Breakthrough Conversations

This episode was released out of obedience. My openness in what I share is because God told me to share it. I pray it blesses everyone out there who can relate to my story.

1Timothy 6:11 (NKJV) says: Now godliness with contentment is great gain. Romans 8:28 (NKJV) says: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Lamar West about finding Godliness with Contentment after becoming injured and not fulfilling his dream of making it into the NFL. You will also hear about: how he became a football coach after no longer playing, the differences with training his sons in football vs. other young boys, what he loves about seeing his sons succeed as well as some challenges they've faced, how he balances his sons' athletics and attending church on Sundays, how he shines His light as a christian coach, "God moments" he has experienced as a coach/mentor, possible speaking engagements in the future, wisdom, advice, and encouragement for others, and more!

1Timothy 6:11 (NKJV) says: Now godliness with contentment is great gain. Romans 8:28 (NKJV) says: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. 1Timothy 6:11 (NKJV) says: Now godliness with contentment is great gain. Romans 8:28 (NKJV) says: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Lamar West about finding Godliness with Contentment after becoming injured and not fulfilling his dream of making it into the NFL. You will also hear about: who he was as a young boy growing up in Newark, N.J. and Baltimore, MD., what it was like growing up in a single family household with his Mother who struggled with drug addiction, his upbringing in and out of church and how it impacted him, what sparked his interest to play football, what led him to receive a full football scholarship to play at Morgan St., how playing football was more challenging in college compared to high school, how he got injured in his sophomore year of college and how it changed the trajectory of his future, what it was like raising young children at a young age, what led him to attend his current church home, things he taught his sons when they were young, and more!

Psalm 34:18 (NKJV) says: The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit. Titus 3:3-7 (NKJV) says: For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another. But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Algenia White (from the Marriage Series) about becoming saved after witnessing her Mother's death. You will also hear about: how maintaining purity in her relationship with her future husband was different for her, what it was like getting married soon after graduating college, what it was like not being able to conceive then having a miscarriage, going through postpartum depression after having her 1st child, how she parents her children vs. how she was parented growing up, lessons she teaches her children that she would have wanted as a child, how she's healing from her Mom's death from a different perspective, wisdom, advice, and encouragement for others, and more!

Psalm 34:18 (NKJV) says: The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit. Titus 3:3-7 (NKJV) says: For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another. But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. In this episode, I speak with Algenia White about becoming saved after witnessing her Mother's death. You will also hear about: who she was as a little girl growing up in D.C., what it was like being raised by her great grandmother, why her older brothers became like Father figures to her, her experience with having a Mother incarcerated, how she began developing a relationship with God, what it was like witnessing her Mom's death at 16 years old and how Jesus saved her, being in a toxic relationship in high school after losing her Mom, going off to college and meeting her future husband, and more!

Romans 5:3-5 (NKJV) says: And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. In the Bible, there are countless stories of women who waited on God for children from Sarah in the Old Testament, to Elizabeth in the New Testament. Waiting on God for anything is never easy, especially when He has made it clear that it WILL happen, but His timing doesn't align with our own. In those times of waiting, we must know that God is building our character and is also building a testimony that will help others with similar stories. In this episode, I speak with Phoelicia Blagmon about her journey with infertility. You will also hear about: her upbringing as a young girl and growing up in the South, what her college years were like and falling in love during her freshman year, getting married to her college sweetheart and not being able to conceive for 5 years, the health issues that surrounded her and her husband not being able to conceive, what led to her divorce and how she coped with not having children, how she got into another relationship that eventually led to her current marriage and losing her 1st baby, what it was like losing 2 more babies, how she has dealt with not ever having children of her own, the blessing of having 2 step sons and being a "Nana" to her grandchildren, wisdom, encouragement, and advice for others in her shoes, and more!

Exodus 20:12 (NKJV) says: Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Glen Wiggins about his journey with caring for his Mother with Alzheimer's disease while being a Husband and Dad. You will hear about: what it was like when she no longer remembered who he and his family were, the transition with moving his Mom from his house to an assisted living facility, not being able to see his Mom in person when the pandemic began, what led to his Mom's death, what he and his family learned after experiencing his Mom's illness, one of the traits he remembers most about his Mom, wisdom, advice, and encouragement for others, and more!

Exodus 20:12 (NKJV) says: Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Glen Wiggins about his journey with caring for his Mother with Alzheimer's disease while being a Husband and Dad. You will hear about: what it was like growing up in church from an early age, memories of him as a young boy in his family, meeting his wife and getting married quickly, what it was like getting married and having his first child while living with his Mom, fun activities with his family and Mom, his Mom's Alzheimer's diagnosis and when it happened, her gradual declining health with Alzheimer's and how Glen and his family stepped in to help, what his prayers were like while she was ill, things he learned about the healthcare system and the difficulty of budgeting her money while managing her life simultaneously, how he balanced taking care of his children while caring for his Mom, and more!

Philippians 2:3-4 (NKJV) says: Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Shedrick Elliott (from Episode 28 - Marriage Series) about his coaching journey throughout the years. You will hear about: what led him to sharing about his Mother's death with his athletes, how he applies the lessons his teaches to his athletes to his own life, the impactful relationships he has established over the years with his athletes, the one thing he helps his athletes with the most, his struggle with overthinking and imagining false scenarios, being a married coach vs. a single coach, how his wife helps him in his coaching role, the internal struggle he has had with his weight since he was a young boy, the reason behind why he's so transparent about his life and struggles, wisdom, advice, and encouragement for others, and more!

Philippians 2:3-4 (NKJV) says: Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Shedrick Elliott (from Episode 28 - Marriage Series) about his coaching journey throughout the years. You will hear about: who he was a young boy, what it was like growing up in church, lessons he learned from his Dad from a young age and their close relationship, what his college experiences were like as a young Christian including being exposed to pornography for the first time, what led him to suicide ideation in his junior year of college, his beginning stages with coaching track and how he became passionate about his job, his transition from coaching high school athletes to coaching at the collegiate level, the similarities between coaching and pastoring, how his athletes have encouraged him unexpectedly, how losing an athlete impacted him and his team, how he shares his faith as a coach, and more!

Revelation 3:15-16 (NKJV) says: I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Joshua 24:15 (NKJV) says: And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Erica Elliott (from Episode 28 - Marriage Series) about her journey with Overcoming Lukewarm Christianity. You will hear about: her perspective of God and herself after getting married, how different her relationship with God is now compared to being lukewarm, how she's maturing in the area of self-centeredness, what she loves most about God, why she wasn't very comfortable in her lukewarm lifestyle, her decision to return to college after dropping out, what she would tell her lukewarm self if she could, wisdom, advice, encouragement for others, and more!

Revelation 3:15-16 (NKJV) says: I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Joshua 24:15 (NKJV) says: And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Erica Elliott (from Episode 28 - Marriage Series) about her journey with Overcoming Lukewarm Christianity. You will hear about: who she was as a young girl, how she dealt with social anxiety/separation, how her Mom established a strong foundation in God when she was young, how things took a turn in her senior year of high school into her 1st year of college, the point in her life when she began drinking and how it affected her, the decision she eventually made to stop drinking and how her life changed for the better, meeting her future husband, Shedrick, around the time she turned her life around, and more!

Listen in for some important updates and upcoming changes to the podcast as well as a brief word of encouragement!

Proverbs 22:6 (KJV) says: Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 11:20-21 (NKJV): Those who are of a perverse heart are an abomination to the Lord, but the blameless in their ways are His delight. Though they join forces, the wicked will not go unpunished; but the posterity of the righteous will be delivered. Raising children as a single parent is not easy, but with God's help, it is possible! In this episode, I speak with Sandra Blackwell about her journey with raising her children in a single household, but with God's help. You will also hear about: what her childhood was like, what growing up in church was like, what led to her entering into a relationship as a young teen, what it was like being pregnant at age 15, becoming saved in her early 20s, getting married and having her 2nd child, experiencing divorce, having her 3rd child and finding her way back to God, how she included God with raising her children, how her children entreat her in their adult years, how they have been able to remain a close knit family, advice, encouragement, and wisdom for other Moms, and more!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Exodus 20:3 (NKJV) says: You shall have no other gods before Me. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, listen to my hubby and I as we speak about: The Importance of Keeping God FIRST in Marriage. You will also hear about: how we keep God first while waiting on Him to have children, what I have learned the most while waiting on God for children, how to receive and handle prophetic words (regarding children & in general), how Jared has been challenged by the Holy Spirit in conversations with me, the most recent argument we had that eventually led to the Holy Spirit intervening unexpectedly, the importance of remembering we're on the same team as a couple, what being best friends in marriage is like, wisdom, advice, and encouragement for others, and more!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Exodus 20:3 (NKJV) says: You shall have no other gods before Me. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, listen to my hubby and I as we speak about: The Importance of Keeping God FIRST in Marriage. You will also hear about: how and when we met, what Jared heard from God about me early on before we entered into a relationship, the prayer we both prayed before meeting each other, how and when I became attracted to Jared, how we were "F.O.P." (friends on purpose) prior to entering into a relationship, how the proposal went, what the wedding day was like, the challenges we faced in our first year of marriage, how we dealt with the idolatry of putting each other first before God early on, our different desires for starting a family, and more!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. 1 Peter 3:1-2 (NKJV) says: Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Bill and Jenny Fleming on God's Faithfulness + A Praying Wife = A Husband's Return. You will also hear about: the encouragement Jenny received from Bill's Mom which helped Jenny to trust God more, the moment when Jenny understood the power of prayer and the spirit realm, scriptures that encouraged Jenny as she trusted God for Bill's return, what it was like raising their children when Bill struggled in his beliefs, the fear Jenny had of her children growing up with an unbelieving Father, the moment when Bill heard God's voice out of the blue which led to his return back to God, Jenny's reaction to Bill hearing God's voice, the changes Jenny noticed in Bill, Bill's return to church and his time spent with God after being laid off of his job, what their marriage is like today and what they love about each other, advice, encouragement, and wisdom for others, and more!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. 1 Peter 3:1-2 (NKJV) says: Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Bill and Jenny Fleming on God's Faithfulness + A Praying Wife = A Husband's Return. You will also hear about: how and when they met, how long they dated prior to getting married, what their proposal was like, what their wedding day was like, what their marriage was like early on and some of the challenges they faced, the reason behind their decision to take in Jenny's younger brothers, their difficult experience with losing their first child due to miscarriage, the point when Bill began to question God and turn from Him, how Jenny reacted to Bill's questions about God, what Bill turned to in his search for answers about God, the reason behind why Bill couldn't deny Jesus, the unexpected encouragement that Jenny received from her brother-in-law about Bill, and more!

Here are some updates Coming Soon!!!

It is SO IMPORTANT that we make the decision to surrender our lives to God by being born again so that we are in right standing with Him. Make the Choice today Be Saved! And if you have backslidden, Come Back to Him! He's waiting on you and He is ready to forgive if you just ask!

You ever obey God, and expect what He promised you to manifest right away?? What do you do if what you've been waiting for is taking longer than you thought? Will you get stuck in your own timeline, or trust God's perfect timing? I want to encourage you to Trust His timing and not allow the enemy to cause you to think you're behind! You're right on schedule!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Deuteronomy 6:5-7 (NKJV) says: You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Michael & Algenia White on Building a Spiritual Legacy in Marriage. You will also hear about: what influenced Mike's career change from a police officer to a teacher, how having the same careers impacts their marriage and how they raise their children, major differences with how they grew up individually versus how they raise their children, how they move by faith with their finances when it doesn't make sense, how Algenia has trusted Mike's vision from God throughout the years, the importance of communication in marriage, what their prayers are like for their children, what they love about each other, wisdom, advice, encouragement for others, and more!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Deuteronomy 6:5-7 (NKJV) says: You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Michael & Algenia White on Building a Spiritual Legacy in Marriage. You will also hear about: how and when they met, how long they dated prior to marriage, when Mike knew it was time to get married, challenges they faced prior to their wedding day, what inspired their decision to have a debt free wedding, why Algenia decided to have her Father walk her down the aisle despite their lack of relationship with each other, what their wedding day was like, challenges they faced shortly after marriage involving careers, living together, miscarriage, etc., the reason behind their decision to move from MD to TX shortly after their 2nd child was born, how they began to see that leaving a spiritual legacy for their children was most important, and more!

When fiery trials come, often times, we want to Quit and abort the assignment God has given us to complete. But, just because it's uncomfortable doesn't mean we stop! God is requiring us to tough it out as He strips away fear, anxiety, and worry off of us and takes our faith to another level! As we do what He's called us to do, we remember He's with us despite how we feel!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Psalm 127:3-5 (NKJV) says: Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Dantè & Lynn Rhue (from Episode 5) on Marriage as a Blended Family. You will also hear about: some of the challenges they face now having adult children, what helps them to keep calm when their children make unwise decisions, how their children who live at home assist with paying bills, how their marriage has changed now that they have adult children, what they love the most about their children, what they love about each other, wisdom, advice, and encouragement for others, and more!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Psalm 127:3-5 (NKJV) says: Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Dantè & Lynn Rhue (from Episode 5) on Marriage as a Blended Family. You will also hear about: the hilarious story of how and they met, how long they dated prior to getting married, what their wedding day was like, their experience of blending their families together after getting married, what it was like raising 5 children ages 4 and under, challenges they faced financially with raising young children, Dantè's perspective on ensuring he was involved in his twin sons' lives, why it was easy for them to entreat their stepchildren as their own children, some funny memories they have of their children, the importance of having a budget for a blended family, and more!

Like David in the Bible, there will be moments or even seasons where we will need to encourage ourselves in the Lord! God may even be pushing us to a greater place of maturity where He doesn't want us to rely so much on others' encouragement, but He wants us to rely more on His voice! He's speaking...but, are we listening?!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Genesis 2:18 (NKJV) says: And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Daniel & Mia Morrison on Overcoming Marriage Being Hard. You will also hear about: the idolatry of marriage in our culture and if it has affected them, the explanation of the "sexual prosperity gospel", the importance of sexual purity within marriage, how more conversations should be had amongst Christians regarding sexual purity before and after marriage, what their prayers are like for each other, what they've learned the most about each other since being married, what they've learned the most about God since being married, and more!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Genesis 2:18 (NKJV) says: And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Daniel & Mia Morrison on Overcoming Marriage Being Hard. You will also hear about: how and when they met, when they knew while dating that they were meant for each other, what their proposal was like, the difficulties they faced with planning their wedding during the pandemic, what it was like having their wedding outdoors in the month of January (due to the pandemic), what their honeymoon was like, the difficulties they faced immediately after returning home from their honeymoon, how and why marriage has been hard after being married for almost a year and a half, differences they have discovered about each other since being married, how they deal with the question, "Will this (marriage) ever get better?", how marriage counseling has helped them, and more!

If you have strayed from God, it is now time to come back to Him! It doesn't matter what you've done, He loves you and He wants you to turn from sin, and follow Him today! There are some of you who may do outward acts for God, but inwardly, your hearts are from Him, you're indulging in sin, and you lack fruit in your lives...COME BACK TO GOD! There are others of you who have said "I'm DONE with God" and now you're living unto yourself, indulging in sin...COME BACK TO GOD! Ezekiel 18:23-32 is a MUST READ if the above statements apply to you!!! In this hour, Deception is HIGH! And if you don't have a right relationship with God, you are susceptible to the enemy and his deceit!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NKJV) says: Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Anthony and Randi Woodson (from Episodes 17 & 18), on Marriage & Ministry. You will also hear about: how they encourage each other with their individual callings and not allow jealously to infiltrate their marriage, why casting down negative thoughts quickly is a must, how our love towards others should be genuine and if not, ministry will not be effective, why it's important to have a healthy marriage while in ministry, how as Christians, it's important to settle oughts with others, how they make their family a priority before ministry, how they respond to others who may think or say they have a perfect marriage, 3 words which describe their marriage, how Randi is blessed by Anthony's prayers for her, what they love about each other, advice, encouragement, and wisdom for others, and more!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NKJV) says: Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Anthony and Randi Woodson (from Episodes 17 & 18), on Marriage & Ministry. You will also hear about: how and when they met, how Anthony helped Randi early on to grow closer to God prior to entering a relationship together, what their proposal was like, what their wedding day was like, the difficult adjustment for Randi as a wife early on in their marriage, the importance of spouses bringing 100/100 (not 50/50) to the marriage, how their roles have changed in their church over the years, what Anthony has learned as a praise & worship leader, the importance of keeping God at the center of ministry, the importance of yielding to God in ministry together, their reason for letting go of distractions between them or their children prior to entering church, and more!

As children of God, we are called to be holy as HE is holy. This means that our lives must be set apart for Him. God may be calling us to another level of holiness, but are you too comfortable with where you are? In order to become more like Him, we must be led by the Holy Spirit and His standard of holiness for us, not comparing ourselves with our Christian brothers and sisters. Whatever His standard is for you, is for YOU and no one else, according to the purpose He has for your life!

Too often, when we think of God's goodness, we only think about what He can do for us. Let us shift our thinking and remember that God is good simply because HE is GOD! His goodness is not predicated on our life's circumstances and what's happening in our world, but He's good Regardless of it all!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Ephesians 5:22-28 (NKJV) says: Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Montague & Natyra Blount (Parents of Zemirah Blount from Episode 3), on Navigating Life as a Team in Marriage. You will also hear about: how they began working as a team after having their 2nd child, how they adjusted to their 3rd child being a surprise pregnancy, hilarious stories of raising their children at a young age, how their parenting, finances, and intimacy changed as a result of establishing a family vision, what they love about each other and their marriage, why navigating marriage as a team is important, advice, wisdom, and encouragement for others, and more!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Ephesians 5:22-28 (NKJV) says: Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Montague & Natyra Blount (Parents of Zemirah Blount from Episode 3), on Navigating Life as a Team in Marriage. You will also hear about: their hilarious story of how and when they met, why Montague didn't feel qualified at first to date Natyra, how long they dated prior to getting married, their proposal and wedding stories, what their first few months of marriage were like, why Natyra had a difficult time submitting to Montague early on in their marriage, what led to them establishing a family vision 6 years into their marriage, how their marriage was negatively affected early on without a vision, why Natyra didn't ask Montague or others for help when their first child was born, and more!

Has something recently happened to shake up your faith? Are you waiting on God for something and you thought it would happen by now or in a particular way, but it hasn't yet? Not to mention, you're probably just dealing with a LOT in this season, particularly things which are out of your control?? What if God is testing you?? Keep going and don't lose hope!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Ephesians 4:15 (NLT) says: Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Kwesi & Nicole Payne (Dad & Mom of sons, Asa and Asaiah Payne from episodes 6 & 7), on The Importance of Communication in Marriage. You will also hear about: how their children were affected prior to their breakthrough in communication, the root of internalization for Kwesi and how it caused him to eventually explode on others, how his communication has improved with Nicole since their breakthrough, how their sexual intimacy and time management have improved since their breakthrough, how they saw God differently after their breakthrough, what they love most about their marriage and each other, 3 things they would say to their younger selves, wisdom, encouragement, and advice for others, and more!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Ephesians 4:15 (NLT) says: Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Kwesi & Nicole Payne (Dad & Mom of sons, Asa and Asaiah Payne from episodes 6 & 7), on The Importance of Communication in Marriage. You will also hear about: how and when they met, what led to them becoming a couple, their hilarious yet dramatic proposal story on Christmas Day '04, the reason behind Kwesi's late arrival to their wedding day rehearsal, what their wedding day and honeymoon were like, how their marriage wasn't what they expected it to be in their first couple years of being married, how they dealt with their lack of communication early on, the reason behind why Kwesi internalized his emotions as a way to handle conflict and how it affected Nicole, how Nicole became intentional with praying for Kwesi and their communication, their breakthrough which came 16 years into their marriage, and more!

You may be enduring through a lot in this season, but God is still up to something! Tribulations will try to rob you of your faith, but be patient in the process, don't lose your faith, and remain in hope. Breakthrough is still on the way!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NKJV) says: "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Jarryd and Camille Garner (sister of Adam Perry & his wife, Vernesa Perry from Episodes 12 & 13, & sister of Jared Perry from Episode 21), on Having the Right Church Matters in Marriage. You will also hear about: some challenges they faced after hearing God telling them to move to NE, the importance of getting outside of their comfort zones to follow God, the importance of church being a supplement to what's being taught at home, how church hurt should not be the reason that people stop attending church, the importance of belonging to a church, what things changed in their marriage after settling into their new church home, what they love about Omaha, NE, if the move has challenged their children at all, wisdom, encouragement, advice for others, and more!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NKJV) says: "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 1 of this episode, I speak with Jarryd and Camille Garner (sister of Adam Perry & his wife, Vernesa Perry from Episodes 12 & 13, & sister of Jared Perry from Episode 21), on Having the Right Church Matters in Marriage. You will also hear about: how and when they met, if they knew early on that they were meant for each other after becoming serious, what the proposal was like as well as their wedding day, why Jarryd felt awkward while on their honeymoon, their twin pregnancy surprise (sons Joshua & Daniel) almost a year after being married, their difficult adjustment with having careers, being newly married, as well as being new parents, their journey with discovering their current church home in Omaha, NE while living in Houston, TX, the reason behind naming their 3rd son, Matthew, at such a difficult time in their lives, the moment when they both heard God speak about moving to NE, and more!

In this season, there's a lot of NEW things going on amongst many believers in the Body of Christ! These NEW things require us to pivot and transition in ways that we may not be used to, but we must know that God has graced us for this moment. Although some of the NEW may be different, uncomfortable or even difficult, we must continue to put our trust in God through it all!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NKJV) says: "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken." Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In Part 2 of this episode, I speak with Shedrick and Erica Elliott on Overcoming Self-Reliance in Marriage. You will also hear about: how Erica notices when Shedrick is dealing with something internally, a critical moment in Shedrick's life at the age of 36 (the age of his Mother's passing), how he is learning to reach out more to others particularly other men, why leadership is important to him, how Erica is more confident in her role with bringing joy to their marriage, how Shedrick is learning to better recognize wisdom in Erica's voice, what they love the most about each other and their marriage, how Erica submits to Shedrick as he submits to Christ, and advice, wisdom, and encouragement for others in their shoes!

Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) says: So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NKJV) says: "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken." Marriage is a blessed union and covenant designed by God. Keeping God first will cause the marriage to move into the right direction and blessings will flow on every side. However, marriage does not come without challenges, even with God at the center. It is the couple's responsibility to fight for the marriage by daily surrendering it to God and yielding to His will no matter how uncomfortable or difficult it may be. This marriage series was created to help couples overcome and BREAKTHROUGH in different areas of hardship within their marriage, and for them to be reminded that we are a community within the Body of Christ, who need each other's encouragement, wisdom, and support. In this episode, I speak with Shedrick and Erica Elliott on Overcoming Self-Reliance in Marriage. You will also hear about: how and when they met, what it was like for Erica meeting Shedrick at a pivotal point in her life, how long they dated prior to marriage, if they knew early on that they were meant for each other, what their wedding day and honeymoon were like, what their first few months of marriage were like, how they defied the odds regarding others' opinions of being newly married, how Erica was affected early on by Shedrick's self-reliance, how Shedrick's desire to model his Dad's example shaped some of his self-reliance, how Shedrick pushes Erica to be her authentic self, and more!

STAY TUNED for the Upcoming Breakthrough Conversations Marriage Series premiering Thursday, Aug. 24th @12PM EST! In this video, listen in to what inspired this series as well as some of the content featured in upcoming episodes!

Lately, has the enemy tried to take you back to an old place that you've been set free from? Has he been trying to distract you away from your purpose? Well, it may be a COUNTERATTACK because of your obedience! You're moving forward and he HATES it! Keep Going! Keep Pressing! You're in a NEW place and it will be different this time!

Are we being who God has called us to be? Not just spiritually, but mentally and physically as well? Matthew 9:37 (NKJV) says: Then He said to His disciples, "The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few." We must put in the work needed for the Kingdom! Many are waiting on us to be healthier both physically and mentally, as well as more spiritually nourished so that they can be Set Free!

This is a follow up video from the last W.O.E. video titled: You are NOT Your Past! Despite the craziness from your past, the sins you've committed or sins committed against you can longer be an excuse NOT to Move Forward! It's Time NOW. If you've confessed your sins to God, you are forgiven. Stop allowing yesterday to have a hold on you today!

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