Sifted Wheat

Hearing from God is the best way to learn about ourselves. But, it is often confused with New Age ideologies and compared to New Thought, creating tension with Christians and disconnecting us from the One Who designed them with intention and purpose and has been encouraging communication with us from the beginning! In this conversation, Bob Hamp and I dive deeper into the concept of identity and how it shapes our lives and relationships. Bob asserts that our early life experiences significantly influence how we perceive ourselves and others. It's our perception that often guides our experiences, and the weight of expectations can be the very thing disconnecting us from those we love, including God and ourselves. Bob Hamp is well-versed in this conversation and his own experience of exploring identity. He is an author and speaker, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and business consultant. He has worked with a range of organizations and individuals to help maximize functioning. Bob emphasizes operating from core identity and recognizing systems issues as the key to each person living and producing at their highest level. His practices integrate a unique combination of family systems theory, neuroscience and communication models, which allows for a focus on both individual growth and organizational change.  There is much to discover and explore through the lens of hearing from God to help us move through limitations into eternal Truth through the Holy Spirit to live out our True Identities with purpose and intention. You can find Bob's books and other details about his work and opportunities to get involved through his website www.tdacad.com.

This episode is about the multifaceted nature of identity, with the emphasis being - it is not solely defined by external opinions, past experiences, or roles in life. Instead, true identity is rooted in understanding whose we are—our relationship with our Creator. Through biblical references and personal insights, listeners are encouraged to rise above labels and personal failures, embracing their identity as beloved children of God. The discussion highlights the importance of recognizing God's pursuit of us and the transformative power of His love in shaping our true selves.   In this conversation we explore the following truths: You are not defined by what others say about you. Your past does not determine your identity. Your actions do not define who you are. Your roles in life are not your entire identity. You are created to be a child of God.   If you like what you hear, leave a rating and/or review and share us with your friends! You are also welcome to connect through instagram @siftedwheatpodcast 🤎

Welcome back with a new season and a new topic! In this episode, we will dive into the topic of identity, exploring it's foundations, the influence of culture, and the journey of rediscovering out "true selves." The importance of this discovery is rooted in our creation by God and how societal pressures and expectations can distort that designed image.  The motivation of this conversation is to encourage you to reflect on your own identities and the factors that shape them, while also offering hope for returning to our original design. If you like what you hear, leave us a rating and or review or comment and follow us to you don't miss more on this necessary conversation about identity!  

Anyone that has been betrayed or cheated on knows the struggle of healing in that space. In this episode, we join Wes and Renee again as they share how they learned (and are still learning) to reconnect and rebuild after 3 affairs. As you will learn, it is not a step 1-2-3 of how to forgive and trust again, it is a consistent and intentional process of humility and faith, that is often interrupted by triggers and fear. What one couple needs to heal might be very different from another, and the source of stability is not in the relationship between you and your spouse, but in your relationship with God as your source no matter what happens. This is the last BONUS episode of the season, and I hope, as with every episode, you are encouraged and inspired by their story. I know that it is one that is helping so many others who are making their way through betrayal and unfaithfulness and into the eternal faithfulness of Father God. Stay tuned for our next season on Identity and when it will be released next year! Leave a rating and/or review where you listen so that others can find us!  Thanks so much for a successful and encouraging second season of Sifted Wheat!

This week in another bonus episode, I am joining my sister and brother in law, Wes and Renee Pippin, as they share their story. In this conversation they will share about the slow burn of outside attractions, where disconnection and compartmentalization lead to more temptation, and how resentment and bitterness, not dealt with and healed, can turn around and make the same choices. It isn't easy to put your failures out there, but there is so much good that comes from sharing our stories and how they continually point to God's faithfulness, not ours. For more information:  If you would like support from Renee and Wes for mentorship or accountability, email [email protected].  

"How did I get here?" If you have found yourself in the midst of an extramarital affair, at some point you asked this question.  We can’t leave a season on sexuality without opening up the closet of infidelity in a more personal space, especially since we have spent so much time highlighting the dangers of pornography. In this episode, I will shed some light on the following topics: 1) Adultery starts with a lack of boundaries, and ruptured boundaries in childhood often create confusion around sexual engagements as adults. 2) Grooming is the process of gaining trust and creating a narrative that provides more opportunity for sexual engagement. I am a firm believer that the more we know, the more we can protect ourselves from deception and manipulation of others or just the enemy of the soul. I am here to talk about hard topics and bring new perspectives to where boundaries and ruptures can create long-term relational impact.   If you like what you hear, if you have gained any support or guidance or wisdom from engaging this episode, please drop a rating or review, and if you think others need the same insight, please share it with them! Follow me on social media @siftedwheatpodcast or my website lesliealamb.com for access to blog, other episodes, and my teen book series!

I believe that sex was meant to be good, but with the prospect of big money and ravenous appetites for pleasure in our culture, it’s looking more and more unsafe. Because of that, let’s take one more deep dive into the nuances of sexuality and the importance of using your voice to find healing. Jesus was protective of women and when He called out adultery and lust, it appeared to be with the function and heart of a loving Father or a concerned older brother. Where culture was taking advantage and objectifying women, He was pointing to our souls and to our value. But what if the culture objectifying women is in the church? Where do we go for safety then? 🤝 Join me as we look at Matthew 5:28 from that lens - Where we discover the line of lust and idolatry and where we learn how to initiate more safety in our sexual experiences. We don’t have to obey the voice of an objectifying culture. We can lean into the heart of our Savior and find freedom for our souls. ⭐️ Feel free to leave a rating or review wherever you found this episode and share it with those who might need hope and support in this space of sexuality. 🔎 You can find @siftedwheatpodcast on Instagram or at my blog lesliealamb.com or through emailing me at [email protected]   Catch you next season! Where we address how and where we are tempted to lose our identities. 

This episode is another invitation into the intellect and wisdom that is Tom Pryde’s brain. Tom is the High Conflict Coach through Banner Institute and an expert in the abuse dynamics in relationships. As a friend and someone who is equally as passionate about loving people safely, he did the hard thing of sitting with me in my struggles and questions and reminded me that both sexes have sensibilities. Because of that, this is a conversation for both men and women. I think if we could lean in and listen to what it actually is to be equal and how to “GIVE” to one another safely and with full permission, without pressure but with invitation, to create a language of intimacy with actions and words before it becomes a physical engagement, a lot of the confusion, shame and fear would leave this space, returning sex back to feeling like  a gift and not an intimidating weapon between partners.   Scriptures referred to and discussed: Genesis 2:25 Ephesians 5:20-21 Philippians 2:3   You can find Tom through Banner Institute to find out more about his work through the Psalm 82 Initiative and/or to inquire about getting support services. And, feel free to contact us at [email protected] with any questions or for more information. Or, follow us on social media: @siftedwheatpodcast or @bannerinstitute on Instagram

In this episode you will hear what can negatively inform our relationship choices: family dynamics, past trauma, fear of failure, emotional immaturity and a disconnected sense of identity. Shantray does a beautiful job of highlighting how each of these things led to choices that resulted in pain and suffering. She also shares about the “rescue” of God to call her back to life, how He met her in the dead of the night and required her to do the brave and hard thing, and how that act of obedience, repentance and faithfulness has strengthened her faith and empowered her to be a source of hope for others who are in healing from divorce. And if you haven't gone through divorce, this is also a source for support in our role as friends and family and how to meet those we love in their struggle and grief as we hear how Shantray’s story can encourage our choices, too!   Scriptures used and shared for hope and encouragement: Psalm 23:1-6 Psalm 27:1, 13-14 Psalm 116:1-9 Isaiah 61:7 Proverbs 13:12 Colossians 2:6-8 Mark 12:30-31 Ephesians 6:16-21 Ephesians 3:12   You can reach Shantray for more information at the address below: [email protected]   Please leave a review or rating to keep seeing great content! 

When I sat down to write this episode, I was hesitant. I knew it would be difficult to navigate without a clear direction and landed on education and exhortation. I think we need to hear about how the world has invaded our personhood, how the environment might lend to sexual interruptions, and mostly how attraction can be the line where we can stay in the space of temptation instead of moving into sin and lifestyle. Just the fact that we have to call it “sin” probably offends some, and I can’t help that. And, in sitting with this content, what makes it overwhelmingly difficult to release is not that we don’t know what the Bible says, but because we love people! We love those who struggle with it. We love those who have embraced it. We love those who whole-heartedly believe it is their identity. And so does God. Truly. Deeply. So instead of avoiding or blindly embracing what we don’t fully understand, let’s talk about it and discover more about that fine but significant line between temptation and sin.  Scriptures referenced: 1 Corinthians 6:18 Deuteronomy 30:19 Matthew 5:29-30 Matthew 22:37-40 James 1:14-15   For more content, feel free to follow along on Instagram @siftedwheatpodcast or email us at [email protected]   

This conversation might not be popular, but it is a powerful one to expose the hidden dangers of pornography and its effect to unravel and oppress marriages, especially in the church. Tom talks about the real hook of pornography and how that being exposed can lead to better choices within the marriage and not precipitate the engagement of pornographic scenarios which are abusive in nature. This conversation also discusses where the church has chosen to hide instead of confronting the messages of pornography that are eroding marriages and damaging the souls of women who have been taught to submit at all costs. My hope is that through this conversation, if will expose the lies and illuminate the truth, not to villainize men and women that find themselves struggling, but to release the captives of abusers and the minds of those that are being indoctrinated about sexuality in a way that will harm others.   You can find Tom through Banner Institute and find out more about his work through the Psalm 82 Initiative and where he is making an impact on women and men all over the world.   Feel free to contact us through [email protected] with any questions or for more information. Follow us on social media @siftedwheatpodcast and @bannerinstitute    

What is our issue with divorce anyway? Are our arguments situated in the CONTEXTUAL truth of God’s Word? I find all too often that our position with divorce is very much taken from scriptures that are not interpreted in context, which just adds to the complication and why so many feel trapped in unloving and unkind marriages. This episode, we will look at the full context of the infamous verse “God hates divorce” so that it might be used as a source of compassion and healing (as intended) and not the battering ram or billy club it’s come to mean in some spiritual circles. We will also look at the FULL definition of adultery and learn why we can’t trust only what we see to bring correction but how to inquire more deeply about what is unseen but just as sinful. My hope is that this conversation can shift our judgment, and instead of using divorce as a means to choose sides or cast blame, our actions and thoughts about the people involved will be lead of the Spirit and entered into with humility and grace.   For your own study, feel free to read the following scriptures: Malachi 2:16 Ezra 10:19 Matthew 19:8   Feel free to follow us on Facebook, social media, or at the website linked below: https://www.instagram.com/siftedwheatpodcast lesliealamb.com Or email us at [email protected]

This week we are engaging a raw and vulnerable conversation about pornography and childhood sexual abuse. It isn’t a topic that brightens up a room exactly, but we do our best to carve it out in a way that brings hope and healing to hurting souls that might listen. Some questions we will address: ▶️ How has abuse and introduction to pornography affected you? ▶️ What is the hardest part of your journey? ▶️ What do you want others who share this same trauma to know?   Grab a cup of coffee or tea or iced cold water, pull up a chair, and listen in to Lexi’s sacred story and glean from her gentle wisdom.    🤝 Stay connected by reaching out in the following ways:   Follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/siftedwheatpodcast Follow and subscribe on Podbean: https://siftedwheatpodcast.podbean.com/

This our last episode in the “Dear Counselor” series (at least for this season), and we will address the following issues that often surface in this space of healing and support: 🌀What does our role as followers of Jesus look like for those around us who are suffering? 🌀The importance of not being quick to operate against spiritual forces without first considering the soul connected, and the physical and emotional needs that are there. 🌀 A look at depression and anxiety and deliverance through the lens of the Word of God and personal experiences, to bring mercy and compassion.    Thanks for joining us! And feel free to follow us on social media for more content 👇🏻 Follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/siftedwheatpodcast Follow and subscribe on Podbean: https://siftedwheatpodcast.podbean.com/

Have you asked that question before? Are you struggling now? Anxiety and depression can be debilitating, but we don't have to stay in that state. We can start to move through those episodes by exploring and inquiring to release the threatening messages they represent and move into more hope and joy. As usual, we invite the Word of God to inform that process, without minimizing the experience or "praying it away" but acknowledging the presence of anxiety and depression are real and can be resolved and released more readily over time. Keep listening to learn practical steps and exercises to learn the importance and the process of renewing your mind! Have you left a rating or review? That 10 seconds or less would help us so much! Or even better, take that same time and share it with a friend that could use support with to work through depression and anxiety!   Want to connect? Here are some options: Follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/siftedwheatpodcast Follow and subscribe on Podbean: https://siftedwheatpodcast.podbean.com/    

Despite the original question sent in by the listener, "How do I remove my anger?" I dig into how to move through anger so that we don't feel stuck in it, act out of it in ways that hurt others, or keep the toxic habit of pushing it away.   In this conversation we will address: What do we do with anger? Is it a sin? How do we know when our anger has crossed over into sin? Where does forgiveness help or hinder our anger?   Wherever you find yourself in this space of anger, you will hear something that can help you. I provide some practical steps to processing anger by exploring and investigating other more vulnerable feelings that might be attached, which actually increases empathy and our emotional intelligence as we make it a daily practice.   Have you left a rating or review? That 10 seconds or less would help us so much! Or even better, take that same time and share it with a friend that could use support with their anger!   Want to connect? Here’s some options:   Follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/siftedwheatpodcast   Follow and subscribe on Podbean: https://siftedwheatpodcast.podbean.com/

Struggling with family members? Not sure what steps to take or what it looks like to love and/or help someone who exhibits toxic behaviors? This conversation is important to listen to!   In this conversation we will address: The difference between “unhealth” and “toxicity” The difficulties of separation and validation What is our role in loving a toxic family member? What is the role of the community towards those estranged from their family?   Wherever you find yourself, I think you will hear something that will help you figure out your next steps or validate your choices to love with distance.   Have you left a rating or review? That 10 seconds or less would help us so much!   Want to connect? Here’s some options:   Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/leslie.lamb.9/ https://www.instagram.com/siftedwheatpodcast   Follow and subscribe on Podbean: Sifted Wheat Podcast   Or contact us at: [email protected]

This is a HARD question, but as a counselor I know it is a necessary one. We are starting a new series “Dear Counselor” where you asked me your questions, and I sat with the Lord and my experience as a counselor to bring you support and an answer that might instill hope. The truth is, you might not like the answer, you might struggle with the concept, and in either of those spaces, there is so much grace for you! I encourage you to listen with an open heart and open mind and not to just stop there but consider and journal what thoughts and feelings come up. I’m not your “usual” podcast - I’m not here just to educate or inform but hopefully to impact your heart to heal.      Want to connect? Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/leslie.lamb.9/ https://www.instagram.com/siftedwheatpodcast   Follow and subscribe on Podbean: Sifted Wheat Podcast   Or contact us at: [email protected]  

We can’t end this series without talking about healthy sexuality, and in this conversation I provide a roadmap that can help us get back to it. We need to move through what pornography taught us, what trauma embedded and any other confusion that might be making it something different than it was meant to be. There are some points that might not be appreciated, that go against what culture tells us about sexuality and health. We discuss the role of marriage in intimacy and how it is more than just sex but “knowing” that builds trust and security and deeper affections, and we introduce an exercise that has been proven to help couples let down their guard and feel more seen with their partners to be vulnerable and more securely connected. You are invited to join the conversation an discover the path for yourself.   Scriptures included: Genesis 6 Galatians 5:16-26 Genesis 4   Gratitude and thanks to our newest social media support - Adrienne Murray   You can find us on socials @siftedwheatpodcast or send us as email at [email protected]

In this conversation, I’m joined by my dear friend and colleague, Dr. Brooke Keels,  Ph.D., LPC-MHSP, LPC-Supervisor. She is the Chief Clinical Officer at Lighthouse, located in Dallas Texas, where she works to create, implement, and oversee multiple programs. She has worked in the recovery industry in a professional capacity for over 16 years in a variety of roles. I know you will appreciate her wisdom on the topic of Platonic Intimacy, her personal journey of seeing its importance, and the advice she gives us to make it a bigger deal in our lives. We discuss the pitfalls of aligning intimacy with only sexuality, and how done right, platonic intimacy is most stable of relationships. To be fair, we also discuss how it’s a sacrifice to be in relationship and that regardless of what culture tells us, it can’t be based only on what feels good. True depth of relationship is forged in tension and being sharpened. Listen in and find out for yourself how you can develop healthier platonic intimacy and where you can start now to engage it differently and with more intentionality!   NOTE: The  Verse in Acts (2:43-45) is what Brooke is referring to when she points to sacrifice in community and relationship. And she also references the following source and quote: “But fellowship is a sacrifice that goes beyond convenience.” From The Kris Vallotton Podcast: Developing Healthy Communities You can listen here : https://podcast.krisvallotton.com/developing-healthy-communities   Thanks so much for choosing then Sifted Wheat podcast! We are grateful for your support and your listenership. If you don’t mind, would you leave us a rating and/or review? And if this episode was significant, would you share it with a friend or two?   Until next time follow us on Instagram @siftedwheatpodcast or email us at [email protected] 🌾🤎  

It’s time for another episode in the continued exploration of “sexuality.” What forms and develops our attraction? Why does that matter? And how can we safe guard our heart from the pitfalls of attraction? Those are the questions we are addressing today. And I pray they are not only revelatory but they are impactful to your relationships - the ones you are in, the ones you are developing and the ones you need to leave behind. Where ever you find yourself in the spectrum, there is a word of wisdom and hope for you!   Referenced scripture:  Song of Songs (Solomon) 8:4 and 9   Follow me on instagram @siftedwheatpodcast  or on FB @ https://www.facebook.com/leslie.lamb.9/ or email me at [email protected]

*Trigger Warning* This week’s episode is about exploring why it’s important to realize that sex isn’t everything and everything isn’t sex. I wrestled with what to name this because I didn’t want people to push it away without giving it a chance.. so, I might have given it a bit of a “clickbaity” title to encourage some curiosity? Maybe that’s why you are here, and now that you are, as promised, here are the questions I encouraged you to sift through in your own process of evaluation and assessment of the role of sexuality And the interruption of shame in your story: Where have you confused the mechanisms of sex with intimacy? Where have you placed expectations on yourself or those in your life to meet those needs sexually instead of connecting more vulnerably to be seen and known? Where do you need to set boundaries in relationships so that you can be more confident that it truly is a healthy, life-giving relationship and not a means of releasing sexual frustration? How old were you when you had your first experience? What belief systems resulted from that? Are you still living out of those fears and expectations? Have you resorted to sexual activities to meet non-sexual needs?   Then as a parent or as an adult: Have you mistaken sexual behaviors in children as “dirty” or “shameful” without considering they might not understand either of those terms? Have you shamed yourself for these things? Have you considered what you might need when you resort to self-soothing behaviors and pornography? Are you seeking sex or do you really need to be loved, held, seen, valued, comforted? Are you bored, tired or emotional? What can you do instead to shift this temptation to something that is more satisfying and less shame-filled?   After you listen, find a safe space to work through these questions with an accountability partner, a spouse, a pastor or a licensed counselor.. the more we open this space in safety, the less hold shame has over us.   As always, you can direct any thoughts or questions to our email [email protected] and follow us on Instagram @siftedwheatpodcast for more encouragement, engagement, and content. 🤎  

In this conversation we are going to address how my own misuse and exposure to pornography has impacted my heart, my identity and my marriage.   I’m opening up space for us to sit with the following questions: Where did you learn about sex? How did you learn what it sounds like, looks like or should feel like? Were you told that porn and masturbation were just a rite of passage? Were you encouraged to bring pleasure to yourself or to others? And then, how has that affected you? How has it impacted the way your see yourself or the way that you see others? How has it affected your marriage? Your relationships? Do you feel like you can’t get enough or do you feel like you can’t do enough to stay sexually satisfied? Per usual, we aren’t dancing around topics that need to be pulled apart and dissected by the light of Truth. So, if you are ready and need support and/ or healing in this space, “Let’s talk about sex.”   Scriptures discussed and encouraged to read for yourself: Genesis 1-2 Leviticus 15 1 Corinthians 7:5   You can always reach us at [email protected] or find us on our social media profile on instagram @siftedwheatpodcast. Subscribe to catch the latest episodes!    

This is the final topic in the conversation of the two worlds we occupy - spiritual and physical, and the first topic in a conversation about sexuality. In this space, I have done a lot of deconstruction and repairing from my own personal trauma and misinformation, and my hope is that this conversation can help you sit with the following questions: "Is this a trauma or hurt-based response?" "Do I emphasize my sexual desires over spiritual needs?" "Are there spaces where I can replace sexuality with deeper connection with God and others?" "Am I giving access to the enemy through my sexual behaviors?"   Listen for more guidance and information to sift through those thoughts.    

Is this a topic that interests you or confuses you? It's true that not everything is a demon, but anything that creates divisiveness and pride and moves outside of the truth, tempting us into misconceptions about God and our identity in Him, this is spiritual gameplay. The spiritual world is very real and moves in and out of the things we do and say, and the more that we are aware of that the more we are empowered to resist it. This week we are looking at the spiritual side of our battles. We often overlook this in the overwhelming sensation of emotions and physical experiences, but when we allow spiritual warfare to inform our choices, our thoughts and our actions, it can bring peace instead of defeat. Scriptures referenced: 2 Kings 6 2 Chronicles 32:7-8; 15-22 John 19:11 Ephesians 6:10-18   Follow for more content @siftedwheatpodcast on instagram or email us at [email protected]  

We are continuing the conversation about being in a physical world and spiritual world, and this time we are considering how it relates to who we are and how that informs what we do! We will look at the following question: Who does God say you are? I believe we are each born with a purpose that informs our identity, and that God-given identity informs the choices of our lives. We will look at scripture to flesh that out more, and I will share a dream that I had that really helped me to see myself and others differently! Scriptures included for further reflection:  Psalm 139 Jeremiah 1:5 Isaiah 49:5 Matthew 3:13-17; 4:1-11; 16:18 Acts 13:19   Feel free to email us at [email protected] for any thoughts and/or topics you would like to see addressed in the future.     

Too often deliverance and casting out demons is misused and misunderstood. This is another space where the belief that we live in a spiritual and physical world matters and requires deeper perception and empathy to help the hurting around us and continue to support them. We look at the story of "the demoniac" and the woman at the well to understand more of where and how spiritual warfare can be hidden and not always the most obvious issue, and we see how Jesus encounters them and encourages us to engage them.   Scriptures referred to:  Matthew 8:28-34 Mark 5:1-20 Luke 8:26-39 John 4:4-42 Luke 11:23-26   Follow and subscribe and share with with those who might be encouraged by this episode! And, if you really like us leave a rating and review! Thanks for listening.    

Do you believe we live in two worlds? Regardless of whether you do or don't, this is a conversation about where that shift of worlds might have started and how knowing that can empower us to live more impactful lives. It's not that the spiritual world doesn't exist, and to be honest some can even be too focused on it, but rather, it's acknowledging that it's hidden and active regardless of our belief or unbelief. Thankfully, as you will hear, Jesus opened it up to us again and gave us access to it, and creation waits in expectation for us to engage it. Listen in and learn more!   Scriptures to look into:  Genesis 3 Romans 5:12-19; 8:19-25 1 Corinthians 3:18 Luke 11:4   👉🏻 Feel free to contact us at [email protected] or find us on social media! Rate, review and share to help us get the word out and support others to love and heal in Christ!    

Do you love the church? Even if (especially if)  that question makes you uncomfortable or even offends you, I encourage you to listen in! If we are going to make a difference in the world around us for the GOOD, then we must see the church for who she is (the good and the bad), who she is intended to be, and who she can become. Unsure of what I am talking about or curious to how you can learn to love and be loved in a flawed community of believers (and unbelievers as the case may be)? Then, keep engaging this conversation! As usual, I highlight the issues AND give practical support for how to love the church well. I even share my own challenge to shift that has helped my difficulties with the church and healthier personal church expression.   Scriptural references to continue your study: Matthew 13:24-43 Matthew 25:31-46 Mark 6:10-11 John 13:35 John 15:4-11 John 17:13 Colossians 3:16 Ephesians 4:14-16 Hebrews 10:24-25   Feel free to contact us at [email protected] or find us on social media! Rate, review and share to help us getting the word out and supporting others to love and heal in Christ!

Do you love your enemies? If that question makes you uncomfortable or even offends you, I want to challenge you to hit “play” and keep listening! If we are going to make a difference in the world around us for the GOOD, then we have to start seeing our enemies the way that Jesus taught us in Luke 10. He met the question about love and flipped it on it’s head in such a way that even those gathered were astounded and convicted.   As usual, this episode is a mix of real life, counseling experience and scriptural guidance to help us learn what it is to love our enemies and to love them safely and well (for more context listen back at the "Out of Order Series". The truth is, we are far too comfortable drawing lines and seeing our differences as problems instead of asking where Jesus might have us change our perspective. Hopefully this conversation will challenge us to ask more and assume less and gives practical ways we can begin to love better. I know that it did me!   Scriptural references to continue your study: Luke 10 Psalm 19:13 Ephesians 6:12 Luke 6:32-35 Luke 23:26-47   Like what you hear? Leave a rating and/or review where you listen so that others can find us! Leave a comment because your feedback can shape future episodes!   Also, join our email list by sending a message to [email protected]   

We are moving deeper into the relationships of our lives, and how to love one another in order and safely, with a conversation about friends. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” We hear this a lot, but are we really considering what it means? Or if we are, do we think that somehow our relationships could be the exception?   In this episode, we talk about what “tension” might look like in a friendship and how allowing challenge, expressing boundaries and providing accountability is the best way to love one another well. As usual, I share a combination of my understanding of the Word, my experience as a counselor, and my own life story to help flesh out a better path of understanding what it is to “love your friends.”   Scriptures for deeper context: Proverbs 27: 5-6, 17 Genesis 38 1 Samuel 20   Thanks and deepest gratitude for: Tuxradio – audio production Tina Marie Alvarenga – Logo design   You can follow me on Instagram: @siftedwheatpodcast Or email me at [email protected]

This is an episode that stepped all over my toes... but don't let that scare you away because even in creating the content, I experienced encouragement and empowerment to make changes in my marriage! I take the time evaluate why Ephesians 5 feels threatening and the revelation the LORD gave me to help me distinguish His plan for love in my marriage versus what I fear that holds me back. Not only do we discuss what loving our spouse includes and what we can do to improve our relationship, but I also provided very practical ways to shift our communication so that we are calling up our spouses and not criticizing and condemning them. As always, I present opportunities to consider your role and engagement and provide guidance to move in a healthier direction, the way to love your spouse well! Scriptures discussed: Genesis 2 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Ephesians 5:21-25 Philippians 2:1-4 Luke 6:45 >> Sandpaper Marriage Podcast that talks about your "marriage mission": ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/greg-mcgaha8/episodes/Episode-21-Does-Your-Marriage-Have-an-Identity-e2hq8v6⁠ Unending thanks and gratitude to: Tuxradio - audio production Tina Alverenga - logo design

Do you want to understand your children better? Do you want to love them in a way that will make them healthier individuals? Do you desire to have a better impact on your kids? Young or old, in school or in a crib, this conversation opens up some practical ways to love your children well. Another purpose of this episode is to reach into the hearts of soul wounds inflicted on us as children, and how we can extend healing instead of inflict those same injuries on our own children. This is an important conversation about necessary choices that can help us guide our parenting in a way that models the ways of our heavenly Father (the perfect Parent) parents us, safely and healthily. We explore what it means to "bring our children up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord" that is often translated out of context. Scriptures highlighted: Matthew 18:6 Ephesians 6:4 If you haven't yet, would you leave a rating and a review so that others can make their way to our community? Thank you for listening and joining the journey! Also, for reels and more content follow us on social media: ⁠https://tr.ee/v5MWP77Qfc⁠ Audio production - Tuxradio Logo design - Tina Marie Alverenga

Are you struggling with setting boundaries with your parents? Do you need support to assess the relationship and give yourself permission to say "no" or create space? Or on the other side, do you struggle with not involving your parents in your lives, having them take responsibility for your kids or your emotions when that is no longer their role? If any of those answers is "yes" or "maybe," this is a conversation for you! And as always, its a space where we look at scripture and see how Jesus engaged his mom and brothers and what He says about loving Him first. Hopefully, this will help you think through some things and make some choices that will help you learn how to love your parents well. Scriptures included: Luke 14 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (yep, again!) Mark 3:31-35 Matthew 12:46-50 Luke 8:19-21 John 2:1-11 Exodus 20:12 Genesis 2:24 If you haven't yet, would you leave a rating and a review so that others can make their way to our community? Thank you for listening and joining the journey! Also, for reels and more content follow us on social media: https://tr.ee/v5MWP77Qfc Audio production - Tuxradio Logo design - Tina Marie Alverenga

We’ve all heard the statement “The church is a hospital” but if we are honest, we are looking less like a hospital where people can come and find healing and leave better, and have become more like a hospice where we choose to remain comfortable until we die. If those feel like harsh words, maybe it is because they fatefully ring true. This episode is about discovering what it means to love people enough to help them get BETTER! This requires engagement and conversation and intimacy that goes beyond what “feels good” into what is actually “beneficial.” Scriptures referenced: Mark 10:17-22 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 1 John 4:8, 18 Matthew 5:43-48 Follow for more on instagram @siftedwheatpodcast Please consider leaving a rating and review so others might find us!

Disordered "love" opens us up to harm. If we aren't careful we can elevate our love for others, making what God created the SOURCE of our love instead of Him being the source through which we love others. This often happens through the magnification of others meeting our needs, allowing them to be "god-like." This opens us up to get hurt and for us to be victimized in ways that God's love for us seeks to protect us. Or, the other extreme of that is, we become aggressors in our demand towards others to meet and gratify our desires or for our need to be the only one to gratify those things in them. Loving God first allows Him to meet our needs, and from there, He will move us into relationships so that we can love others safely. Scripture referenced: 1 John 4:18 Resources on attachments: Attachments - Clinton and Sibcy God Attachment - Clinton and Straub Unending thanks and gratitude to: Tuxradio - audio production Tina Marie Alverenga - logo creation/design Follow for more content at: @siftedwheatpodcast on instagram Consider leaving a review and/or rating so that we can continue growing the community of Sifted Wheat, and share and invite others to listen along!

We are continuing to open up about the order of “love” with “Love Yourself” in part 2 of the Out of Order Series. Hopefully, you are learning what “love” is so that you can operate in it more fully and more safely. Remember, God wants to guard our hearts to guide our hearts, and He can only do that if we get the order right. So today we are allowing that love for Him to guide us in loving ourselves.   “Self love” is a word that gets a lot of attention, and it should, but more often than not, it ends up being more akin to lust – fueled by possession and need rather than protection and companionship. We don’t want to be “lovers of ourselves” which leads us into self-gratification to the exclusion of others, but rather we want God’s love to extend to our worth and lead us to be loving and gracious towards ourselves, keeping us guarded instead of open to deception, and engaging care for self for continued health.   If I love myself OVER God, it becomes dangerous to others, setting them up to be hurt, misused, and/or abandoned. When the narrative of my love shifts into only what is “best for me” then I am excluding a huge majority of the population. God’s love, in its purity, includes self but extends to embrace and acknowledge others in a way that promotes value and grace.   Love without limits (read that as “boundaries”) isn’t freedom, its chaotic and oppressive. Keep listening to learn why and how.   Scriptures to follow up with: Romans 12:1 2 Timothy 3:1-2 and 3-5 Hebrews 12:16   Unending gratitude to: Tuxradio – audio editing and production Tina Marie Alverenga – logo and design

We open a new series about the order of love and how we often get it out of order with the first episode and the first order: Love the LORD, your God. Do you ever wonder what love is? Do you wonder what God's love means and how it sets us up to have healthier relationships? This episode explores why this is the first and foremost commandment and how it is also the foundation for any other love that we receive or extend. It also explores more of what it means to love God with our whole heart, mind and strength and provides some support in how to get back in order. Scriptures referenced: Matthew 22:34-40 Mark 12:29-31 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Unending thanks and gratitude to: Tuxradio - audio production Tina Marie Alverenga - logo creation and design

This episode is opening the door to my own sifting season that is presently being experienced. Sometimes what is happening in our lives doesn't reflect God's promises, and if we aren't careful, we might even think that it doesn't reflect His goodness. I want to take some time and talk through 4 things that I have committed to doing which has helped me both in this season and also in past seasons: 1. Believe God over your circumstances. 2. Talk to God to gain His perspective. 3. Lean not on your own understanding. 4. Focus on His character over your needs. Join me as I walk through each one of these steps and how to practically apply them to your life. Resources and scriptures referenced: "Holier Than Thou" - Jackie Hill Perry Hosea 14:2 Psalm 139:17-18 Psalm 27:13 Proverbs 3:5-6 Genesis 15:1-12 Psalm 145:8-9 1 Corinthians 10:13 Jeremiah 29:11 Unending thanks to: Tuxradio - audio production/edit Tina Marie Alverenga - logo creation and design

We are continuing the conversation with Trey Oldham, and this time we are going to dive into more experiences of being obedient in the face of fear or even discomfort. We are called to be generous and loving regardless of our preferences or preconceived notions. Trey reminds us "Grace and love is messy" and as followers of Christ we are called to love well. Join us as we walk through our own struggles and the uncovered and unexpected blessings of obedience. Scriptures referred to: Matthew 6:3-4 Hebrews 13:12 Unending thanks and gratitude to: Tuxradio - Audio production Tina Marie Alverenga - logo/graphic art Feel free to follow me on instagram @siftedwheatpodcast so we can continue to connect!

Join the first of our two part conversation about how we move from the love of God into making it the purpose of loving and caring for those around us. In this first episode, my pastor and friend, Trey Oldham, shares his own story of "reckless" obedience and how it wasn't just about helping others but freeing him from the power of "stuff." We move through Trey's story of obedience into suggestions and examples of how we can meet the needs of others and how physical needs precede spiritual needs for most. I hope this is a blessing to you and that after you listen, you will go and be a blessing to others through acts of obedience to God who loves each of us intentionally! Scriptures we reference: Luke 15:10-32 Matthew 18:10-14 Psalm 119:105 Unending thanks to: Tuxradio - audio production Tina Marie Alveranga - logo/graphic design Follow me for more content and encouragement @siftedwheatpodcast on Instagram

Let’s take a look deeper into the story of God through the parable of the prodigal son and the lost sheep. Let’s look beyond the players in the story to the teller of the story, Who is represented in the Father and the Shepherd, the conduit of both reckless love and sustaining love. This time we are going to move into the beauty of sacrificial love and how Jesus bridges the gap for ALL of us, wherever we find ourselves – near or far. This is the story of The Third Son.   Scriptures to explore: Luke 15:1-32 Matthew 18:10-14 Hebrews 12:2 John 5:19 John 10:30-38 John 14:9 John 15:13   Additional resources mentioned: “Radical” – David Platt “Shame Off You” – Norman W. Wright   Unending thanks and gratitude to: @Tuxradio – audio production Tina Marie Alvarenga – logo creation

This conversation is the second in a series that highlights God’s love for his kids and moves through the parable of “The Prodigal Son” from the younger brother to the older brother. Ultimately, it is about God’s “sustaining” love, the kind of love that we often overlook and take for granted and minimize in light of what it seems God is doing for others.     Resources to follow up with: “Prodigal God” – Tim Keller Luke 15: 13-7; 11-32   Continual and unending thanks to:  Rob Tucker – audio production Tina Marie Alvarenga – logo/ design

This conversation is about God’s “reckless love.” I realize that can be a controversial statement, but I’m not talking about the character of God, rather, His love for us. In life experiences and in the Word of God, over and over there is this expression of love where God shows up in spaces the “respectable” wouldn’t find themselves, yet, God is there. The word “prodigal” means reckless, not wayward as many have come to define it. I mention Tim Keller’s work where he proposes that the parable could be just as easily titled “Prodigal Father.”   Maybe there is another term for that kind of love that you prefer to use, but regardless, as explained here, God’s love toward people can surely defined as “reckless.”   Resources to follow up with: “Prodigal God” – Tim Keller Luke 15: 11-32   Continual and unending thanks to: Rob Tucker – audio production Tina Marie Alvarenga – logo/ design  

Today’s conversation is about the fear of rejection and the pattern of comparison. It’s a problem that affects us all, and the answer is “love.” Fear informs comparison, but love informs belonging, something that all of us need, and all of us seek – to be loved and to be known. There is only One Who can perfectly meet that need and is our Perfect Parent. Be encouraged and empowered to shift out of the condemnation of rejection into a Father’s love!   Scriptures mentioned for follow up: Genesis 16:13 Psalm 139 Psalm 34:15 Isaiah 41:10 Micah 7:18 Psalm 51:17 John 3:16-17 Genesis 3 (of course!) 1 John 4:18    A few scriptures where Jesus points out our “enemy”: Mark 4:15 Matthew 10:28 Matthew 13:24-30, 38-39 John 17:15   Continual and unending thanks to:  Rob Tucker – audio production Tina Marie Alvarenga – logo/ design

This episode is special to me because 1) I didn't plan it and I didn't write it, and 2) it became a beautiful conversation with my good friend and safe space, Shantray Smith. She invites me to elaborate on the term "detangle," what I mean by not being an island and the difference between self-sufficiency and independence, and how we can operate in grace even in encountering another's struggle. She also sets the space for me to break down what she designated as 3 themes of my work: Freedom from shame, not making God the villain of our story, and overcoming a victim mentality. Her hope was that it would give you a look into my heart and mind to build trust and reveal the purpose of this podcast, and I am honored that she loves me enough to come up with questions that help highlight those things! We invite you to listen in and join the conversation! Continued gratitude to: Rob Tucker - audio production Tina Marie Alverenga - Logo design Shantray Smith - for all the things

The art of deception mostly lies in the fact that it is hidden. We don't always know if we are seeing clearly or if we have been enticed into a strategy to "dup" us. I've been there, and this episode is about where it all started (yep, Genesis 3 again) and how we can break off the charm (because it takes vulnerability and courage, but it can be done), and how the Good Shepherd comforts us and redeems us "in the presence of our enemies." Scriptures addressed and mentioned for further reading: James 1:14-15 Genesis 3 Hebrews 4:15-16 Psalm 23:5 Special and unending thanks to: Tuxradio - production Tina Marie Alverenga - logo

In this episode I share the analogy of noise cancelling ear phones and how we can sometimes limit wisdom and counsel when we only listen to what we want to hear and also might miss warnings that we need to hear to help us navigate life better! I not only address the listener but also the speaker, because how we say things is just as important as what we need to say. Deception gains access when we allow our desires to lead us and we resist input from those that might be seeing what we can't or won't. I also point out how we might distinguish the Voice of God from the twisted words of the enemy of our souls. I hope you'll listen to gain more understanding in how to open our ears to receive sound counsel and keep us in a position to resist deception. Scriptures to read: James 1:14-15 Proverbs 12:15 Unending gratitude to: Tina Marie Alverenga - logo and graphics Tuxradio - production

At one time or another, maybe even right now, you have had that sense no one sees you, the fear surfaces that you are alone, invisible. This episode explores that fear and exposes it as a lie through the stories of Hagar and Nathanial, and of course, my own. Listen in and be encouraged to believe that you are not invisible. Scriptures to read: Genesis 16 & 20 John 1:45-51 Psalm 103:13-14 Special and unending thanks to: Tuxradio - production Tina Marie Alverenga - logo

I promise that we will get to the topic of not being invisible and the God who sees, but I felt it was important to revisit this topic again! This episode we will engage an overview of our last episode on blame and pick back up where we left off, at the beginning of my healing not the end. We will also look at David and what it meant to be "a man after God's own heart" and the misunderstanding of The Garden, and how we interpret God's actions might be what keeps us from Him in our own failures and struggle. God created us for connection and always invites us to walk back in. Scriptures we focus on: Genesis 3 & 4 Psalm 34:23-24 Special mention and unending gratitude for: Tuxradio (production) Tina Marie Alverenga (graphics/logo)