Welcome back to the Teachable Woman Podcast, where Reverend Michele Owes and Reverend Diana P. Cherry continue their commitment to being “Teachers of Good Things.” Although the two hosts are recording from different locations in this episode, they emphasize that they remain united in their attitudes, actions, hearts, and desire to teach women and men according to biblical principles.

Building on their previous conversation about “The Approach,” the hosts address a troubling dating expectation they have heard from young adults: the idea that a man should pay for a woman’s hair, nails, clothing, childcare, or other personal expenses before he can simply meet her for a cup of coffee. They also discuss the growing tendency to evaluate potential relationships according to income, real estate, investments, and financial status rather than character, conduct, and commitment.

With honesty, love, humor, personal experience, and biblical instruction, Michele and Diana challenge listeners to examine their expectations, take responsibility for themselves, respect others, and trust God rather than attempting to obtain blessings through another person.

The conversation begins with the hosts addressing the expectation that a man should finance a woman’s preparation before a first meeting. Hair, nails, clothing, childcare, and other expenses should not become the price of admission for someone simply wanting to get to know you.

The hosts question the heart behind such expectations. Are we interested in the person, or are we interested in what the person can provide?

Diana emphasizes that a woman should never see herself as something that can be purchased. Michele points listeners back toward evaluating character, conduct, and commitment rather than financial status.

Diana shares personal experiences from her younger years and explains that she has always valued independence and responsibility. She recalls an occasion when her future husband left money to pay an electric bill he had seen in her home. Rather than accepting the money, she told him she was capable of paying her own bill.

Her point is not that people should never help one another. Instead, she challenges the mindset of expecting someone else to carry responsibilities that belong to us.

The hosts remind women that their value does not come from what a man can purchase for them. They point to the biblical picture of a woman whose “price is far above rubies” and challenge women not to compromise their dignity for material benefits.

Michele connects the discussion to Proverbs and the biblical principle that a wise woman builds her house while a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.

The hosts explain that demanding that someone else finance your appearance, childcare, or personal needs before even getting to know you can destroy an opportunity before it begins.

They encourage women to take care of themselves. Personal grooming, appearance, responsibilities, and everyday needs should not automatically become another person's obligation.

The larger lesson is self-responsibility. A woman should not enter a relationship expecting another person to do the work she is capable of doing herself.

The conversation expands beyond dating and into parenting.

Diana challenges mothers and fathers to teach their children biblical standards rather than allowing the culture to establish their values. She encourages parents to teach their sons how to recognize unhealthy expectations and to understand that manipulation and exploitation are not godly.

She also speaks about observing children and noticing attitudes, behavior, clothing, and the ways children respond to their parents. The hosts stress that teaching begins early.

Their message is clear: parents cannot wait until their children become adults to teach them values.

Christian parents have a responsibility to teach children that following God may require them to be different from the culture around them.

Diana strongly emphasizes that Christians are supposed to be different from the world—not because they are better than other people, but because they belong to God.

She challenges listeners to examine whether the church has become too comfortable adopting the world's thinking, behavior, standards, and priorities.

The hosts call for a return to biblical truth, emphasizing that sin is still sin, righteousness is still righteousness, and obedience to God still matters.

They remind listeners that loving God is demonstrated through obedience. Rather than constantly focusing on what God can do for us, believers should also ask what God requires of us.

The goal is not merely to receive God's blessings but to live in a manner that honors Him.

Michele shares a personal example from her marriage. When she and her husband were living in different states, she decided she would not leave her job and move until she found comparable employment. She had student loans and did not want to make her husband responsible for debts that were hers.

That story becomes a practical illustration of responsibility and consideration in relationships.

Michele challenges listeners to reverse the situation and ask themselves: Would you do for a man what you expect him to do for you?

Would you pay for his haircut, his clothes, childcare, or other personal expenses simply because he wanted to meet you?

The hosts encourage women and men to respect one another as God's creation. A relationship should not be built around using someone for what they possess. Instead, trust should be built through character, good conduct, commitment, love, and mutual respect.

The hosts close the conversation with a powerful reminder: trying to obtain something through manipulation, entitlement, or another person's resources may look like a shortcut, but it can lead somewhere very different from where we intended to go.

Michele explains that taking advantage of one man can affect the way he views women who come after you. It can damage trust and make it harder for him to believe that he can find a woman whose heart can be safely trusted.

The hosts encourage listeners to allow God to love them, teach them, provide for them, and direct their lives. God's provision is greater than anything a human being can provide.

They remind listeners that there is no condemnation in Christ Jesus, but love requires them to tell the truth. Their goal is not to condemn women but to help them recognize unhealthy thinking before it leads them down the wrong road.

The episode closes with encouragement to be strong, remain encouraged, share the podcast, contact the hosts through teachablewoman.com, listen and re-listen to the episode, and remember the 37-second prayer.

In this episode of the Teachable Woman Podcast, Reverend Michele Owes and Reverend Diana P. Cherry address expectations, entitlement, responsibility, relationships, parenting, Christian standards, and the importance of trusting God.

Their central message is that a person's worth should never be measured by what someone else can buy or provide. Healthy relationships should be built on character, conduct, commitment, respect, responsibility, and trust.

Women are encouraged to care for themselves rather than expecting men to finance their personal needs before a relationship has even begun. Men are encouraged to recognize unhealthy expectations and not allow themselves to be exploited. Parents are challenged to teach their children biblical values early, and Christians are reminded that they are called to be distinct from the world.

Most importantly, the hosts encourage listeners to stop looking for shortcuts and allow God to direct their lives. What God provides is greater than anything people can manufacture or obtain through manipulation.

The hosts' desire throughout this conversation is not condemnation, but correction rooted in love. They want listeners to know better so they can do better, walk according to God's Word, protect their character, respect others, and receive God's blessings in a way that glorifies Him without destroying anyone else.

Teachable Woman Podcast

Reverends Michele Owes and Diana Cherry

Segment: The Approach

Introduction: In this episode of the Teachable Woman Podcast, Reverends Michele Owes and Diana Cherry share insights from the crucial topic of "The Approach." They delve into the importance of mindset and self-worth when it comes to initiating relationships, encouraging listeners to overcome fears and misconceptions.

Podcast Notes:

Welcome and Recap:

Rev. Michele Owes and Rev. Diana Cherry express their excitement upon reconnecting after a powerful conference dedicated to uplifting spirits and sharing knowledge.

The Concept of "Approach":

The discussion centers around the idea of approach—how individuals should feel empowered to connect with others without feeling the need to have their lives perfectly assembled first.

Debunking Myths:

The hosts aim to dispel the myth that one must be financially secure or have a perfect life to approach someone for a potential relationship, emphasizing that self-worth and character hold more significance.

Self-Examination and Worth:

They discuss the importance of self-reflection, encouraging both men and women to recognize their value as children of God, regardless of societal measures of success like wealth or status.

Overcoming Insecurities:

The conversation highlights common insecurities that might hinder individuals from making a connection, reminding listeners not to let societal comparisons dictate their self-esteem.

Encouragement to Engage:

Rev. Owes and Rev. Cherry encourage listeners, particularly men, to take initiative in approaching women in a respectful and friendly manner, emphasizing that building friendships can lead to deeper connections.

The Role of Community:

They stress the importance of engaging with local church communities as a way to meet people, share experiences, and potentially develop meaningful relationships, underlining that shared faith can lead to growth and blessings.

Summary: In this engaging episode, Reverends Michele Owes and Diana Cherry stress the significance of approaching relationships with confidence and authenticity. They remind listeners that one's worth is not defined by material possessions or achievements but by character and God-given identity. By encouraging open conversations and community engagement, they inspire individuals to make meaningful connections that can ultimately lead to fulfilling relationships within the Body of Christ.

Marriage is one of God's greatest gifts, but it's also one of life's greatest commitments. In Part 3 of What To Do Before You Say "I Do," Rev. Michele Owes and Rev. Diana P. Cherry continue their powerful conversation on preparing for marriage God's way. They discuss why marriage requires intentional preparation, humility, teamwork, and unwavering dependence on God. Whether you're single, engaged, newly married, or celebrating decades together, this episode offers practical wisdom to help build a healthy, Christ-centered marriage.

Marriage is more than a wedding ceremony—it's a lifelong covenant. The hosts compare marriage to an institution that requires commitment, endurance, and learning how to thrive through every season rather than looking for an escape.

Choosing the right venue, dress, or rings is secondary to preparing your heart. Spiritual, emotional, and practical preparation before marriage creates a stronger foundation for lasting success.

Every couple should discuss expectations before saying "I do," including communication, household responsibilities, finances, and daily life. There is no one-size-fits-all marriage—each couple must work together to create what works best for them.

Disagreements are inevitable, but conflict doesn't have to become division. Instead of proving who's right, couples are encouraged to seek God's best answer together through prayer, humility, and open communication.

One of the strongest habits in marriage is being willing to admit when you're wrong. Genuine apologies, forgiveness, and a teachable spirit create an environment where love and trust can flourish.

A conflict of opinion is not a sign of failure. Each spouse brings unique experiences and perspectives that, when submitted to God, can produce wiser decisions and stronger unity.

God designed marriage to be a refuge—a place of love, laughter, companionship, and mutual growth. Through faithful stewardship, couples can experience the fulfillment God intended while building a family that honors Him.

In this episode, Rev. Michele Owes and Rev. Diana P. Cherry emphasize that successful marriages are built long before the wedding day. They encourage listeners to prepare spiritually, communicate honestly, embrace humility, and invite God into every aspect of their relationship. Rather than avoiding disagreements, couples should view differences as opportunities to seek God's wisdom together. The hosts remind listeners that marriage is not for the faint of heart, but with commitment, prayer, grace, and intentional stewardship, it can become one of life's greatest sources of joy, peace, and fulfillment. Whether you're considering marriage or already walking through it, this episode offers timeless biblical principles to help you build a relationship that reflects God's love.

Marriage: A Divine Institution, Not Just a Ceremony

What does marriage truly mean from a biblical perspective? In this episode, Mrs. Cherry and Reverend Owes present a thoughtful definition of marriage that has been refined over many years of teaching. They explain why marriage is far more than a legal agreement or emotional commitment—it's a divine institution established by God. Together, they explore the importance of spiritual preparation, covenant commitment, unconditional love, and the lifelong journey of two imperfect people learning to honor God through marriage.

The conversation begins with a detailed biblical definition of marriage. Marriage is described as an institution created by God—not by culture or society—and therefore God's design and standards define its purpose. The speakers emphasize that marriage is sacred and should never be approached casually.

Marriage is presented as a voluntary decision made by two rational, free moral agents who choose to enter into a covenant relationship. The discussion highlights that while no one is required to marry, those who do are making an unconditional lifetime commitment before God, not merely to another person.

One of the episode's central themes is accepting that every husband and wife enters marriage as an imperfect human being. Lasting marriages require grace, forgiveness, patience, and unconditional love because both spouses will have weaknesses and shortcomings throughout life.

Drawing from Genesis, the hosts explain the biblical principle of leaving one's family of origin and cleaving to one's spouse. They compare this bond to being "super glued" together, illustrating why separation and divorce are often emotionally painful and deeply impactful, especially when children and extended families are involved.

The hosts encourage listeners not to rush into marriage. Just as professionals prepare extensively for their careers, couples should invest time in premarital counseling, biblical study, financial discussions, self-examination, and pastoral guidance before entering into marriage.

The episode stresses that two imperfect people cannot sustain a healthy marriage without God at the center. A personal relationship with Jesus Christ, regular prayer, and reliance on biblical wisdom provide the foundation for navigating life's inevitable challenges together.

The conversation concludes by encouraging couples to address hidden issues, communicate honestly, understand their God-given roles, and prepare intentionally before marriage. The hosts remind listeners that while no marriage is perfect, one built on Christ has the greatest opportunity to flourish. The episode closes with a preview of the next discussion, introducing the idea of marriage as an "institution" in an even deeper sense.

This episode offers a comprehensive biblical perspective on marriage as a sacred covenant established by God. Mrs. Cherry and Reverend Oates encourage listeners to approach marriage thoughtfully, recognizing it as a lifelong commitment between two imperfect people who depend on God's guidance. Through practical wisdom, scriptural principles, and personal insight, they remind couples that lasting marriages are built through preparation, honesty, unconditional love, and faithful obedience to God's design.

Featuring Rev. Michele Owes & Rev. Diana P. Cherry

In this special episode of the Teachable Woman Podcast, Rev. Michele Owes sits down with Rev. Diana P. Cherry to discuss the completion of her upcoming book, What To Do Before You Say "I Do." With wedding season in full swing, they explore the biblical foundation of marriage, the importance of personal preparation before entering a lifelong covenant, and practical wisdom for building healthy, God-centered relationships. Whether you're single, engaged, newly married, or have been married for years, this conversation offers timeless principles rooted in Scripture.

Before discussing relationships, Rev. Cherry takes listeners back to Genesis, emphasizing that marriage is God's institution. Understanding God's original intent for mankind provides the foundation for understanding His purpose for marriage.

One of the central themes of the episode is that saying "I do" should never come before personal preparation. Spiritual maturity, self-examination, wisdom, understanding, teachability, and realistic expectations are essential before entering marriage.

The discussion highlights the importance of understanding who God created us to be before entering a marriage covenant. Rev. Cherry explains her book's biblical perspective on creation, identity, and God's design for male and female while encouraging listeners to seek truth through Scripture.

The hosts remind listeners that unresolved issues do not disappear after the wedding. Instead, marriage often magnifies habits, character flaws, and expectations. They encourage honest introspection before marriage rather than expecting a spouse to change afterward.

Marriage is serious, but it should also be enjoyable. The conversation includes humorous real-life examples showing how small habits can become major irritations if left unaddressed. Laughter, grace, kindness, and the ability to enjoy one another are presented as important ingredients for a lasting marriage.

Rev. Cherry and Rev. Owes discuss intimacy from a biblical perspective, emphasizing that physical intimacy within marriage is God's idea and should be enjoyed with love, respect, and mutual care. They also encourage couples to intentionally invest time in nurturing their relationship.

Even if a couple entered marriage without premarital counseling or proper preparation, growth is still possible. The hosts encourage married couples to begin applying biblical principles today, reminding listeners that healthy marriages are built through continual learning, intentionality, and God's grace.

This episode offers a thoughtful preview of Rev. Diana P. Cherry's upcoming book, What To Do Before You Say "I Do." From God's original design for humanity to practical advice on preparation, expectations, communication, intimacy, and maintaining joy in marriage, the conversation provides biblical encouragement for every stage of the relationship journey. Whether preparing for marriage or seeking to strengthen an existing one, listeners are reminded that God's plan remains the surest foundation for a healthy, thriving marriage.

Listen in, be encouraged, and join us next week as we continue exploring the principles found in this exciting new book.

Hosts: Rev. Michele Owes & Rev. Diana P. Cherry

In Part 4 of the Confidence series, Rev. Michele Owes and Rev. Diana P. Cherry continue exploring what biblical confidence truly means. Rather than placing confidence in personal abilities or self-sufficiency, they encourage listeners to trust completely in God, who begins every good work and faithfully completes it. Through Scripture, personal testimonies, and practical examples, they remind believers that confidence is found in God's presence, His promises, and His ongoing work in our lives.

The hosts revisit the central theme of the series by explaining that biblical confidence is an assurance rooted in God's faithfulness rather than personal achievement. Drawing from Philippians 1:6, they emphasize that God is the One who begins, sustains, and completes every good work in His children. While God gives believers gifts and abilities, all glory belongs to Him.

Rev. Cherry shares personal stories about relying on the Holy Spirit in everyday life—from finding misplaced items to seeking guidance in ordinary decisions. These simple experiences demonstrate that God is deeply involved in every aspect of life and delights in helping His children when they ask. Confidence grows as believers learn to depend on the Holy Spirit daily.

Rev. Owes reflects on a situation involving conflict between two people. After attempting to resolve the issue herself, she ultimately surrendered it to God in prayer. God brought about a resolution that exceeded anything she could have accomplished. The discussion encourages listeners to take problems to God first instead of relying solely on personal wisdom or effort.

Whether facing challenges in family, education, ministry, career, or relationships, the hosts encourage listeners to persevere. God did not bring His people this far to abandon them. Because He is both the Author and Finisher of their faith, believers can trust Him to provide strength, wisdom, and endurance until the work is complete.

Using Luke 10:38–42, Rev. Owes highlights Mary's decision to sit at Jesus' feet instead of becoming consumed with household responsibilities. While Martha focused on serving, Mary chose "the good part" by spending time in Christ's presence. The conversation reminds listeners that while responsibilities matter, intimacy with Jesus must always remain the priority because it produces lasting spiritual confidence.

The hosts discuss the importance of pausing before reacting, speaking, or making decisions. Sometimes confidence means remaining quiet, seeking God's direction, and allowing Him to work instead of trying to control every situation. As believers acknowledge God in all their ways, He faithfully leads, guides, and directs their paths.

The episode concludes by encouraging believers to return to the childlike dependence they had when they first came to Christ. Through prayer, Scripture, worship, old hymns, and daily fellowship with the Holy Spirit, believers can maintain unwavering confidence that God will never leave or forsake them. The more they rely on Him, the stronger their confidence becomes.

This episode reminds listeners that lasting confidence is never rooted in self-confidence but in complete trust in God. He is the One who begins every good work, equips His people through the Holy Spirit, hears every prayer, and faithfully brings His purposes to completion. By choosing God's presence over distraction, surrendering life's burdens to Him, and relying on His guidance each day, believers can live with unwavering confidence that He is always working on their behalf.

Hosts: Rev. Michele Owes & Rev. Diana P. Cherry

In Part 3 of the Confidence series, Rev. Michele Owes and Rev. Diana P. Cherry continue exploring what it means to have true confidence—not in ourselves, but in God. Drawing from Hebrews and 1 John, they remind listeners that biblical confidence is rooted in trusting God's character, obeying His will, and remaining steadfast through every season of life. Whether facing uncertainty, silence from God, or life's unexpected challenges, believers are encouraged to examine their hearts, remain still, and confidently trust that God is always working for their good.

Key Scriptures: Hebrews 3:14; 1 John 5:14

• God calls believers to hold "the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end."
• Biblical confidence is centered on God's faithfulness—not personal ability or self-reliance.
• Self-confidence that excludes God often becomes pride, arrogance, and overconfidence.
• We can ask confidently according to God's will because He hears us.

Key Takeaway:

Confidence begins and ends with trusting God rather than trusting ourselves.

Key Scripture: 1 John 3:19–22

• When our confidence in God weakens, God has not changed.
• Our hearts may be condemning us or revealing areas where we have drifted.
• Instead of blaming God, believers should honestly examine themselves.
• Confidence grows as we keep God's commandments and seek to please Him.

Key Takeaway:

If your confidence feels shaky, examine your heart before questioning God's faithfulness.

• Life presents challenges we cannot solve through human reasoning alone.
• It's easy to assume we know how to handle situations without consulting God.
• God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours.
• Trying to work everything out ourselves often leads to unnecessary frustration, wasted energy, and disappointment.

Key Takeaway:

Begin every challenge by asking:

• "Lord, what do You want me to do?"
• "How do You want me to handle this?"

God's solution is always better than our own.

One of the most encouraging lessons discussed came from notes of a message titled "It's a Good Thing."

The message taught that it is:

• Good when life is pleasant.
• Good when life is difficult.
• Good during unpleasant seasons.
• Even good when God seems silent.

When God is silent:

• He still sees.
• He still hears.
• He is still working.

Our responsibility is to:

• Be still.
• Be patient.
• Be hopeful.

Key Takeaway:

God's silence never means God's absence.

Waiting is often the hardest part of faith.

Like David, believers must sometimes encourage themselves in the Lord by reminding themselves:

• God has never failed.
• God has never forsaken us.
• God is working everything together for our good.
• His track record is perfect.
• He will move at the right time.

Sometimes faith requires preaching God's promises back to yourself until your heart rests in Him.

Key Takeaway:

Confidence often grows through speaking God's truth to yourself while waiting.

The hosts reflected on their own experiences as widows and ministers.

Regardless of whether someone is:

• Married
• Single
• Widowed
• Divorced
• Employed
• Unemployed
• Successful
• Facing hardship

Everyone still needs God.

Challenges come in every stage of life, and every obstacle prepares believers for the next season of growth.

The hosts also cautioned that prosperity can become just as dangerous as hardship if it causes us to forget God.

Key Takeaway:

Our circumstances should never determine our confidence—our confidence must always remain in God.

Returning to 1 John 5:14, the hosts connected confidence with praying according to God's will.

They encouraged listeners to pray:

Giving God permission to work means accepting that His answer may differ from our expectations.

God may:

• Delay an answer.
• Redirect our plans.
• Prepare us for something greater.
• Bless us in ways we never imagined.

Proverbs 3 reminds believers to acknowledge God in every area of life, trusting Him to direct every path.

Key Takeaway:

The greatest confidence comes from knowing God's will is always better than our own.

Confidence is not self-assurance—it is unwavering trust in the unchanging character of God. When life becomes uncertain, believers are called to examine their hearts, seek God's direction before acting, remain still during seasons of silence, and encourage themselves with His promises. Every circumstance, whether joyful or difficult, is an opportunity to deepen faith and rely on God's wisdom rather than personal understanding. As we acknowledge Him in all our ways and pray according to His will, we can confidently believe that He is working everything together for our good. The challenge is simple but profound: Be still. Be patient. Be hopeful. Keep your confidence firmly anchored in God because He has never changed and never will.

Teachable Woman Podcast with Rev. Michele Owes & Rev. Diana P. Cherry

In this episode, Rev. Michele Owes and Rev. Diana P. Cherry continue their discussion on “The Beginning of Your Confidence”, focusing on Hebrews 3:14 and the importance of maintaining the same confidence in Christ that we had when we first believed. They challenge listeners to examine their spiritual walk, identify areas where confidence may have shifted from God to self, and return to the wholehearted trust and dependence that marked the beginning of their faith journey.

Key Scripture: Hebrews 3:14 – “For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end.”

• Take time to remember how your relationship with Christ began.
• Reflect on God's faithfulness during the early days of your salvation.
• Consider how easily you trusted God before life's responsibilities and achievements accumulated.
• Compare your confidence in God then to your confidence in Him now.
• Ask yourself: Have I maintained that same trust and dependence on God?

Takeaway: Spiritual growth begins with honest self-examination.

Rev. Cherry opens with an important challenge:

• Are you receiving and applying what God is teaching you?
• Hearing truth is not enough; transformation comes through obedience.
• It is easy to become distracted by daily life and lose sight of the centrality of Jesus.
• Apart from Christ, we can do nothing and are nothing.

Takeaway: A teachable spirit remains open to correction, growth, and God's direction.

The hosts discuss how confidence can subtly shift:

• Successes, accomplishments, certifications, and recognition can create self-reliance.
• Small victories may tempt us to believe we can manage life without seeking God's direction.
• What begins as natural decision-making can become operating from personal confidence rather than dependence on God.
• Even good intentions can lead us into situations God never intended us to carry alone.

Takeaway: The danger is not always rebellion; sometimes it is slowly replacing confidence in God with confidence in ourselves.

Rev. Cherry emphasizes that Satan's strategy is often gradual.

• Spiritual decline rarely happens all at once.
• Small compromises and "slippages" weaken steadfastness.
• The enemy understands how to pull believers off course through subtle distractions.
• Believers must know their strengths and weaknesses and remain vigilant.

The hosts note that weakness is not always obvious sin—it can be overestimating our own strength and abilities.

Takeaway: Remaining steadfast requires spiritual awareness and humility.

The discussion moves to biblical hope.

Three definitions of hope highlighted in the episode:

1. A happy anticipation of good.
2. What we fully expect to receive.
3. Confidence in the outcome.

Important truths:

• Hope is not wishful thinking.
• Hope and confidence are connected.
• Believers can trust God's outcome even when circumstances seem uncertain.
• God is always working on behalf of His people.

Takeaway: Biblical hope rests on confidence in God's character and promises.

Key Scripture: Hebrews 10:35–36

"Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward."

The hosts explain:

• Confidence carries rewards.
• Losing confidence can affect our participation in God's purposes.
• Patience is necessary after doing God's will.
• God's timing is often different from our expectations.
• Trusting God means waiting for His promises without abandoning faith.

To return to the beginning of our confidence:

• Remember where you started.
• Repent for areas where trust has shifted.
• Return to spiritual disciplines that once strengthened your faith:
• Prayer
• Quiet time with God
• Church attendance
• Bible study
• Giving
• Witnessing

Takeaway: Confidence grows when we intentionally return to the practices that nurtured our relationship with God.

The hosts stress that all accomplishments ultimately come from God.

• Degrees, awards, promotions, and achievements are gifts God enables.
• Human accomplishments should never replace dependence on God.
• God often equips believers to serve others, not simply to profit personally.
• Every gift and ability should be submitted to God's purpose.

Rev. Cherry shares how aging has increased her awareness of her need for God:

• Thanking Him for daily abilities.
• Living in continual prayer.
• Depending on Him for guidance, protection, and provision.

Rev. Owes reflects that she actually liked herself better at the beginning of her confidence because she worried less and trusted God more completely.

Takeaway: The goal is not perfection but returning to childlike trust and dependence on God.

This episode challenges believers to revisit the confidence they had when they first came to Christ. Rev. Owes and Rev. Cherry teach that spiritual confidence is not confidence in our abilities, accomplishments, or circumstances, but confidence in God alone. Through subtle shifts, believers can become self-reliant and drift from their original dependence on Him. By remembering God's faithfulness, repenting of misplaced trust, renewing spiritual disciplines, and maintaining steadfast confidence until the end, believers can experience the rewards and peace that come from walking closely with God.

Final Encouragement:

"Take me back, dear Lord, to where I first believed." Return to the beginning of your confidence, trust God completely, and hold that confidence steadfast to the end.

Hosts: Rev. Michele Owes & Rev. Diana P. Cherry

In this heartfelt conversation, Rev. Michele Owes and Rev. Diana P. Cherry explore the meaning of spiritual confidence and the importance of maintaining the same trust in God that we had when we first came to faith. Drawing from Hebrews 3:14, they discuss how life's responsibilities, disappointments, and experiences can subtly shift our confidence from God to ourselves. Through personal testimonies, honest reflection, and biblical encouragement, they remind listeners that God remains faithful and worthy of complete trust.

The episode centers on Hebrews 3:14: "For we are made partakers with Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end." The hosts examine what it means to remain spiritually confident in God throughout every season of life.

Rev. Michele shares a recent experience that revealed how she had gradually shifted from trusting God completely to trying to figure everything out herself before obeying Him. She reflects on how painful it was to recognize that her confidence had moved from God’s ability to her own understanding.

Through prayer and conviction, Rev. Michele sensed God asking, "Why do you have to work everything out?" This moment became a reminder that God is still the Way Maker and that believers are not called to manufacture solutions before they step out in obedience.

Both hosts discuss how widowhood has required them to make decisions independently after years of sharing responsibilities with their husbands. They acknowledge that while God understands these challenges, He still calls His daughters to seek Him first and trust His guidance.

After surrendering her concerns and agreeing to trust God, Rev. Michele witnessed Him work out every detail surrounding an assignment she believed He had given her. The experience reinforced the truth that where God guides, He also provides.

What began as a trip with one anticipated purpose turned into an opportunity to correct misunderstandings of Scripture in a Christian class. This unexpected assignment reminded Rev. Michele that God’s plans are often greater than what we initially perceive.

The hosts encourage listeners to remember the faith they had when they first gave their lives to Christ. They discuss how confidence in God produces peace, patience, and rest, while confidence in self often leads to striving and frustration. True spiritual maturity is found in continually returning to childlike trust and dependence on God.

• Hebrews 3:14
• Proverbs 3:5-6
• John 14:1
• Hebrews 10:35-36

• "What God wants, He funds."
• "Where there is purpose, there is always opposition."
• "God is worthy of our trust."
• "The beginning confidence was our salvation."
• "Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward."

In Part 1 of "The Beginning of Your Confidence," Rev. Michele Owes and Rev. Diana P. Cherry invite listeners to examine whether their trust remains rooted in God or has slowly shifted toward self-reliance. Through personal stories, biblical insight, and honest conversation, they encourage believers to return to the simple, unwavering faith they had at the beginning of their walk with Christ. As they prepare for Part 2, they leave listeners with a challenge: keep your confidence in the Lord, trust His plans, and patiently wait for Him to fulfill His promises.

Sat 12/9/2023 6:28 PM

Show Notes:

Title: Teachers of Good Things P1-enhanced

Host: Rev. Michele Owes

Guest: Rev. Diana P. Cherry

In this unscripted episode, Rev. Michele Owes interviews Rev. Diana P. Cherry, who shares insights from her 43 years in ministry. Despite the unscripted nature of their conversation, the hosts demonstrate an openness to the Holy Spirit's guidance and aim to answer the questions of their listeners' hearts.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Staying Committed: Rev. Cherry reflects on her steadfast commitment to her husband and her submission in ministry, highlighting the importance of focusing on the greater purpose and the will of God to stay rooted in one's calling.

2. Pivotal Teachings: Rev. Cherry shares two teachings that have had a profound impact on her and the world: "God's Plan for the Woman" and "The Virtuous Woman," emphasizing their enduring significance.

3. Ministry Highlights: The joy and fulfillment derived from transforming lives and receiving heartfelt testimonies emerge as pivotal highlights of Rev. Cherry's ministry journey.

4. Words of Encouragement: In a two-minute challenge, Rev. Cherry encourages listeners to change their thinking, associations, and pursuit of God's purpose, offering practical advice for personal transformation.

5. Special Message for Women: Rev. Cherry urges women to embrace their unique purpose, strive for excellence, and align their thoughts and actions with the will of God, promoting empowerment and spiritual growth.

6. Personal Touch: Rev. Michele Owes shares a heartwarming testimony of how Rev. Cherry's correspondence and teachings profoundly impacted her early experience in the body of Christ, highlighting the significance of personal connections.

Throughout this enriching conversation, Rev. Cherry's humility, dedication, and unwavering faith shine through, illustrating the transformative power of a life aligned with Christ's teachings.