I’ve been holding onto this update for a while, but it’s time to share! ❤️

In the latest episode of “Waiting Well: A Personal Life Update,” I’m opening up about my family’s journey and our move to Texas. From new beginnings to the challenges and growth we’ve faced along the way, I’m sharing what this waiting period has taught me and how I’m navigating it.

Stay Connected with Jen:
Website: https://drjenbennett.com/
#BeWorthFollowing Book: http://amzn.to/2H4gn9m
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjenbennett/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjenbennett/

Dr. Jen Bennett, Associate Professor at IWU, empowers future leaders in business entrepreneurship. Recognized as one of the "65 Women in Digital You Should Be Following" and a #NASASocial influencer, she authored "#BeWorthFollowing" and hosts the She Impacts Culture Podcast. Jen’s passion lies in teaching, leadership, and fostering success in others, equipping them with practical skills to thrive in their vocations."

Corresponding Episode

#126 Overcoming Overwhelm With Dr. Jen Bennett
https://drjenbennett.com/overcoming-overwhelm/

In this episode from our She Impacts Culture Devotional Series, we dive into the topic of overcoming overwhelm, inspired by episode #126 of the She Impacts Culture podcast featuring Dr. Jen Bennett. Our host for this devotional series, Corrie Heinrichs, guides us through practical steps for managing life's heavy burdens with faith and resilience.

We begin with reflections from Dr. Jen Bennett on the importance of setting small, achievable goals that honor our commitment to God, drawing parallels to the steadfast faith of biblical figures like Ruth. Corrie then shares a comforting passage from Matthew 11:28-30, reminding us of Jesus' promise to lighten our burdens.

Through prayer, we seek God's guidance and support, emphasizing the value of community and divine strength in times of trial. Corrie encourages listeners to reflect on their current struggles, engage with trusted friends for support, and pray for the courage to seek help and trust in God's perfect timing.

Join us as we embark on a journey of spiritual renewal and empowerment, pausing from the noise of the world to center ourselves in prayer and encouragement. Whether you need affirmation, guidance, or a moment of peace, this devotional series is here to uplift your spirit and ignite your purpose. So, get comfortable, open your heart, and dive into this enriching episode of the She Impacts Culture Devotional Series.

Matthew 11:28-30

ESV (English Standard Version)

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

NLT (New Living Translation)

Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.

NIV (New International Version)

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

Ask yourself

"Are there burdens in my life that I am carrying alone, and how can I seek support from those around me?"

Reflect

• Spend time this week meditating on Jesus' invitation to come to him for rest. Reflect on Matthew 11 verses 28 to 30.
• Journal about how this passage speaks to your current feelings of overwhelm.

Engage

• Identify one area where you feel most overwhelmed.
• Seek out a trusted friend or family member to share that burden with.
• Practice asking for and receiving help.

Pray

1. Pray for the courage and humility to admit when you need help and to recognize those whom God has placed in your life as sources of support.
2. Pray for God to fill you with his peace and rest, reminding yourself of his gentle and humble heart that offers relief from your burdens.
3. Pray for transformation in your own life, seeking to trust God's wisdom and timing, even in moments of deep confusion and pain, so that your faith may grow stronger.

Corresponding Episode

#90 Find Your People With Dr. Jen Bennett
https://drjenbennett.com/findyourpeople/

In this episode from our She Impacts Culture Devotional Series, we're diving into a powerful exploration of building community and standing firm against spiritual battles. This devotional, led by your host Corrie Heinrichs, corresponds to She Impacts Culture episode #90, "Find Your People," featuring insights from Dr. Jen Bennett.

Corrie opens with a reflective prayer that acknowledges the spiritual warfare we encounter and emphasizes the importance of being rooted in God's mighty power and armor, as underscored in Ephesians 6:10-12. The episode then encourages listeners to reflect on how to more effectively put on the full armor of God in their daily lives, engage in spiritual disciplines such as prayer and Bible study, and seek out supportive, faith-filled communities.

Join us as we take a moment to pause, sip from the well of encouragement, and center ourselves in prayer, drawing inspiration and strength from the teachings of Dr. Jen Bennett and the Word of God. Get comfortable, open your heart, and let's dive into today's devotional designed to uplift your spirit and ignite your purpose.

Ephesians 6:10-12

ESV (English Standard Version)

Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

NLT (New Living Translation)

Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

NIV (New International Version)

Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 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.

Ask yourself

"How can I more effectively put on the full armor of God and stand firm in the purpose He has called me to?"

Reflect

• Spend time this week meditating on Ephesians 6:10-12.
• Reflect on each piece of God's armor and consider how you can apply it to your daily life to stand strong against spiritual battles.

Engage

• Identify practical ways to integrate spiritual disciplines that help you stay strong in the Lord.
• This could include setting aside time for daily prayer, Bible study, or joining a small group for mutual encouragement and accountability.

Pray

1. Pray for the wisdom and strength to put on the full armor of God daily.
2. Pray for your community, asking God to strengthen and protect each member as they walk out their God-given callings.
3. Ask God to transform your mindset, giving you boldness and resilience to stand firm in your faith and purpose despite ongoing spiritual battles.

Corresponding Episode

#114 Navigating Priorities with Dr Jen Bennett
https://drjenbennett.com/navigatingpriorities/

In this She Impacts Culture Devotional Series episode, join your host, Corrie Heinrichs, as she leads us through a prayer devotional that corresponds to the She Impacts Culture Podcast, episode number 114, titled "Navigating Priorities with Dr. Jen Bennett." Together, we'll dive into the importance of setting and maintaining top priorities in our lives, especially amidst the hustle and grind of our daily work.

Dr. Jen Bennett shares her wisdom on ensuring that our work does not become an idol, while Corrie guides us through a reflection on Proverbs 3:5-6. This devotional will provide you with actionable steps—reflect, engage, and pray—to help you re-center your focus on what truly matters. As we meditate on these truths, we'll seek clarity, strength, and guidance in establishing boundaries and prioritizing our faith, family, and personal goals.

Tune in for a prayer, thoughtful reflection, and practical steps that will empower you to align your life with God's will. Whether you’re seeking spiritual renewal or practical advice, this devotional episode is here to ignite your purpose and strengthen your commitment to your top priorities. Get comfortable, open your heart, and let’s dive in.

Proverbs 3:5-6

ESV (English Standard Version)

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

NLT (New Living Translation)

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.

NIV (New International Version)

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Ask yourself

"What are my top priorities and how do I ensure they remain in focus even when I don't have all the answers about how things will turn out?"

Reflect

• Spend time this week meditating on Proverbs 3:5-6.
• Journal about what it means to trust in the Lord with all your heart.

Engage

• Identify one specific priority in your life that you need to focus on more intentionally.
• Take a practical step to make it a reality this week. Perhaps it's spending quality time with family, investing in your faith walk, or addressing a personal goal.

Pray

1. Pray for clarity and wisdom in establishing and maintaining your priorities. 
2. Pray for the strength to say no to commitments that do not align with God's will for you. 
3. Pray for guidance and timing in all areas of your life.

Corresponding Episode

#84 Thrive Where You’re Planted |  Dr. Jen Bennett

In this episode from our She Impacts Culture Devotional Series, Corrie Heinrichs leads us through a powerful prayer and reflection session inspired by insights from episode #84 Thrive Where You’re Planted | Dr. Jen Bennett. Corrie explores the theme of thriving in the places where God has planted us, emphasizing the importance of seeking the welfare of our communities and finding fulfillment in our current locations. 

Through scripture from Jeremiah 29:11-13 and heartfelt prayer, listeners are encouraged to recognize and embrace the purpose and potential of their present circumstances. Join us as we delve into a time of spiritual renewal, seeking to align our hearts with God's divine purpose and impact those around us with His love and grace. Grab a moment of peace, open your heart, and let's dive in together.

Jeremiah 29:11-13

ESV (English Standard Version)

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart."

NLT (New Living Translation)

"For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me."

NIV (New International Version)

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."

Ask yourself

"In what ways can I recognize and embrace the purpose and potential of my present location?"

Reflect

• Consider the plans God has for you and the future and hope promised in Jeremiah 29:11-13.
• Think about how you can seek the welfare of your city and make a positive impact right where you are.
• Meditate on the ways God has placed you in your current environment for a reason and how you can thrive in it.

Engage

• Identify one way you can make a positive impact in your current environment.
• It could be as simple as smiling and being friendly to your neighbors or volunteering your time in the community.
• Reach out to someone who feels uprooted or misplaced and offer them encouragement and support.

Pray

1. Pray for a deeper understanding and appreciation of where God has placed you, recognizing His hand at work in your surroundings.
2. Ask God to open doors for you to serve and make a difference within your community that reflects His love.
3. Seek personal transformation so that your heart may become more aligned with God's purpose for you right where you are.

In this episode from our She Impacts Culture Devotional Series, your host, Corrie, takes us on a journey through the transformative insights shared in episode 72: "The Future of Work with Dr. Jen Bennett."

Join us as we explore the intersection of faith and impact, drawing from Dr. Bennett's wisdom on entrepreneurship, problem-solving, and teamwork in the evolving landscape of work. We'll reflect on the unique gifts and talents given to each of us, guided by a devotional inspired by 1 Peter 4:10-11. Through moments of prayer and affirmation, we'll seek God's guidance to navigate our career paths and make a positive impact in our workplaces and communities.

So, get comfortable, open your heart, and let’s embark on this spiritual renewal together.

• Take time to reflect on 1st Peter 4:10-11 this week.
• Consider the ways your own gifts and talents can be used to serve others and bring glory to God.

• Actively seek out opportunities to support and collaborate with others in your work or community.
• Connect with your colleagues and offer a helping hand where needed.

• Pray for God's guidance and wisdom as you navigate the future of work and seek to make a positive impact in your sphere of influence.
• Pray for opportunities to use your unique gifts and talents to serve others and bring honor to God in your work and daily interactions.
• Pray for transformation and growth.

Corresponding Episode

#66  What are You Pursuing? With Dr. Jen Bennett

In this episode from our She Impacts Culture Devotional Series, we're diving deep into the theme of "What Are You Pursuing?" Corrie leads us through a reflective and spiritually enriching devotional. We're drawing inspiration from Episode #66 of the She Impacts Culture podcast, “What Are You Pursuing? with Dr. Jen Bennett”, focusing on aligning our desires with God's will and seeking His guidance in all our endeavors.

We'll be guided by Psalm 37:4-6 to understand the importance of committing our work and relationships to the Lord. We'll share prayers for those feeling overwhelmed, offer reflections to inspire clarity and discernment, and provide practical steps to help you realign your pursuits with God's purpose.

So, take a moment to pause, find a quiet space, and open your heart as we embark on this journey of spiritual renewal and activation. Whether you need a word of affirmation, a moment of prayer, or simply some guidance, this devotional series is here to encourage and uplift you.

Psalm 37:4-6

ESV (English Standard Version)

Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday.

NLT (New Living Translation)

Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you. He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.

NIV (New International Version)

Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun.

Ask yourself

"What have I been pursuing that may be causing distress, anxiety, or misalignment with God's will in my life?"

Reflect

• Take time to reflect on Psalm 37 verses 4 to 6, and consider how you can take delight in the Lord and commit your pursuits to him.

Engage

• Engage in a simple act of surrender by praying each day for God's guidance and wisdom in your pursuits.

Pray

1. Pray for clarity and direction in your pursuits, aligning your heart with God's will for your life.
2. Pray for those feeling overwhelmed and distressed, asking for peace and renewed vision in their pursuits.
3. Pray for a renewed sense of purpose and dedication, seeking God's strength and inspiration in all endeavors.

Corresponding Episode
Episode #58, Dr. Jen Bennett, 6 Questions To Ask Yourself
https://drjenbennett.com/6-questions-to-ask-yourself-before-posting-on-social-media/

In this episode from our She Impacts Culture Devotional Series, Corrie Heinrichs guides us through an enriching devotional based on the She Impacts Culture Podcast, episode 58, "6 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Posting on Social Media"with Dr. Jen Bennett. As we explore the intersection of faith and impact, Corrie leads us in a time of prayer and reflection inspired by the wisdom found in Proverbs 16:24. This episode offers valuable insights on how to make our online interactions sweet to the soul and healthy for the body, ensuring our digital presence reflects God's love and truth. Join us as we pause from the noise of the world, sip from the well of encouragement, and seek to be beacons of light in the digital space. Get comfortable, open your heart, and dive into a journey of spiritual renewal and activation with us.

Proverbs 16:24

ESV (English Standard Version)

Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.

NLT (New Living Translation)

Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

NIV (New International Version)

Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

Ask yourself

"How can I reflect God's love in my digital interactions this week? Are my words and actions online sweet to the soul and healthy for the body?"

Reflect

• Reflect on Proverbs 16:24 and consider how your words and interactions on social media can be sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

Engage

• Engage in a simple and practical way by intentionally sharing kind and uplifting posts.

Pray

• Pray for the transformation of our hearts, that they may align with God's truth and be filled with kindness and compassion.
• Pray for those who are struggling, feeling hopeless, battling anxiety, or facing addiction, that they may encounter God's love and comfort through the words and actions of others.
• Pray for discernment and humility in our digital interactions, that we may always reflect God's love and truth.

Corresponding Episode
#55 When You Feel Inadequate for the Work in Front of You with Dr. Jen Bennett
 
In this episode from our She Impacts Culture Devotional Series,  Corrie hosts a reflective and empowering session centered around overcoming fear and disbelief in our callings. Drawing inspiration from Dr. Jen Bennett's insights and rooted in scripture, we explore the concept of shifting from personal confidence to God confidence. Corrie guides us through a meaningful prayer, encouraging us to trust in God's strength and seek His guidance in fulfilling our purpose. Listeners are invited to reflect on 2 Corinthians 12:9, engage in affirmations of God's power, and pray for transformation and support in their spiritual journey. Join us as we take a pause from the noise of the world, sip from the well of encouragement, and center ourselves in devotion and prayer.

2 Corinthians 12:9

ESV (English Standard Version)

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

NLT (New Living Translation)

Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.

NIV (New International Version)

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

 Ask yourself
"How can I shift from relying on my own personal confidence to having a God confidence in the areas of my life where I feel inadequate?”

Reflect

• Spend time reflecting on 2nd Corinthians 12:9, specifically considering how to trust in God's guidance and strength rather than our own understanding.

Engage

• Make it a practice this week to replace negative self-talk with affirmations of God's power and strength.
• Whenever you feel inadequate, remind yourself of the truths in the Bible verses and lean on God's confidence.

Pray

• Pray for a personal transformation that shifts your focus from personal confidence to God confidence in all areas of your life.
• Pray for courage and clarity to fulfill the work God has called you to despite feeling inadequate.
• Pray for the presence of supportive and encouraging individuals in the lives of those who need affirming voices.

Corresponding Episode
#52 People, Purpose & Platforms with Dr. Jen Bennett
https://drjenbennett.com/peoplepurposeplatforms/

In this episode from our She Impacts Culture Devotional Series, Corrie Heinrichs guides us through a journey of faith and purpose. Drawing inspiration from episode 52, titled "People, Purpose & Platforms," with Dr. Jen Bennett, we explore the profound concept that we are God's masterpieces, uniquely designed to impact and influence culture for Christ.

Corrie shares a heartfelt prayer, lifts up those who may be struggling to discern their purpose, and provides actionable steps to help align our lives with God's calling. Tune in for a moment of spiritual renewal as we meditate, engage, and pray, centering ourselves in devotion and seeking guidance from God. Whether you're looking for affirmation, prayer, or a sense of direction, this episode will uplift your spirit and ignite your purpose. Join us and be encouraged on this faith-filled journey.

Ephesians 2:10

 ESV (English Standard Version)
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

NLT (New Living Translation)
For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.

NIV (New International Version)
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Ask yourself
"What steps can I take this week to align my actions and decisions with God's purpose for me and this generation?"

Reflect

•  On Ephesians 2:10 and the unique purpose God has for you.
•  Journal about how this verse speaks to the specific calling God has placed on your life.
•  Spend time meditating on being God's masterpiece and how you can use your gifts to influence culture for Christ.

 
 Engage

•  Seek out opportunities to shepherd and encourage those around you in your daily interactions.
•  Show Christ’s love and care in tangible ways.
•  Find new ways to support and uplift your community through acts of kindness and mentorship.

 Pray

1.  Pray for discernment, boldness, and a heart aligned with God's purpose for yourself and those around you.
2.  Pray for divine appointments to influence culture for Christ.
3.  Pray for transformation in your own heart and mind to wholeheartedly embrace God's purpose, setting aside distractions of worldly recognition and acclaim.