Sacred Calling: A Podcast for Christian Women

Send a textWhat happens when cultural obsession with youth collides with Christian values? Turning 45 has me thinking deeply about aging in a society where Americans outspend the entire world on anti-aging products and procedures. This deeply personal episode explores the crossroads many women face when staring at new wrinkles in the mirror or scrolling through filtered social media perfection.After years of prayer and reflection, I'm sharing the five compelling reasons behind my commitment to age gracefully - from avoiding all-consuming beauty pursuits to modeling authentic womanhood for my daughters. We'll tackle some uncomfortable questions: Are our beauty decisions driven by insecurity or cultural pressure? Are we investing more in our appearance than our relationship with God? And what message are we sending to younger women watching our choices?The aging journey isn't always smooth - I openly share my struggles with changing appearance and moments of temptation to pursue interventions. Yet there's profound freedom in finding contentment with our natural selves. Whether you're young and already feeling the pressure to "prevent" aging, or further along wondering what measures to take, this conversation offers thoughtful guidance without judgment.Join me as we explore what Scripture says about true beauty, the power of contentment, and finding peace in each stage of life. As we navigate these waters together, remember: life doesn't end when we no longer look twenty, and there's beauty waiting to be discovered in every season. ❤️Andrea

Send a textEnjoy my fellow book worms!“Them Before Us”“Shepherds For Sale”“Revelation: Eternal King, Everlasting Kingdom” “Tactics: A game plan for discussing your Christian convictions” “Exalting Jesus in the Psalms” “Blessing” Series “When Culture Hates You”“Exalting Jesus in Ecclesiastes”  “Evidence That Demands A Verdict”  ❤️Andrea

Send a textIn this episode we’ll look at one particular verse in Psalm 23. We’ll see how God restores our souls and leads us in paths of righteousness. We’ll talk through where to go to find such restoration and leading. ❤️Andrea

Send a textHow do we combat the messages and ideas our kids are dealing with daily? It can feel overwhelming for us as parents. This episode will give you a simple activity that is packed full of truth and relevant for today. It is specific to teaching identity but can be tailored for any truths you want to instill in your kiddos.  ❤️Andrea

Send a textWe all experience anxiety in different ways, and in varying degrees. Anxiety is always lurking. The world we live in is crazy and dangerous. If you’re a parent, you worry about your children. How can we have peace when our hearts and minds are riddled with worry? In today’s episode we’ll talk through how to tap into our only source of true peace. ❤️Andrea

Send a textWe as humans were created to depend on God. But we (more specifically, Americans) don’t like to feel dependent on anyone. In this episode we’ll talk through how dependency is actually a good thing. God is our good shepherd who will care for us and we can find rest in him, in any storm. ❤️Andrea

Send a textWe as parents are often very concerned with what our boys are viewing online, or being shown by their friends, and rightly so. But we often overlook the potential risks for our daughters. In this episode we’ll talk through what our girls are facing and just how important it is to teach them sexual integrity too.Check out the links from today’s podcast!Defend Young MindsFoundation WorldviewSheRecovery ❤️Andrea

Send a textIf you haven’t read of the book of James very much, you should. It is chock full of truth and application for our lives as Christians. Some of it can be hard to read if you end up feeling convicted like I did. More specifically for me was the part about what comes out of our mouths. In this episode we’ll talk about what is at the root of our speech, just how powerful our words are and the importance of being doers of the word. ❤️Andrea

Send a textIn this episode we’ll explore basic ideas for writing your own Psalm and the benefits of being honest with God about our emotions and situations.  ❤️Andrea

Send a textWe are living in a time where everyone seems to be searching for their “true” identity. This is nothing new. It just looks a bit different. We as humans, more specifically in this episode-women, have struggled with placing our identity in the wrong things, forever. We’ll talk through what God’s word says is our true identity.Scripture for points made:God’s creation/Image bearer- Genesis 1:26-27Physical and Spiritual being- Matthew 10:28Adopted into the family of God/heirs with Jesus-Romans 8:14-17Redeemed-Colossians 1:13-14Holy/ Set apart-1 Peter: 1:14-16Love God and love people-Matthew 22:37-39Make disciples/Share the gospel-Matthew 28:19-20Salt and light-Matthew 5:13-16Bear good fruit-Galatians 5:22-23Be a good stewards-Matthew 25:14-30Abide in Jesus/Keep his commandments-John 15:1-17To walk in the light-1 John 1:5-10Work as unto the Lord-Colossians 3:23Worship and honor God-Revelation 4:11 ❤️Andrea

Send a textBeginning of the year can feel a bit much. We want to do it all. We start strong, but get overwhelmed or frustrated when our kids don’t adjust to our routine like we expected. In this episode we’ll talk about how to ease into things and the importance of being flexible and patient, as well as inviting Jesus in. ❤️Andrea

Send a textHow many times should we forgive our spouse? Peter asks if 7 times is enough to which Jesus replies that we should forgive more like 70x7. How is that even possible? Our hearts cannot fathom this. The world says “Forget that!” In this episode we’ll walk through what it takes to not only have the ability, but the willingness, to forgive. ❤️Andrea

Send a textIn this continuation of the series “Life After Addiction” we’ll talk through learning to trust again, what fear and control says about our view of God, and how to get unstuck. ❤️Andrea

Send a textYou stood by your spouse through their addiction struggles and now what? Maybe you thought all your problems would cease once they changed, and yet your marriage is still in trouble. In this first part episode to the series on “Life After Addiction” I’ll give an overview of how to shift our mindset, see things more clearly and take steps to move forward.  ❤️Andrea

Send a textWe have a responsibility to teach our kids money management. In this episode we’ll go over 10 tips any parent can implement. Join me in this mission to equip our little men and women in training with the life skills necessary to be healthy well-rounded individuals. ❤️Andrea

Send a textParents want the best for their kids. But we can parent from a place of fear and that isn’t good for all involved. In this episode we’ll talk about what that looks like, what it says about your spiritual life, and how to learn to trust God and parent from a healthier approach. ❤️Andrea

Send a textI’ve read some amazing books so far this year. I think they are worthy of passing on. Enjoy!“Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Minds” Jen Wilkin“Mama Bear Apologetics: Empowering Your Kids to Challenge Cultural Lies” Hillary Morgan Ferrer“The Gospel on the Ground: The Grit and Glory of the Early Church in Acts” Kristi McLellend“Discipleship: What it Truly Means to be a Christian” A.W. Tozer“Life in the Negative World: Confronting Challenges in an Anti-Christian Culture” Aaron Renn “Talking with your Kids About God: 30 Conversations Every Christian Parent Must Have” Natasha Crain“Why We Get Sick: The Hidden Epidemic at the Root of most Chronic Disease- and  How to Fight it” Benjamin Bikmin“Love Comes Softly Series” by Janette Oke ❤️Andrea

Send a textOur kids need to know that their relationships with their siblings matter. And as parents teaching our kids to have healthy relationships with one another is a big responsibility. We’ve got to put in the hard work to reap the rewards later. Today we will explore how to set the  tone for your home and what it takes to pass on the necessary skills for solid relationships. ❤️Andrea

Send a textWe often set expectations in our hearts without even realizing it. What happens when our plans fail or don’t happen the way we want them to? We face major disappointment, possibly anger and resentment and even sorrow. In today’s episode we’ll talk about how to deal with those by laying them down.  ❤️Andrea

Send a textWe sure like things to go just so, don’t we?  But the illusion of control often leaves us feeling weary and even more anxious. In today’s episode we’ll talk about what God exchanges for our worries, our fears, our pain, our weaknesses and much more.  ❤️Andrea

Send a textEver have someone in your life or your circle of friends that was difficult? It’s natural to want to cut them out. To work hard to create just the perfect group. But as Christian’s we are called to a higher standard. In today's episode we’ll explore more about this why it’s important to invite others in.  ❤️Andrea

Send a textAs moms we tend to put things into categories for our kids. Like “Good or Bad”, “Safe or Dangerous”, “Christian or Non-Christian”. In this episode we’ll talk about the dangers of this method and offer a better, biblical approach.Check out these amazing resources!Mama Bear ApologeticsNatasha Crain  ❤️Andrea

Send a textWe are all affected by mom guilt from time to time. But how do we keep it from dragging us down? How do we lean into the grace of God and move forward? These questions and more will be answered in today’s episode. ❤️Andrea

Send a textGrief can take us down if we let it. We can become vulnerable to unhealthy ways of dealing (or not dealing) with it. In today’s episode we will look to the God of all comfort and how we can begin the healing process.Verses for comfort:Psalm 34:18Revelation 21:42 Corinthians 1:3-4Isaiah 41:10Psalm 147:31 Thessalonians 4:13-141 Corinthians 15:52-54 ❤️Andrea

Send a textDo you fear the world we are sending our kids out into? This is a common thread among moms. In today’s episode we’ll talk about why we don’t need to be afraid and how we can begin to equip our children for whatever their future holds. ❤️Andrea

Send a textIn a world full of chaos and confusion you might be wondering how we got here. In today’s episode we’ll talk about how following your heart isn’t biblical and how we can teach our kids a better way. ❤️Andrea

Send a textAs we all know, life has it’s ups and it has its downs. Sometimes when life is down we can get stuck. In today’s episode we’ll explore ways we can be active participants in the struggle. ❤️Andrea

Send a textWe are a forgetful people. Much like the Israelites. In today’s episode we’ll discuss how to remember God’s faithfulness, even when our situations seem bleak, and how doing so will offer hope. ❤️Andrea

Send a textDo you have a hard time setting boundaries in your relationships? Did you know it does a disservice to not only yourself, but also to the ones you love and do life with, when you neglect to set up healthy parameters? In today’s episode we’ll talk more about why boundaries are a good, good thing. ❤️Andrea

Send a textThere are biblical commands and then there are personal convictions. In today’s episode we’ll talk about the importance of knowing the difference and why we need to be careful not to impose our personal convictions onto others.  ❤️Andrea

Send a textYour child is one click away from possibly struggling with porn for the rest of their lives. It is destructive, all consuming, and experts say, is more addictive than actual substances.In today’s episode we’ll talk about how to be proactive in arming our kids to withstand this ever present, very real, temptation. Our kids are capable of resisting but they just need to know it’s possible, and they need the tools to do so.Links to the resources mentioned in today’s podcast episode:Book “Good Pictures, Bad Pictures” Webpage  Defend Young Minds ❤️Andrea

Send a textAre you unsure how to go about talking sex with your kids? You don’t know where to start so you just, well…don’t. I can tell you as a mom I dreaded even the thought of having that conversation with my kids. But pretending it isn’t looming overhead, won’t make it go away, and our kids deserve to know. They want to know. In today’s episode we’ll explore 5 common mistakes parents make and how we can do it better.Mama Bear Apologetics Foundation WorldviewNatasha Crain ❤️Andrea

Send a textOur spouses will disappoint us, they will let us down, and  they will fail at this husband thing. Whether in big or small ways, it’s going to happen, and will continue to happen. Why? Because they are imperfect.But what happens to our hearts when we don’t work through those things? When we start lumping them all together? We can develop a negative attitude towards them and if left unchecked it can have devastating effects on our marriages. Ask me, I know. You could ask my hubby too. He’ll tell ya!Today we’ll discover 5 steps you can take to get out of that head AND heart space and back to perceiving yur spouses in a positive and appreciative light. ❤️Andrea

Send a textThose sure are some fightin’ words. Right? You’re probably wondering what I mean. In this episode we’ll talk about the messages feminism sent our way,  how we can combat the lies, and find fulfillment and contentment. ❤️Andrea

Send a textWe as humans like to self-protect. We are very prideful. Humility does NOT come naturally. And in marriage one of us is always right. RIGHT? We can easily stay stuck and never truly have the peace in our homes we so desperately desire. Today we’ll explore what humility did for my marriage and how it helped us stop fighting altogether.  ❤️Andrea

Send a textChristian Apologetics has become increasingly important in a world that views Christianity as toxic, oppressive and harmful. But what even is it? In today’s episode we’ll briefly discuss what it is and why it is important for Christians in today’s culture and climate. Especially if you’re parenting in these confusing times.Resources mentioned:Cold-Case Christianity for KidsMama Bear ApologeticsFoundation Worldview  ❤️Andrea

Send a textWe as women fall victim to this joy, robbing thief. We may not even recognize the many forms it takes, let alone know how to get out. In this episode we’ll unpack the two types of traps and the steps we can take to experience joy no matter what is going on around us. ❤️Andrea

Send a textAs Christian women, wives, and mothers we should steward our health and our families health well.But where do you even start? There is way too much information out there. And if your family is like mine there is just too many bad habits to undo.In this episode I’ll walk you through 6 simple steps I took that catapulted us into a healthier life. ❤️Andrea

Send a textMaybe you’re like me and you’ve never heard of these terms before. If so, understanding how having differing sex drives can work in opposition of one another might help you and your spouse, like it did us. ❤️Andrea

Send a textHollywood is great for entertainment. It is not helpful when shaping our expectations for relationships and romance.In this episode we’ll explore how unrealistic expectations set ourselves up for disappointment and how they set our spouse up for failure, before they’re even given a chance. ❤️Andrea

Send a textMarriage can be extremely hard. Especially when you’re in a rut, there have been hurts, or you can’t seem to get them to hear you. Prayer is so often a last resort when it should be our go to. I’m here to tell you that I no longer nag my husband. I pray for him. HAHA!In all actuality, while prayer does work, (and I saw amazing change in my husband) I too benefited from the thousands of prayers I’ve prayed and in today’s episode we’ll go over 5 of those. ❤️Andrea

Send a textIf you’re looking for a book to grow as a Christian woman, look no further! Here are my top 10 inspirational, intellectual and informational books I read in 2023.ENJOY!1) Mama Bear Apologetics Guide to Sexuality: Empowering Your Kids to Understand and Live Out God’s Design2) The Toxic War On Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles The Sexes3) When You Pray: A Study of Six Prayers in the Bible4) Radical Joy: Christ’s Call to Purposeful, Joy-Filled Motherhood5) In His Image: 10 Ways God Calls Us to Reflect His Character6) Misled: 7 Lies that Distort the Gospel7) Live Your Truth and Other Lies: Exposing Popular Deceptions That Make Us Anxious, Exhausted, and Self-Obsessed8) 40 Days of Decrease: A Different Kind of Hunger. A Different Kind of Fast9) Worst Case Scenario: Finding Overwhelming Rescue in the Promises of God10) In the Hands of a Fiercely Tender God: 31 Days of Hope, Honesty, and Encouragement for the Sufferer ❤️Andrea