This final episode of 2024 is a deeply personal conversation as Dot and Cara reflect on a year marked by challenges, growth, and their fight to hold on to hope. We’re looking at Romans 4:18-25 to be reminded of Abraham’s unwavering faith, even when circumstances seemed impossible and to renew our conviction to place our hope not in outcomes, but in God Himself. If you're feeling weary or uncertain, pull up a chair and join us—because Jesus is Emmanuel, our hope in every season.

Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! 

Episode recap:

• Start by writing down Romans 4:18-25 (0:13)
• This is our last conversation for 2024 (2:30)
• When we struggle with hope, it’s because our eyes our fixed on circumstances (7:38)
• Do you believe the promises God has made? (13:27)
• If you believe something, but don’t live out that belief, what good is that? (20:01)
• It’s okay to pray for very specific things (25:27)
• Faith means holding on to the fact that God will, if it’s best for you (30:00)
• Hope keeps your heart from becoming bitter and hard (38:00)
• Either I believe God loves me or I don’t (40:18)
• He loves me and wants a relationship with me and that is what gives me hope (42:00)

Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at [email protected].

Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook 

Scripture Verse: Romans 4:18-25
“In hope he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations, as he had been told, “So shall your offspring be.” He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was as good as dead (since he was about a hundred years old), or when he considered the barrenness of Sarah's womb. No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. That is why his faith was “counted to him as righteousness.” But the words “it was counted to him” were not written for his sake alone, but for ours also. It will be counted to us who believe in him who raised from the dead Jesus our Lord, who was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification.”

As we wrap up our series on perspective, Dot and Cara share what it means to walk ‘in the light of the living.’ This episode invites us to reflect on how shifting our perspective can reveal the light of Jesus, even when darkness is all around. From practical steps to change your focus, to the importance of surrounding yourself with people who help you see the light, Dot reminds us that living in the light is about Jesus, not our circumstances. Grab your Bible and a pen and settle in with us as we learn to live in the light today! 

Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! 

Episode recap:

• Start by writing down Psalm 56:13 (0:13)
• The Christmas season and end of the year can highlight our lack of peace (2:23)
• We get so used to the darkness, we don’t believe we can live in the light (7:00)
• We have to choose to see the light (8:22)
• Living in the light is about Jesus, not circumstances (10:12)
• We have to have people around us who can help us see the light (15:14)
• Your perspective can change moment to moment (23:00)
• How do we actively change our perspective? (29:00)
• Your eye is either full of light, or of darkness? What are you looking at? (32:26)
• Dig deep where the Holy Spirit is and ask for the strength to endure and walk in the light (29:40)

Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at [email protected].

Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook 

Scripture Verse: Psalm 56:13 

“For You have delivered my soul from death, 

Indeed my feet from stumbling, 

So that I may walk before God 

In the light of the living.”

Welcome to Part 2 of our mini-series on perspective! This week, Cara and Dot dive into Luke 11:34-36 to unpack the real meaning of darkness. They explore how darkness can take the form of lies, doubt, fear, and disbelief, and remind us of the Holy Spirit's role in teaching us what is right. If you haven’t yet, make sure to listen to Part 1 before starting this episode. Grab your Bible and join us as we learn what it means to desire God's light over darkness. 

Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! 

Episode recap:

• Start by writing down Luke 11:34-36 (0:14)
• What’s the difference between this verse and Matthew’s version of it? (2:45)
• We’re going to talk about darkness today (5:50)
• Our eyes adjust to darkness eventually (8:15)
• Darkness can be lies, doubt, fear, disbelief (11:45)
• How can we know if we are walking in darkness unaware? (16:11)
• It is the Holy Spirit’s job to show us what is right (18:46)
• Was Eve’s desire for something God had said ‘no’ to sin? (21:24)
• Satan wants our hearts latched onto the darkness (26:36)
• We live in a world where right seems wrong, and wrong seems right (29:40)
• it’s the  Holy Spirit’s job to show you what is right and it’s your job to choose it (39:19)

Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at [email protected].

Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook 

Could changing your perspective change everything? In this episode, Cara and Dot explore the power of perspective and how seeing life through God's light can transform every part of our being—emotionally, spiritually, and physically. As we enter a season that can be challenging for many, they offer encouragement on focusing on God’s truth to bring light into dark places. Join them as they dive into the power of shifting from darkness to light, especially in challenging seasons. 

Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! 

Episode recap:

• Start by writing down Matthew 6:22-23 (0:14)
• There are two ways to look at things; through the lens of light or of darkness (4:09)
• “We see things not as they are, but as we are.” (5:54)
• We try to play God instead of going to God and asking Him what is really going on (14:50)
• Only the Holy Spirit can tell us what is true (17:20) 
• Choosing a healthy perspective is sometimes moment by moment (20:21)
• If you are being tempted to focus on darkness, it’s ok to put a boundary up (31:30)
• Go to God and pray, “Is what I am seeing real/true?” (33:40)
• We approach things based on our limited perspective and knowledge (36:19)
• There is danger in focusing so much on the dark that our eyes adjust and become comfortable in darkness. (38:19)

Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at [email protected].

Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook 

Scripture Verse: Matthew 6:22-23
“The eye is the lamp of the body; so then if your eye is clear, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light that is in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!”

Grab your Bible and join Dot and Cara as they explore the life of Jeremiah. Known as the weeping prophet, Jeremiah faced imprisonment and hardship because of his obedience to God. His story encourages us to remain faithful, no matter the cost. Don’t miss their discussion at the end about the often misinterpreted Jeremiah 29:11! We hope today’s episode reminds you that there is always hope, even in hardship.

Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! 

Episode recap:

• Start by writing down Jeremiah 3:11-15 (0:14)
• God called Jeremiah to speak hard truths to the people he loved (3:29)
• He is known as the weeping prophet, but he’s not a big downer! (5:05)
• Although they are warned about judgment/punishment, there is hope (6:50)
• How do you discern between true prophecy and false comforting words? (10:00) 
• God is using the Babylonians, not making them ‘his people’ (14:39)
• Jeremiah’s compassion for others is attractive in a spiritual sense (15:30)
• Buying land in enemy territory shows how Jeremiah trusted God’s promises. (19:05)
• Dig deep roots and live faithfully wherever we are, whatever season we’re in, even during hardships (21:42)
• Jer. 29:11 is a promise about drawing near to God, not about what our future holds. (28:54)
• In our darkest moments, we can feel that God is near, and that is enough. (33:16)

Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at [email protected].

Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook 

Scripture Verse: Jeremiah 3:11-15 
“And the Lord said to me, “Faithless Israel has proved herself more righteous than treacherous Judah. Go and proclaim these words toward the north and say,

‘Return, faithless Israel,’ declares the Lord;
‘I will not look upon you in anger.
For I am gracious,’ declares the Lord;
‘I will not be angry forever.
‘Only acknowledge your iniquity, 

That you have transgressed against the Lord your God 

And have scattered your favors to the strangers under every green tree,
And you have not obeyed My voice,’ declares the Lord. 

‘Return, O faithless sons,’ declares the Lord; 

‘For I am a master to you, 

And I will take you one from a city and two from a family, 

And I will bring you to Zion.’ 

“Then I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.”

In today’s episode, Dot and Cara dive into the character of Martha, sister of Mary and Lazarus. They explore how easy it is to get caught up in doing things for Jesus while missing the opportunity to simply be with Jesus. Martha’s busyness led her to tell Jesus what to do, but Mary chose the better part—sitting at His feet and listening. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or anxious, it might be time to pause and ask, “Am I doing something Jesus hasn’t asked me to do?” Grab your Bible and a cup of coffee, and reflect with us on choosing what truly matters.

Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! 

Episode recap:

• Start by writing down Luke 10:38-42 (0:14)
• Jesus isn’t picking on Martha in this story, He loves her. (4:30)
• When Jesus visited someone, he came with a crowd. (6:30)
• When we’re busy trying to do things for Jesus, it can be hard to hear Jesus. (10:00)
• Pray, “God, I don’t want to miss you.” (14:54) 
• Martha was distracted by her service. (16:50)
• When we feel anxious and overwhelmed, it is usually because we are doing something He has not asked us to do (20:25)
• Martha repeatedly tells Jesus what to do. (25:00)
• If you are so busy telling Jesus what you know, you won’t pause to learn what He knows (31:00)
• You have to spend time at the feet of Jesus to get through this life. (35:00) 

Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at [email protected].

Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook 

Scripture Verse: Luke 10:38-42
“Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me.” But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”

Pull up a chair, grab your Bible, and join Dot and Cara as they explore the powerful truth of God’s sovereignty. What does it mean for God to be in control, even when we don’t get the outcome we were hoping for? In this conversation, Dot and Cara discuss how we can trust God with the big picture, like elections, leadership, and our personal lives. Wherever you find yourself this week, remember: God is on His throne, and He is in control.

Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! 

Episode recap:

• Start by writing down Daniel 4:31-32 (0:14)
• The reason Daniel is in Babylon is because Jerusalem has just been conquered (2:50)
• As believers, we should make a difference no matter who’s in power (6:40)
• The intersection of free will and God’s sovereignty can trip people up (8:30)
• We are concerned about candidates, God is concerned about our hearts (10:30) 
• We put emphasis on outcomes, when a relationship is what God is after (18:00)
• No matter who is in power, our God is in control (21:55)
• No matter what happens in the election, you can rejoice (25:37)
• Jesus is our anchor and he is our only hope (31:15)

Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at [email protected].

Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook 

Scripture Verse: Daniel 4:31-32 “While the word was in the king’s mouth, a voice came from heaven, saying, ‘King Nebuchadnezzar, to you it is declared: sovereignty has been removed from you, and you will be driven away from mankind, and your dwelling place will be with the beasts of the field. You will be given grass to eat like cattle, and seven periods of time will pass over you until you recognize that the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind and bestows it on whomever He wishes.’”

In a season marked by uncertainty, Dot and Cara refocus today on the truth that Jesus is not up for election—He is King, sovereign over all. Drawing from 2 Chronicles 7:14-15, they discuss the responsibility we have as Christians to both pray and participate in the political process. Dot and Cara remind us that while we seek the best for our country, we ultimately look to God for guidance, peace, and hope beyond any earthly power. Join them in a prayer for our nation and reflect on how, even in times of fear, we can trust in God’s goodness and faithfulness. Grab a cup of coffee and your Bible, and let’s pray for our country  together.

Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! 

Episode recap:

• Start by writing down 2 Chronicles 7:14-015 (0:14)
• Jesus is not up for election this year. He is already King and He is sovereign. (6:05)
• Participating in the political process affects the lives our children and grandchildren will lead in this nation. (7:30)
• As a Christian, we have the right and the privilege to pray and also vote. (10:30)
• Praying for our nation reminds us God is in control and calms our fears. (15:40) 
• When evil was rampant in the Old Testament, it was when all the people determined they could decide right from wrong in their own hearts. (18:00)
• If we are looking to a country or a political party to give us the life we have imagined, we are mistaken. (20:30)
• We have rights and responsibilities while we are passing through. (22:00)
• Enter into a conversation with Jesus about what’s going on in our world. (24:00)
• There’s a lot of fear surrounding the election, that’s why you pray. (25:45)
• We don’t know what God is doing, we just know that He’s good. (27:45) 
• Join Dot and Cara in a prayer for our nation. (30:55)

Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at [email protected].

Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook 

Scripture Verse: 2 Chronicles 7:14-15 “and My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to the prayer offered in this place.”

Prayer is one of the most powerful ways we can connect with God because it aligns our hearts with His. In this episode, Dot shares practical tips to encourage your prayer life, from setting aside intentional time, to praying Scripture and journaling. She reminds us that prayer is about being honest and real with God, no matter where you are on your journey. Grab your Bible, start by writing down Romans 8:14-16, and join us as we dive into the beauty and power of connecting with God through prayer.

Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! 

Episode recap:

• Start by writing down Romans 8:14-16 (0:14)
• Prayer is powerful, but it’s not a weapon used to manipulate God (3:36)
• Prayer is powerful because we are aligning our will with God’s (6:30)
• We pray as children of God, in the Spirit and in the Truth (9:17)
• Unanswered prayers provide an opportunity for us to say, ‘I’m going to stick with you, God’ (14:08) 
• There’s no wrong way to pray if you are a child of God (16:15)
• Jesus died so that we could enter into the presence of a holy God and talk with him, it’s sad that we don’t (23:30)
• Setting aside specific time to pray can be helpful if you are new to prayer (25:10)
• You can pray the prayers we find in the Bible and personalize them (30:14)
• Journaling our prayers is a way to remind us of what God has done (32:45)
• Praise music is another way to pray. Don’t just listen, take the lyrics and pray them. (35:44)
• It’s okay if you don’t know what to say. Start by sitting there and saying hello. (38:00)

Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at [email protected].

Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook 

Scripture Verse: Romans 8:14-16 “For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,”

What does it mean to have faith when we pray? Today Dot and Cara discuss the difference between faith and belief, reminding us that prayer isn’t about treating God like a vending machine, but about aligning our hearts with His will. Rooted in Mark 11:22-24, this conversation unpacks how prayer can change our perspective, deepen our relationship with God, and help us navigate doubt. Whether you feel strong in your prayer life or are still working through uncertainty, this episode will encourage you to keep pressing in. Grab your Bible and join us for a powerful discussion!

Got a question about today’s episode or something else you’d like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! 

Episode recap:

• Start by writing down Mark 11:22-24 (0:14)
• We can’t take this verse out of context and treat God like a vending machine (4:00)
• Faith and belief are not the same thing (5:20)
• If you don’t have a right view of God, your prayer life probably isn’t consistent (12:35)
• Prayer can change our mindset and align our will to His (14:30) 
• Prayer shifts our focus and reminds us we are not God (24:30)
• Jesus intercedes with the Father on our behalf (32:00)
• Jesus prepared for 30 years for a 3 year ministry. We don’t always understand what God is preparing us for. (31:45)
• We can be real with our doubt in prayer. (41:00)

Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at [email protected].

Find Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook 

Scripture Verse: Mark 11:22-24 “And Jesus answered saying to them, “Have faith in God. Truly I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says is going to happen, it will be granted him. Therefore I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted you.”