fine!) on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, or wherever you listen or read
• Share this episode with someone stuck in the shame cycle—they need hope, not guilt
• Explore coaching or the Choose Freedom program to experience lasting change

Featured Scriptures

Proverbs 23:31–35 (NLT): "Don't gaze at the wine, seeing how red it is, how it sparkles in the cup, how smoothly it goes down. For in the end, it bites like a poisonous snake; it stings like a viper. You will see hallucinations, and you will say crazy things. You will stagger like a sailor tossed at sea, clinging to a swaying mast. And you will say, 'They hit me, but I didn't feel it. I didn't even know it when they beat me up. When will I wake up so I can look for another drink?'"

Ephesians 5:15–18 (NLT): "So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit."

Romans 12:2 (NIV): "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will."

Galatians 5:1 (NIV): "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." [00:02:32] - Starting the Core Concept 11: "It's Addictive" Discussion of the importance of understanding addiction, especially the biology behind it, and how that knowledge is freeing.

[00:03:18] - Personal Story: Loss of Joy and Purpose Roseanne describes her own experience with alcohol, shame, and learning the science behind addiction.

[00:03:49] - Biblical Perspective & Wisdom Shares scripture from Proverbs 23:31-35 about the dangers of alcohol, followed by Ephesians 5:15-18 on living wisely and avoiding drunkenness.

[00:06:15] - Science of Addiction: Dopamine Explains dopamine's role in joy, motivation, and addiction; lists everyday activities that cause dopamine spikes ([00:07:01]).

[00:08:06] - Dopamine and Connection Describes dopamine spikes from meaningful interactions and relationships.

[00:08:50] - Dopamine Flood from Addictive Substances Details how addictive behaviors cause unnatural dopamine floods and the body's response, leading to fight-or-flight mode and impaired decision-making.

[00:10:19] - Fight or Flight and Addiction Explains how the brain reacts when deprived of the addictive substance, and why willpower alone isn't enough ([00:11:19]).

[00:12:08] - Loss of Joy from Everyday Activities Discusses how addiction steals joy from normal life and why awareness (not shame) brings healing.

[00:13:02] - Changing Neural Pathways & Renewing Your Mind Talks about the potential for change and introduces Romans 12:2 on renewing the mind ([00:13:39]).

[00:14:23] - Testing and Approving God's Will How a 12-week challenge allows listeners to "test" life without alcohol and choose a better path.

[00:15:39] - Call to Action Encouraging listeners to keep learning, use resources like "Prepare to Quit," and stay aware of what addiction has cost them.

[00:16:34] - Scripture for Freedom & the Choose Freedom Program Closing encouragement, highlighting Galatians 5:1 and the importance of living in freedom.

[00:17:50] - Preview: Next Episode & Armor of God Roseanne previews the final core concept, using the full armor of God to protect freedom.

#AddictionRecovery #RenewYourMind #ChristianSobriety #FreedomInChrist #ChooseFreedom

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What happened to the person you used to be—the one who set goals, dreamed big, and believed they were made for more? In this episode of Say Goodbye and Imagine, Rose Ann Forte explores Core Concept 10: Finding Purpose—the pivotal moment when we begin to replace destructive habits with meaningful pursuits.

This isn't about giving something up—it's about stepping into who God created you to be.

Drawing from Scripture and real-life reflection, Rose Ann shares how purpose gets lost when we're numbing pain, and how we can reclaim it—one step at a time.

Understanding Purpose Loss

• How substances and toxic behaviors cloud our sense of purpose and God-given gifts
• The disconnection from who we were created to be
• Moving from goal-oriented confidence to feeling lost and frustrated

The Lies We Believe

• Impact of unrealistic standards and comparison culture
• Pressure to fit in rather than embrace our unique design
• How pain and coping mechanisms (like drinking) deepen the disconnection from purpose

Biblical Foundation Three key scriptures discussed:

• Jeremiah 29:11 - God's plans to prosper and give hope
• Ephesians 2:10 - Created for good works prepared in advance
• Romans 12:2 - Transformed by the renewing of your mind

This week, take time to reflect on the person you used to be and the dreams you've set aside. Ask yourself: "What did I use to love doing? What have I always wanted to try?" Whether it's picking up a musical instrument, exploring a career change through community college courses, or rediscovering hobbies like flower arranging, woodworking, or sports—start small but start somewhere. For parents, consider how you can be more present with your children and what lasting memories or values you want to instill in them. Remember, finding purpose isn't about grand gestures or immediate transformation; it's about following the instincts of who you were created to be and trusting that God will use these joy-filled pursuits in His kingdom. The key is to replace what you're removing with something that brings genuine fulfillment and aligns with your unique design.

In the next episode, we'll dive into Core Concept 11: It's Addictive, where we'll explore the nature of addictive substances and behaviors and how understanding this reality can strengthen your resolve to stay free. Before then, if this podcast is serving you on your journey, please take a moment to like, rate, or review it on your favorite platform—your feedback helps others discover these life-changing concepts. Know someone who's stuck in a pattern they desperately want to break free from? Share this episode with them; sometimes one small act of encouragement can be the catalyst for transformation. And if you've read "The Plans He Has for Me: Prepare to Quit or Transform by His Promises," leaving an honest review (even just one or two sentences) can help guide others toward their path to freedom. Remember, you don't have to walk this journey alone—the Choose Freedom Program has licensed professionals ready to support you in any area where you feel stuck. Blessings until next time!

Practical Application

• It's never too late (Rose Anne quit drinking at 60)
• God never removes His call on our lives until our last breath
• Replace toxic habits with dreams, visions, and joyful pursuits
• Examples: learning an instrument, career change, community college courses, hobbies like flower arranging, woodworking, bowling, or golfing
• For parents: finding purpose in raising godly children

The Shift in Perspective

• It's not about stopping the behavior through willpower
• It's about turning away from destruction and toward your God-given gifts
• Focus on what brings joy and what you were created to do

Action Steps

• Reflect on "I used to be so..." statements
• Identify dreams or activities you've always wanted to pursue
• Start doing something that brings you joy
• Don't pursue this journey alone - seek support

Resources Mentioned

• Choose Freedom Program with licensed professionals - https://choosefreedom.today/directory/
• Book: "The Plans He Has for Me: Prepare to Quit or Transform by His Promises" - https://choosefreedom.today/books/

#FromNumbToPurpose #ChooseFreedom #FaithBasedRecovery #ChristianSobriety #FindingPurpose

This week Rose Ann explores Core Concept 9 from the Choose Freedom Program: The Greatest Commandments. Discover how two simple but profound commands from Jesus can transform your freedom journey and help you understand the root of addiction and destructive behaviors.

Key Topics Covered

The Greatest Commandment Rose Ann unpacks Matthew 22:37-40, where Jesus identifies the commandments: Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and love your neighbor as yourself. Learn how prioritizing these commands creates the foundation for lasting freedom.

Building Your Relationship with God

• Daily time in Scripture and reflection
• Prayer as both speaking and practicing stillness
• Meditating on God's Word
• Cultivating daily gratitude (writing down 10 things you're grateful for)

The Science Behind Transformation Neuroscience supports what God has been telling us for thousands of years—these spiritual practices literally change our neural pathways and renew our minds, just as Romans 12:2 promises.

Loving Your Neighbor as Yourself Understanding God's love for us transforms how we view others. Rose Ann shares her personal journey from judgment to grace, explaining why we must love ourselves first before we can truly extend that same love to others.

The Role of Forgiveness Freedom and healing begin when we reorder our love: God first, then self, then others. Processing forgiveness—both of ourselves and others—releases us to love as God loves us.

Reflection Questions

• What would shift in your life if loving God came first?
• What's first in your life right now—is it a habit, substance, or even a family member over God?
• Are you trying to do this alone when you need support and accountability?

Resources Mentioned

• Books: The Plans He Has for Me and Transform by His Promises - https://choosefreedom.today/books/
• Choose Freedom Coaches: Visit www.choosefreedom.today/providers

Connect

If this episode encouraged you, please like, rate, and review the podcast to help others find this message of hope and healing. Share it with someone who needs encouragement today!

Remember: You don't have to do this alone. Accountability and support are crucial parts of healing from psychological slavery to addiction.

#ChooseFreedom #LoveGodFirst #FaithBeforeFeelings #ChristianHabitChange #TheGreatestCommandments

In this eye-opening episode of the Say Goodbye and Imagine podcast, Rose Ann Forte takes us into Core Concept 8 of the Choose Freedom® Program: Forgiveness of Others. If you've ever struggled with bitterness, anger, or resentment, this episode will show you how holding onto those emotions is hurting you, not them.

Rose Ann explores why forgiving others is so difficult—especially when justice or trauma is involved—and shares biblical truths from Matthew 6:14, Romans 3:23, Hebrews 12:15, and Ephesians 2:8–9 that reveal what God says about forgiveness.

She also uncovers the surprising scientific benefits of forgiveness, including improved cardiovascular health, sleep, and immunity—proving once again that God said it first.

If you're stuck in the pain of what someone did to you, listen to this powerful episode and find out how forgiveness isn't about forgetting—it's about unhooking yourself from the pain. Enjoyed this episode? These ones have been short, but if you are looking to listen to a longer discusson about forgiveness of others, I did an excellent episode a few years ago with coach Anthony Covington - https://sites.libsyn.com/458844/forgiveness-of-others-letting-go-and-finding-peace-with-anthony-covington

🔗 Want help walking through this? A Choose Freedom® Coach can guide you. Visit: www.choosefreedom.today/directory

💡 Looking for the L.I.E. Acronym or more free tools? Explore more at www.choosefreedom.today

🎧 If this podcast encourages you, please like, rate, review, and share it with someone who needs this message. 02:05 The Importance of Forgiving Others 02:37 Biblical Foundations of Forgiveness 04:32 The Consequences of Unforgiveness 07:38 Scientific Benefits of Forgiveness 11:15 Practical Steps to Forgive 14:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

#ChooseFreedom#ForgivenessHeals #LetGoAndLetGod #HealingThroughFaith#ChristianRecovery

Have you ever struggled to truly feel forgiven—even when you know God's Word says you are?

In this powerful episode on Core Concept 7: Forgiveness of Self, we dive deep into the internal battle many face after struggling with alcohol or other life-interfering behaviors. We explore why accepting God's forgiveness is not just a theological truth—but a daily practice that can radically change your thought life and emotional freedom.

Rose Ann shares biblical truths from Hebrews 10:17, 2 Corinthians 10:5, Philippians 3:13, and 1 Timothy 4:15, guiding you toward demolishing shame and guilt with both Scripture and neuroscience.

Hear the story of one participant who realized, "I don't need to punish myself with drinking… there is freedom in accepting God's forgiveness."

If you've ever felt unworthy, unforgivable, or like an exception to grace—this episode is for you - and be reminded that you are already forgiven and hear the encouragement to live in that truth every day.

01:43 Understanding Forgiveness of Self 02:21 Daily Practice of Forgiveness 04:27 God's Unconditional Forgiveness 09:00 The Lie of Unforgivenes 12:46 Testimonies and Closing Thoughts Missed the previous episodes in the Core Concept series? Listen here - https://choosefreedom.today/podcast/

Explore the L.I.E. Acronym to fight lies with truth: https://choosefreedom.today/free-resources/Learn more about the Choose Freedom Program and access coaching support - https://choosefreedom.today/directory/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/roseannforteplans/

#ChristianRecovery#ForgiveYourself#FreedomInChrist#BiblicalHealing#FaithAndNeuroscience

Most of us can recite the Lord's Prayer from memory… but have you ever stopped to realize how powerful it is for renewing your mind and transforming your daily choices?

In this episode, we dive deep into Core Concept 6 of the Choose Freedom Program—unpacking the Lord's Prayer as a tool for surrender, provision, forgiveness, and protection. Each line holds divine wisdom for anyone walking away from harmful habits and walking toward God's best.

You'll learn:

• Why daily spiritual alignment reduces mental overwhelm
• How God's provision is daily—just like our recovery
• What it really means to say "deliver us from evil"

Whether you're struggling with alcohol, other substances, or simply a loss of peace, this prayer—prayed with intention—can change everything.

Want help replacing toxic thoughts in real time? Download the free L.I.E. Acronym Guide and explore the full Choose Freedom Program at https://choosefreedom.today/free-resources/

• #TheLordsPrayer
• #FaithBasedRecovery
• #RenewYourMind
• #ChristianMindset
• #ChooseFreedomToday

Have you ever stopped to ask, "Why did I believe alcohol would help me relax, have fun, or cope?" Most of us were warned—by parents, pastors, health teachers, or Scripture itself. But the world around us painted a different picture: alcohol was normal, even necessary.

In this episode of Say Goodbye and Imagine!, Rose Ann Forte guides you through Core Concept 5 of the Choose Freedom Program: Finding Truth About Alcohol. This episode will help you:

• Recognize the false beliefs that led you into unhealthy patterns
• Understand what the Bible and brain science both reveal about alcohol's impact
• Identify how cultural normalization and cognitive dissonance keep you stuck
• Discover the freedom that comes from aligning your thoughts with God's truth

Alcohol is more than a beverage—it's often a barrier to peace, purpose, and presence with God. But the good news is: you don't have to stay in that cycle. The truth really can set you free.

Want a simple tool to recognize and redirect toxic thoughts? Download the free L.I.E. Acronym Guide at https://choosefreedom.today/free-resources/—a powerful resource from the Choose Freedom Program.

To learn more about the full 12-week Choose Freedom Program—delivered with devotional, coaching, and neuroscience-informed support—visit: www.choosefreedom.today

Listen now and begin your journey toward lasting freedom and renewed thinking

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 01:29 Early Lessons and Warnings About Alcohol 03:26 The Invisible Line and Cognitive Dissonance 04:48 Scriptural Insights on Substance Use 05:51 The Harsh Truths About Alcohol and Health 09:30 Stress, Substances, and Their Impact 11:33 Substance Use and Relationships 13:04 Spiritual Consequences of Substance Use 16:31 Practical Tools and Resources 17:51 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

#WhoToldYouThat #FaithBasedRecovery #TruthAboutAlcohol #ChristianMindset #RenewYourMind