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Devastating flash floods have swept through our home state, claiming over 100 lives and leaving countless families shattered in their wake. The sudden nature of these waters – rising 20 feet in a single hour during the night – created a catastrophic situation that has affected entire communities, particularly at Camp Mystic, where many young lives were tragically lost.

When faced with such overwhelming tragedy, both believers and non-believers inevitably ask the same question: Why? Why would this happen? Why would God allow it? While we don't claim to have perfect answers, we explore this profound question through the lens of faith. We discuss how we live in a fallen world where natural disasters occur, yet maintain that even amid devastating circumstances, there remains hope beyond our earthly suffering. For the Christian families affected, particularly those from Camp Mystic, their faith provides the comforting knowledge that this life isn't the end of their story.

The response to disaster reveals human nature at both its finest and its worst. Many rush to help, while others unfortunately exploit tragedy through scams or division. We emphasize the importance of discernment when donating to relief efforts and suggest trusted channels like local churches. Most importantly, we remind listeners that prayer remains the most powerful response available to everyone, regardless of financial means. We pray for comfort for grieving families, guidance for exhausted first responders, and wisdom for all involved in rebuilding lives and communities. Even in our darkest moments, like the young girls from Camp Mystic singing worship songs during evacuation, we can find the strength to maintain faith and praise. How might your prayers make a difference in someone's life today?

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The feeling that draws us to someone isn't the same force that keeps us there. Frank and Darcie Montgomery celebrate their 19th anniversary by dismantling one of marriage's most dangerous myths: that butterfly-inducing infatuation is the same as love.

Drawing from nearly two decades of experience—including multiple separations, child support court, and profound heartbreak—the couple shares how they transformed their first 13 years of self-centered decision-making into a thriving partnership built on deliberate choices rather than fleeting emotions. "Even when I'm not feeling it, I choose to love you," Frank explains, challenging our culture's dopamine-chasing approach to relationships.

Perhaps most powerful is Darcie's revelation about commitment despite coming from generations of divorce. "I refused to believe the unhealed version of you was the real version," she tells Frank through tears, describing how she "went to battle on her knees" for their marriage when walking away seemed easier. Their journey reveals how selfless love creates a beautiful paradox—when both partners wake up asking "How can I serve my spouse today?" both ultimately get their needs met without demanding their own way.

The conversation expands to explore marriage as ministry, the transformative power of praying together, and why learning to appreciate small everyday moments matters more than elaborate date nights. Whether you're newlyweds or celebrating decades together, their hard-earned wisdom offers a roadmap for moving beyond feelings to forge an unbreakable bond.

What relationship lesson resonated most with you? Share your thoughts and connect with Frank and Darcie on Facebook or email your story to [email protected].

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What happens when Christians step away from politics? The void doesn't remain empty—it gets filled with worldviews and policies that often contradict biblical values. Frank and Darcie Montgomery tackle this crucial topic head-on, challenging the widespread notion that faith and politics should remain separate.

Drawing from both Scripture and American history, the hosts explore how our nation was founded on godly principles, with references to the Divine woven throughout our founding documents, national anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, and currency. They make a compelling case that the current spiritual revival we're witnessing—from campus awakenings to policy shifts—correlates directly with leadership that acknowledges God publicly.

The conversation provides practical guidance for believers wondering how to engage civically without compromising their faith. Prayer for all leaders (regardless of party affiliation) forms the foundation, but the Montgomerys push listeners to do more: vote your values, research candidates thoroughly, attend local government meetings, and even consider running for office yourself. They address the reluctance many Christians feel about political involvement, emphasizing that we're not electing pastors but leaders whose policies align with biblical principles.

With upcoming election cycles on the horizon, this timely episode serves as both encouragement and challenge. God is in control, working through His people when they engage rather than retreat. The spiritual and moral restoration of America depends not just on who sits in positions of power, but on ordinary believers who pray fervently, vote wisely, and engage consistently in the civic process, bringing godly values into every sphere of influence, including government.

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The absence of fathers in American homes has reached epidemic proportions, with one in four children growing up without a dad—three times the global average. Behind these statistics lie troubling outcomes: 90% of runaway children, 75% of teenage murderers, and 71% of high school dropouts come from fatherless homes. These aren't just numbers; they represent a generational crisis affecting communities nationwide.

Frank and Darcie Montgomery dive into this critical topic with personal vulnerability, sharing their own experiences with fathers. Frank reflects on losing his dad just before their son was born, yet carrying forward the invaluable lessons of work ethic and faith his father instilled. Darcie opens up about navigating relationships with three father figures throughout her life—her biological father, with whom reconciliation came only recently; her stepdad who raised her; and her mom's current husband. Their stories highlight how fathers shape us, for better or worse, and how healing can occur even after years of disconnection.

At the heart of effective fatherhood lies presence—not just physical proximity, but genuine emotional availability. "Your children are always watching," Frank emphasizes, noting that kids learn more from what we do than what we say. This presence requires balancing grace with discipline, creating an environment where children feel safe to make mistakes without fear of rejection, yet understand boundaries and consequences. Perhaps most profoundly, fathers teach their children how relationships should function. How a father treats his wife becomes the template for how sons will treat women and what daughters will expect from men in their lives.

Whether you're a father, stepfather, spiritual father, or someone who simply recognizes the critical importance of male leadership in children's lives, this conversation offers practical wisdom for strengthening families and communities. Ready to become the father your children need? Listen now and discover how transformative intentional fatherhood can be for the next generation.

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What does it mean to be truly unashamed of the gospel in today's culture? Drawing inspiration from the bold legacy of Duck Dynasty's Phil Robertson, Frank and Darcie Montgomery dive deep into the crisis of Christian courage facing believers today.

We're living in a peculiar moment for American Christians – technically free to practice our faith, yet increasingly self-censoring out of fear. While believers in places like Australia, China, and the Middle East face genuine persecution including imprisonment and death for their faith, many of us remain silent about our beliefs at work, school, or in casual conversations. Why? Because we're afraid of being labeled, rejected, or misunderstood.

The episode explores a powerful truth shared by Australian pastor Andrew Sedra: "Our job is to speak truth. God's job is to protect." Through an extraordinary testimony of divine protection from would-be kidnappers in Egypt, we witness how God supernaturally shields those who boldly proclaim His word – even turning potential murderers into devoted followers of Christ.

Frank and Darcie challenge listeners to examine whether their tolerance of cultural shifts is rooted in love or fear. Has the church become too comfortable with sin in the name of acceptance? Have we allowed the enemy to reshape our understanding of family, gender, and human dignity without speaking biblical truth in response?

Being salt and light isn't just for Sunday mornings. It means carrying our faith to coffee shops, workplaces, grocery stores – wherever we go. You might be the only person who will ever show someone Jesus. Will you remain silent or speak truth in love?

Join the Restored Nation in recommitting to boldness without fear. Connect with us on Facebook at The Restored Podcast or email [email protected]. Share your stories of stepping out in faith – we'd love to hear how God is using you as salt and light in your world.

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Frank and Darcie explore the emotional roller coaster of their son's high school graduation and the identity crisis that can come during major life transitions.

• Not every good opportunity is a God opportunity – Satan can present attractive options to draw us away from God's plan
• Life transitions can trigger questions about our identity and purpose
• Darcie shares her struggle with self-worth as her role as stay-at-home mom changes
• Biblical figures like Moses, Gideon, Jeremiah, and Peter all experienced moments where they forgot their identity
• Jesus and Paul maintained unshakeable identity despite challenges and temptations
• The "orphan spirit" makes us feel abandoned and seek external validation
• As believers, we are permanently adopted into God's family with full inheritance rights

If you have prayer requests or praise reports, find us on Facebook at the Restored Podcast or email us at [email protected]. Your prayers will be taken before God and not shared publicly.

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The inevitable transition from active parenting to empty-nesting stirs up a complex cocktail of emotions that many of us struggle to process. Frank and Darcie Montgomery open up about their painful yet beautiful journey as they prepare for their only son Hayden's high school graduation just days away. Their raw honesty captures the bittersweet reality of watching 18 years of daily hugs and shared moments transform into a new, uncertain chapter.

Through tears and vulnerable conversation, the Montgomerys challenge the harmful cultural narrative that strong people—especially men—must suppress their emotions. Looking to Jesus as the perfect model, they remind us that the Son of God himself wept openly, expressed righteous anger, and showed the full spectrum of human feelings throughout his ministry. This powerful biblical perspective affirms that our emotions aren't weakness but God-given signals that deserve acknowledgment and expression.

The couple explores the physical and psychological toll of bottling up emotions versus the healing that comes with healthy expression. They distinguish between feeling emotions and being controlled by them, offering practical wisdom for taking your feelings to God for transformation. As they navigate their own identity crisis of "who am I beyond being a parent?" they preview next week's deeper dive into finding our true identity in Christ rather than in temporary seasons or roles. Whether you're facing an empty nest, career transition, or any major life change, this episode offers both comfort and courage for the emotional journey ahead.

Send us your stories of restoration or prayer requests at [email protected]—all prayer requests remain confidential and will be lifted up by Darcie, a passionate intercessor who will stand with you in prayer.

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What makes motherhood a divine calling rather than just a biological function? In this heartfelt Mother's Day episode, we peel back the layers of what truly defines a mother's heart and impact.

Motherhood comes in many beautiful forms—biological mothers, adoptive mothers, and spiritual mothers who guide younger women through life's challenges. The common thread? That remarkable capacity for selfless love that seems woven into women's hearts by divine design. As Frank observes, while men often struggle with putting others first, mothers naturally prioritize their children's needs above their own.

Perhaps most profound is how mothers establish the emotional climate of their homes. "If mom is feeling relaxed, everyone feels relaxed. If mom's edgy, everyone feels on edge." This tremendous influence means mothers must prioritize not just physical self-care, but spiritual nourishment through prayer and Scripture. The biblical framework for motherhood outlined in Titus 2 and Proverbs 31 isn't an impossible standard—it's God's beautiful design waiting to be embraced.

Darcie vulnerably shares her journey from actively resisting motherhood to treasuring it: "I never wanted to be a mom or wife, and that came from a place of fear. I thought staying home meant you were controlling me and keeping my dreams from happening. Now I'm so thankful for this calling." Her transformation reminds us that our greatest joy often waits where we least expect it. What sacred calling might you be resisting today? Join us weekly as we continue exploring how God restores our understanding of His perfect design for our lives.

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Death has a way of clarifying what truly matters. After the passing of Darcie's 95-year-old grandmother, we're sharing revelations about the profound difference between inheritance and legacy.

When people who knew Grandma Floy from churches she and Grandpa pastored 20+ years ago showed up at her funeral, it highlighted something remarkable. Financial inheritance eventually runs out, but spiritual legacy endures for generations. The joy and faith she consistently demonstrated—regardless of circumstances—created ripples we're still feeling today.

While cleaning out Grandma's house, we discovered treasures far more valuable than any material possessions: sermon tapes from Grandpa's ministry, prayer journals filled with names of strangers Grandma had befriended and prayed for, and Bible notes revealing spiritual insights. These artifacts connected us to our spiritual heritage in ways that strengthened our own faith journey and understanding of the gifts we've received.

The beauty of legacy is that each of us gets to choose what we leave behind, regardless of what was passed to us. Jesus came specifically to transform family legacies. Through our daily decisions—how we handle struggles, celebrate victories, and demonstrate faith—we're creating the story our children and grandchildren will remember. When they face their own challenges, will they remember how we trusted God through difficult seasons?

What legacy will your life create when you're gone? Will your great-grandchildren know you prayed? Will they have stories of God's faithfulness passed down through generations? Share your thoughts with us on the Restored Podcast Facebook page or email [email protected]—we'd love to hear how you're building your spiritual legacy.

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The path to marital unity isn't about compromise or meeting halfway—it's about something far more powerful. Frank and Darcie Montgomery tackle the fundamental question of how two people with different backgrounds, perspectives, and personalities truly become one.

At the heart of their discussion is a profound insight: "It takes three to make two become one." This counterintuitive truth points to the essential role faith plays in creating genuine unity between spouses. When God becomes the centerpiece of a marriage, individual differences stop being obstacles and start becoming complementary strengths. The Montgomerys share from their own journey how they've moved from operating independently to embracing true oneness in every aspect of life.

Financial unity emerges as a critical testing ground for marital oneness. Darcie challenges the popular notion of separate accounts and divided responsibilities, insisting that complete transparency and shared financial decision-making are non-negotiable for couples serious about unity. "That's not unity, that's just malarkey," she explains when describing marriages where finances remain separated. This conversation expands to encompass trust, child-rearing approaches, and daily transparency.

Frank vulnerably shares his transformation from compartmentalizing "my life" to embracing "our life" in everything from work relationships to daily activities. Their most revolutionary concept might be the "100-100 marriage" that replaces the common "50-50" model. This approach has each spouse waking each day asking, "What can I do to make my partner's life better today?" rather than focusing on their own needs—creating a powerful cycle of mutual service and deeper understanding.

Ready to experience a new level of oneness in your marriage? Listen now and discover practical ways to strengthen your relationship through unity of purpose, finances, parenting approaches, and daily living—all centered in shared faith. This episode kicks off a special series on Darcie’s top five keys to marital success that you won't want to miss.