Hunger For God: How To Feed Your Soul

October 5, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Does your soul hunger for God? Do you feel that something is missing in your life? Are you unsettled? In this episode of A Few Minutes with God Podcast, we discover what it means to hunger for God and how you can feel your soul!

Hunger For God

Episode 44

Thanks to the sponsor, Eden’s Table.

The choices we make each day are something we don’t think much about, we just do them. We are creatures of habit, I wake up each morning and expect to drink a cup of coffee, and sit for a few minutes as I wake up. We do things out of habit more so than actually thinking about it — and habits are formed with routine.

We do the things that don’t affect our salvation either way — whether I drink a cup of coffee or not has nothing to do with how I feel about my relationship with God. But, if we take the time to think and contemplate life, often we feel that something is missing. That could be one of the reasons we keep our lives so busy–so we don’t have to think. Because if we do, we may find we are unsatisfied with an element of our lives.

Why?

Man was created to know, love, and serve God, but how do we love someone we do not know? Unless we spend time with God each day and allow Him to be the Lord of our lives, we will always feel unsettled… that there has to be more, and seek after pleasure in places that will leave us empty!

When we think about hunger for God we think of food and drink.

John 6:35
Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst.”

If we come to Him… it is an invitation, and we know it is more than food and drink that our Lord offers up but the offer of everlasting life… we will never thirst. It is a call of eternity with God!

John 7:37-38

“Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’”

Jesus is the living water, he came not only to feed the hungry as he did with the miracle of the loaves and fishes but to feed more than our bodies, to feed our souls. Our hunger for God goes beyond the physical which is why we seem unsettled when we are out of sorts with God.

Ask yourself these questions:

Have I spent time today with God in prayer?
Have I listened to God today in quiet?
Have I read from the Holy Bible?
Have I journaled anything that comes to mind?
Am I open to God’s leading in my life?

Our soul thirsts for God in the everyday matters in our life, in our decisions in our feelings of despair and dismay.

Psalm 42:2 “My soul thirsts for God, for the living God; When shall I come and appear before God?”

Our soul thirsts for God whether we realize it or not, and we seek after something we can’t attain unless we understand this very fact — our love of God is sustained in prayer and when we feel out of sorts we should pray.

Psalm 63:1 “O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly; My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.”

This journey is similar to when people talk about a “desert” experience. Being in the desert paints a picture of being lost and without water and something that would be harsh, yet this is similar to the state of our souls when we yearn for God and find ourselves lost in the desert of our own making due to our free will – those choices may seem right at the time but they leave us feeling empty.

Self Reflection:

How do I spend the majority of my time?
What do I do daily that brings me joy?
Is this joy short lived?
Is there a purpose to my day?
Do I feel happy when I head to bed at night?

What are some things you can do differently each day to focus more on the end result – life everlasting with God than the here and now?

There are always life circumstances that are important, work, family getting food on the table, what appears to be the simple and mundane can be done with joy if you have God in your life. Each day, each breath we take we can praise and give thanks to the Lord we serve.

Hungering for God means filling our souls with every good thing, in the things we watch on TV, the internet, read, or listen to… are we putting things into our body that will help us grow toward love of God or things that will hinder our progress? When we seek after God all the things that previously seemed so important seem so little in comparison.

It’s like the lady who loved her hair, it was her best asset — yet, when she found out she had cancer and would lose her hair, she happily shaved it off in an effort to combat the horrible feeling of losing it in pieces. Her battle with cancer was successful and when her hair grew back, more beautiful than before she didn’t even care that much. Why? Because she realized the preciousness of life and what appeared so important before was now a minor.

If we change our priorities in life and put God first we can satiate the hunger! We will then grow closer to God and strive to live a life that is pleasing to Him. The things that were a priority become a footnote – many things still need to be accomplished daily but with God at the head, it all seems to work out for the better.

Matthew 5:6 – Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.

By hungering for God we also hunger for righteousness and happily, that is so much more satisfying!

Let’s pray!

I praise you and thank you Lord that any effort we place into seeking a deeper relationship with You is always rewarded so much more than we can imagine. I thank you for putting that hunger for God into my soul — for inviting me to seek you in a greater way! I ask you to help me make you a number one priority in my life, to help me to wake up early enough to pray each day, to help me to think of you last before I go to sleep at night, to help me to see all the ways you help me and are there for me each day. Help me to know you and love you more each day! Lord I ask you for the following intention in my life …. I thank you ahead of time for answered prayer, and I pray this in Jesus Name. Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Shroud of Turin

September 28, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Have you wondered if the Shroud of Turin is real? And why “Turin”? What does this have to do with the burial cloth reported to have covered our beloved Savior? In this podcast, your host, Felice Gerwitz, shares a personal experience.

Shroud of Turin: What the Cloth Still Says About Jesus ~ Episode 378

The Shroud of Turin continues to speak powerfully about Jesus. Recently I visited the National Shroud of Turin Exhibit at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe in Orlando. What I experienced there—and what my grandchildren experienced—went far beyond any documentary or article I had seen before.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

A Personal Encounter with the Shroud of Turin

We entered a quiet room, watched a short video on the history and testing of the Shroud of Turin, and then stood before the displays. The atmosphere was hushed. People spoke in whispers. It felt as if we were standing before the crucified Christ Himself.

The size of the nails, the replica of the Roman flagrum, and especially the helmet-style crown of thorns left a lasting impression. The crown was not a simple circlet. It covered the top of the head and forehead. A life-sized replica of the Shroud of Turin image and its photographic negative revealed the face with startling clarity. There was even a metal panel on which the actual Shroud of Turin had rested—a second-class relic for those who accept its authenticity.

Ordinary means cannot explain the image itself, and that is the true mystery. It appears formed by energy from a body that was upright, hair hanging straight rather than spread out. Infrared studies show three-dimensional information. These details point beyond burial to the moment of the Resurrection.

Who Is the Man of the Shroud of Turin?

The wounds visible on the Shroud of Turin match the Gospel accounts with precision: scourge marks, nail wounds through the wrists, the side wound, and the injuries from a full crown of thorns. (Turin, Italy, is where the Shroud resides.)

Isaiah 53:5 declares, “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that made us whole, and with his stripes we are healed.”

John 19:40–42 and John 20:5–7 describe the burial in linen cloths and the discovery of the empty tomb. The Shroud of Turin invites us to hold the wounds, the burial, and the empty tomb together in humility and wonder.

The Divine Mercy Image and the Face on the Shroud of Turin

The first Divine Mercy image, painted in 1934 by Eugeniusz Kazimirowski under the direction of St. Faustina, bears a striking resemblance to the face on the Shroud of Turin. Neither the artist nor Sister Faustina had detailed knowledge of the Shroud at that time. The parallel continues to draw the attention of many who see the same merciful Savior in both images. This was something I didn’t know!

An Invitation for Seekers and Believers

The Shroud is an invitation to remember what the Savior of the world did for us! The Man of the Shroud of Turin, the Suffering Servant, the Risen Lord. Whether you come as a longtime believer or a seeker, the cloth still points to Him.

Spend a few minutes with God this week reflecting on the wounds that healed us and the empty tomb that gives us hope.

For More Study:

National Shroud of Turin Exhibit: https://www.nationalshroudofturinexhibit.org/
Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe: https://www.maryqueen.org/

Related Episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God, Shows Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, Divine Mercy Image, Felice Gerwitz, Shroud of Turin

The First Shall Be Last

September 21, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

The Kingdom of God can seem far away, and when we hear “The first shall be last,” this can be discouraging. In this episode of A Few Minutes with God, host Felice Gerwitz shares hopeful news: “The first shall be last” is a call to a joyful heart, not a threat hanging over those who already love the Lord.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

The First Shall Be Last And How To Avoid This Happening To You ~ Episode 377

A landowner hires workers at dawn for a denarius, the usual daily wage. He returns through the day, even at the eleventh hour — and hires more. When evening comes, every laborer receives the same pay. The first workers grumble. The landowner has not cheated them. He has kept his word, and he is free to be generous.

How Does Matthew 19 Prepare Us for This Parable?

This teaching is already echoing in Matthew 19:16-30. A rich man had kept God’s laws from his youth. He came to Jesus wanting eternal life. When he was asked to sell everything for the Kingdom, he turned away sad. He had followed so much — and still could not let go.

Jesus said:

“Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” (Matthew 19:24, RSV-CE)

The disciples wondered who then could be saved. Jesus answered:

“With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26, RSV-CE)

And He closed that scene with the same refrain that frames the vineyard:

“But many that are first will be last, and the last first.” (Matthew 19:30, RSV-CE)

Do we need to worry? No.

The rich man trusted what he already had. The first laborers trusted what they had already done. In both places Jesus shows the same mercy: the Kingdom is God’s gift. What is impossible with men is possible with God.

What Is the Parable of the Laborers About?

This Gospel is about the Kingdom, not about keeping score.

The vineyard is the Lord’s field. The denarius is eternal life, not a paycheck we calculate by the hour. The first workers can stand for those called early who then resent latecomers — tax collectors, sinners, and those the first group never expected to see as equals. The hours of the day can also be the seasons of a life: childhood, youth, the years of strength, and even old age.

St. Gregory the Great taught that the landowner keeps going out because God never tires of calling. St. Augustine and others remind us that the wage is the same because the gift is the same: God Himself. The Good Thief received the same promise as those who followed for years.

The last workers were not lazy. No one had hired them. If they did not work, they did not eat. God has an abundance to give. He is just, and He is generous.

“Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity? So the last will be first, and the first last.” (Matthew 20:15-16, RSV-CE)

The Good News If You Already Believe

You do not need to fear that a lifetime of faith will be wasted because God is kind to someone who comes later. Heaven is a gift, not a contest. The years you have already spent with the Lord are themselves a blessing.

When a sinner finds Christ, heaven rejoices. We are invited to rejoice too.

Five Encouragements from This Episode

Joyous: Be joyous knowing you are on the right path.
Surround yourself with like-minded Christians who can encourage you.
Listen to more podcasts like this one that can encourage and help you on your journey.
Rest in this: the same Lord who called you is still calling others — and His generosity has not run out.
Thank God that heaven is a gift, not a contest. Your years with Him are already a blessing.

You are a believer. You are headed toward the Lord, who waits with an open heart. Spend a few minutes with God today, and ask Him to fill you with His joy — joy over your own calling, and joy over every soul He welcomes home.

Related Episodes from A Few Minutes with God

Unworthy of God — Mercy for the heart that feels it has no claim on His love.
God’s Love Is Sufficient — Grace is enough when we cannot earn what we need.
Living on Purpose: God’s Plan for Everyday Life — Ordinary days in the vineyard still matter.
Christian Example — A life that lifts others up.
Called to Be Saints — Embracing Holiness in Everyday Life — Holiness walked out one faithful hour at a time.

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, eleventh hour conversion, eternal life as gift, Felice Gerwitz, first shall be last, God’s generosity, Grace, joy in the Lord, Kingdom of God, landowner and vineyard, Matthew 19:16-30, Matthew 20:1-16, parable of the laborers, rich young man, RSV-CE, with God all things are possible

Dream Bigger Than Your Excuses

September 14, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

What does it mean to dream big when the dream isn’t about money, status, or followers — but about God?

In this episode, Felice Gerwitz takes a phrase she’s heard in a hundred marketing seminars and author workshops and holds it up to Scripture.

Dreaming big in faith, she explains, isn’t chasing a bigger house or a million-dollar book deal. It’s giving God permission to work in your life beyond anything you could manufacture on your own.

Felice shares the story of a young homeschool mom who had received one word from the Lord for the year: say yes to really good opportunities.

When Felice invited her to start a podcast, she said yes on the spot — no overthinking, no talking herself out of it. That single yes became a living picture of what faith in action looks like.

She’s also honest about her own resistance.

This very episode sat written but unrecorded for over a month while the two that follow it got produced — a small, familiar example of how easily we stall on the thing God has put in front of us, and how often we mistake the enemy’s obstacles for our own good reasons.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

From there, Felice walks through a simple, practical starting point: a comfortable chair, an open Bible, a journal, and ten to thirty uninterrupted minutes. She offers a short prayer to begin with and three honest questions to bring to the Lord: What have I been ignoring? Where have I settled for safe instead of faithful? What is one small, concrete step I could take this week?

Along the way she looks at the ordinary people Scripture is full of — Abraham, who left everything familiar; Joseph, who endured betrayal, slavery, and prison before God used him to save nations; and Mary, a young, poor girl who answered an angel with “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.” None of them started with a big plan. They started with trust.

Felice also names the lies that shrink our dreams — I’m too old, I’m too young, I don’t have the education, someone else is already doing it better, what if I fail and look foolish — and reminds listeners that Moses stuttered, Gideon hid, David was overlooked, and the disciples were fishermen and tax collectors. Their limitations were exactly what made God’s power unmistakable.

She closes with the joy she’s found in a project she once thought impossible: revamping more than twenty of her own curriculum books. The mountain hasn’t moved, but the work is getting done — and she describes a peace, vigor, and confirmation she can’t explain apart from the Lord.

If you’ve been waiting for a dramatic sign or a sudden burst of courage, consider this your gentle invitation to begin today. You don’t need to see the whole path. You only need to take the next faithful step with the light you have.

In This Episode You’ll Hear

Why dreaming big in faith is nothing like what the world calls success
The young mom whose one-word prayer — say yes — changed her year
Felice’s honest confession about the episode that sat unrecorded for a month
How “being realistic” can quietly become a disguise for fear
A simple four-part starting point: a chair, a Bible, a journal, and 30 minutes
The prayer to pray before you begin, and three honest questions to ask the Lord
Abraham, Joseph, and Mary — ordinary people who simply said yes
The lies that shrink our dreams, and why our limitations showcase God’s strength
Why clarity usually comes after the first step of obedience, not before it
What resistance looks like when you start leaning into a God-sized dream
Felice’s own “impossible” project — and the joy she never expected to find in it

Start Here: Four Steps to Dreaming Big with God

Find a comfortable chair
Take out your Bible
Keep a journal beside you
Give it 10–30 minutes of undivided time

Pray first: Lord, help me to do what You want me to do. Help me to always be in Your will. Help me to hear Your gentle voice, and help me with the gift and blessing of discernment.

Then ask:

Lord, what have You placed on my heart that I’ve been ignoring or minimizing?
Where have I settled for safe instead of faithful?
What would it look like to take one small, concrete step this week?

Scripture

“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. Let it be done to me according to your word.” — Luke 1:38

Memorable Quotes

“Dreaming big gives the Lord permission in our life to allow Him to work in a way that is beyond our expectations and beyond anything we could do on our own.” — Felice Gerwitz

“Being real is useful… but it can also be a tool of the enemy. It can be a convenient disguise. And it can disguise fear.” — Felice Gerwitz

“Clarity usually comes after the first step of obedience, not before it. Waiting for perfect understanding can become a form of delayed obedience.” — Felice Gerwitz

“If I had known in my 30s that it would be 20 years down the road, I might have lost heart. But I know now that things happen in God’s perfect time.” — Felice Gerwitz

Connect

A Few Minutes with God is part of the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network. Show notes: AFewMinutesWithGodPodcast.com Listen on your favorite podcast app — and if this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend and leave a review so more listeners can find it.

Mentioned: Choosing God Daily: Faith in Action

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God, Shows Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Christian Encouragement, Christian Podcast, dreaming big, Faith in action, Felice Gerwitz, God's will, Luke 1:38, obedience to God, overcoming fear, Prayer Journal, prayer journaldreaming big, saying yes to God

Overcome Daily Struggles

September 7, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Overcome Daily Struggles Episode 52

Is it time to overcome daily struggles? Does it seem that there is always a new daily struggle to overcome? Sometimes the pile gets overwhelming and then we fall under the strain. In this episode of A Few Minutes With God Podcast, we’ll discuss scripture verses that will help as well as the hope that is in store for those who believe.

When I think about ways to overcome daily struggles I remember a book I read years ago I read a book to the kids Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. It was published in 1972 and even won a series of literary prizes for children’s literature. The reason? It resounded with the old and young alike. We always have to deal with everyday life and some days are harder than others. Each day we struggle. Each day we fall, each day we do things we are not proud of doing. How do we stand up under the crushing weight that is on our shoulders? It is not easy.

Overcome Daily Struggles

I thought that this was the week that would do me in! There was no way I could overcome my daily struggles. This week has been one of the hardest weeks. Actually the last two weeks. I’ve had ups and downs in my life in dealing with situations out of my control. And I truly think those are the hardest. Those are the ones where we have to throw up our hands and ask the Lord to help us. Recently one of my children was waiting for room assignments in a college dorm and instead of the private room she requested she’ll be sharing one big room with two other girls. She also had a hard time signing up for classes as a transfer upperclassman. Things happen, they are stressful but we make do. My other son twisted his ankle while training, and he is playing a college sport on scholarship – so the stress is that he would heal in time to keep training. Then two days later another son fell off a ladder at work and had to be transported to the hospital by ambulance. One daily struggle then another, then another. We sometimes wonder when it will stop?

The enemy likes nothing better than to kick us when we are down. To remind us of all the bad things happening in our lives while glossing over all the good that comes out of our struggles. Realize that when we struggle we can suffer real pain. It can come first in the sense of worry, anxiety, stress, tears, anger and then translate into physical ailments such as a stomach ache, headaches, or restlessness and insomnia. Anxiety can lead to depression and yet there is hope.

Scriptures Show Us How To Overcome Daily Struggles

Things will get better. One reason? Because we are promised this in scripture. We have to look no further than the book of Job.

Job 14: 14 “If a man dies, will he live again? All the days of my struggle I will wait Until my change comes.

A change will come. It can come in the form of others praying with us, understanding our needs and standing up for us in times when we need help. It can come in the form of relief — a change in the situation and a need that comes from the struggle. Sometimes we become so self-sufficient, we are our own worse enemies. We don’t want to ask for help because we don’t want anyone to know what we are going through. Just ask. Friends are there for you in so many different ways!

Trials and struggles can help us to grow stronger. We know that if the Lord denied the cross there would be no resurrection. James 1:2 states -Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials…

That is a hard verse to read if you are in the midst of struggling. Joy in the midst of trials? Only with God’s grace and only with the help of Almighty God.

What does Ephesians say about ways to overcome daily struggles?

Ephesians 6:12 “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.”

Our struggles and our daily walk is not done alone. Remember, you are not invincible and you don’t have to carry the burden yourself. If you are on social media on Facebook I have a page for prayers – you can post them here and I will get a notification to pray. You don’t have to be specific – just saying, “I need prayers,” is good enough. A community of believers can be helpful in times when your struggle.

Recently when my son had to go to the hospital after a fall at work I messaged and posted on several private groups asking people to pray. The prayers came pouring in. He was released from the hospital and all was fine – but of course, before we knew if everything was going to be alright it was filed under the classification of “Oh no!” and the stress level was high!

Psalm 34:18 states The Lord is close to the broken-hearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.”

Thank-you Lord for being close to us when we are broken-hearted. For making crooked lines straight. For helping us in knowing that You hear our prayers.

Psalm 23:4 — Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

No matter what you are going through, no matter how horrible or how sad, the “valley of the shadow of death” in our lives we are told to fear no evil because God is with us and He will comfort us. That my friends is the real key. Understanding that we don’t walk alone.

Let’s Pray for help for help to Overcome Daily Struggles:

Jesus, we trust in you – we trust in your providence for us each and every day. We ask you to bless and keep us safe, for our loved ones to be surrounded by your love and your protection. We ask that you help us daily to know that you are there and that you hear our prayers. Please Lord hear us as we pray for these intentions… and thank you Lord ahead of time for hearing us! In Jesus Name, Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, daily struggles

Humility

August 31, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

You have a secret weapon toward greater faith and that is humility. It is often misunderstood. It’s not something that comes naturally—we’ve got to put in some serious effort, even push our own ego aside sometimes, to really follow God’s lead.

The Gift of Humility ~ 344

Replay sponsored by CTCMath.com

Humility is a profound gift—one I’ve come to cherish more deeply through the years and my prayer life. It’s amazing how often I’ll have an idea for a podcast, open my Bible, or flip through my church notebook, only to find the theme of humility staring back at me. Even this morning at Mass, the pastor spoke on it, as if God Himself were nudging me to talk about the topic. Human nature doesn’t naturally incline us toward humility. We’re drawn instead to confidence, pride, or self-assurance—qualities the world often celebrates. Yet, for a Christian, humility is a virtue to pursue, a calling rooted in the very heart of Scripture.

Why should we strive for humility? Because God has given us the ultimate example: Jesus Christ, the all-powerful Son of God, who humbled Himself to enter our world in poverty and simplicity. Philippians 2:5-8 captures this beautifully: read on air. Jesus didn’t come as a conquering king or a wealthy ruler. He came as a helpless infant, born to Mary and Joseph—ordinary people elevated by their humble “yes” to God’s plan. Their trust in Him mirrors the humility we are called to use as an example.

Humility is a powerful weapon against evil, though we often fail to recognize its strength. It dispels darkness because it reflects God’s loving plan—a plan that doesn’t force itself upon us but invites us to surrender. How do we explain this to those who don’t believe? Perhaps by living it out, showing that humility isn’t weakness but a grace that aligns us with God’s will. Friends, I’ve struggled with humility. God has given each of us gifts, and He has allowed us to excel or to be capable. We may think we have no need to be humble. Yet, through the years I’ve witnessed godly people who were blessed or graced in a way that I admired and yet they displayed true humility.

Proverbs 22:4 reminds us, “The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.” It’s not about humiliation—something we instinctively flee from, accompanied by anxiety or embarrassment—but about trusting God’s greater purpose, even when life humbles us.

I’ve seen this in the aging process. As people grow older, they often become dependent on those they once led or cared for. Leaders, parents, and providers find themselves at the mercy of the next generation. As a first-generation Italian, I was raised to honor and care for my elders. My husband and I shared this value, and we were blessed to care for my father in his later years. At first, he took care of us more than we did him, but as time passed, the roles reversed. It’s a humbling reminder that one day, that may be us—needing others, relying on the love we poured into them. In this, humility reveals itself as a gift, not a burden. James 4:6 echoes this truth: “But he gives more grace; therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” When we offer our humbled moments to the Lord, they become blessings in disguise.

Consider Jesus again and what He did for us. He could have descended as a mighty ruler, instantly claiming power. Instead, He entrusted Himself to two earthly parents with free will, who chose to follow God’s call. Luke 1:50-53 reflects this beautifully: (Read on air.) Mary and Joseph’s humility paved the way for the Savior, showing us that ordinary people, open to God, can do extraordinary things. This challenges the world’s message of greatness through wealth, status, or self-reliance. The world urges us to climb over others, to delay life’s joys—like marriage or children—until we’ve “made it.” But God’s plan often looks different. He knows our hearts and gently leads us, not by force, but by example.

So how do we live this out? Through prayer—spending time with God, talking to Him as if He’s right beside us, because He is. Through trust—opening ourselves to His will, even when it humbles us. 1 Peter 5:6-7 offers this encouragement (read on air.)

Did you hear that? Cast all your anxieties on Him for He cares about you! He does, friends, He really does. The Lord is waiting for us to offer our hearts to Him and one way we can begin is to spend time with Him in prayer.

Humility isn’t about destroying others to succeed; it’s about recognizing that true prosperity—spiritual richness—comes as a gift, not a conquest. When we embrace it, we find peace in God’s control, freedom in His plan, and grace in every humbled step. May God be praised now and forever.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, faith, humility

Living God’s Plan on Purpose: Saying Yes to God Every Day

August 24, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Living God’s Plan on Purpose: Saying Yes to God Every Day

A Few Minutes with God Podcast | Episode 375

Have you ever wondered, “Am I really living the purpose God has for me?”

We all want our lives to matter. We want to know that the ordinary things we do each day are part of something bigger—and that we are following God’s plan for our lives.

But busy schedules, responsibilities, disappointment, distraction, and seasons of weak faith can make it difficult to see that purpose.

In this episode of A Few Minutes with God, Felice Gerwitz shares how living with purpose often begins with something surprisingly simple: choosing God today.

God has already chosen you, created you, and prepared good works for you. Our response is to continually say, “Yes, Lord. I choose You today.”

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

What Does It Mean to Live on Purpose for God?

Living on purpose doesn’t necessarily mean making a dramatic life change, starting a ministry, or accomplishing something the world considers impressive.

Often, it means faithfully following God in the life you are already living.

It is choosing Him while raising children, homeschooling, working, caring for your family, driving through traffic, doing laundry, running errands, or entering a new season of life.

As Felice shares in this episode, God opened doors for her to proclaim the Good News through podcasting later in life—not necessarily when she expected it.

God’s purpose works according to His timing, not ours.

God Created You for a Purpose

One of the enemy’s most damaging lies is that you have no purpose or that your life doesn’t matter.

Scripture tells us otherwise.

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” — Ephesians 2:10

You are God’s workmanship.

He has given you gifts and talents, and He has prepared opportunities for you to use them. Our job isn’t to measure our lives against someone else’s accomplishments. Instead, we can thank God for what He has given us and ask how He wants us to use it.

Choose God Every Day

Felice shares something her husband often tells the engaged couples they work with at their church:

Every day, he makes a conscious decision to choose God and to choose his wife.

Faithfulness is a daily decision.

When we become trapped in irritation, anger, hurt, disappointment, or distraction, those emotions can consume our attention. Instead of remaining stuck in that cycle, we can turn our attention back to God.

Sometimes the prayer can be as simple as:

“Lord, help me. I choose You today.”

That small prayer of surrender can redirect an entire day.

God’s Plan Isn’t Finished

Maybe you feel as though your opportunity has passed.

Perhaps your children are grown, your career has changed, you’re retired, or life simply doesn’t look the way you expected it to look.

God is not finished with your story.

Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us:

“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

There is still purpose in today.

5 Simple Ways to Live God’s Purpose Every Day

You don’t have to completely reorganize your life to begin living more intentionally for God. Start with small, faithful choices.

Offer your day to God.
Begin the morning with a simple prayer: “God, I am here to do Your will. I choose You today.”
Keep Scripture where you can see it.
Place a favorite Bible verse on your desk, refrigerator, mirror, or phone screen as a reminder of God’s promises.
Offer ordinary tasks to God.
Laundry, errands, commuting, homeschooling, caring for children, and serving your family can become quiet acts of love.
Fill your surroundings with reminders of Him.
Listen to praise and worship music, pray throughout your day, and intentionally redirect your thoughts toward God.
Look back with gratitude.
At the end of the day, ask: Where did I see God working today? Where did I walk in His purpose? What can I thank Him for?

Then take it one step further: encourage someone else in their faith. Tell another person what God has done in your life.

Living on Purpose Isn’t About Perfection

Living God’s plan isn’t about getting everything right.

It’s about returning to Him again and again.

It is trusting His timing when yours looks different.

It is remaining faithful in ordinary moments.

And it is waking up each day willing to say:

“Yes, Lord. I choose You today.”

God has already chosen you.

Will you choose Him today?

Scriptures Mentioned in This Episode

Ephesians 2:10 — We are God’s workmanship, created for good works.
Jeremiah 29:11 — God has plans that give us a future and a hope.

In This Episode

Felice discusses:

How to know whether you’re living according to God’s purpose
Why God’s timing may look different from your own
Choosing God intentionally every day
Breaking cycles of discouragement, anger, and distraction
Finding purpose in ordinary responsibilities
Using the gifts and talents God has given you
Practical ways to keep God at the center of your day
Why age or season of life doesn’t eliminate your purpose
Encouraging others by sharing what God has done in your life

A Question to Consider

What is one area of your life where God may be asking you to simply say “yes” today?

Take a few minutes to pray about it and ask Him to help you recognize His purpose—even in the ordinary moments.

Thank you for spending A Few Minutes with God. May His peace and purpose fill your days, today and always. Amen.

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God, Shows Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Bible Study, Christian Encouragement, Christian living, faith, God's Plan, God's Purpose, Spiritual Growth, Trusting God

Journaling: Proof That God Answers Prayers

August 17, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Journaling sounds simple — until you try it. In this episode of A Few Minutes with God, host Felice Gerwitz issues a challenge that she calls life-changing: start writing down what God is saying to you.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Journaling: Proof That God Answers Prayers

Felice opens her own journal to an entry dated May 2, 2015, where she had recorded Judith 9:11 — “Your strength is not in numbers, nor does your power depend upon stalwart men, but you are the God of the lowly, the helper of the oppressed, the supporter of the weak, and the protector of the forsaken, the savior of those without hope.” She had claimed that verse in prayer over her son during what must have been a hopeless situation. Years later, when she showed him the entry, neither of them could remember what the crisis had even been.

That, she says, is the point. When we wonder whether God hears us, a journal answers back. Felice shares how she taught her children that God always hears — He says yes, He says no, or He says not right now — and reflects on the humbling truth that we can only describe God in our own feeble, human words. One of her pastors taught her to pray, “Lord, I praise You and I thank You and I love You as You know Yourself to be.”

She also shares the news she received that day: the passing of a close high school friend who had been ill for twenty years and belonged to a faith that did not believe in medical intervention. While Felice doesn’t share that belief, she was struck by her friend’s unwavering testimony that God could heal her — a reminder that God heals in many ways: through miracles, through the hands of doctors, and through the medicines He created. The episode closes with a prayer of praise and blessing over every listener and their family.

A companion episode covers the practical how-tos of setting up a journal.

Key Takeaways

Journaling lets you look back and see answered prayer you’d otherwise forget.
God always hears — He answers yes, no, or not right now.
We can only speak of God in human words; He is far greater than our understanding.
Praying Scripture over your children is a powerful way to intercede for them.
As Christians, we are never without hope — our hope is God Himself.
God heals in many ways: through miracles, through doctors, and through medicine He created.
Free will means our decisions are our own — trust is what we bring to God.

Scripture Referenced

Judith 9:11 — “Your strength is not in numbers, nor does your power depend upon stalwart men, but you are the God of the lowly, the helper of the oppressed, the supporter of the weak, and the protector of the forsaken, the savior of those without hope.”

Quotable

“When you journal, you can go back, you can look at past entries, and then you will be so amazed at all of the times that the Lord answered prayer.”

“He always hears your prayers. And He either says yes, He says no, or He says not right now.”

“Lord, I praise You and I thank You and I love You as You know Yourself to be.”

Connect

Website: afewminuteswithgod.com
Podcast page: afewminuteswithgodpodcast.com
A production of the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network

Call to Action

Start journaling this week — even one line a day. Then come back in a year and read it. If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend and leave a review so more listeners can find A Few Minutes with God.

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God, Shows Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Answered Prayer, Christian hope, Christian Podcast, faith and healing, Felice Gerwitz, Hearing God, Journaling, Judith 9:11, Prayer Journal, praying scripture over your children, quiet time with God

Do Christians live by too many rules? Rethinking Christian life restrictions

August 10, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Do Christians live by too many rules? Rethinking Christian life restrictions

Christian life restrictions are the norm, right? The idea is that Christians have no fun, that faith piles rule after rule on our shoulders — a long list of do’s and don’ts. But Christianity is so much more than that, and living a Christian life can bring us true freedom. In this episode we explore those so-called restrictions and ask whether there’s any truth to the accusation that Christian life is nothing but rules.

Please share this episode with a friend. As always, thank you for your star rating on iTunes, and please follow along.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Those of us who call ourselves Christians do live by a right and a wrong. Through a formed conscience, we believe things are either one way or another — and many people consider that a form of restriction.

So the question comes: Why be a Christian? What’s in it for us? Why follow a list of do’s and don’ts when, some say, being a Christian is no fun?

Let me share the truth with you: being a Christian and living a Christian life is, in fact, freeing.

Right and wrong reveal a moral law

It always amazes me to hear people say there is no God because there is no right and wrong — that everything goes. When you get right down to it, that isn’t how any of us actually live. Ask a moral relativist, someone who insists there’s no right or wrong, whether they’d be fine with a burglar breaking in and taking their computer, money, and jewelry. They’ll say, “No. That isn’t fair. They broke the law.”

But how can you have laws — the laws of the land — and not have a moral law beneath them? What is the difference?

A film worth watching here is God’s Not Dead. The main character is a Christian college student in a philosophy class taught by an atheist professor. On day one, the professor requires every student to write “God is dead,” sign it, and turn it in, because he doesn’t want to deal with Christian arguments in his classroom. One student refuses to sign. The professor challenges him to use the coming weeks of class to prove that God is truly alive. One argument that surfaces is simple: rules serve us and protect us. They are not restrictive to those who are living rightly. They only restrict those who want to do what is wrong.

Christian life restrictions? No — it is a gift

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. — Ephesians 2:8–10 (NASB)

Through God we are saved, and this is an amazing gift. I’m not sure how anyone can call a gift a burden.

Here is how I’d sum up what our faith actually gives us:

A gift
A choice
A blessing
Freedom from sin
Open gates of heaven

God gave us a choice and lets us make up our own minds — and yet many people stay firmly closed off in their beliefs.

Everyone lives under some restriction

If Christianity is “restrictive” because we don’t do certain things, then honestly everyone is under restriction in some way.

You can’t run a red light — not unless you’re willing to harm yourself or someone else. Freedom of speech doesn’t mean you can make a racist remark or defame someone (people try these days, but they shouldn’t). Our society has norms, and much of the dissension we see is those norms being pulled apart.

Just because I don’t agree with you, it does not make me wrong. There are boundaries built into our world. We can’t travel without a visa or passport, we can’t board without paying for a ticket, we can’t use a credit card without paying the bill. Our world — and, in essence, our lives — is bound by rules and regulations. So why shouldn’t faith also have some guidelines?

The commandments are guidelines that free us

When God handed down the Ten Commandments, He asked Moses to spread the Word. These are the guidelines we use to lead our lives, and they set us free — they bring us peace, joy, and happiness.

Like any good parent, our God watches over us. It’s striking that the same people who accuse Christians of living under restriction are often restrictive parents themselves. Would any parent let a child play in traffic, play with matches, or put their fingers in an electrical outlet? No — because of the danger of death. That parent isn’t being too restrictive. That parent is being loving. In the same way, we have a God who cares about us and wants us to have everlasting life.

We can never fully understand the mind of God. We come to know Him through reading the Bible, through our interpretation, and through allowing the Holy Spirit to enter our lives more deeply. Scripture does speak to how we should live, and we’ll dig into that in the next podcast.

Free will is the heart of it

In Mere Christianity — a book I recommend every Christian read — C.S. Lewis recalls that, as an atheist, he had built his case against Christianity on a set of ideas he later found to be false. One of them was moral relativism, the notion that there is no right or wrong. That is the crux of this: free will. We have the intellect to decide for ourselves.

Those who call Christianity too restrictive are sometimes the same people who want to defy what is good and holy. Others say Jesus was a good man but not the Messiah. But how can someone be good and a liar? Jesus said He was the Son of God. Either He is who He said He is, or He is not.

Freedom from all regulation does not, by itself, bring us joy. Giving children limits and rules is exactly what lets them flourish. Those who break the rules often find themselves in trouble, doing harm to their bodies, their souls, or both.

True freedom is knowing we are loved and loving others in return. The rules help us live lives that honor God and honor one another. What is wrong with You shall not kill? You shall not commit adultery? Honor your father and your mother? Love your neighbor? I think we’d all agree there’s nothing wrong with wanting to live the best lives we can.

The commandments themselves begin with God Himself:

I am the Lord your God: you shall not have strange gods before me. (Exodus 20:2–6; Deuteronomy 5:6–10)
You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain. (Exodus 20:7; Deuteronomy 5:11)
Remember to keep holy the Lord’s Day.

God is love. As limited as we are in our own understanding — and in the human words we reach for to describe a Divine being — we know He saved us from eternal separation by sending His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to set us free, and the Holy Spirit to remain with us always. Eternal life is found in the true God alone.

Let’s pray

Dear Lord, I pray in the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I thank You for the gift of freedom, the gift of free will, the gift of faith, and the gift of opening the gates of heaven through Your death and resurrection. Thank You for setting us free, for giving us a renewed gift of faith, and for allowing us to believe in Your Divine Providence for our lives and for our families. I am blessed that You have called me to live a life that honors You, and I can only do this by Your grace, so I pray for an outpouring of Your love and grace to fill me. Please, Lord, hear the petitions I now bring before You: ____________________. I ask that, as a community of believers — all those listening to this broadcast — we join together in prayer for one another and for our personal needs. I thank You for all that is good and holy, and I praise You with every breath I take. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.

FAQ

Does being a Christian mean following a list of do’s and don’ts? No. While Christians do live by a sense of right and wrong, faith is far more than a rule list — it is a gift of grace that leads to true freedom, not a burden of restrictions.

Are Christians really restricted from having fun? Christian life restrictions are largely a misunderstanding. Like traffic laws or the boundaries any loving parent sets, God’s guidelines protect us and let us flourish rather than hold us back.

What does the Bible say about Christian freedom? Ephesians 2:8–10 teaches that we are saved by grace through faith as a gift of God, created for good works. The commandments are guidelines that bring peace, joy, and freedom.

Is faith just a set of rules with no freedom? The opposite. True freedom is knowing we are loved and loving others. The rules help us live lives that honor God and each other — the way limits help children thrive.

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God, Shows Tagged With: Christian freedom, Christian life restrictions, do's and don'ts, Ephesians 2:8, faith and free will, God's Not Dead, living a christian life, Mere Christianity, moral law, moral relativism, Ten Commandments

Living On Purpose: God’s Plan for Everyday Life

August 3, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Living on Purpose: God’s Plan for Everyday Life

Do you ever wonder if your ordinary days really matter? In this episode of A Few Minutes with God Podcast, Felice Gerwitz explores what it means to live on purpose by aligning everyday life with God’s plan—even when schedules are full and faith feels weak.

God created each of us with intention. He has prepared good works for us to walk in, and He invites us to respond to that purpose one day at a time. Drawing from the daily decision required in marriage and the truth of Scripture, this episode offers practical encouragement for living intentionally with God.

What Does It Mean to Live on Purpose?

Living on purpose is not about having a perfect life or a dramatic calling. It is about making conscious, faithful decisions to walk with God in the middle of real life. When we feel discouraged or distracted, we can still return to Him and trust the plan He has already prepared.

Practical Ways to Walk in God’s Plan Daily and Life on Purpose

Start the morning with a simple prayer of surrender
Keep Scripture visible in the places you already look
Offer ordinary tasks as quiet acts of love
End the day with honest reflection and a fresh beginning
Encourage another person in their faith

These small steps help us stay aligned with God’s purpose in the middle of busy seasons.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Scripture for Reflection (RSV-CE)

Jeremiah 29:11 – Plans for a future and a hope
Ephesians 2:10 – Created in Christ Jesus for good works
John 15:16 – You did not choose me, but I chose you

God has already chosen you and prepared a purpose for your life. The invitation is to walk in it—one ordinary, faithful day at a time.

For more encouragement on your faith journey, explore these related episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:

Renew Your Faith this New Year – Making faith a personal, daily decision
Why? A Powerful Question For Christians – Free will and authentic response to God
True Faith – Faith as a conscious decision that brings peace
Faith In Action: Living Your Faith Boldly – Turning faith into practical daily works
Missionaries at Home – Following God’s call in everyday life and relationships

One More Child

Available from Media Angels

This beautiful and entertaining book celebrates the gifts of family and children. It is Felice’s story, but it contains a message that will resonate with anyone who struggles with the often-conflicting messages about family life that are promoted to parents today. The author doesn’t claim to have all the answers; instead in each page, she encourages the reader to be open to the will of God in every area of life, including family planning.

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God, Shows Tagged With: daily decision to follow God, daily walk with God, discovering God’s plan, faith as a daily choice, faith in busy life, God’s plan for everyday life, God’s plan for my life, God’s purpose for my life, living intentionally for God, practical ways to choose God, purpose from God, walking in God’s purpose

Examination of Conscience (Encore)

July 27, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Examination of Conscience

Episode #41 | A Few Minutes with God

Most of us would rather not look too closely at our own hearts. Slowing down for an honest examination of conscience — asking what we have thought, said, and done, and where we have drifted from God — can feel uncomfortable. But it is one of the most freeing habits a believer can build. In this short episode of A Few Minutes with God, host Felice Gerwitz walks through what an examination of conscience is, why so many of us avoid it, and how to begin.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

What is an examination of conscience?

An examination of conscience is a prayerful review of your recent thoughts, words, and actions, measured honestly against God’s moral law. Think of your conscience as a kind of spiritual autopilot — the quiet inner sense that steers your everyday choices. Like any guide, it works best when it is well formed and checked often.

Why we avoid examining our conscience

Much of the world has lost its sense of sin, and looking inward can feel like the last thing we want to do. Yet a comfortable conscience is not the same as a clean one. As Paul reminds the Corinthians, “My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me” (1 Corinthians 4:4, NIV). Real peace does not come from our circumstances, or even from feeling fine about ourselves. It comes from being rightly related to God — and that relationship is worth an honest look.

How to examine your conscience — five steps

You do not need a complicated method. These five movements, drawn from the episode, are enough to begin:

Form your conscience. A good conscience is not automatic; it is taught. Fill your heart with what is true through Scripture, sound books, and trustworthy teaching so you can tell right from wrong before the moment of choice.
Recover a sense of sin. Naming sin honestly is not shame — it is the doorway to grace. Our freedom can also shape others, for how we live can either wound or strengthen a fellow believer’s conscience (1 Corinthians 8).
Look back honestly. Set aside a few minutes to reflect on your recent thoughts, words, and actions in light of God’s moral law. Where did you fall short in love of God and love of others?
Name and turn from temptation. Notice the patterns that pull you away, and step around them by God’s grace. As Paul assures us, God will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, but will also provide a way out (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Guard your heart daily. We would never leave a child near danger without watching; our souls deserve the same care. A regular examination of conscience is how we keep watch.

What Scripture says about examining yourself

The practice is woven through the Bible. “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves” (2 Corinthians 13:5, NIV). The psalmist prays it as an invitation rather than a dread: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24, NIV). And when we bring what we find into the light, we are met with mercy, not condemnation, for Jesus sent His followers out with the ministry of forgiveness (John 20:21-23).

A short prayer to examine your conscience

If you are not sure how to start, borrow this: Lord, quiet my heart. Show me where I have wandered today in thought, word, and deed. Thank You for meeting me with grace, not condemnation. Guard me from temptation, and lead me one more step toward You. Amen.

Or begin a daily practise of examining your conscience.

Frequently asked questions

What is an examination of conscience?
It is a short, prayerful review of your recent thoughts, words, and actions, held up honestly against God’s moral law, so you can confess what needs confessing and grow closer to Him.

How often should you examine your conscience?
Many believers do it daily, often in the evening, looking back over the day. Even a few minutes is enough to make it a habit.

What questions do you ask during an examination of conscience?
Start simply: Where did I fall short in loving God today? Where did I fall short in loving the people around me — in my thoughts, my words, and my actions? What do I want to bring to God and leave with Him?

Is examining your conscience biblical?
Yes. Scripture invites it directly, from “Examine yourselves” (2 Corinthians 13:5) to “Search me, God” (Psalm 139:23), to Paul’s call to examine ourselves before the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:28). The 10 Commandments are also a useful guide.

Related episodes from A Few Minutes with God

If this encouraged you, sit with one of these next:

Combating fear — standing on God’s promises when worry creeps in.
Peacemakers — what it means to be a peacemaker in a world that needs peace.
Faith time capsule — looking back to see how far the Lord has brought you.

Replay

Examination of Conscience

When was the last time you paused to look honestly at your own heart? In this short but searching episode, Felice gently walks through what an examination of conscience is, why so many of us avoid it, and five simple steps to begin — a quiet practice that can set you free. A few honest minutes with God may be exactly what today is asking of you.

Listen Now →

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: daily examen, examination of conscience

Redeeming Your Time: Living Each Day with Purpose

July 20, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Redeeming Your Time: Living Each Day with Purpose

Episode 22

Time well spent makes us happy. If we feel accomplished, if we do things on our “lists,” it makes us feel that we’ve spent our time well. Most of us say we need more time each day, we can’t finish out tasks, we run out of time. How can we add more time to our days?

Sponsors: CTCMath.com, Media Angels, Inc. Novels – Truth Seekers Mystery Series available on Amazon. Three novels for tweens!

Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels, Inc. A Few Minutes with God, The Journey Begins

When I look at my day I think, “What is the best use of my time each day?” Other than with my friends and family the best time is with God. How can you fill up without the One who truly gives us that grace to get through each day? Who do you spend time with and is that time well spent? In this episode, we explore how you can make the time. Let’s strive to make the most out of every minute of every day.

Look at your day, how can you incorporate time well spent? We all say we don’t have enough time each day!

Identify the time wasters. Relaxing is wonderful for everyone and we don’t need to “produce” every day! However often we say we don’t have enough time for prayer because we don’t use our time wisely.
- What are the things in your day that waste your time
- How can you avoid the time wasters
- Does making a list help you
- We all waste time, and often we all need a break, so enjoy
What is the one thing you can avoid? Is there something on your list that you can eliminate or reschedule in your day so that you can make more time?
- Social media
- Emails in the morning or afternoon
- Shopping without a list
Can you make 5-10-15 minutes or more to spend with God in prayer? Look at your lists above and see where you can add more time to your day. Five, ten or fifteen minutes helps tremendously! Time well spent with God is so helpful in our day. Often we leave prayer time to night time. Praying in the morning, the first thing you do — will change your life and is truly time well spent.
Who do you spend the most time with? Is it family, friends, virtual friends? Ist it fictional characters in books? Truthfully, sometimes we let virtual friends take the place of real ones. I have good friends online, some I’ve never met in person. Nurture your friendships but remember the one who will fill you with faith, love, and joy.
How can you make that time productive? Spending it with God first will increase your productivity all day long.
Can you be a witness or a blessing from the Lord to someone in your life? Do you ask God to use you each day? Do you see the people in your life as a blessing? How can the Lord use you? How can you be an example of God’s love to others?

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God, Shows Tagged With: biblical wisdom, Christian living, redeeming your time, Spiritual Growth, time management

Truth About Worries

July 13, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

In this heartfelt episode, Felice Gerwitz recounts a touching encounter at the grocery store where a cashier sang, “I put my worries at the foot of the cross,” turning a routine errand into a powerful reminder of God’s care. Explore the freedom that comes from surrendering anxiety to Jesus, the impact of everyday holy boldness, and practical ways to trust God more deeply in daily life. Includes inspiring Bible verses and encouragement to live with unshakable peace.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

The Truth About Worries ~ Episode 374

Putting Your Worries at the Foot of the Cross

I want to share a beautiful true story of a cashier whose quiet song, “I put my worries at the foot of the cross,” became a divine reminder to surrender all anxieties to Jesus. Even in our everyday errands, the freedom found in casting our cares upon Him and the call to holy boldness in sharing our faith was a serious reminder! If you are seeking peace, I pray you are blessed as much from this story as I was from the encounter.

Truth About Worries Key Takeaways:

Recognize divine appointments in ordinary moments.
The power of worship and song to evangelize and encourage.
Why worry steals our peace and how to release it to the Lord.
Practical faith steps for bold, everyday witness.

Truth About Worries: A Divine Encounter in Everyday Life

Running errands ranks among my least favorite tasks. Crowded stores, heavy traffic, and spending money are not my idea of fun—yet my family needs to eat. While checking out at the store, the cashier worked efficiently and quietly sang the refrain, “I put my worries at the foot of the cross,” over and over.

She wasn’t off-key, and the melody was unfamiliar to me. I wasn’t even sure she realized she was singing—not loudly, but steadily—as she rang up my many purchases. Because I shop infrequently, I tend to stock up, especially on sale items, so she had quite a workload!

As I emptied my basket, her song struck me. This woman was evangelizing without saying a word. She worked diligently—faster than I could load my cart—yet she proclaimed that her worries belonged to the Lord, not to herself.

Of course, Jesus lived, died, and rose again from the dead. He is no longer on the cross. He is risen. (Alleluiah!) But remember that with God, there is no time. We can pray and put our cares, our worries, and our burdens at the foot of the cross! I am going to leave it there without getting into the weeds.

Scripture Verse: Truth About Worries:

Philippians 4:6-7 (RSVCE) “Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

An Amazing God Incident

This became a powerful God moment for me. I strive to pray throughout the day, especially during tasks I dislike. I aim to remain thankful for God’s provision and countless blessings. I nearly chose self-checkout, but my overflowing basket made help necessary. Loading, unloading, and putting everything away at home would take effort. Instead, I received an unexpected serenade of faith.

With no one behind me, the clerk handed me my receipt and wished me a wonderful, blessed day. I smiled, thanked her for the song, and shared that I, too, am a Christian. Her face lit up. I asked if others had inquired about God because of her singing. She said yes, at times. I praised her boldness in evangelizing and reminded her that we are all called to share the Good News. She had refreshed my own faith that day.

The Power of Holy Boldness and Releasing Worry

Sometimes we forget to surrender our worries to God. Imagine singing this simple refrain repeatedly—it would serve as a constant reminder and source of strength amid daily struggles.

1 Peter 5:7 (RSVCE) “Cast all your anxieties on him, for he cares about you.”

Stepping out in faith to share the Gospel isn’t always easy, but this gentle song transformed my day. I already know Jesus, yet I needed the reminder: my cares are nothing in His hands. Worry accomplishes nothing. It changes no outcomes and reveals when we place trust in ourselves rather than in God.

Matthew 6:25-27 (RSVCE) “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink, nor about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add one cubit to his span of life?”

Related Episodes You’ll Love:

Peace Works Against Fear – Combat anxiety with God’s supernatural peace.
Peace of Mind – Simple steps to restore calm in chaotic times.
Finding Joy in Tough Times ~ Waiting in Peace – Learn to wait on God with confidence.
Faith and Hope – Build unshakeable trust that overcomes worry.
Peace Within Families – Bring God’s peace into your home and relationships.

Listen now and be reminded that Jesus invites you to lay every burden at the foot of the Cross. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today!

Produced by Media Angels, Inc. | Ultimate Christian Podcast Network

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: 1 Peter 5:7, anxiety, Bible verses worry, casting cares on Jesus, Catholic podcast, Christian anxiety, Christian Encouragement, Christian living, divine appointment, do not worry, evangelism, everyday faith, faith over fear, foot of the cross, God moments in daily life, holy boldness, homeschool mom faith, Matthew 6, overcoming worry with faith, peace of God, peace that surpasses understanding, Philippians 4:6, put worries at the foot of the cross, surrender to God, trust Jesus, truth about worries, Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, vintage homeschool moms, worries

Freedom in Christ

July 6, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Freedom in Christ

10 Commandments Conscience Check

June 29, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Can you use the 10 Commandments for a Conscience Check

Episode #43

In this podcast, we’ll examine if the 10 Commandments can help you check your conscience. How do we know if we are on the right path? Are we doing great? Of course! We don’t sin! That is until you take a look at the list below. I’ve listed each of the 10 Commandments and questions to ask yourself.

First, begin with prayer, ask the Lord to allow us to see what is in our lives that need to be forgiven and perhaps if it is an area where you struggle.

Sin causes us to put off doing what is right and what we should do, and it allows us to make excuses for all the times we are not doing what is right. Are the Ten Commandments just suggestions or are they something we should look at when we examine our conscience? I know that we all struggle because we think, “Well, I’m not an ax murderer so therefore I am a good person,” however, that line of thinking is truthfully not accurate.

Thankfully we do not commit murder but there are other things to look at under the “Thou shalt not kill” commandment.

Thank you to our sponsor, CTCMath.com

Using the 10 Commandments helps us form a good conscience.

The commandments are not suggestions, they are serious. The commandments are so serious that after Moses came down from the mountain and saw the sin happening to the people he had left behind, he broke them. God then gave him the Commandments again!

The first three commandments all deal with the way we consider God. Do we put him first, do we blaspheme His name? Do we keep holy the Sabbath?

Here is a look at the Ten Commandments and ways to consider how you have sinned against God…

I am the Lord thy God. Thou shalt not have strange gods before Me.
1. Have I denied God in any way?
2. Have I taken part in non-Christian ceremony or service?
3. I have agreed with heretical or blasphemous anti-Christian literature?
4. Have I been faithful in my prayer life?
5. Have I made fun of God or His teachings?
6. Have I presumed upon God’s mercy or doubted it?
7. Have I placed more importance on any person or creature before God?
8. Have I cared about material goods over God?
9. Have I been guilty of irreverence – jokes or other conversations that are anti-God.

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.
1. Have I sworn against God?
2. Have I complained against God?
3. Have I broken a vow made to God?
4. Have I angered others so that it makes them swear against God?
5. Have I blasphemed?

Remember that thou keep holy the Sabbath day.
1. Have I missed Mass or church?
2. Have I been distracted during church?
3. Have I been late to church or left early (not due to an emergency).
4. Have I made others miss church?
5. Have I done unnecessary work on Sunday?
6. Have I bought or sold things not of necessity on Sunday?

Honor thy father and thy mother.
1. Have I been disrespectful or disobedient to my parents?
2. Have I been irreverent to others in positions of authority?
3. Have mistreated my spouse or children?
4. Have I mistreated the elderly, the infirmed or the handicapped?
5. Have I been disobedient or disrespectful of a loved one, a family member?
6. Have I been disrespectful or irreverent toward the clergy or someone in authority to God.

Thou shalt not kill
1. Have I desired or hastened the death of someone, or caused bodily injury to another person?
2. Have I oppressed or did I seek revenge on another person?
3. Did I cause others to fight?
4. Have I argued with another(s)?
5. Did I injure anyone else?
6. Have I been jealous, envious, entertained evil thoughts or hatred against another?
7. Have I entertained thoughts of suicide, etc.
8. Do I abuse my body in any way?
9. Have I harmed my soul by intentional exposure to temptations?

Thou shalt not commit adultery.
1. Have I abused my role in my marriage, (marital rights, practicing birth control, or other contraception such as sterilization?)
2. Have I committed sins against purity?
3. Have watched indecent movies or internet photos, etc.?
4. As a single person have I had sex outside of marriage.
5. Have I worn suggestive clothing, or had thoughts that were impure.
6. Have I used indecent language, told indecent jokes.
7. Have I prayed at once to banish bad thoughts or intentions?

Thou shalt not steal
1. Have I stolen anything?
2. Have I damaged or been negligent with someone else’s property?
3. Have I refused to repay debt?
4. Have I cheated my employer or employees?
5. Have I cheated or defrauded anyone?
6. Have I gambled to the point that it is an obsession?
7. Have I refused to pay a bill

Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
1. Have I lied against anyone, causing them harm, spiritually or materially, or ruined their name?
2. Have I judged others without evidence?
3. Have I gossiped about other people even if it is true?
4. Have I been uncharitable in my talk or actions against another?

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s wife.
1. Have I wanted someone who is otherwise committed?
2. Have I had unpure thoughts about someone else?
3. Have I remained alone in another’s company unnecessarily of the opposite sex that is a temptation to me?
4. Have I been in lewd company and listened to indecent jokes or stories?
5. Have I boasted or taken delight in past sins?
6. Have I caused others to sin?

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s goods.
1. Have I wanted something belonging to someone else?
2. Have I acquired something I know is stolen?
3. Have I failed to return something I borrowed?
4. Have I neglected to help someone in need?
5. Have I failed to make restitution for something I’ve taken?

These sins all boil down to sins of pride, vanity, envy, lust, anger, covetousness, envy, laziness or apathy, gluttony… they lead to boasting, duplicity, ambition over others, contempt for others, anger, and resentment and revenge, stubbornness and obstinacy.

Yes, I feel convicted in researching this and sharing this podcast with all of you to change my own life for the better.

Let’s Pray!

Dear Lord Jesus, I come to you sinful and sorrowful and I ask that You help me through an infilling of the Holy Spirit to stay on the path that leads to You. I know Lord this path is difficult but with Your Divine help I know You will be with me every step of the way. Dear Jesus help keep me from pride, envy, lust, anger, covetousness, envy, laziness, apathy or gluttony. Please help me to do what is right and to hunger for righteousness. I thank you for all the ways You have intervened in my life and I give you permission to be a greater part of my life. Thank you and praise You Jesus! And, I pray this in Jesus Name, Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God, Shows

The Greatest Prayer

June 22, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

The greatest prayer that Jesus prayed is not what you think. In this podcast, Felice Gerwitz explains the High Priestly Prayer and how we can use this to grow closer to the Lord each day.

The Greatest Prayer: John 17 Episode 373

High Priestly Prayer & Obedience to God’s Will | A Few Minutes with God

What if the greatest prayer Jesus ever prayed could transform your daily relationship with God?

In Episode 373 of A Few Minutes with God, host Felice Gerwitz explores the High Priestly Prayer of John 17—known as the longest and most profound prayer recorded in Scripture. While the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) gives us a perfect model, John 17 reveals Jesus interceding directly for Himself, for His disciples, and for every believer who would come after them.

What Is the Greatest Prayer in the Bible?

In the Gospels, we see Jesus modeling prayer again and again. He taught His disciples the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6, a beautiful, concise prayer we often pray daily. Yet there is another prayer of Jesus that stands out as the longest and, many believe, the greatest recorded prayer in the entire New Testament. It’s found in John 17—the High Priestly Prayer Jesus prayed in the upper room the night before His arrest.

Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer in John 17 Explained

You’ll discover three key movements of this prayer: Jesus’ request for glorification and unity with the Father, His heartfelt plea for protection and sanctification of His disciples, and His powerful prayer for the oneness of all future believers “so that the world may believe.” (John 17:21, RSVCE)

This episode is an invitation to pray with Jesus, to let His words shape your heart, and to walk more closely with the Lord who intercedes for you every day.

Three Key Movements of the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus

First, Jesus prays for Himself. He asks the Father to glorify the Son so the Son may glorify the Father. He speaks of completing the work the Father gave Him to do. In that moment of obedience and surrender, we see the perfect unity between Father and Son.

Second, Jesus prays for His disciples. He asks the Father to keep them in His name, to protect them from the evil one, and to sanctify them in truth. He knows they will face trials in the world, yet He does not ask that they be taken out of the world—only that they be kept faithful.

Third, Jesus prays for all of us—every future believer. He prays for our unity so that the world may believe. What a profound invitation! Jesus wants us to share in the very love and oneness He enjoys with the Father.

How Obedience Becomes Your Best Daily Prayer

For me, the takeaway is that our best prayer is obeying the Lord. That is the greatest gift we can give God. By obeying the Lord we are living in His will. I’ve prayed so many times to be in God’s will, yet in my heart I often know what that looks like and still ignore it. I get busy with the things of the day and forget that the main to-do each morning is spending time in prayer.

We are also called to be obedient, as we are able, to the laws that do not contradict moral decency and Christian principle. This includes those difficult areas many of us overlook—such as living together out of wedlock. It has become commonplace, but it is not God’s design for us.

God gives us the model of a prayer life, obedience to Him, and the mission to share the good news with others. How can we keep this to ourselves? We must live, as much as we are able, like the disciples who glorify God through faithful obedience and bring others to Christ. We can begin by praying for those who are lost, those who do not yet know the Lord. Ask Him for the strength to be bold and to cherish every moment in prayer. This is the closest we get to heaven on earth. May God be blessed today and always.

Practical Takeaway: Living in God’s Will Through Prayer and Obedience

Open your Bible to John 17 this week. Read even a few verses daily and pray them back to the Father. You’ll be amazed at the peace and closeness you experience.

Related Episodes You’ll Love from A Few Minutes with God

Be infilled, entertained, and equipped as you press play today.

Share this episode with a friend who longs to pray more deeply and live in God’s will, and subscribe so the next A Few Minutes with God finds you right when you need it.

All Scripture quotes are from the Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSVCE).

Be infilled. Be entertained. Be equipped. Then go live the prayer Jesus prayed for you

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, christian prayer life, Felice Gerwitz, gods will prayer, high priestly prayer of jesus, jesus intercessory prayer, jesus longest prayer, jesus prayer john 17, living in God’s will, lords prayer john 17, obedience to gods will, prayer and obedience, praying like jesus, Ultimate Christian Podcast Network

Unworthy Of God

June 15, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Feeling unworthy of God or God’s love? You’re not alone. In this episode of A Few Minutes with God Podcast, Felice Gerwitz explores God’s mercy and how it transforms our hearts. Learn how to overcome feelings of inadequacy with these powerful scriptures and practical steps. Don’t miss this uplifting message—read on and share with a friend!

Unworthy of God? Discover His Boundless Mercy ~ Episode 353

Welcome, friends, to a reflection inspired by the latest episode of A Few Minutes with God Podcast! Today, we’re tackling a topic that many of us know well: feeling unworthy of God. If you’ve ever felt like you fall short or wondered if God could possibly love you despite your flaws, this post is for you. Let’s explore the beauty of God’s mercy and how it lifts us up, no matter where we are. If you love this message, please share it with a friend and subscribe to the podcast for weekly encouragement! I also want to remind you to take out your Bible and prayer journal if you have one.

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

Do You Feel Unworthy of God?

As a Christian, I often wonder if God is frustrated with me. I try to serve Him through prayer and obedience, but let’s be honest—I’m human, and I stumble. Maybe you feel the same way. You want to live for God, but those moments of doubt or failure creep in, making you feel insignificant. The good news? God doesn’t need our perfection; He desires our hearts. His mercy is boundless, and it’s available to us every single day. Praise God for that! Every day is a new day.

There are four powerful scriptures that remind me of God’s love and mercy, even when I feel unworthy, which is often. As I get older I feel less worthy, but the good news is that when this happens I rebuke it in the precious Name of God! The enemy does not want us to think or believe that God is merciful, and often this misinformation creeps in. So, today I’ll share practical ways to embrace His grace and love into your daily life.

Scripture 1: God’s Mercy Is Steadfast

Let’s begin with a verse that shows us the character of the Almighty God. In Psalm 103:8, we read:

“The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”

This verse is a reminder that God isn’t quick to judge or condemn us. Yet He is a merciful and just God. He is there, waiting for us, ready to meet us no matter where we are in our faith walk. Maybe you are just getting started in your faith journey, or maybe you’ve been on this road a long time. Either way, we can feel like we have fallen short. When you feel unworthy, hold onto this truth: God’s love for you is unwavering.

Application: Write down Psalm 103:8 and place it somewhere you’ll see it daily, like your mirror or workspace. Let it remind you of God’s patience and love.

Scripture 2: You Are Valued by God

In my little corner of the world, I sometimes feel so small. But God sees me, and He sees you. Our efforts, no matter how small, matter to Him. Luke 12:7 says:

“Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.”

God knows every detail about you. You are never insignificant in His eyes. When feelings of unworthiness creep in, remember that you are precious to Him. I love this verse because it reminds me that we are not only important, but we are seen. That is a big buzzword right now: “feeling seen” and recognized for who we are. But how much more important is it to be the person God created you to be? And how wonderful that God sees us. Sure, we all need to improve, yet He is there waiting.

Application: Take a moment to thank God for His personal love for you. Journal about a time when you felt seen or valued by Him. If you can’t think of anything, thank Him for the gift of life!

Scripture 3: God is Waiting

Can you believe that? God is waiting for you and me? And the best thing is we don’t have to earn His love. The image of the Father running to us, as in the Prodigal Son, or Jesus knocking at the door, waiting for us to invite Him in, reminds us of His relentless love.

A fitting verse is Revelation 3:20

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.”

This verse beautifully captures the imagery of Jesus, knocking at the door of our hearts, waiting for us to open it. The handle is on our side, symbolizing our free will to invite Him in. God’s love is always there, but He waits for us to respond, to show we care by opening our hearts to Him. When we do, He doesn’t just enter—He comes to dwell with us, sharing an intimate relationship. God is a gentleman. He doesn’t push Himself on us; instead, He is patient and kind.

This scripture reminds us that even when we feel unworthy, God’s arms are open wide. We don’t have to earn His love; we simply need to turn to Him. For more on God’s constant presence, check out my episode Not Abandoned, where I explore how God never leaves us.

Application: Take a moment to pray and ask Jesus to help you open the door of your heart. Journal about what it means to you to know He’s waiting to come in.

Scripture 4: Mercy Brings New Life

Finally, let’s look at Ephesians 2:4-5:

“But God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ.”

God’s mercy doesn’t just bring us forgiveness. It gives us new life, a spiritual life of abundance and grace. When you feel like you’ve failed, His grace restores you. This is the heart of the Gospel! God’s love for us is renewed daily and when we are open to it, wonderful things happen.

Application: Each morning, pray a simple prayer of gratitude for God’s mercy. Ask Him to help you live in the freedom of His love.

How to Respond to God’s Mercy

So, how do we live in light of this incredible mercy? For me, it’s through prayer and striving to obey God’s teachings, even when I don’t get it right which is more times than I care to admit. Another verse, 1 John 1:9, offers hope:

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

This verse is like a reset button. When we mess up, we can come to God, confess our sins, and trust in His forgiveness. Feeling unworthy doesn’t disqualify you from God’s love—it’s an invitation to lean into His mercy. How often? Daily.

Next Steps:

Pray: Spend a few minutes each day thanking God for His mercy. Use my book, A Few Minutes with God, for guided reflections.
Journal: Write about how God’s mercy has shown up in your life. What scriptures encourage you?
Connect: Join our A Few Minutes with God Facebook group (facebook.com/groups/AFewMinutesWithGod) to share prayer requests and praise reports.

More Encouragement from A Few Minutes with God

If this message resonated with you, I invite you to listen to the full podcast episode, Unworthy of God, at ultimateradioshow.com. For more on God’s constant presence, check out these favorite episodes:

Not Abandoned: Discover how God never leaves you, even when you feel far from Him.
Calm in the Storm: Learn how God’s peace sustains you through challenges.

These episodes, along with others at The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, are designed to encourage your faith journey.

Let’s Pray Together

Let’s close with a prayer: Lord, thank You for Your mercy that never fails. When I feel unworthy, remind me of Your love and forgiveness. Help me to trust in Your grace and live for You each day. Amen.

Thank you for joining me, friends! I pray this post has encouraged you to embrace God’s mercy and let go of feelings of unworthiness. If it blessed you, please share it with a friend and follow us on Instagram. For more resources, visit mediaangels.com.

Call to Action: Subscribe to A Few Minutes with God Podcast on Spotify, iHeartRadio, or your favorite podcast app. Let’s grow in faith together!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Bible verses about mercy, Catholic podcast, Christian Encouragement, feeling unworthy, God's mercy, overcoming doubt

Pleasing God

June 8, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Pleasing God – Episode 183

Pleasing God is easier than you think! Is there any way that we can be pleasing to God? Is there anything we can do to earn God’s love? Is this something we should even attempt? In this podcast, we will discuss several ways.

Thanks to our sponsor… CTCMath – this is a curriculum company that can help a child to really understand and learn math in a way that will not bog them down! Visit CTCMath.com for a free lesson and pass this on to a friend.

Okay – pleasing God, can you do it? Should you do it? IS this attainable. Pleasing God seems like a formidable task. But the good news is if you do not believe in God is that you can’t.

Hebrews 11: 6 states … And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

So, let’s say for the sake of argument you want to please God … the first place to begin is with your relationship.

When you look at our relationship with God what do you think? If you can stop this audio to think about this for a minute please do… okay so what came to mind as you considered this question?

Maybe you said:

Pleasing God is doing what is right and just.
Pleasing God is not doing anything I want to do.
Pleasing God means having self-control.
Pleasing God is impossible. Or…
Pleasing God is like is like trying to please a parent.

When we talk about faith there is room for feelings and for some of us, we feel like we are a lost cause and swimming against the flow. Here is the thing…

When was the last time you tried to please a parent? As a parent (if you are one) when was the last time your child did something that was pleasing for you?

We don’t think in those terms, do we? We do not act out of respect, or concern or even of love just to please someone we do it just because. If we love someone we want them to be happy, we want to share the love we have for them with time, with gifts or with giving of ourselves. When we love God how do we show the Almighty our love for Him? This may be something you have never considered before because we are so caught up on the Thou Shall Nots instead of the amazing gift of life and freedom that God has given to us.

When we look at the Fall – the Garden of Eden and the beautiful world God created without sin, we only see the sin – we think about that tree – of Good and Evil. God did not want us to suffer, He wanted us to live in paradise. And, we hope and we pray that this is what heaven is – a paradise that has been created for the righteous which can only be justified by the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Christ asks us to turn from sin and to follow Him. That’s it.

That is why Hebrews 11:6 starts by laying the groundwork of faith. Praising God isn’t as hard if our faith is at the center, and with faith comes what? The Holy Spirit is our guide. Not in the new age way of spirit God, please!! Heaven forbid. But in the third person of the Trinity – sent by God – After Jesus rose from the dead and spent time with the various disciples and Mary his mother and Mary Magdelene he rose up to heaven. We read about this in Acts 1-9 [on air]

God sent his Spirit – and this was called Pentecost. Today, we can receive the Holy Spirit into our hearts, in church Sacramentally or in prayer. Again we read about this in 1 John 3:24

We know by the Spirit HE gave us!

When we think about things in our life we can see that pleasing God is not as difficult as we think. Think about the joys of your life. Are you content? Is there an issue in your life if it could be handled or changed that would make you happy? Or how about happier? Of course, in each of our lives, there is something that could add to our happiness. But, the true things that bring us happiness are the things that money can not buy. Buying more things usually brings a short-term happiness, contentment or joy but not long-term!

Romans 8:9

You, however, are controlled not by the flesh, but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.

Pleasing God starts with faith and after that, it is way easier than you think – pleasing God is something we want to do – no, we crave doing because of our relationship with HIM – there is an old saying about trying to outgive God, we can’t. It is impossible, the more we give God the more we receive.

Lately, my life has been filled with miracles some big and small – one is a serious surgery we thought my husband would need concerning his spine – not only is the surgery unnecessary, but the doctor’s words were…. Well, you had a serious problem, but your body healed itself. Wow, how does that happen? It is a miracle. And the small things like a toothache and when calling that day, an opening for a dentist appointment was available later in the afternoon. That never happens!

Pleasing God, friends is living our lives and worshiping the creator and it can’t get any better than that!

Let’s pray. Dear Lord thank you for all the blessings and the miracles that surround us each and every day, those we see and those that happen in our lives without us even knowing. I praise you and I thank you and I ask that you help me to be pleasing to my family, my friends, and most of all to you dear God. You are the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. We praise you and are in awe of your gifts. Dear Lord, I ask for the following needs: and I pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Peace Works Against Fear

June 1, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Remember, peace works against fear, it really does, and we must unite as Christians against the bombardment of fear that permeates our airwaves. Fear is one of the mechanisms that can keep us in bondage. In this podcast, I’ll share how peace works against fear, and in the Name of Jesus, we can be shielded and protected.

Peace Works Against Fear ~ Episode 372

Fear is one of the enemy’s most effective tools to keep us in bondage, but the peace of Christ Jesus shatters its hold. In this episode of A Few Minutes with God, we explore how God’s peace actively works against fear, shielding and protecting us in His holy Name.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

The Influx of Fear in Our Daily Lives

Inboxes and headlines often direct our attention to topics that stir anxiety. Recent years (especially 2021–2023) brought isolation, loss, confusion, and psychological pressure that many still feel today. History will judge this era harshly, yet the daily drip of bad news continues. Bad news sells, but it robs us of peace. Our bodies remain in a constant state of fight-or-flight when we consume fear-driven media.

As Christians, we are called to something greater. Peace is not the absence of trouble—it is the presence of Jesus Christ in our hearts. Perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18), and God offers us that perfect peace. Yet, it is easier said than done! Getting the head knowledge down to the heart is another issue altogether. Stress seems to follow me around, and it translates into a feeling of doom when I don’t allow myself the time to pray to attend Mass or, at the very least, thank and praise God.

If you can make a list of your favorite Bible verses that focus on peace. You can refer to this in your prayer journal when you are overwhelmed. If you don’t have a prayer journal, start one today. It doesn’t have to be massive. It can be a small book with a side pen that doesn’t take up much room. I take mine to church to jot down notes and highlight Bible verses I want to read later. This is, once again, a great reference for the times I forget that God is with me. I’ve listed five in my show notes. Use those as a jumping-off point and list five of your own.

Scripture Verses: Peace Works Against Fear

Here are powerful truths from God’s Word to arm you:

1 John 4:18 — “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and he who fears is not perfected in love.”
John 14:27 — “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
Isaiah 41:10 — “Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.”
Philippians 4:6-7 — “Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Psalm 27:1 — “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”

A list of Bible verses is not empty words—they are living promises. Take them to heart through daily prayer and meditation.

Two Simple Actions This Week to Replace Fear with Peace

Examine Your Routine: Identify what robs you of peace—news feeds, certain conversations, social media, or worries about the future. Replace those triggers with thanksgiving and uplifting content from trusted sources. I have my favorites; once again, make a list of your own.
Seek the Lord Daily: Ask Him each morning to direct your path, fill you with joy, and shield you from fear. Praise and worship lift us into the heavenly realm even in our homes. Try playing Gregorian Chant or sacred music in the background—notice the shift in your spirit.

Thanking the Lord daily for His blessings is a powerful weapon against fear. In this podcast, I’m focusing more on external forces that rob us of our peace and joy.

Why This Matters Today

In a world pushing fear as a constant companion, we can choose the peace that surpasses understanding. I reject the spirit of fear in the precious Name of the Lord, and I can embrace the joy of the Lord! Does that always work to restore my peace and joy? No, but I will fight for it daily. I know that my prayers matter. I know that God hears me. I know, that I know, that I know that He died for me, rose from the dead in three days and is reigning in heaven. This temporary world is a place I can live, but ultimately my goal is heaven. Therefore, I know that while I pray, I must avoid the needless bombardment of fear-mongering and lies, so that I can keep my eyes more fully on Him.

Dear Lord, I pray for those listening today that you fill them with discernment to root out the lies of the enemy, to focus on the ways that the enemy has deceived them, and to give them the strength and fortitude to turn to you in times of need. I come against the spirit of fear in the Name of Jesus and ask You, Lord, to send Your angels to combat it alongside us. And I pray this in Jesus Name. Amen.

Listen to the full episode on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network and share it with someone battling anxiety. God’s peace is available to you right now.

More Encouragement from A Few Minutes with God Podcast

Combating Fear – Practical tools from Scripture to fight fear.
Overcoming Fear – Finding victory in Christ amid uncertainty.
Faith Overcomes Fear – Living boldly through trust in God.
Cure For Fear – Weapons and tools from Almighty God.
Peace of Mind – Restoring calm through prayer and trust.

May the Lord bless you with His unshakable peace. Spend a few minutes with God today—He is waiting. Until next time, walk in faith, not fear.

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: 1 John 4:18, a few minutes with god, Bible verses on fear, Catholic encouragement, Catholic podcast fear, Christian podcast anxiety, Christian tools against anxiety, daily prayer for peace, faith over fear, fear and bad news, Felice Gerwitz, fight fear with Scripture, God’s peace, Gregorian Chant peace, Isaiah 41:10 fear not, Jesus shields from fear, John 14:27 peace, overcoming fear with peace, peace of Christ, peace works against fear, perfect love casts out fear, perfect peace RSVCE, Philippians 4:6-7, praise worship overcomes fear, spiritual warfare fear, thanksgiving defeats fear, Ultimate Christian Podcast Network

Peacemakers

May 26, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Who are the peacemakers? Are you a peacemaker, and do you find yourself in that role? What does the Holy Bible say? This podcast discusses being a peacemaker and how we can all strive to do our part.

Peacemakers ~ Episode

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

If you look up the word online, you will find that being a peacemaker is not a good thing. In all fairness, this information came from a search using the latest AI technology, artificial intelligence. There have always been computer programs that search for keywords and match websites with the words. However, the latest technology gives a synopsis of what is found in literal seconds, which needs to be corrected. One of the reasons is technology does not have a heart; a human element is missing.

My search showed me that a peacemaker is drawn to those who disagree and are typically worn out or frustrated, and it is a person who does not take care of themselves. While all of that can be correct, making a blanket statement in some people is not always good. It is said that peacemakers are not assertive. How can you be a peacemaker without speaking up and trying to see things from different sides? That requires diplomacy. Sure, not everyone is diplomatic, but it is a gift if you are. I try to see things from both sides outside my family, and the frustration comes when I can not understand an evil motivation. I can not computer things like abortion on demand or late-term abortion. In truth, I can not understand abortion at all, the killing of a life. In some states, legally. As one popular television personality said, he was for abortion. He agreed it was murder, and he said he could live with that thought and urged abortion advocates to embrace that terminology.

Wow. Our world is a place where evil is recognized and allowed. And we should all be okay with it—are you? We must pray, dear friends, because there is good news. The good news is that Jesus reigns now and forever, and evil has no hold over those who profess Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior (if they live holy and, in my case, sacramental lives).

When we discuss the word peace in a religious context, we are talking about a feeling that comes from an action. This can be caused by an action on our part, being in a quiet room, reading a scripture verse, and meditating on the meaning, which comes from God’s grace. However, a peacemaker can refrain from using words that can incite or cause problems or dissension. A peacemaker can see a situation that has gotten out of control and turn it around into one that is diffused, forcing those in disagreement to agree or compromise.

Recently, I watched someone do this effortlessly. This person took a volatile situation filled with misunderstanding and frustration and, in a few sentences, told each of those affected what the other was trying to say diplomatically. I was impressed. It caused me to think and consider the idea of being a peacemaker. Who are those who strive for peace, and how are they rewarded? As the scriptures tell us – we are told, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Wow! I want to be called a child of God.

I have to admit that I have not always been a peacemaker outside my family. It is sometimes easy to get others riled up, and it is under the guise of teasing, just having fun, or trying to make a point. I realized that it did more harm than good, and while I am not being specific here in my examples, I believe we can all look at our own lives and find situations where we could have used our words more effectively and in a way that would do good rather than harm.

Being a peacemaker is a good thing. In the Bible, we have Christ’s wonderful words when he was surrounded by the crowds. The Beatitudes contain words we should read daily (read on air).

These are words we should read daily. I remember reading these words back in my smart-aleck days and thinking, well, I’m no meek or humble; I’m in trouble! Friends, I was laughing at myself here and kidding around, but I had much work to do on my spiritual journey! It has been quite the journey, and the Lord is still working with me—praise you, Jesus!

Being a peacemaker in this world means making a conscious effort to examine your words, what you are saying, and how they impact the lives of others. Words matter. (More on air.)

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Combating Fear | A Few Minutes with God Podcast

May 18, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Combating Fear

Podcast # 27

Combating fear is something we all want. Do you worry about things? Join the club – don’t we all? But in this episode I am going to discuss fear, the result of worry and how we, as Christians, armed with the promises of God can combat the fear and turn it to victory!

Thanks to our sponsors, Media Angels, Inc. A Few Minutes with God, The Journey Begins + CTCMath.com

Show Notes: Combating Fear

Fear gets us nowhere. It is a dead-end street that has us walking the same path again and again. It is the place that the enemy would like us to remain in because let’s face it — fear is a bondage. Fear is from the enemy.

2 Timothy 1:7

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.

Yet, God built us to fear if we sense danger. Fear does in essence help to protect us – if we sense something instinctively it can help us to survive. Fear is natural, it keeps us away from those things that could hurt us or bad choices.

The bible also tells us that “fear of the Lord is the beginning of all understanding,” how do we take that verse? What we fear is the judgment of the Lord. If you are a follower of Christ and want to do His will – you should not fear judgment, but you should remember it as you live your life.

God is our light – He is the guiding beacon in the midst of our fears. We can have the courage to deal with the things that happen in our lives and what that takes is praying to overcome the fear. Prayer and reading Scripture verses and memorizing some can help. Another help is using acronyms to help us.

When speaking about fear in the spiritual sense, when we allow worry to cloud our thoughts and overtake our lives realize we are giving the spirit of fear permission to reside in us. The first step is in renouncing the spirit of fear.

In the Name of Jesus, I come against the spirit of fear and I renounce it – I do not give fear dominion in my life. I break any chains of fear in my life and offer it to you, Lord. Lord, I give you permission to come into my life with joy, the joy that surpasses all understanding and that reigns in the knowledge that you are in control of my life.

Here are some wonderful scriptures to write in your journal under the title of “Combating Fear” and pray, say, and memorize these wonderful scriptures:

1 John 4:18: “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.”
Proverbs 29:25: “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.”
Matthew 10:31 “So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
Proverbs 1:7 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk in the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff comfort me.”
Psalm 91:14 – “Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.”
Romans 8:30-31 – “And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Psalm 118:6: “The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
Psalm 27:1: “The Lord is my light and my salvation–whom shall I fear?”
Luke 1:30: “But the angels said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God.”

If you are fearful and have never repented of the spirit of fear, let’s pray! (Prayer at the end of the audio.)

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Faith Time Capsule

May 11, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

What if you could open a “faith time capsule” and see exactly where your walk with the Lord began, and how far He has brought you? In this uplifting episode, Felice Gerwitz explores the Road to Emmaus, the power of reflection, and the unexpected ways Jesus shows up in our daily lives.

You’ll be encouraged to take inventory of your faith, realign your focus, and trust that God is still writing your story. Perfect for anyone seeking encouragement, renewal, or a deeper appreciation for God’s faithfulness through every season. View many more podcasts on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network.

Faith Time Capsule: Reflecting on Your Faith Journey and Seeing God’s Hand

Introduction: Your Faith Time Capsule

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Have you ever wished you could go back in time and view your faith journey like a time capsule? What would you see? Would you notice big gains, faltering steps, or those quiet moments when God held you securely in the palm of His hand?

Today, I invite and challenge you to pause and reflect. Jesus often comes into our lives in the most unexpected ways, just as He did for the disciples on the Road to Emmaus. They walked right beside the risen Lord and didn’t recognize Him at first. Their eyes were prevented from seeing the obvious until He opened the Scriptures to them.(Luke 24:16)“But their eyes were prevented from recognizing him.”

When we read the Word of God, it enters our hearts in a powerful way, especially when we pray and ask the Lord for His help and guidance. I’ve caught myself reading the Bible or a Scripture passage, and I stop and re-read it again, because I don’t remember what I just read! This often happens if it is a familiar passage. When I stop and reread the passage, it is often impactful!

On the road to Emmaus, once the disciples recognized Jesus, He vanished, they said to one another: (Luke 24:32)

What are we overlooking in our own daily lives? Sometimes the best thing we can do is stop, take inventory, and let the Lord show us what truly matters. And sometimes that means rereading a Scripture passage and taking some time to quiet our hearts and let the words penetrate.

The Road to Emmaus: Eyes Opened to the Unexpected

The disciples had been with Jesus for years, yet they still missed Him in their midst. How often does that happen to us? We rush through our days, focused on projects, tasks, and to-do lists, and fail to see the Lord walking beside us.

God’s presence is not dramatic. He meets us in the ordinary, sometimes in the very place where we feel most stuck. When we slow down and invite Him in, our hearts burn with recognition, just as the disciples’ did.

Taking Inventory: What Are We Overlooking?

After my recent cataract surgery, I was forced to rest. For someone who is always moving from one project to the next, this “rest” felt harder than the procedure itself! Yet in those quiet moments of discomfort and recovery, I learned I wasn’t as patient as I thought. A tiny bit of physical challenge opened my eyes to how truly blessed I have been.

All of a sudden, things looked brighter. I didn’t realize that cataracts, which develop slowly over the years, can dull your vision. Things are whiter, and the world physically looks brighter. It made me consider what else in my spiritual life has been dulled through the years and ways I have been unaware of it. In this way, sin can dull our spiritual lives. When we allow sin to creep in, a small lie here, gossiping about our friend there, our souls become dull.

Instead of reaching for a spiritual book or listening to a spiritual topic, I go for the low fruit, something entertaining instead of challenging. Sometimes I’ll “assign” myself reading material, take an inventory of my bookshelves, pull off two or three books I’ve been meaning to read, and leave them in places where I will see them. This small thing helps me to achieve my goals without overthinking them.

In my downtime, God came to me in ways I would never have noticed if I hadn’t stopped to appreciate the healing process. He reminded me that even small trials can refine us. (James 1:2-4)

What about you? What is important in your life right now? Your focus reveals where your heart is right now, and today is the perfect time to take stock and make changes. Small changes, as I did.

A Personal Lesson in Rest, Healing, and God’s Timing

During recovery, I realized how much I take for granted. Simple things like clear vision unexpectedly became reasons for gratitude. The Lord showed up in those quiet moments of discomfort, teaching me patience and trust in ways I never expected.

Faith doesn’t always increase steadily with age. It grows in different seasons—through joys, trials, surgeries, and ordinary days—when the Lord steps in exactly when we need Him most.

(Philippians 1:6)

(Jeremiah 29:11)

What Matters Most Now? Realigning Your Focus

Take a moment today and ask: “Lord, what do You want me to see?” Seek first His kingdom, and everything else falls into place. (Matthew 6:33)

Favorite Verse: (Proverbs 3:5-6)

When we look back, we see God’s hand guiding us. Even through faltering steps, going against His will and His plans for us. He never abandons us.

Faith Increases in God’s Perfect Timing

The truth is that our faith grows precisely when we need it most. Whether you’re in a season of rest, recovery, or rapid growth, the Lord is there. When I was younger, I entered everything with great zeal and expectation. I can’t say much has changed other than slowing down. I still have great expectations, and you should too! God is there for us, and we can look to the Word of God for this affirmation.

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

We walk by faith, not by sight, and yes, this verse takes on a whole new meaning for me now! 2 Corinthians 4:18

Open Your Faith Time Capsule Today

Friends, open your own faith time capsule this week. Look back with gratitude. Look forward with hope. Jesus is walking with you right now, just as He walked with the disciples on the road to Emmaus. We know in our minds and our intellect that God will not forsake us yet we need to see this with our spiritual eyes as well.

Let’s pray together: Heavenly Father, I praise you and I thank you. Thank you is such a weak word for what I feel in my heart. I praise You for every step of my faith journey. Thank you for opening my eyes to see You in the unexpected. Help us to trust Your perfect will and Your perfect timing and allow us to seek Your kingdom first. In the name of Jesus, Amen!

Thank you for spending time with me today. If this episode blessed you, please share it with a friend and leave a review. Your faith journey matters—God is not finished with you or me yet!

For more encouragement on your faith journey, check out these additional episodes from A Few Minutes with God on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:

Not Abandoned – https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/not-abandoned/
Trust in God – https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/trust-in-god/
Renew Your Mind – https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/renew-your-mind/
Faith In Action: Living Your Faith Boldly – https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/faith-in-action/
Your God Given Purpose – https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/your-god-given-purpose/

Listen now on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network or your favorite podcast app.

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: bible verses, Catholic, Christian, Christian assurance, Christian faith, christian faith encouragement, faith in Christ, Faith Journey, growing in faith, love of God

Strengthening Your Faith

May 4, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Many people exercise their bodies but not their souls. Strengthening your faith takes time and effort, similar to getting into physical shape. In this podcast we explore ways to enhance your faith journey.

Strengthening Your Faith ~ Episode 370

Welcome back to A Few Minutes with God Podcast! In a recent episode, we explored how to put our faith into action—living it out through love, service, and sharing the Good News.

Today, Episode 370 dives deeper into Strengthening Your Faith. How do we build a faith that is not only active but also deep, resilient, and unshakable? That is the vital question we should ask ourselves.

Faith is like a muscle—it grows stronger with use, yet it also requires daily nourishment and spiritual discipline. Whether your faith has wavered in difficult seasons or you long to draw closer to Christ, strengthening your faith is a lifelong journey that equips you to live out His call with courage and joy.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

The Foundation of Faith: Assurance in the Unseen

Scripture gives us the very definition of faith. In Hebrews 11:1 (RSVCE), we read: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” This verse shows us that our trust in God’s promises is important even when the path ahead is hidden. True faith is not blind; it is rooted in the living God who never fails. Read the entire chapter of Hebrews 11; it recaps the faith throughout Biblical history, with Enoch and Abraham as examples for us. The idea of faith isn’t new, and sadly, the faith placed in politicians, athletes, or actors is a distraction.

Deepening Your Faith Through Prayer

One of the most powerful ways to strengthen faith is through prayer—not just a list of requests, but a heartfelt conversation with the Lord. Prayer draws us into His presence and reminds us He is always near. Taking the time, just a few minutes (or longer) a day, exercises your spiritual muscle.

I remember a spiritually dry season when life felt overwhelming, and my prayers became routine. Through an inspiration which I can only attribute to the Holy Spirit, I committed to just five quiet minutes each morning, sitting with God and listening. No fanfare, no charts or books, or a checklist of what I expected to happen. Just a blank journal, a Bible, and time. Over a period of dedicated time, His peace filled my heart. As Philippians 4:6-7 (RSVCE) encourages: “Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Illuminating Your Path with God’s Word

Another essential key is immersing ourselves in Scripture. Psalm 119:105 (RSVCE) declares, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Even one verse a day can transform our outlook. Try reading the Gospel of John slowly—one chapter daily—asking the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart. The Bible is God’s living Word that reveals His truth, love, and perfect plan. As 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (RSVCE) reminds us: “All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

Consider these words. They are not just “nice” or “encouraging, they are true! God’s Word is a lamp; all scripture is inspired! God is here today just for you and for me. He is here waiting for us to give Him the time He rightly deserves.

Growing Stronger in Community

We are not meant to walk this journey alone. Surrounding yourself with fellow believers—through your parish, a Bible study, or a prayer group—builds encouragement and accountability. I once joined a small faith-sharing group at my parish, and hearing others’ stories of struggle and victory inspired me to persevere. I’ve recently joined another monthly prayer group, and it, too, has encouraged me to grow in faith.

Proverbs 27:17 (RSVCE) tells us, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Even more beautifully (if that is possible), Hebrews 10:24-25 (RSVCE) urges: “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another.”

Faith isn’t exclusive. It isn’t faith or works, but both together. One is the manifestation of the other, and while both have value, only through Christ are they redemptive. Being alone with the Lord is also valuable, but encouragement from others of faith is what often keeps us strong.

Trusting God Through Trials and Tribulations

Strengthening faith also means trusting God amid life’s storms. Doubts may arise when circumstances turn difficult, yet our Lord is never surprised by our trials. As I reflected on Maria Vadia’s inspiring book Healing is For You!, I was reminded that true healing—especially spiritual healing—flows from a relationship with Jesus, not from visible signs alone. Her book, every other sentence, almost, has a scripture verse that proves her point. It is a call from the Lord to be healed inside and outside.

As frail humans, we can fall into conditional faith, but God calls us to deeper trust. The “prosperity gospel” that promises health and wealth if we believe hard enough misses the heart of the Gospel. Jesus taught the narrow road: “Enter by the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is easy, that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard, that leads to life, and those who find it are few” (Matthew 7:13-14 RSVCE).

Trials produce endurance. James 1:2-4 (RSVCE) beautifully explains: “Count it all joy, my brethren, when you meet various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”

Spiritual Endurance: Running the Race of Faith

Watching my son, who recently visited, run four to six miles in the hot, humid Florida mornings reminded me of spiritual discipline. He runs for his health, his job, and his goals—not because it feels easy, but because the results are worth it. The same is true for us. Life demands endurance, yet we often choose scrolling or entertainment over the challenge that deepens our faith.

God calls us to run with perseverance. Hebrews 12:1-2 (RSVCE) invites: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.”

Strengthening your faith is not a one-time event but a daily choice to pray, immerse yourself in Scripture, walk in community, and trust God through every trial. Like a well-trained runner, you will face discomfort, yet the reward—deeper intimacy with Christ, unshakeable peace, and eternal inheritance—far surpasses any hardship. May you run this race with courage, knowing Jesus walks beside you, equipping you every step of the way. Your faith, strengthened by grace, will become a beacon of hope for a world in need of the Savior.

Amen!

For more encouragement on growing in faith, check out these related episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:

Thank you for listening and sharing this episode! Visit AFewMinuteswithGodPodcast.com for show notes, and subscribe on your favorite podcast app.

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, Christian Podcast, faith, prayer and scripture, Spiritual Growth, strengthening your faith

Magnificat® Proclaims, Episode 16, Judy Zelden – The Power of Faith and Prayer

May 1, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

For Ultimate Christian Podcast Network

Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims, Episode 16, Judy Zelden – The Power of Faith and Prayer

Magnificat® Ministry presents Magnificat® Proclaims. In this episode, Judy Zelden, wife of Mike Zelden, is a mother of three and grandmother of nine.

She helped found Magnificat in 1981, moved with her family to Baton Rouge in 1983, and served as a guidance counselor at Catholic schools. Judy returned to Magnificat’s Central Service Team (CST) from 1991 to 2008 and has since been on the CST Advisory Team. She authored a women’s Bible study called Woman, Called By Name which debuted in 2015 and released another Bible study in 2021, “Woman, Called and Sent for Such a Time As This.” Both studies received an imprimatur and were featured in popular webinars.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Magnificat® Ministry Presents Magnificat® Proclaims.

The Podcast is a platform for inspiring testimonies that showcase God’s goodness, greatness, and grace in our lives. These testimonies not only inform and educate but also encourage and inspire us to develop, deepen, and cultivate our relationship with the Triune God. The show hosts are Monique Moussot and Maryann Ridini Spencer.

Please SUBSCRIBE, LIKE & SHARE Magnificat® Ministry’s Podcasts

Watch the video podcast of this episode on Magnificat Ministry’s YouTube Channel at https://youtube.com/@MagnificatMinistry

Visit: Magnificat® A Ministry to Catholic Women website and peruse the Magnificat Proclaims books in the store: https://magnificat-ministry.org

LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS on The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, iTunes, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and other channels: Magnificat® Proclaims: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry/

The Magnificat® Ministry Podcast is also heard on EWTN’s Podcast Central (scroll to our Podcast Icon) on this page: https://www.ewtn.com/radio/other-podcasts

About Magnificat® Ministry

Founded in 1981, Magnificat®, A Ministry to Catholic Women, an international nonprofit with over 70 Chapters across the globe, exists to evangelize and encourage Catholic women to grow in holiness through opening more fully to the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. “My Soul Magnifies the Lord,” recorded in Luke 1:46, is the beginning of Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s joyful greeting. The entire scene of the Visitation is the inspiration for this Ministry. Through quarterly gatherings that include a Chapter Meal, praise and worship, guest speakers proclaiming their testimonies as to how God has transformed their lives, and other faith-sharing experiences organized in a relaxed social setting, women (and men) are inspired and encouraged to grow in faith through the power of the Holy Spirit. Visit: https://magnificat-ministry.org

All Magnificat® Ministry Podcasts: https://ultimatechristianpodcastnetwork.com/magnificatministry

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God, Magnificat Ministry Podcast, Magnificat® Proclaims, Shows Tagged With: catholic podcast episode, Catholic Women Ministry, christian testimony podcast, holy spirit faith, judy zelden, Magnificat Ministry, Magnificat Proclaims, power of faith and prayer, prayer life encouragement, spiritual growth testimony, women bible study christian

Christian Unity (Replay)

April 27, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Christian Unity ~ Uniting God’s People

Episode 310: Exploring Christian Unity based on Ephesians 4:1-6

How can we have Christian unity when we can’t even get along with those we live with and love? The same goes for world peace. How can we expect World Peace when we argue with our spouse or friends? If we can’t get along with those we like, how can we find common ground among various nations? Our world is falling apart, friends. Right before our eyes, today is the day to pray like never before.

Thanks to CTCMath.com for sponsoring this episode. CTC is a math curriculum found online for grades K-12.

Today is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. (Psalm 118:24) So we begin with praise, rejoicing in the day and giving God all the glory. As I’ve shared many times on this podcast, we praise God and thank Him even in the midst of trial and adversity. Things are falling apart all around us, and we praise God. One of the reasons is because, yes, God is worthy of praise. The other is because it helps remind us that we are not in this alone. Even if you are driving by yourself, taking a walk, or at your home alone, God is with you.

Once we have praised God, we put on God’s armor. Ephesians 6:10-18. Don’t just read it, pray it. Slowly and with meaning. We ask the Lord for protection against evil one. Why? Because he is the disrupter and the one who causes the division. This began in the Garden and continues today.

Christian Unity Starts Here:

Where does Christian unity begin? It begins with me—right here, right now. It doesn’t start with my neighbor, my friend, or my spouse. I don’t stop to pick up the phone and say, “Hey, you really need to get with it and be united.” It won’t work. For there to be peace, it starts with me. Mother Teresa famously said this about peace: “What can you do to promote world peace? Go home and love your family.”

So, it starts with me: what can I do and how can I do it?

A friend posted an article from a website, and I am posting the link here. The topic is the importance of Christian Unity. It goes on to explain the importance of doing our part (with the help of the Holy Spirit) to not be the cause of division, which means to guard us against temptation, guarding our mouths and what we say, and, more importantly, your social media posts.

When I read the title of the article, I was convicted to watch my words, especially among my family and friends.

As I write this, we are currently in an election cycle, and it can be horrible to read what people say and watch neighbors and friends become enemies. I lost friends during the last election cycle because I would not engage in conversation or be swayed by the beliefs of those who contacted me. They “unfriended” me on Facebook which truthfully hurt my feelings tremendously. In retrospect, while I had many champions for my cause, and the majority of friends agreed with me, I found that those who did not were steeped in a way of thinking I could not identify or understand. I am steeped in prayer this election cycle, making an effort to set aside time daily for our country and the disunity. And for the disunity in our world as well, with countless wars!

Jesus wants us united, yet He is well aware that the evil one is trying to wreck our lives. We read of this in

Ephesians 4:1-6 (read on air).

We are called to be “forbearing one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” How can we do this? There is only one way, with an infilling and an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. My prayer is something like this, “Dear Holy Spirit, come and fill me with to overflowing with your love, your peace, and your joy. Please fill me with love for my children and my spouse (name anyone close to you here). Fill me with love and compassion for those who I don’t like, and I don’t care to know. Help me to be faithful to you, my Lord, and help me never to be parted from unity with You. Holy Spirit, come.”

Create your own prayer or version of asking the Holy Spirit for help bringing unity and peace to your life and the lives of others.

The only way for us to have Christian unity is to pray and ask God for a deeper desire for peace in our hearts. Another thing the article said that resonated with me was to ask the Lord to keep us away from “every temptation of the enemy to rip us apart.” These are very wise words. We must avoid the temptation to get in the last word or to say something that might be considered funny yet hurtful. We must rally the troops and let your family and friends know what you are doing. This is not bragging (oh, look at me praying here); this is explaining a way of thinking that I believe most Christians will rally around and unite.

God loves us; He loves this fallen humanity of which we are a part, and He knows our needs before we even ask. Yet ask we must today. Begin now. Ask the Lord for peace and unity, and let it begin with me. May you be blessed now and forever.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

God First (Special Replay)

April 20, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

God First – Episode 226

When was the last time you put God first? Is God in your first thought of the day? No? How about the last thought? The struggle is real especially when life is overwhelming and seems to get in the way. Join Felice Gerwitz as she shares how she puts God first and the way she accomplishes this daily.

Our wonderful sponsor who helps bring this network to you for free, visit CTCMath.com for a great math curriculum for grades K-12

An elderly friend once shared that as she grew older, her understanding and awareness of her sinfulness increased. This self-awareness should not be limited to age, but due to the nature of most of our lifestyles, this unfortunately is the norm.

If we take time to reflect we will all realize we fall short. Yes, it is difficult to admit but true. We all have shortcomings but the way we handle them is the difference between living a life for God or against Him because somewhere in the middle does not count. The Scriptures remind us that G0d will spew us out of his mouth! In fact Revelations, 3 verses 15-22 will give you so much to unpack. There are five main themes that we hear in entire sermons based on this scripture. First let me share it with you. (Read on air.)

Unpacking Revelations 3 -A Few Points

Lukewarm faith
Don’t need God – own ability
Refined by fire
Repent
God knocking at the door
Ability to hear God’s Word

Let me read the verses in Revelations 3:15-22 (Read on air.)

Lukewarm faith – going through the motions. There is a song that really resonated with me for some time, the song’s title is The Motions by Matthew West. This was a song that hit hard because one of the lines says: (read onair.)

Matthew West was quoted as saying “The song is about complacency and a desire to “break free from the average, ordinary, lukewarm Christian life” – and that is what we need to do, break free of complacency. The thought is there is always tomorrow to pray, to read the Bible to attend church. But the saying goes that today is the “first day” of the rest of your life. We should look at each day as an opportunity not only to grow closer to God but to ask the Lord how to best serve Him.

Is this true of you? Don’t need God – own ability. There is a popular saying, “we make our own luck,” and I think I have always hated that phrase because to me it means I don’t need God. Yes, we should work hard, strive to do the best we can, get up and get going and not wait for handouts. However, we need God in the same way that we need air to breathe. That too is a Christian song, you may know it by its title “Breathe” (The Air I Breathe), and the original author Marie Barnett didn’t even mean to sing the lyrics (as a song leader) but was led to sing it spontaneously in church one Sunday. *You can read here story here. It made it to a Vinyard’s album and later was recorded by many artists such as Michael W. Smith. The words go like this (read on air). (Lyrics here.) Without God we would not even have air to breathe, so all the glory and honor go to Him! (Read Onair.)

Refined by fire – Interesting the Scripture states – counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire so that you may be rich – we are refined by fire but usually, that is a painful process and if we do not learn anything from the pain we will suffer again and again. In order to be rich we must learn from this refinement and praise God in all things, even those hardships.

Repent – The obvious here is to ask the Lord for forgiveness, but I want to take it one step further… we stay away from deepening our relationship with the Lord and putting God first when we are in sin. Like Adam and Eve were afraid to show their faces to the Lord, because of their sinfulness and their lack of repentance at that point, so too we are afraid of the justification for our sins. For every sin, there must be a payment. And sin, unfortunately, affects us all not only the person in sin.

God knocking at the door – We have discussed this in many other podcasts and it calls to mind a photo I have of the Lord knocking at the door, but the handle is on my side. God is the Almighty and can do anything, but God wants our hearts only when we give it to Him willingly. Unbelievers will say that religion is forced and there are all these rules and hoops to jump through — however, God has given us free will for a reason and a choice to follow Him, to let Him, to put God first or not.

Ability to hear God’s Word – recently in a prayer ministry meeting a friend recounted a story and said over and over again, “But I told this person specifically…” and she said this more than one time. It is interesting that we can talk to people and they do not hear or comprehend what we say even when we think it is crystal clear. The same with God’s word. It is crystal clear if we have our minds and hearts open to putting Him first.

There is so much more to unpack in those few lines of Scripture and I urge you and challenge you this week to meditate upon the words and make a plan, today to put God first in your life and to get yourself out of complacency and fire for the Lord, the Creator of Heaven and Earth! May God bless us today and always.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

God’s Love is Sufficient (Replay)

April 13, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

God’s Love Is Sufficient – Episode 182

Uncertainty surrounds our lives yet with God we know that His love is sufficient for all of our needs. In this podcast, learn how you can live a life that is free from worry, stress, and anger.

Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath for all of your children’s (grandchildren or friends and neighbors) math needs. Check out CTCMath.com for more information.

If you know your scriptures you are probably thinking – why is she talking about God’s love being sufficient when the scriptures say, my grace is sufficient: Read: 2 Corinthians 12:9

God’s grace is his love and his forgiveness – it is empowerment by the Holy Spirit that makes us strong in, as the scriptures say our time of weakness. Seriously God’s grace and love is sufficient? Really? When are we weak? When are we scared? When we have infirmities – illnesses?

God’s Love IS Sufficient

No one thinks their life is ideal. But if I asked you to take some time to design your ideal life what would be included? Would it be a house on the beach, listening to the waves crashing on the seashore? Or would it be a mountain retreat? What about an unlimited bank fund or maybe good health and happiness in your family? Each of our lists would be very, very long. But for most one of the missing elements is a relationship with God. Our ideal life surrounds our health and welfare, our temporal or temporary needs. We are often more interested in taking care of today, the right now rather than the forever.

We hold on tight to the things that don’t matter in the end.

An ideal life is free from worry, stress, anger, and heartache, to be free from illness … and the only way for this to happen is to have confidence in Almighty God. A stress-free – worry-free life is almost unimaginable. In fact, it is a difficult concept to grasp. Yet God’s love is all we need to live a life that is fulfilling.

This may be again, easier said than done. God is the God of Creation – He is after all the Creator God. Before original sin our lives would have been more astounding than our greatest dreams. One of the things that our first parents shared with the Creator was the gift of communication with Him. Communication is a form of relationship – communion is beyond speech, it is beyond what we can explain with words. This is what was recovered by the life – the example Christ gave to us, His death for redemption and the resurrection. The miracle. God is the only one who can restore us. This communion with God takes us to a level where we can let go of the things of this world. As a Catholic, I believe Holy Communion is the key because it is healing.

Recently we had a medical scare concerning my husband. We thought he might need surgery on his back – the neck region… and we know how back surgery can be – it can be great or the worse nightmares can happen. Well after months and months of tests, MRI, more scans, and even some he still has to go to later this month, we are at peace. The neuro-surgeon basically said my husband had a major issue but that his body had repaired itself, and the vertebrae he would have had to fuse in surgery was already done for him! What a miracle! What a gift from God.

It also turned out – which shows God’s sense of humor, that the surgeon and I chatted about his hometown which is also my hometown (I’m one of these people who read a doctor’s bio on their website), and it turns out he knew me, and I was his teacher in the 4^th grade when I was a college student and student-teaching in his classroom. Of course, I was blown away, and we laughed about the chances of meeting up again.

God is amazing and in this life, we can either praise God for all things – those we are scared and uncertain about and those things that are truly happy and amazing blessings in our life. God cares in everything we do even if we think that only bad things happen.

We are called to love God and realize that His grace and His love are all we need, but without a relationship, we cannot love someone we do not know. How do we know someone? We communicate with each other. Some may feel speaking to God is a one-way street. We talk, He listens. We hear nothing back. This takes practice and it takes the Holy Spirit. Have you availed yourself to the Holy Spirit? I attended what is called a Life in the Spirit Seminar in the 1990s and this changed my life. Here I learned that God not only wanted a personal relationship with me but that He wanted to pour His Spirit into my life in a way that I could experience, more fully what it means to be a Christian. People talk about finding faith and the honeymoon period. That is a period when they can’t get enough of reading the Bible or spending time in prayer or just meditating on the goodness of the Lord. They are so excited to share their faith and everything that God has done in their life with anyone – and I mean anyone who will listen.

The Holy Spirit allows Scriptures to become alive. When we read about Jesus healing the Lepers we think about this in terms of being there on the side roads and watching this take place. We feel the elation of those healed and we want to shout from the rooftops – God is a God of miracles. Everything else pales by comparison. We also realize that the things of this world are fleeting.

Sure we need money to live, to buy food, to pay for our bills – but that is not enough for most. Everyone has big dreams that include bigger homes, cars, and vacations, and a bigger, deeper relationship with the Lord is not necessarily high up on the list.

No wonder we are depressed, defeated, and feeling like no one cares or listens to what we have to say. So what can we do? Put aside all of our world aspirations – of course not, but maybe intersperse them with other goals and focuses.

First, when you read Scripture always pray to the Holy Spirit for the gift of knowledge, and ask that the Lord allows you to see the parts that really speak to you. Our lives have a way of refining all of the impurities and all of the things we need to release, but our strength is in that grace from God and that Knowledge that God’s love is all we need.

Let’s Pray – Dear Lord we thank you for all of the miracles in our lives for those things we see and for all of those things that are unseen. I praise you for the grace you give us and that is indeed sufficient and I thank you for the love you give for that is sufficient as well. I ask you Lord to bless those I pray for now and provide for all of their needs.. and I pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Challenge After Easter

April 6, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Challenge After Easter ~ Episode 249

What is the challenge after Easter? Have you even considered this a question? In this episode, Felice explores the idea of embracing each day with the remembrance of the Resurrection and living our lives as true Christian sons and daughters.

Thanks to our sponsor CTC math! Visit the website at CTCMath for more information about a great math curriculum.

Before Easter, many of us take the time to seek God in a deeper way as we consider His ultimate sacrifice. This time is called Lent, and it is the 40 days before Easter. Jesus spent 40 days in prayer in the desert before what is called his public ministry. It is an amazing example to us. Jesus spent this time in preparation, and He was tested.

The Easter season is always special, especially if you practice fasting, almsgiving, reconciliation, or confession. We examine our lives and look for ways to improve. Maybe we realize there are sins in our lives, and we make a point of changing for the better. Lent is practiced widely in the Catholic Church and begins on Ash Wednesday, a time of receiving ashes on the forehead at church with the words, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust, you shall return.” This a reminder that we do not live forever, and while God is merciful, He is also just.

Perhaps you focused before Easter on prayer, journaling, or made a concentrated effort to renew your relationship with the Lord. This time is beneficial; if you did not have time to do this in the past, there is always today to begin. It is never too late to increase your faith and your time with God. Each day is a new beginning, and with it comes new hope! I love the word hope – it is inspiring and gives me the confidence that all will be well. Maybe not as I will it, but as the Lord wills it to happen.

During Easter, we celebrate the fact that God has conquered death and opened up a way to heaven and that we, as His followers, have a path ahead that is an invitation. Easter day may include worship, attending church, and celebrating by sharing a meal with friends and family. It is a wonderful time of connection.

What about after? Do we lose that Easter glow? Do we forget about rejoicing the day after HE has RISEN? Unfortunately, that is a yes for many of us. Each day after, we continue on with our lives and forget what God has done for us. However, the challenge is to remember Jesus daily.

Here are a handful of ideas to keep the Lord front and center:

Praise and thank Him each day for the simple things. In a future podcast, I will discuss everyday prayer, but for now, know that our lives can be used as a prayer. If we dedicate our concerns to Him, the burden is often lifted. Maybe not totally, but in some way, we know we are not alone.
Meditate on one scripture each day. For example, Isaiah 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. Think about the words, and focus on what impacts you. The overarching theme here is that God’s protection for those who follow Him will not overwhelm us. It does not mean life is easy, only that He will give us the grace to handle it. By meditating on this concept, we will be renewed.
Realize that you are not in this life alone. As a follower of the Almighty God, the King of the Universe, you are never alone. John 14;25-27 “I have said these things to you while I am still with you. ²⁶But the Advocate,^[a] the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. ²⁷Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. Again an amazing verse to ponder.
Use song as a prayer. Praying through the verses of your favorite Christian songs helps us to be placed in the midst of God. Praying through song is considered by some, praying twice. Here is a podcast I created sometime back on Christian music and using it for praise, here.

Can you add to the list above? What are some ways to keep God the focus of your life? Take some time and consider this question, maybe right now but afterward. We have different ways of worshiping God, but keeping God at the forefront of our lives takes work and a concentrated effort. Our lives would be so much better if we could remember to do this, and not just during the Easter or Christmas season but all year long.

For many of us, our lives are divided into compartments. There is work time and family or friend time; there is time for recreation, whether it is social media, a book, the television, or an online source. There is time for worship which may be one or more days a week. However, if we include God in all we do, if we did this, our lives would not only be richer but more in the sense of keeping us from sin.

When we get busy or our focus is on the wrong thing, we stumble, and we fall. In trying to do our best or make everyone else happy, we discover that we have lost something of ourselves. Many of us are “other-focused,” which means we place our family and friends above ourselves. This is not a bad thing, but we forget to fill up our own tanks with the hope that Jesus is the only important thing and that His life, death, and resurrection give us hope of eternal life. This is the essence of the Easter message. Understanding that God made us for Himself and that our dedication and prayer to Him daily is for us, not for Him. Nothing we can do can earn us salvation, but in the same way, we should give Him our very best. By doing this, we can release the burdens that keep us tied down to Him in the midst of worship.

How will you keep the Easter season alive in your life? Only you know the answer to this, and I pray that you are motivated to make take the message to heart; you are loved so much, John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Amen and Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: after Easter, Christian Podcast, easter, Easter challenge

Transformed Family (Replay)

March 30, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Family Transformed – Episode 217

Are you ready for a transformation within your own family? How about a challenge for a transformed family? This is a follow-up to the last episode of Heart Transformed

Thanks to our sponsor, CTC Math a wonderful math curriculum for kids K-12

Why is it we can see the faults in other people so much easier than we can see the faults in ourselves? Did you know when we focus on ourselves first (the opposite of what we have been taught), and get our own spiritual house in order, the rest of the family will see the change and want to be a part of what you have? If you didn’t catch the last episode, Heart Transformed be sure to check it out.

St. Paul reminds us in Colossians 3:1-4 [ Read on air]

When our family is at peace, when we are serving the Lord as a group, we will all get along so much better. I taught my children that God put us together as a family on purpose. There are no mistakes in Lord’s plan for family life. Each person was selected to be together because of what they could learn from each other. It is a beautiful thing when it works the way God designed. If we focus on the things above we are so much happier.

The best teacher is the example we set If we want our family to read the Bible, we need to read the Bible. If we want our family to pray, we need to lead in prayer. Years ago I wanted my husband to be the spiritual leader of our home, and he is in so many ways, but not in the way I wanted him to be. I wanted him to lead the Bible studies and the prayer sessions we had as a family and while he contributed to these, he is not a leader. So we became co-leaders, I would initiate the studies and he and I would contribute to the discussion. We can become upset or bitter because things do not go our way rather than take on the leadership ourselves if that is what God leads us to do. Don’t box yourself in with your own ideas, but rather what works best for your family. Never, never compare your family to other families. That will surely set you up for failure. Many people put up a good front when everything is falling apart. So don’t judge by exteriors.

Here are some simple things to do, for yourself if you do not have a young family and with a family, if you do:

Start each day by giving thanks. By doing this we are giving God all the glory (Colossians 4:4 – When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you will also be revealed with him in glory.”) That is enough for us to rejoice daily.
Family prayer. Begin each meal with thanks to God. Keep it brief. Have a nighttime routine that includes prayer.
Encourage each member of the family to have their own time to pray.
Participate in helping. Whether it is each other or contributing to the family needs. Meals, cleaning up, helping when needed.
Participate in ministry outside of the home. Volunteering, visiting the elderly (neighbor), etc.

Talk to your family members and add to this list. As the children grew and left home we had a big gap in our lives, and my husband and I found we were no longer praying together because our nightly routine was changed. Even when our children were younger, the two of us would pray each evening together. This habit changed as our lives became busier. For anyone who has children, you always think you will have so much time when the kids grow older, but soon find that our lives just change and often become even busier. We must make the time to pray together.

If you are alone in your home and have a good prayer life, that is wonderful, now invite a friend. I pray with my friends often. Sometimes it is in church, sometimes it is a friend in need. I am part of several email prayer groups that send out prayer requests. I set up a Facebook group – A Few Minutes with God years ago for prayer requests. It was used to help people who needed prayers and also to post their praise reports.

And that is really the crux of the transformed family, and that is you will have so many praise reports! A praise report is where we thank God for the blessings in our lives. My son was hit by a falling object that was large and metal off of a single-story roof. The injury could have been so bad, but it turned out that while it bled profusely, the damage was minimal and mostly a scrape. That was a miracle. No swelling, no concussion, no brain damage, or worse! So thank you Lord for your blessings. If you think about it each day you can come up with so many things to thank the Lord for and to praise His Name. But, it takes time to stop and think.

What do you do when you enter a church? Is it a time to be social, or is it a time to listen and pray? Can we pray and be social? Of course! But I feel that often church is used as a social outlet rather than a time of worship. Going to church for me is a time to get on my knees, for as long as I am able, and begin by thanking and praising God, asking His forgiveness for the ways I have offended Him, and petitioning Him in prayer. However, you serve to worship it is an individual choice.

This week I challenge you to work within your own family no matter how big or how small and make positive changes. Small to begin with and grow as your family grows and adapts to a time of prayer, worship, and growing closer to the Lord. I pray this is a blessing to you and your family.

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Christian Podcast, Family, Family Transformed

10 Lies We Believe

March 23, 2026 by radioadmin 2 Comments

Ten Lies We Believe ~ Episode 128

We all do it we believe lies. There are ten lies we believe! The worse thing? The lies we believe are by definition not true! We give the enemy credit when all the credit should go to Almighty God! In this episode, we explore the most common lies and ways to combat them.

Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath.com

Visit Media Angels, and the books A Few Minutes with God and One More Child

Why do we believe lies? Because many of us are wounded in some way or like to think of ourselves as broken. We are shaped by so many of life’s events. Sometimes it is our own sins, the sins of others, the death of a loved one, or a tragedy within a family. These things shape us and how we consider the future choices we make. God predestines no one to hell! God is the creator, he is love, truth, goodness, beauty. When we see those things in our world they originate from God. Sin is the refusal to live in the beauty that is God. God’s mercy allows us to choose. God never forces His love upon us, he respects human dignity and our free will.

Think about this. Hell is a testimony to God’s respect to our freedom. Love redeemed us and won heaven for us. God will not violate our capacity for choice. So if we want to believe the lies of the enemy we have freedom to do this. The only thing we can give ourselves credit for is sin – every good thing comes from God!

Remember the song, “…and they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love…” I use to think that it was an injustice that I was not showing others God’s love because I did not feel His love myself. I was under a false impression. I believed the lies of the enemy. In my steps as a Christian, I had learned about God’s unconditional love – meaning we don’t need to work at it or earn it, yet I believed that God’s punishments were very real and the thought was depressing. Lies these are all lies. It took me years to undo and become free from these lies! And, friends, this freedom is amazing and I pray this for all of you listening today as well.

Jesus spoke about Satan in the Holy Bible, he said the enemy is the “Father of lies.”

John 8:44 You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.

John 8:45-47 Jesus continues… “Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me! Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me? ⁴⁷Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”

If we can not hear what God says in the Word, from our pastors and from our prayers, the bigger question is, “Who DO you belong to?” The first step in combatting the lies of the enemy is to recognize them. Evil is frightening and how do we respond to evil? First by recognizing it! We often credit the evil one with the things that belong to God. At the root of evil is pride – the root of all sin.

Top Ten Lies of Satan

Satan is a myth. Does Satan really exist? The enemy likes people to believe he does not exist – God is a myth and all of this “penance” or “fasting” or “being good” or “faith” is a tall tale. My question is to people who do not believe in God, “If you believe in God and there is no heaven, you are assured a life where good is called good and evil is called evil. There is no confusion. But if you do not believe in God, and you follow the ways of the enemy (because of course, you are following Him – he has already duped you in believing he does not exist) and then you die and learn there is God. What is the alternative? A life in eternal damnation because a person who denies God and lives a life without God in it will turn their back on God eternally. Our pastor calls it the fundamental option.) I feel sorry for those who do not believe because they are missing an amazing joy! The joy of the love of a benefactor, a Father who loves us not matter what! We have the choice of obedient love or self-seeking which often leads to destruction. What I am is God’s gift to me and what I become is my gift to God!
Not good enough – false pride- You are sinful and therefore not good enough to follow God. God made us on the sixth day of creation and He said it was “very good” therefore, God made us good. I know there are plenty of people out there that will argue with this statement. So, let’s look at Genesis 1:26-31

²⁶Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals,^[a] and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. ³⁰And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds in the sky and all the creatures that move along the ground—everything that has the breath of life in it—I give every green plant for food.” And it was so. 31God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day. So the question I have for you to think and pray about is this, if God made us good why do we think we are destined for evil, yes we adopted a “sin nature” as the term goes from Adam and Eve but that is why Jesus came! To take on our sins. Think about it.
You must be perfect to be a Christian, and if you are not you fall short. First, there is no perfection outside of heaven but that does not mean we do not try. Secondly, we can not be perfect again this doesn’t mean we are lazy Christians but we don’t become holy by the way we dress or act toward others. Instead, the way we dress or act is an extension of our love of God and His goodness within us. It is a flow-through not a doing it on our own strength.
Doubt — don’t believe what God says. Satan wants us not to believe what God says. Read Genesis 3:1-4

Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?”

²The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, ³but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’”

⁴“You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. ⁵“For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”

We must believe that when God says it, He means it. And do not believe or doubt God!

5. God Punishes You –– If you are a Christian nothing bad can happen to you. (So when bad things happen to good people, obviously God let you down or there is no God. God punishes you for your sin. Sin does have a consequence and a recourse but we must believe that God is good all the time and all the time, God is good!

6. Guilt, Envy, Infidelity – The evil one will tell you that these things are not bad but they are serious. Guilt can eat us up and make us focus on the problem or the issue rather than the solution. Envy is another one of those sins that takes our eyes off of God. Infidelity – well, enough said. Sins may start small but then it snowballs, and as you’ve heard there is no small sin.

7. You can’t trust God you have to do things yourself. This is such a lie, we can trust God and we can ask God for help. You know you are believing this lie if you do not ask the Lord for help throughout the day! Do you say, “I need your help Lord. How do I do this? or How can I carry on?” Or is it that I must take charge and take care of the issue without God’s help? God gives us the ability to handle things but a little prayer can go a long way to finding a solution.

8. Small Sins are not bad. Everyone sins – and your sins are just not that bad compared to everyone else. This is a truth I have heard people say! We are living a life after the fall is a battle. It is good against evil. Good is the promise of everlasting life and evil is the promise of a wonderful life on this earth without any thought of an afterlife.

9. God can never forgive you for your past sins, so why try. Your past does not define you. We are stuck in the past or worried about the future but miss that God is here now. And today? He gives us grace for today! Not for yesterday, or for tomorrow. This can cripple you and make you depressed. You may feel that God has punished you in some way due to past sins. You are a child of God! God lived, died and rose again to give us eternal life. He shouldered that pain and burden when He carried the cross. By His stripes, we are healed. Christ died for you and for me and now lives to give us abundant life! Ask for forgiveness, if you can go to your pastor – if you are Catholic go to confession and let it go!

10. Judgmental – We see the sins and failings of others and use that as an excuse to say that all Christians are hypocrites. Of course, some are and ruin it for the rest of us, but the majority of Christians that want to love and serve the Lord are too busy with their own lives to worry about the lives of others. This goes for our adult children. We can pray for them but must allow them to make their own mistakes. Intervention time is when they live under your roof! Christians do not put each other down or point out each others sins – not unless someone asks you! Committed Christians also give don’t flaunt their “holiness” in fact you will know someone is a good Christian if they don’t believe they can ever outgive God and they give God all the glory!

So how do you combat the lies?

Pray. Keep your eyes focused on God. The #1 Satan buster is prayer. Even if it is just, “Jesus.” or “Jesus help me!” God hears us.
Arm yourself with the power of Scripture – pray this verse daily! Ephesians 6:10-12 – I love Ephesians 6:10-12 ¹⁰Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. ¹¹Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ¹²For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Surround yourself with like-minded Christians. This is so important!
Go to church. I go to Mass each day as much as I can. By the time I get home, and I feel joyful!
Listen to praise and worship music. It is difficult to believe the lies of the enemy when we are infused in a joyful atmosphere.

Friends, every day we have a choice. We can be obedient and love the Lord with our whole hearts and ignore those lies or be self seeking which leads to death! Often we chose the world over God! God wishes that we do not rest upon anything other than the infinite goodness of God!

Let’s pray:

Dear Heavenly Father, our Lord Jesus, and the Holy Spirit please hear our plea to help us to combat the lies of the enemy who is fighting for our soul. We know you have won the battle by your life, death, and resurrection. You are so much greater than the forces of darkness. You are the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, the Name above all Names and we claim the healing power of You God in our lives. We ask that you help us to combat those lies that we hear in our minds and instead give us words to praise and worship you. I pray for those that are in need of your healing and I lift up the following prayer intentions … and I pray this in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: Catholic spiritual warfare, faith, lies we believe

Forgiveness

March 16, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Forgiveness

Episode #10

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

It isn’t a feeling, it isn’t something we want to do, but it is totally freeing! In this podcast learn how a situation in my life turned into a blessing when I understood the true meaning of the gift of forgiving others.

Sponsor: Media Angels, Inc. Novels – Truth Seekers Mystery Series available on Amazon. Three novels for tweens!

Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels, Inc. A Few Minutes with God, The Journey Begins

Ministry Books :

A Few Minutes with God &

Secret Code Time

Show Notes: Episode 10 – Forgiveness

Forgiveness – that is such a beautiful word – in this episode, we will explore the difference between forgiveness as a feeling and as a decision.

Please help us out – Please help share this episode with your friends! And, please give this show a star rating on iTunes (search for AFMWG) or any podcast app on your smartphone. Thanks so much for helping share this show with your friends!

Show Notes: Forgiveness:

Misunderstandings, lies, and false accusations bring hurt to both parties. No one is left unwounded.

I had to make a decision to forgive.
Once you can make a decision to forgive you ask the Lord to help you.

The prayer I prayed asking for forgiveness:

Dear Lord, I know I am a sinner and only redeemed by your grace and what you did on the cross and resurrection for me. I know that only through your grace can I forgive my friend. I know you love this person and I ask you to give me that love – the love you have for them, because Lord I cannot do this on my own. I pray to forgive this person as you have forgiven me, and to love this person, and I pray this in Jesus Name, Amen.

Forgiveness became a feeling.
Praying a blessing on our “enemies” works!

Another Prayer:

Dear Lord, I know I am a sinner and only redeemed by your grace and what you did on the cross and resurrection for me. I know that only through your grace can I forgive my friend. I decide in the Name of Jesus to forgive – because I’ve been forgiven. I know you love this person and I ask you to give me that love – the love you have for them because Lord I cannot do this on my own. I pray to forgive this person and to love this person, and I pray this in Jesus Name, Amen.

Do you have people in your life that have annoyed you – that have hurt you? And you know in your heart that you have been wronged? Let’s pray – let’s give that to the Lord today and allow the Lord to free you as He has freed me!

Let’s go forth – you and me, together proclaiming as the apostles did – what the Lord has done for them!

Scriptures on forgiveness:

Colossians: 3:13 – Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Matthew: 6:14-15 – For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

What are your favorite forgiveness scriptures? Make a list of these and pray them when you have difficulty forgiving.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: forgiveness

Holy Reliance (Special Replay)

March 9, 2026 by radioadmin 2 Comments

In the middle of our troubles, we can rely on only one person to get us through: God. Today’s podcast is about holy reliance, and we will delve into ways to trust in God even when we feel like things are hopeless!

Holy Reliance ~ Episode 314

What is your first reaction when you are struggling? Today, I had a perfect opportunity to practice what I “preach” and failed miserably! Yet, with God, we get a do-over, a chance to change, repent, and sin no more. We have a chance to see the areas where we need work and to make a decision. Changing is difficult, especially because we want our results to be instantaneous. But change takes time, and it is hard work, consistent work, showing up and rolling up our sleeves, and expecting the best from ourselves and those around us.

I volunteer—a lot! I was very good at one point in time at saying, “No!” when asked. But something happened, and I’m not sure what. I often feel overwhelmed and that there is no more to give, yet God keeps showing up and showing me that I am not in charge. He is in charge, and when I give Him my yes and my life, He makes everything work out!

Do you rely on the Lord for everything? Do you ask God for a parking space? Do you pray when you need help with your finances and to pay your bills? When my two youngest were going to college, I prayed that the Lord would provide scholarships, and He did! We can ask God for the mundane as well as an increase in our spiritual life and an increase in our faith.

Holy Reliance – The Prophet

Scripture talks about prophets and how they did the work of the Lord. Each of them had challenges. Some, like Jonah, were not very good prophets, but one that stood out was Ezekiel. Ezekiel is a prophet, and he is being called by the Lord with a warning. Ezekiel 2:1-2 – He said to me, “Son of man,[a] stand up on your feet and I will speak to you.” ²As he spoke, the Spirit came into me and raised me to my feet, and I heard him speaking to me.

In verses 3-4 the God states: I am sending you to the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me; they and their ancestors have been in revolt against me to this very day. ⁴The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn

He goes on to explain the hardships Ezekiel will have, yet the prophet does not turn his back on God. Why? Because he has Holy Reliance. He knows his strength comes from the Almighty. How can he speak to the Israelites otherwise? Even knowing the hardships, he continues on. Can we do that? Can we persevere even when we know there will be hardships?

Holy Reliance – The Psalmist

The Psalmist knew this as well – in Psalm 121:1-8 (read on air), we read.

I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
²My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

³He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
⁴indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

⁵The Lord watches over you—
the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
⁶the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.

⁷The Lord will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
⁸the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

Read those verses slowly, pray them, and add them to your prayer journal. Mediate on the words, “Where does my help come from?” Many times, we think our help is from ourselves. We are the ones who get things done. We can only rely on ourselves because others let us down! But that is not true. The next verse tells us, “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

Do we realize that God, the Creator of the Universe and everything in it, cares about us in an intimate way? He knows everything about us, and yet we rely on ourselves or perhaps those closest to us. On a practical level, when I work, I rely on the tools I use, the computer, the internet, and a microphone to record. But if the internet goes down or my computer shuts off midstream, I’m stuck, I’m frustrated, and my peace is shaken. It really does not take much. In our lives, we can quit or continue on.

I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve saved one finished recording over another, and I’ve had to re-record a podcast. But I don’t—okay, I try not to let it get me down because I feel that the Lord has something so much better for me to say! I’ll get a thought or an inspiration, some idea that hits me, and I will be glad that I had an opportunity to do it again.

What about spiritually? What about those times we know we’ve let ourselves down or the Lord down? This is where we can repent. We can once again call upon the Lord. We can ask him to help us. And when we do, He shows up in a mighty way! In previous podcasts, we’ve discussed miracles. Do we expect miracles in our daily lives?

Friends, we don’t do it alone – in fact, we can’t do it without the help of God! When you are struggling, turn to Psalm 119:7-8

I will praise you with an upright heart
as I learn your righteous laws.
⁸I will obey your decrees;
do not utterly forsake me.

I love that! Do not forsake me, Lord. I need you now more than ever. We must have trust, and this trust must come with a humble heart. Our hearts ache because we fail to see the goodness around us and focus on the hardships or our failures. Even in our failures, we must trust that God has a righteous plan and will turn it around. Think of the book of Ruth. God turned around a tragedy, the death of her husband and her sister’s husband, and she left her home and went with her mother-in-law Naomi to Israel, where she later remarried and had a child. Ruth was the grandmother of King David, which led to the lineage of Jesus Christ. Our King and Savior!

God has a plan for our lives. What can we do? We can trust. We can rely on Him, we can ask God to give us more of Him and we can ask for an abundance of faith and strength to traits we can always use in our lives. Amen~

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, faith, Jeus, reliance

New Eyes of Faith (Replay)

March 2, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

New Eyes of Faith – Episode 263

As a Christian, it is important to practice our faith. But what does your faith look like? The new eyes of faith is an awakening. In this episode, we explore the meaning of faith and how we sometimes deceive ourselves.

Thanks to our sponsor CTC Math – visit the website at CTCMath.com

Faith can be subjective. Your faith is naturally based upon your experiences, your understanding, and even your denomination. Even two people sitting next to each other in church can have a different take on faith. This lends itself to an interesting question. Where is your faith, and can you say you practice what you believe?

This may be a hard question to answer and one that will take some time and thought.

Do we love the One who gave us life? The one who loves us beyond anything we can imagine. Let’s take a moment and think about that. You. Are. Loved. That alone should open our eyes and give us new eyes of faith. That should fill us with such love that we want to share this love with others.

That is the crux of the issue that many of us face in our world today. Those who say they have faith and those who do not practice what they supposedly believe. Listen, we all fall short, but by the grace of God, we flounder. Thankfully Jesus came into the world to redeem us. We read in 2 Corinthians 12:9 (Read on air).

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

When our eyes are opened, we see evil for evil and good for good. That is why so many of us are upset by what is happening in our world today. Many people, they have been desensitized, and they can not see evil for evil.

Our eyes can be opened to greater faith and a deeper walk with the Lord, and at times it takes something catastrophic to happen before we can see the light, so to speak. Many things we consider important no longer are, and those things we hold onto, we find we can do without. Has that happened to you? You find that what was previously important is no longer an issue or of great concern. It is as if the blinders were removed; now, we can see clearly.

In Genesis 3:5, the tempter tells Adam and Eve a lie; the scripture reads: “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”

So, what did they do? Genesis 3:6-7 (read on air).

What did they receive? New eyes of faith, but it was not a positive outcome for the pair. The eyes of Adam and Eve were opened when they ate the forbidden fruit. God warned them. His perfect will was for them to live with Him forever in the place He had created for them. Instead, they made a choice, and we see it perfectly in hindsight –

Scripture often talks about finding “favor in your eyes,” with many references to finding favor in God’s eyes. That should be our goal, to find favor in the eyes of God. How do we do this? How do we deepen our love for God? One way is by spending time in His presence. We have many reasons why this can’t happen. We have family responsibilities, work, school, and other obligations. And, it is a choice.

New Eyes of Faith

Just like Adam and Eve had a choice. This is the first lesson we learn in the Bible about good vs. evil. It is the enemy against us, the evil one. He hates what God created. God created and said, “It is good,” and that is what the evil one wants to destroy. He wants to destroy our families and us. An increase of faith helps us weather the storm of life, but we need that connection to each other and God.

Faith is a connection to the Almighty. We are made for connection. One of the podcasters on this network, Margaret Vasquez, who hosts the Wholeness and Holiness Podcast, talks about connection. As a trauma specialist, she knows that a lack of connection often causes dysfunction.

We can become disconnected from ourselves, those around us, and those we love the most. And a disconnection from God can lead us to other less desirable things! We can find we lack direction, and worse. Who we are is important, but who we are in Christ is important to renewing faith. Do we witness the gospel message? How can we when we are struggling ourselves? It is time to take a deep refreshing breath and look at our faith with new eyes.

As a business owner, I know that I better fulfill that promise when I promise to do something. No one cares about our excuses. Thankfully my job is not life and death, but it is important to keep websites up, bills paid so that the podcast stream doesn’t stop on your app and other things that we do to keep the business running. All of our behind-the-scenes work is invisible, but it is necessary for our customers. Many of my decisions were based on troubleshooting better options.

The worse thing we can do is not admit when we are wrong. We can all improve. Isaiah 2:10-12 (Read on air). Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight. (Talk about humility)

Isaiah 5:20-21 (Read on air)

In this way, we should troubleshoot our options when it comes to renewing our faith and praying to the Lord to open our eyes.

We can ask that the Lord gives us the new eyes of faith to:

Identify areas where we have sinned.
Make better choices.
To choose God first above all others.
To make time to pray.
To get our priorities right

Remember, faith is a choice. It is a free-will option given to us by an Almighty God who loves us and who loves you beyond anything we can comprehend. It is perfect love, and no one can love you the way God can. We are created in His image. We were created for a specific purpose. We were created to love and serve Him, but He gives us so much more than anything we can do for Him. Our challenge this week is to pray that the Lord opens our eyes to areas we need to improve and gives us a deeper faith.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Discipline And Faith

February 23, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz 1 Comment

Discipline and Faith: The Inner Circle ~ Episode 369

In this episode, we’ll discuss being part of Christ’s inner circle through discipline and faith, which leads to true discipleship. We’ll reflect on the cost of following Jesus, which is outweighed by the hope it brings. I’ll also share the ways faith empowers us to live holy lives in today’s world. Let’s begin with a prayer: Lord, open our hearts to Your will and guide us in the discipline of faith. Amen.

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

As I was praying about the last few podcasts, the recurring theme was on silence, pondering in awe, Almighty God, and sacrifice, meaning discipline. I am wondering if it’s because I need it? The answer is yes! I do need it, and I need to be reminded of it often. That is typically how it goes when I podcast.

What Is the Inner Circle?

Have you ever wanted to be in that inner circle—in that group where people care for each other, where they are there for each other, where they will do anything for you? Many of us are blessed to have this within our families or a close group of friends. Can you imagine living in the time of Christ? What was His inner circle? It began with Joseph and Mary, and more than likely extended family. It then expanded to those who were called by Christ, who accompanied Him, who sat at His feet, and who benefited from His teaching.

Today, we have an opportunity to be in that inner circle by the very nature of our faith and belief in that Jesus Christ is indeed Lord. But being a disciple takes discipline, and in a way, it goes along with my last podcast on striving for holiness. I think we can be happy in the fact that the disciples selected by Christ were, in essence, a ragtag group. They were not the elites, the most learned, or the people with the most money; they were everyday working people, what people like to refer to as the everyday man. But that gives us such hope and, again, purpose. We need hope to wake up each day, praying it is better than the last. We need purpose, because without it we have no focus or goal.

As Scripture reminds us, and I love this! 1 Corinthians 1:27-28: “But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise, God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong, God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are.” This shows us that God calls the ordinary to do extraordinary things through Him. Don’t you want to be called? The very fact that you are listening today is a call.

The Cost of Discipleship

These men learned to give up not only the life they had lived but to become disciples in a way that was going to give them true freedom and true joy—but at a cost. And you know that’s what keeps a lot of people from Christianity: the cost. Discipleship is not free.

It can be learned, but it takes work. Sometimes it means losing your friends, your job, and even your life. In some countries, Christians even today are being persecuted. They’re being wiped off the face of the Earth, and we are helpless, it seems, to stop this genocide. This cost is high, and yet most of us are not called to that level—yet we still take our freedom in Christianity for granted.

In Luke 14:27-28: “Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple. For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?” Jesus calls us to count the cost, but the reward is eternal joy and freedom in Him. Think about this. The world offers us a counterfeit, something that is temporary. Yet, Christianity offers us salvation and eternal life.

Discipline in Faith: Why It’s Worth It

Most of us would agree that it’s important for an Olympic athlete to train, spend countless dollars, give up relationships and sleep, and push their bodies to unbelievable lengths to win a medal and the prestige and honor that come with it. In fact, it’s expected, and that doesn’t keep people from wanting to strive for a seat on an Olympic team. That isn’t just accepted, for a winner, it is mandated.

But isn’t it okay to work toward learning more about God? Faith is a gift, and salvation is free if we choose to believe in Christ as Savior. Yet, many don’t believe we should lose sleep to study, to pray, to surround ourselves with like-minded people, or to choose to be alone and contemplate the Almighty and what He has done for us!

Why then is the cost of discipline and being in the inner circle of people who love, honor, and serve the Lord so unattainable to some? I’ve been told in the past that being a Christian means giving up my freedom, that I am narrow minded that the gate to heaven is not narrow. If giving up my freedom means that I have trained and educated myself in the Word of God and the teachings of the Church, in the love that God has for me—that’s striving for holiness as I shared in the last episode. It means that if I watch what I say and govern my speech, I can bless others with words that build up rather than tear people down. I can be aware that true holiness means following God in all things. It means taking time to fast. It means spending time with God in silence. It means surrounding myself with others who are also uplifting and love the Lord.

Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages us: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” Discipline in faith is our race toward holiness, and it’s empowering. And our example is Christ.

Living as Disciples Today

Discipline isn’t cheap, but it is so worthwhile. And true discipleship means asking the Lord again and again and again for His will in our lives. We can’t be complacent; that time is gone. Our world is in shambles, and people of faith are needed now more than ever. We have to be that voice in the darkness. We have to let others know that the love of God is true love, that the love of God does take discipline, but the love of God is so worthwhile. We have a purpose; we have a goal. We know that the enemy has been defeated, and I believe that the enemy knows that which is why there is so much chaos and confusion in our world. It is to take our eyes off of the prize, which is faith in Christ. In his defeat the enemy wants to take down as many as he can. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord (Joshua 24:15)

And I challenge you today to make a list, to figure out the ways that you can, in the little slice of life that God has given you, share about the goodness of God. Sometimes it just means being a good example, a good neighbor, a good friend, a good student, a good coworker. Sometimes it means being a witness to others in ways that you will never see—it’s planting those seeds but letting God harvest. But whatever that is for you, know that you are part of this inner circle of those who love the Lord, who want to sit at His feet and hear what He has to say. And we can do that today by opening our Bibles, by memorizing the Word, and by living lives that are holy. May God be praised today and always.

Philippians 3:12-14 inspires us to press on: “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brethren, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but one thing I do, forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Thank you for joining me on this journey of faith and discipline. Remember, God’s love calls us to more—let’s embrace it with joy!

Related Episodes on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network

For more encouragement on faith, purpose, and holiness, check out these additional episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast under the category on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:

Called to Be Saints — Embracing Holiness in Everyday Life – Explore sainthood as a daily invitation for every believer.
Vocation and Purpose – Discover how Christians balance family, work, and faith through vocation.
Your God Given Purpose – Guidance on finding your purpose through listening to God and trusting His plan.
Discerning God’s Will – Insights on hearing God’s voice and aligning your life with His will.
Listening To The Lord – Practical ways to hear God’s voice in daily life for deeper faith.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, discipleship

Holiness Is Possible

February 16, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Holiness Is (Im)Possible: Striving for Sainthood in Everyday Life ~ Episode 368

Have you ever considered becoming holy? What about becoming a saint? Do you believe it’s possible, or do you think holiness is impossible? Maybe you believe we can’t be holy—only Jesus, or perhaps some of His followers, or subsequent martyrs and saints became holy. But you and me? No way. My friends, this is a diabolical lie, and many Christians believe it. Therefore, they don’t strive for holiness because why should they? We’re striving for a goal that doesn’t make sense or isn’t possible, especially in the day in which we live today. But holiness is possible.

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

Scripture on God’s Call to Holiness

As Scripture reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 4:3: “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from immorality…” God desires us to be holy, set apart for Him. This verse encourages us to pursue purity and dedication in our daily walk with the Lord. But we can’t do it alone, and when we try to do it without prayer, without seeking God, we will fail. So many times I read a scripture verse and think there is no way I can do it, but then I remember I don’t have to do it without help!

Additionally, in 1 Peter 1:15-16, we read: “But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.'” These words further remind us and confirm what we know intellectually, that holiness is not just a distant ideal but a calling we can embrace through God’s grace. Sometimes getting things from our heads to our hearts can be a challenge.

Why Striving for Holiness Matters

I used to think that striving to do good—well, good enough—was a decent goal. I didn’t think anyone needed to strive to be great because that’s an unattainable goal. Plus, it’s kind of vain thinking that what we do or who we are is great. But truly, if we are sons and daughters—adopted sons and daughters of God—then by definition, we are heirs to the kingdom. We should strive for holiness not so we can boast but so we can give all the glory to God.

Friends, we get distracted by semantics and we think that holiness isn’t possible this side of heaven. In fact, we very rarely say the word or think that we are working toward holiness because again, that goal seems too far off or unattainable. It’s like saying I’m going to be part of the Olympic team and I’ve never even trained—which brings us to the fact that if we want to be holy, one of the things we must do is train. And the way we can train depends on our situation in life.

Holiness in Your Unique Life Situation

The reason I’m qualifying it by saying your situation in life is because we all have responsibilities. Maybe you are a mom of young children, a student with lessons and responsibilities, or maybe you are middle-aged and a caregiver to elderly parents. We all have situations in our lives that may prevent us from striving for holiness in the way of, let’s say, someone who’s in seminary or someone who’s in religious life.

But that doesn’t give us a pass on doing some basic things. As I shared from the book The Forgotten Way by Matthew Kelly, one of the ways to strive for holiness is to watch what we say. As he puts it, “You can become a saint just by governing your speech.”

You may be thinking, but that’s just too basic.

But is it really? Think of the number of times that we have spoken and hurt someone or have spoken and not thought our words through. Very rarely do people apologize when they should, or maybe they over-apologize, as in the case of my sweet granddaughter Samantha. She often apologizes even when it’s not her fault. But holiness is possible, and that is a purpose that we should strive for. We can start today—it isn’t too late, even if you are overwhelmed, busy, have a huge workload, or have multiple deadlines to meet. You can start being holy just by saying, “Lord, I want to be holy,” and I want help in guarding what I say.”

I’m guilty of talking without thinking and hurting those I love the most. I used to chalk it up to transparency, that there was no need to wonder what I was thinking because I would tell you. Honesty is a virtue, but talking before thinking of the results of those words is not charitable. Something I wish I had learned earlier in life.

Finding Purpose Through Holiness

So many people have lost their life’s purpose.

Young people, especially, don’t seem to have life goals. I saw a recent post by a dad talking to his children about higher education, and they were wondering which jobs they could get that wouldn’t be replaced by AI in the future.

Without purpose, goals, or hope, we find people living in despair, discouragement, and disappointment. But what if our goal is to strive for heaven, to strive for the love of God, to strive to be a child of God? Does this change our despair? Yes! Realizing that there is more than what we can physically see and touch, and the goal is greater, is a blessing and leads to true freedom.

The first step would be asking the Lord, “Lord, what do you want from me?” What do you want from me today, right now? It doesn’t have to be a huge declaration. It can just be an acceptance of His will in our life for that day.

Sometimes our lives are not our own. We’re not in control, even when we think we have everything organized, scheduled, and perfectly mapped out. It doesn’t work that way—it doesn’t even work out at times when we’re trying to do good for the sake of another. It doesn’t always work out, but each day we get to see the glory and hand of God if we can just thank Him. If we can thank Him in the midst of the adversities, if we can thank Him even when we break a glass jar five minutes before we have to leave the house, or we’re going to be late to an appointment that is 30 minutes away, we can be thankful that no tile was chipped and the jar was not valuable.

Overcoming Distractions and Embracing Discipline

Sometimes these little issues take us away from our purpose, and our purpose is to serve God and to bless others by works of charity, even when we pat ourselves on the back, and then something like this happens to take away our peace.

None of us is perfect, and that’s not what holiness means. It doesn’t mean achieving perfection. I think that holiness means striving to be the best that we can be, given our life situations. Again, when I share things like life situations, it’s because I don’t want to put a burden on people. I know that as a young mom, I would hear people share testimonies and think, “Gosh, I want to go to that. I want to share the glory of God with other people,” but I couldn’t. It was not my time; it wasn’t my station in life. Yet I could work with what God gave me: raising my children, homeschooling, being there for my husband, my family, and my friends.

Striving for holiness means guarding our speech, but it also means being deliberate in our speech. You know, speech can either make people happy or miserable, and sometimes we lash out and say things we don’t need to say because we’re upset. Yelling makes us feel better because we’ve gotten it off our chest, but it doesn’t make those who are the recipients of our yelling feel any better. And that is the best time to say nothing—or at least pray before we do.

The Path to Holiness: Practice and Quiet Time

Holiness isn’t easy. Holiness doesn’t have a direct formula either. I’ve read uplifting articles that if you did X, Y, and Z, then the Lord would bless you—that if you wanted that house, you just needed to claim it, or that car. It’s like telling somebody that you have to go through all of these hoops to please God before you’re blessed. We don’t know the mind of God, but that is not the God I serve.

Striving to be holy is a goal that is attainable, but like anything we strive for, it takes practice. The idea of A Few Minutes with God, the title of this podcast, is a testament to the fact that spending time with God in quiet is a step toward holiness, peace, tranquility, and joy. The holiness comes from acknowledging that God is holy, and in the example of Jesus Christ, we have an example to follow, meditate on, and contemplate.

But we avoid the quiet. When things are quiet, what do you do? Do we reach for our phones, turn on the television, or computer? Again, a tool of the enemy to distract us.

Goals:

But quiet and sit with God, just for a little while at first. And when we are distracted, apologize to the Lord and move on. Guilt is not from God.
Guard our words. Think before we talk, or better yet, remain silent.
Add, “Be Holy!” to the top of our to-do list!

By striving to be holy, we focus on the discipline of controlling our speech.

By controlling our speech, we also find we can control our tempers and our reactions to things that don’t really matter in the grand scheme of things. In essence, we have greater control over ourselves and our actions. Discipline can be trained, and we see it in many athletes, but discipline is something that we need, especially if we are going to work towards striving for holiness.

Think about the fruit that comes from this discipline.

When we exercise self-control over our words we can avoid gossip, lies, harshness, or unnecessary speech. Read James 3:2-12– my goodness, it is eye-opening! Let me just read you a portion, but please go back and study this verse: James 3: 8-10 (Read on air.) …but no human being can tame the tongue—a restless evil, full of deadly poison. ⁹With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who are made in the likeness of God. ¹⁰From the same mouth come blessing and cursing.

This is so true; from our mouths come beautiful and sometimes vile things. Let us repent and move on because we all want healthier relationships, inner peace, and godly character. Let us pray to the Lord that He blesses us with the ability to have self-control, gentleness, and kindness, all fruits of the Spirit, that we may praise God in all things, strive for holiness because it is possible, and live in joy. Amen!

Related Episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast

For more uplifting content on faith and Christian living, check out these related episodes on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, becoming a saint, Catholic spirituality, Christian discipline, Christian living, Christian purpose, everyday holiness, faith encouragement, fruits of the Spirit, godly character, guarding your speech, holiness, prayer life, pursuing heaven, quiet time with God, sanctification, self control, Spiritual Growth, spiritual maturity, striving for sainthood, Ultimate Christian Podcast Network

Evil Tactic (Replay)

February 9, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Evil Tactic – Combatting Evil ~ Episode 225

What is an evil tactic? It is something employed by the evil one to take souls to hell. Harsh? Maybe. But, this is something that few of us want to talk about or consider. In this podcast, Felice will explore the tactics used and how to prevent being led to the dark side.

Visit this month’s wonderful sponsor who helps bring this network to you for free, visit CTCMath.com for a great math curriculum for grades K-12

Few people realize the greatest tool of evil is to convince people that evil does not exist. Everything is fine, it’s good, there is nothing to worry about. Everyone gets a free pass to go to heaven. Don’t worry, proclaim God once, claim Him and go on and live your life in whatever way you see fit. I realize we all come from different faith walks. Some are non-denominational and others adhere to a specific denomination. Some teach it is faith alone and others that it is faith and works.

In the previous podcast, I cited James 2:14-26, Faith without works is dead. With this thought, we must look at the ways that evil sets to destroy not only others but specifically our lives.

Here is a short list of things that are considered evil tactics:

Not believing evil or satan exists. John 8:44 (read)
Fearfulness (in a minute I’ll read from Matthew 10 which helps us to combat fear)
Deception and lies, Confusion, Twisting of words – reproductive freedom, no big deal, not for us to judge
Division – because when we are divided we are weak. John 17:20-24 (read)
Diversion – an overload of information, social media, anxiety, and distractions of everyday life Matt 10:26-32 (read)
Discouragement and depression – personal setbacks, always wanting more, if “this” happens, I’ll be happy. (humility)

There is so much packed into these verses, first, we have nothing to fear, the next is that we should not fear the body because what is most important is our soul, and the only person to fear is what can destroy us -that is giving into evil tactics and ultimately hell. Then there is the wonderful verse about the Father’s intimate knowledge about each one of us because he even knows the number of hair on our heads. We have value to God, my friends more than we know! We must also acknowledge God, we must not be afraid of our Christian faith or deny him unless we want to be denied before the Father in heaven. Powerful words!

5. Humility – the key to discouragement and depression is humility. Realizing we can do nothing without God. This is not a way to push off blame or alleviate our guilt, it is a way however to realize that when we do things under our own steam we are setting up ourselves for failure. Have you ever wondered when your life falls apart, and you can’t seem to handle anymore that you are “doing” it yourself and without God? Sure, we are all gifted in some way, but those gifts should be attributed to the Almighty.

In our humility we ask the Lord for help, to come into our lives in a deeper way (I know – I must sound like I repeat myself over and over) but it is a truth that when we grow closer to God we find things that are so important in our life or that we think are important fall way. All the people who suffer loss realize in the end that these are things they can not take with them when they die. That is why we are taught to look to the end, to look at our lives and when we do, when we grow closer to God we can see the areas where we have sinned.

Evil tactics are lost on those who are grounded, who surround themselves with like-minded Christians, and who immerse themselves in all that is good and holy, beginning with your relationship with Christ and the Scriptures. This week make a list of the evil tactics aimed at you and work at ways (with God, Scripture, and prayer) that you can combat the evils.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, evil, evil tactics, overcoming evil with good

Memorize Scripture (Replay)

February 2, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Memorize Scripture

Replay sponsored by CTCMath.com

When was the last time you attempted to memorize scripture? This is worthwhile and beneficial to our spiritual growth. By memorizing the verses we can ingrain them into our hearts and call them to mind in times when we struggle. Here are some tips for memorizing with ease.

Visit Media Angels and the books and services provided for Christian Families. Books such as the Truth Seekers Mystery Series, A Few Minutes with God, One More Child as well as the 24 different Character Planners for the entire family.

When the children were younger I would assign them scriptures to memorize. Most of the time they were a verse or two, often nothing longer. I had friends whose children could quote sections of the Bible and I was amazed! And while memorization is great for children, it is important that we as adults also spend time on memorization. In fact, it can really help us as we get older.

I have a list that I call life verses, such as Joshua 24:15 – but the entire verse is not what I quote. Here is the entire verse:

But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

When I think of the verse, it is this part… As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.

Another is John 1:1-5 –

What I will quote having memorized it is this part, “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him, nothing was made that has been made.”

I love that verse because it is one of those mind-blowing verses – in those words I can see the Almighty God, Father, and Son. The Word is Jesus, God is God the Father and nothing is done without the Spirit. For some reason, that verse makes me very happy!

It is almost like I have a tiny glimpse of the creation of the world.

Then there is what we call the Magnificat – Luke146-55 when Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth and the baby in Elizabeth’s womb lept for joy. Here we read Mary’s answer to Elizabeth: And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, …

Another version says, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior.

and another the King James – My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.

I love all of those versions, but my favorite is My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior…

You can look up various scripture verses on a website such as BibleGateway.com or your own Bible translation.

I’m making a point to memorize some new verses, do you want to join me in the challenge? Let’s get started with some simple techniques for memorization.

Memorize Scripture The Easy Way

Scriptures that are important to you. The first step is to look at the Bible and find the verses that are important to you. You can begin by listing some of your favorites, even if you have already memorized these verses. I shared some with you.
Write them down. Reinforces the words. Using seeing, hearing, and writing helps us in remembering. While typing is tactile it really is beneficial to write the scriptures out and say them out loud. Seeing them in print helps as well.
Read them often. Put the scriptures you are using in one spot. Several of my children used flashcards to help them when studying for a test. You can do this with the scripture verses. Put the words on the lined side of the card, and the verse number on the back. By looking at the verse such as John 1:1 – you should be able to recite, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
Create a sign or banner. This is one of my favorite things and I love receiving gifts that are plaques with Scripture verses on them, in fact, I have many throughout my home. I also hang them from the bedroom doors, I use those sticky plastic hook things. Okay, so sometimes it does bang on the door when you open or close it, but it is so worth it to see those verses and it reminds me to live them!
Test yourself. How are you doing? You can set simple goals like one new verse a week. Just think in a year you can memorize 52 new verses! Wouldn’t that be great?

Will you join me? That is this week’s challenge, one verse! Be blessed and in the Name of Jesus I ask for an infilling of the Holy Spirit to be upon your family today and always. Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: learn the bible, pray with scripture, scripture memory

Discerning God’s Will

January 26, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Listening to that still, small voice is the goal of all who are discerning God’s will! In this episode, we explore how we can shift our focus once we have practiced the habit of listening.

Discerning God’s Will: Aligning Your Path with His Plan ~ Episode 367

Listening to the Lord, following His will, and practicing holding our tongue is not easy. As I shared in the previous episode, as a family, we are reading the book “The Forgotten Way. The Saint James Master Plan.” By Matthew Kelly – This little book is powerful. What it lacks in words it makes up for in punch.

Holding our tongue, thinking before we talk, and spending time in silence helps us to cultivate the habit of listening to that still, small voice. The natural next step is to understand and interpret what He is revealing to us.

There is no formula – you do x + y, and you get Z. No, that is not how it works. But listening takes practice, and it is difficult to listen if we are talking.

When was the last time you were seeking a clear direction in your life? Making decisions—whether it’s a career change, family matters, or spiritual growth is possible without Go,d but how much better is it if we pray for the Lord’s help?

In a world filled with distractions and conflicting voices, discerning God’s will isn’t just a skill; it’s a lifeline to living a purposeful, God-centered life.

The Art of Discernment in Faith

Discernment is more than just making good choices; it’s a spiritual practice rooted in prayer, reflection, and obedience. It involves testing the spirits to ensure our decisions align with God’s holy truth rather than our own desires or worldly influences.

In today’s fast-paced society, where self-help gurus and social media influencers bombard us with advice, true discernment calls us back to the foundational principles of our faith. We’ll draw inspiration from biblical figures like the Apostle Paul, whose vision of the Macedonian call in Acts 16 redirected his missionary journey entirely.

This wasn’t a random event but a clear prompting from the Holy Spirit, showing us that God often speaks through circumstances, inner peace, and confirmation from Scripture and community. For Catholics, the Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes forming our moral compass through regular examination and sacraments like Reconciliation.

By prioritizing these elements, we can avoid the pitfalls of confusion and step into the clarity that comes from a heart attuned to God. Discernment isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress in holiness, trusting that God reveals His will progressively as we seek Him diligently.

Key Scripture Passages

Romans 12:2

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God.”

This powerful verse from St. Paul urges us to reject the patterns of secular culture that prioritize materialism, individualism, and instant gratification. Instead, it calls for a radical transformation through the renewal of our minds—achieved via daily immersion in God’s Word, prayer, and the Eucharist.

After reflecting on this, consider how worldly influences might be clouding your judgment. For instance, in a culture obsessed with success measured by wealth or status, discerning God’s will might mean choosing a vocation that serves others, like teaching or missionary work, even if it’s not lucrative.

Practically, start by cutting back on your media intake: replace scrolling through divisive news feeds… Ultimately, this transformation equips us to test and approve God’s perfect will, leading to a life of fulfillment and eternal reward.

Proverbs 3:5-6

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

In an age where self-reliance is idolized—think of the “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” mentality—this proverb reminds us that true straight paths come from acknowledging God in every aspect of life, from mundane routines to major crossroads.

After pondering this, reflect on times when leaning on your understanding led to detours. Use apps with daily Scripture I shared about the Bible in a Year podcast by Ascension Press. It’s free on YouTube. (More on air.)

1 John 4:1

1 John 4:1: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.”

St. John warns against deception in a world rife with false prophets and misleading ideologies.

This is especially relevant today, with cultural shifts promoting relativism and ideologies contrary to Christian teachings, such as those undermining the sanctity of life or traditional marriage. Testing spirits involves comparing promptings against Scripture, Church tradition, and moral absolutes.

After this reference, delve into how to practically test: use the “fruit inspection” from Galatians 5—does the spirit produce love, joy, peace? Avoid sources that twist the truth, such as progressive theologies that dilute biblical commands.

Instead, draw on solid resources such as the Bible! In personal life, test career callings: if a job requires compromising ethics, it’s not from God.

As a believer, we must speak out against anti-family policies. Surround yourself with like-minded Christians. This safeguards against spiritual pitfalls, leading to authentic freedom in Christ.

Tips for Discerning Daily

To make discernment a daily habit, begin with structured prayer times, perhaps using a prayer journal to record areas of struggle or praise reports. I love keeping a praise journal to see all that God has provided in our families.

If you can add fasting to your life, not just from food but from noise—turn off the music or news during commutes to listen inwardly. Surround yourself with a faithful community, like Bible study groups, for objective feedback. Remember, discernment thrives in frequent attendance at church. I love that my church encourages silence. When entering, I can kneel and pray quietly. It is a wonderful way to begin to worship God.

If facing major decisions, consider a retreat, even for a few hours! Seek spiritual guidance from your pastor. Patience is key—God’s timing often differs from ours, building trust. Incorporate nature walks and reflect on creation as a means of discernment, as Psalm 19 suggests. Finally, celebrate small discernments to encourage perseverance.

Related Podcast Episodes

Enhance your spiritual discernment with these additional episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:

Faith in Action – Steps to boldly live your faith.
Overcoming Hopelessness – Embracing joy in trials.
Praying for a Friend – Interceding for others.
Let Your Yes Be Yes – Commitment and truthfulness.
Asking God – Persistent prayer for wisdom.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, Christian discernment, discernment

Listening To The Lord

January 19, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Listening to the Lord: Hearing God’s Voice in Daily Life ~ Episode 366

Welcome to A Few Minutes with God Podcast, hosted by Felice Gerwitz. In this episode, we dive into the foundational aspect of our Christian walk: learning to listen to the Lord. As believers, tuning our hearts to God’s gentle whispers amid the noise of the world is essential for spiritual growth.

This four-part series explores listening to Him, following His will, and exercising caution in our speech. Join us as we seek timeless wisdom from Scripture to inspire your faith journey.

Why Listening to the Lord Matters

In a fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the still, small voice of God. This episode focuses on practical ways to cultivate a listening heart, drawing from biblical examples like Samuel’s call in the night. By prioritizing quiet time in prayer and meditation, we open ourselves to divine guidance that aligns our lives with His purpose.

Book referenced: The Forgotten Way*

Scripture Verses for Reflection

1 Kings 19:11-12: (Read on air.) This reminds us that God often speaks in whispers, urging us to be attentive.
Psalm 46:10: “(Read on air.) A call to silence our minds and listen for His presence.
John 10:27: “(Read on air.) Jesus assures us that as His followers, we can recognize His voice.

Practical Steps to Listen Better

Start your day with intentional silence, perhaps by reading the passage slowly and stopping to contemplate the words, or by journaling. In this way, you can write down your prayer requests and keep track of those that have been answered and those you need to continue praying for. Avoid distractions like social media during devotion time, and seek confirmation through godly counsel. Remember, listening is an active pursuit of intimacy with the Lord.

Related Podcast Episodes

For more insights on deepening your relationship with God, check out these episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:

Let Your Yes Be Yes – Exploring integrity in our commitments to God.
Asking God – How to approach the Lord in prayer with boldness.
Faith in Action – Living out your beliefs courageously.
Overcoming Hopelessness – Finding joy through God’s promises.
Praying for a Friend – The power of intercession in building community.

*affiliate link. Please see terms and conditions.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, discerningment, prayer

Finding God Every Day

January 12, 2026 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Finding God in the Every Day with Felice Gerwitz

Do you have a daily schedule? It’s time to add finding God to your list. The Lord’s voice is something we seek, whether in quiet time or in prayer. What should we do? What does God want us to do? What is God’s will for us, today, tomorrow or next year? How do we find God? In this episode, Felice Gerwitz discusses how we should seek God every day.

Missionaries At Home

January 5, 2026 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Missionaries at Home: Following God’s Call in Your Daily Life ~ Episode 365

Understanding the Heart of a Missionary

Missionaries are individuals who dedicate their lives to spreading the Gospel and serving others out of love for Christ. But you don’t need to travel to distant lands to be one. As our pastor, Fr. Shawn, profoundly shared in a recent sermon, true giving isn’t about what we receive in return—it’s a selfless act empowered by God’s grace. This idea resonated deeply with me, prompting prayer and reflection on how it applies to everyday life.

Consider the missionaries who give not just their time but often their very lives for the sake of others. They do so because of a divine calling and the grace God provides. As Scripture reminds us in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” We might view such commitment as insurmountable because we haven’t yet received that specific grace. Yet, when God calls, He equips.

I’ve met missionaries who recount blessings amid hardships. One friend, invited by a priest to serve in a poor community alongside her doctor husband, faced unexpected challenges. Meals were simple rice and beans—not due to lack of funds, but to share in the locals’ daily reality. They slept on thin mats under mosquito nets, enduring heat and rain. Though they cut their ten-day stay short to a week due to illness, possibly from food or water, she described it as the hardest yet most rewarding experience. It began with an invitation rather than a direct calling, but it led to ongoing support for that community.

Mother Teresa: A Model of Perseverance Through Spiritual Dryness

Mother Teresa exemplifies missionary life, yet her story reveals profound inner struggles. Outwardly, we saw a saint tirelessly serving the poorest in Calcutta, founding the Missionaries of Charity, and embodying Christ’s love. However, her private writings, revealed after her death, spoke of a deep “dryness of soul”—periods of spiritual desolation where she felt abandoned by God, devoid of the consolations she once experienced.

Despite this, Mother Teresa persisted, viewing her suffering as a way to unite with Christ’s passion. In her letters, she described this darkness as lasting decades, yet she continued her work, saying it was for Jesus alone. As shared in Catholic sources like LifeSiteNews, this struggle didn’t diminish her grace; it highlighted her faithfulness. Drawing from Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Her example teaches us that God’s calling isn’t always accompanied by feelings of joy—sometimes it’s a deliberate choice to obey, trusting in His sustaining power.

Does this mean Mother Teresa lacked God’s grace? Absolutely not. It shows that even saints face trials, but grace enables endurance. As in Romans 5:3-5, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” Her life inspires us to press on, even when spiritual dryness clouds our path.

The Essence of Missionary Giving: Selfless Service Without Expectation

Being a missionary means giving of ourselves without seeking rewards. Consolations—those warm feelings of joy during prayer, service, or worship—are graces from God, not signs of our holiness. As I once read in spiritual writings, these boosts come when we’re struggling in faith or need encouragement. We’re all works in progress, as Philippians 1:6 assures: “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

Mother Teresa began with those initial warm feelings but continued through dryness, driven by her heart’s calling. This reminds us that missionary work is often a decision, not just an emotion. When we follow God’s lead, blessings may follow, but they’re not the goal.

How to Become a Missionary at Home: Practical Steps

You can live as a missionary right in your own surroundings. Here’s how to start:

1. Begin with Prayer and Time with God

It all starts in quiet communion with the Lord. Dedicate daily time to prayer, seeking His guidance. As James 1:5 encourages, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” Through prayer, discern your unique calling.

2. Start in Your Own Home

Missionary work begins with those closest to you—your family. Serve your spouse, children, or roommates with love and patience. Ephesians 5:21 urges, “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Small acts like listening attentively or helping with chores become missionary opportunities.

3. Ask the Lord to Lead You to Those in Need

Invite God to bring people across your path. Be open to unexpected encounters. Matthew 25:40 reminds us, “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'”

My husband and I became missionaries to engaged couples through an opportunity that found us. Initially hesitant, I embraced it, and for four years, we’ve mentored couples preparing for Catholic marriage. We emphasize the sanctity of matrimony, openness to life, and its permanence—contrasting worldly views of temporary commitments or “trial runs.” Marriage, like surrendering to Christ, is a lifelong gift to God and each other. This hasn’t been easy, but it’s rewarding, drawing us closer as a couple. Now, I’m eager to train other mentors to continue this legacy.

Opportunities to Serve: Especially During the Holidays

Pray and ask God how you can share your gifts as a missionary at home. Others might help identify your talents—perhaps teaching, hospitality, or encouragement. During holidays, abundant chances arise: charitable donations, visiting the elderly, or volunteering with organizations. As Galatians 6:9 exhorts, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Giving of yourself can be tough, but wholeheartedly done, it contributes to a greater good. Like my husband and me, even small efforts make a difference.

I pray you find joy and hope in serving others—it’s a calling for all of us! As we close, remember Matthew 28:19-20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Related Episodes on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network

For more uplifting discussions on living out your faith, check out these episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast:
- Vocation and Purpose – Explores Christian views on vocation and purpose, balancing family, work, and faith, with practical tips like daily prayer and using talents to serve others.
- Your God Given Purpose – Guides on discovering God-given purpose in chaos through listening to God, embracing gifts, and trusting His plan with daily prayer.
- Faith In Action: Living Your Faith Boldly – Challenges listeners to share faith through actions, providing five steps such as praying with expectation, embracing small acts, sharing stories, engaging community, and living with purpose.
- Praying For A Friend – Explores the blessing of praying for friends in need, offering practical steps like listening with love, praying with Scripture, being consistent, trusting God’s plan, and following up, emphasizing prayer as a way to serve and show care.
- Blessings In Our Life – Reflects on spiritual blessings as gifts from God, using Psalm 23, and urges using talents for the Kingdom, inspired by Mother Teresa’s call to love family as a path to world peace.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: Catholicism, Christianity, Jesus, missionary, missions, Mother Teresa, Saints

The Joy of the Lord (New Year Replay)

December 29, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Joy of the Lord Episode 196

The joy of the Lord is… can you fill in the blanks here? The joy of the Lord is so many different things to different people but in this podcast, we will explore how God’s joy can bring us to a greater and deeper commitment with Him!

Please visit my website for books and classes at Media Angels.com

Check out these our podcasts on the topic of Joy: Joy in Living God’s Will and Daily Joy here.

What did you answer when I asked you what you would say when asked, “The joy of the Lord is…”

I can give you so many such as the Joy of the Lord is my strength, Nehemiah 8:10

The joy of the Lord is my rock, He is my Savior and my Lord. How can I thank the Lord who created the heavens and the earth and who knows every hair on my head and every need I have beforehand? The only way I know how is by giving him all the praise. And, when we praise God, what naturally follows is a thankful heart.

The world is trying to weigh us down and watching the news is enough to depress even the most joyful. There is nothing that surprises the Lord and there is nothing, no event that He does not already know the outcome. Throughout the history of mankind, we see the same mistakes made over and over again, beginning with the fall of the garden of Eden. Things have not changed significantly in the sense of people continuing to sin!

We read in Psalm 92:4

Each day we have a challenge, and that challenge is to keep the joy of God in our hearts. Ask ourselves the following questions:

1. What can you offer the Lord today?

2. What can you thank the Lord for today?

3. How can you show the joy of the Lord to others?

Think about these questions and what is key is that whenever we are in the mindset of trying to please the Lord we are receiving blessings. We can not outgive the Lord. Try it. The Lord will not be outdone and we can see that as evidence in our lives. The disciples followed Jesus not because it was easy, but because there was no other way to light, truth, and love. Jesus was compelling, He drew them in with His unconditional love and forgiveness. They were transformed from the ordinary to the extraordinary.

How can we be transformed each day in our ordinary lives? Think about this? It is the theme of this podcast and that is to have the joy of the Lord in our hearts. We can study the Word of God in the scriptures, memorize scripture verses to help us when we are down, turn to God in prayer whenever we have a need or just because we want to praise and thank Him. We can be transformed by the everlasting love of God and the joy that thought brings to our hearts.

Have you gotten off course? We all go off course at some time in our lives. We feel that the Lord is too busy for our needs so we will go it alone. This is not the way to live life and when that burden seems to heavy to carry we will see the evidence in the fruit and that is the wrong path or the path of least resistance. Friends this is not the path we want to be on, we want to be on that narrow path that leads to God and that joy we talk about, the joy of the Lord.

Is there something that is weighing you down? If so, release it and give it to God. That is why over the course of the years I’ve asked you to try a journal, first a praise and thanksgiving journal because that is unbelievably helpful. The second is a prayer journal so that you can go back at some point and see all of the prayers that have been answered. It is truly a faith booster. I have one that I started in 2008 and that thing has pages that are bent and highlighted words and sticky notes. I keep it around to remind myself that while not all prayers were answered, the ones that were important were answered better than I can possibly imagine.

What is the end of this story? We need to keep the focus of Christ in our minds daily, to focus on the blessing we have in our lives, those simple things, the comforts of a home of a family of the blue sky and green grass or even a snowy vista…whatever that is that God brings to us in nature. Nothing can hold back an attitude of gratitude if we will it to be.

The joy of the Lord is my strength and I pray that for you today, and my challenge to you is to increase that joy in your heart with song and prayer, daily! May God be blessed! Amen, and amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Mediations On The Nativity

December 22, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Anticipating Christ’s Birth: Meditations on the Nativity ~ Episode 364

Welcome to A Few Minutes with God Podcast, hosted by Felice Gerwitz. This podcast is dedicated to giving you encouragement and is open to anyone seeking spiritually enriching content. Today, as we approach the Advent season, we’re diving into timely topics that prepare our hearts for Christmas. We’ll explore meditations on the Nativity of our Lord and Savior, blending scripture verses to inspire and uplift. Join me as we reflect on the miracle of Christ’s birth and draw closer to God through prayerful contemplation.

Preparing Our Hearts for the Miracle of Christ’s Birth

The Christmas season is often filled with lights, gifts, and festivities, but amidst the joy, meditations on the Nativity should take center stage. It’s easy for the profound mystery of Jesus’ birth to fade into the background amid holiday preparations. Yet, this is precisely the time to pause and ready our hearts for the Incarnation—the moment God became man to save us.

Imagine the anticipation building in your soul as Advent unfolds. This period invites us to reflect deeply, much like Mary and Joseph did in the days leading to Bethlehem. By focusing on the Nativity, we honor the humility and love of God, who chose to enter the world in vulnerability. As we meditate, let’s ask the Holy Spirit to open our eyes to the wonder of this event, transforming our celebrations into true worship.

Scripture reminds us of this call to preparation in Luke 1:46-48, the Magnificat: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed.” These words from Mary echo the joy and reverence we should carry into Christmas, magnifying God’s greatness in our lives.

The Struggle of Mary and Joseph: A Journey of Faith

Picture the young couple, Mary and Joseph, embarking on a grueling journey to Bethlehem. They faced not just physical hardships—long travels on foot, uncertainty about lodging—but the immense spiritual weight of their mission. Entrusted with the Savior of the World, they navigated Roman census demands, societal scrutiny, and personal fears. Can you fathom the pressure? Mary, pregnant with the Son of God, and Joseph, her protector, relied solely on divine providence.

Their story teaches us about trust amid trials. In the midst of difficulty and stress, they exemplified obedience to God’s will. We often wonder what conversations they shared along the way or how they prayed for strength. Perhaps Joseph recounted dreams from angels, reassuring Mary of God’s plan. This reflection invites us to consider our own struggles: How do we respond when life feels overwhelming? Like Mary and Joseph, we can turn to prayer, finding peace in God’s promises.

As we ponder their journey, it’s uplifting to remember that God uses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes. Their faithfulness paved the way for salvation, reminding us that our daily challenges can become opportunities for grace. Let this inspire you during Advent—embrace your own “Bethlehem moments” with hope.

Mary: Theotokos

Central to our meditations is Mary’s role, profoundly honored in Church tradition. In 431 AD, at the Council of Ephesus, the Church formally declared Mary as Theotokos, or Mother of God, to combat the Nestorian heresy, which separated Christ’s divine and human natures. This declaration affirmed that Mary bore the whole person of Jesus—fully God and fully man—ensuring the unity of His incarnation. According to the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), this teaching underscores Mary’s unique vocation and protects the truth of Christ’s divinity.

This title isn’t just theological; it’s a source of comfort. Mary, as Mother of God, intercedes for us–think of asking a friend to intercede for you. Yes, you can go right to Christ, but Mary always points to her son, and she is drawing us closer to her Son. Reflecting on this during the Nativity helps us appreciate her “yes” to God, which changed history. Generations indeed call her blessed, as foretold in the Magnificat, inviting us to seek her guidance in our spiritual lives.

Reflections on the Humility of the Nativity

Often, when I meditate on the Nativity, a wave of sadness comes over me—not despair, but an awareness of the humility involved. Mary and Joseph, feeling helpless, brought the Savior into a stable or cave, far from the warmth of a home. No royal palace, no fanfare; just straw, animals, and the chill of night. This scene horrifies in its simplicity, yet it radiates divine beauty.

Why a manger? It signifies God’s humbleness as an example to us. Jesus, the King of Kings, chose poverty to show that true power lies in love and sacrifice. Through God’s grace alone, this lowly birth reveals His accessibility—He meets us in our brokenness. As Philippians 2:7-8 tells us, “[He] emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”

This humility uplifts us, reminding us that no circumstance is too humble for God’s presence. In our own lives, when we feel inadequate or overlooked, the Nativity assures us: God dwells among us, transforming the ordinary into sacred.

Diving into the Wonder: John 1:14 and Short Meditations

To connect deeply with the Incarnation, let’s turn to John 1:14: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” This verse captures the miracle—God pitching His tent in humanity, revealing His glory through Jesus.

Here are short meditations to enrich your Advent devotions, perfect for Christmas Eve reflections or daily prayer:

Meditation on the Journey: Close your eyes and walk with Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. Feel the dust of the road, the weight of expectation. Pray: “Lord, guide my steps in faith, just as You led them.”
Meditation on the Birth: Envision the stable’s dim light, Mary’s labor, Joseph’s vigilance. Hear the first cry of Jesus. Reflect: How does this vulnerability mirror God’s love for you? Scripture tie-in: Isaiah 9:6, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given.”
Meditation on the Shepherds: The lowly shepherds were first to hear the angels’ announcement. Consider: God invites the humble first. Ask: “Am I open to His call in unexpected ways?” Luke 2:10-11: “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”
Meditation on the Magi: Wise men from afar sought the King with gifts. Ponder: What gifts do I bring to Jesus—my time, talents, heart? Matthew 2:11: “And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him.”
Meditation on Mary’s Pondering: Luke 2:19 says, “But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.” Take time to ponder your own encounters with God. Journal: What miracles has He wrought in your life?

These meditations are designed for “Nativity story reflections” or “Catholic devotions for Christmas Eve,” making them searchable and spiritually enriching. Incorporate them into family prayer times or quiet moments, allowing the Holy Spirit to deepen your connection to the Incarnation.

Uplifting Conclusion: Embracing the Nativity’s Joy

As we wrap up this episode, remember: The Nativity isn’t just a historical event; it’s an ongoing invitation to encounter Christ. Despite the sadness in its humility, it should fill us with joy—salvation has come! Let this Advent be a time of renewal, where meditations lead to action: Share the love of Jesus with others, practice humility, and rejoice in God’s grace.

May the peace of the Christ Child fill your hearts today and always

Related Podcast Episodes

For more uplifting content, check out these episodes from the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network under the “A Few Minutes with God” category:

Celebrate Christmas and Advent – Episode 280 – Explore ways to spiritually prepare your family for Christmas.
Mary Mother of Jesus (Special Replay) – A deep dive into Luke 1:46-55 with practical applications.
Holy Family Our Family (Special Replay) – Reflections on Joseph and Mary’s example for modern life.
True Meaning of Christmas – Meditations on Emmanuel drawing from John 1.
Christmas Blessings – Simple prayers and scriptures to enhance your celebrations.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, Advent, Christmas, meditations on the Nativity, Nativity

Called to Be Saints — Embracing Holiness in Everyday Life

December 15, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Episode 362: Called to Be Saints — Embracing Holiness in Everyday Life

Are we really called to be saints… even in the middle of busy, ordinary life?

In this episode of A Few Minutes with God, we explore what it truly means to be called to sainthood—not as a lofty, unreachable goal reserved for monks or martyrs, but as a daily invitation for every believer.

As the holidays approach and life feels increasingly full, it can be difficult to focus on prayer, holiness, or even quiet moments with the Lord. Yet Scripture reminds us that sainthood is not about perfection—it’s about total commitment to God, lived out one faithful step at a time.

Through Scripture, real-life stories, and reflections on well-known saints, we are reminded that holiness often looks like small acts done with great love.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

What Scripture means when it says we are called to be saints
Why sainthood isn’t reserved for clergy or religious life
How fear often keeps us from fully surrendering to God
Why saints can be described as “rebels for God”
Lessons from modern examples of faith lived boldly
Encouragement from the life of Mother Teresa and her hidden struggles
Practical, manageable steps to grow in holiness today
Why there is no “middle ground” when it comes to following Christ

Scripture Featured:

James 1:17 – Every good and perfect gift comes from above
Romans 1:7 – Called to be saints
Joshua 24:15 – Choose this day whom you will serve
Philippians 4:13 – Strength through Christ
Philippians 4:7 – The peace that surpasses understanding
Matthew 6:16–18 – Fasting in humility
Ephesians 2:8–10 – Saved by grace, created for good works

Simple Ways to Live the Call to Sainthood:

Put God first each day—even with a short prayer
Practice daily prayer, morning or night
Embrace small acts of self-denial or fasting
Make restitution when you’ve wronged others
Give generously to those in need
Share Christ through both words and actions

Sainthood isn’t about being flawless—it’s about running toward God, especially when life is difficult. Whether you’re a parent, student, professional, or caregiver, your daily vocation is holy ground when offered to the Lord.

“Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” — Mother Teresa

🙏 May this episode encourage you to take one faithful step closer to God today.

🎧 Listen to Episode 362
📌 Find the full show notes and resources at:
AFewMinutesWithGodPodcast.com

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, becoming a saint, biblical sainthood, called to be saints, Catholic and Christian saints, Christian discipleship, Christian encouragement podcast, Christian holiness, Christian Podcast, Christian spiritual growth, faith and holiness, faith in daily life, holiness in daily life, living a holy life, living out your faith, modern Christian living, sainthood in everyday life, scripture based podcast, small acts with great love, Ultimate Christian Podcast Network

True Meaning of Christmas Gifts

December 8, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

The True Meaning of Christmas Gifts: Giving from the Heart ~ Episode 363

Year after year, we spend a great deal of money on the perfect gift, only to miss the true meaning of Christmas gifts: giving from the heart. How can we take back the holiday and our sanity? In this episode of A Few Minutes with God Podcast, Felice focuses on the true meaning of Christmas, making it affordable and Christian!

I heard someone enthusiastically say that the holidays are near, and I panicked. My son is deployed, and I want to send him a package. I have baking to do (which I love), and I have presents to buy. I don’t have enough time or even the energy to tackle all of this in November, let alone December! But then I took a deep breath and prayed, ‘God, help me,’ and I felt calm.

Biblical Perspective on Giving

What is the biblical perspective of giving? All of it costs nothing. It is time, love, courage, and inspiration all stemming from our love of God. If we love God, this love will pour out from us onto others. The biblical perspective on giving emphasizes generosity that flows from a grateful heart, not obligation or show. As Catholics understand it, giving isn’t about a strict percentage like Old Testament tithing but about offering cheerfully and sacrificially, returning God’s gifts back to Him through acts of worship and charity.

Charity in Gift Giving

This topic highlights generosity inspired by the Magi in Matthew 2:11, who journeyed far to present gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the infant Jesus—not out of duty, but as an outpouring of adoration and recognition of His kingship, divinity, and future sacrifice. Similarly, in 2 Corinthians 9:7, St. Paul reminds us, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Acts 20:35 echoes Jesus’ words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” showing how giving aligns us with Christ’s selflessness. In everyday life, this means prioritizing heartfelt gestures over extravagant spending, allowing God’s grace to transform our giving into a reflection of His abundant love.

Translating Biblical Giving into Christmas Gifts

But how does this translate into gifts? Sometimes the best gifts are those that cost the least. Baking has been my go-to for many years. Since there is a sweet overload these days I have switched to bread baking for gifts. Even if you are not a baker there is something you can give from the heart. As a young mom, I longed for a time to get away to shop for groceries or even get a haircut without the children near. I was delighted when my mother-in-law and in later years my parents could watch the children for me. Those gifts of time are priceless to young people and old alike.

Consider simple, meaningful ways to embody this:

Share a handwritten note of encouragement with your favorite prayer or write one. Offer to help a neighbor with chores during the busy season. These acts mirror the Magi’s offerings and invites the Holy Spirit to work through us, fostering a deeper connection. When we give we do so not because of obligation but because we are thankful for what the Lord has done for us. Sharing your praise reports is another way to share God’s love.

Of course, giving gifts is another way to consider gift-giving a symbol of Christ’s gift to us. We can never outgive God!

Faith-Based Gifts That Honor God’s Love

What are faith-based gifts that honor God’s love? Here are five ideas, each paired with a Scripture verse to inspire your giving:

A Personalized Prayer Journal:

Gift a simple notebook where the recipient can record prayers, reflections, and answered petitions. This encourages daily communion with God and honors His love by prioritizing spiritual growth. As Philippians 4:6 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” You can find these at discount stores all of the time. I found beautiful leather-bound journals for $4.99 one year.
An Act of Service, Like Babysitting or Meal Preparation:

Offer your time to assist a busy family or elderly friend, freeing them to rest or worship. This selfless giving reflects Christ’s servant heart and builds community in His name. Galatians 5:13 instructs, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”
A Charitable Donation in Their Name:

Contribute to a faith-based cause, such as a Catholic charity supporting the poor or pro-life initiatives, and present a card explaining the impact. This gift extends God’s mercy outward, embodying stewardship of His blessings. Proverbs 19:17 states, “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.”
Masses Celebrated:

Enroll a loved one in perpetual spiritual benefits through Mass offerings. Purchase Mass enrollment cards from websites such as Marian.org, where you can arrange for them to be remembered in daily Masses, providing a gift that lasts for years through ongoing prayer and intercession. A card will be sent in your name. Direct link here. This underscores the eternal value of prayer for souls. As Hebrews 7:25 affirms, “Therefore he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.”
Handmade Rosary or Prayer Aid:

Make or buy a rosary to encourage devotion to Our Lord by the example of our Lady. The rosary centers on the mysteries of Christ’s life. His birth, his death, and His resurrection. This simple tool fosters a habit of meditation and draws the recipient closer to divine grace. Luke 1:42 inspires us: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” (One year I purchased glow in the dark rosaries for my grandchildren. I still had mine from my grandmother (yellowed and frayed) and it was something I treasured from my childhood.

These ideas keep Christ at the center, transforming gift-giving into an extension of worship and evangelization.

By choosing gifts like these, we not only express love but also plant seeds of faith that can grow in the hearts of those we cherish. Imagine the joy of knowing your gift leads someone to a deeper encounter with the Lord—truly a reflection of the first Christmas gift, the Savior Himself.

In preparing these heartfelt presents, start with prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to guide your choices and infuse them with genuine charity. Involve your family in the process, turning gift-making into a shared act of faith that strengthens bonds and teaches the next generation about generous living. Remember, the Lord delights in our efforts, no matter how small, when offered with a pure heart.

Reclaiming Christmas Through Heartfelt Giving

As we approach this sacred season, let’s remember that the true joy of Christmas lies not in material abundance but in emulating the generosity of our Savior’s birth. By focusing on gifts from the heart—infused with time, love, and faith—we honor the Incarnation and invite others to experience God’s peace. Pray for guidance, as I did, and watch how the Lord multiplies your efforts. May your Christmas be filled with the light of Christ!

In the hustle of holiday preparations, it’s easy to lose sight of the manger’s simplicity, where God’s greatest gift arrived humbly.

Consider how acts of kindness, like baking treats for a neighbor or crafting personalized prayers for loved ones, echo the selflessness of the Holy Family. As Proverbs 11:25 reminds us, “The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.” Let this verse inspire you to give without expectation, trusting that the Lord will refresh your spirit amid the festivities.

Reclaiming Christmas means weaving faith into every tradition, from adorning your home with nativity scenes to sharing stories of saints who embodied charity. In doing so, we not only deepen our own devotion but also light a path for others toward eternal hope. Reflect on 2 Corinthians 9:7: “God loves a cheerful giver.” Embrace this call with joy, knowing that heartfelt giving transforms ordinary moments into sacred encounters with divine grace.

Related Podcast Episodes

For more uplifting discussions on faith, holidays, and Christian living, check out these additional episodes from A Few Minutes with God Podcast on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:

Christmas Miracle Every Day – Explore how to experience the miracle of Christmas in everyday life through faith and God’s presence, with personal stories and scriptural encouragement.
Celebrate Christmas – Discusses celebrating Advent as a preparation for Christmas, emphasizing reflection, prayer, fasting, and keeping Christ central, with family ritual ideas and ties to Isaiah 7:14 and Isaiah 9:6-7.
Loneliness At Christmas – Addresses the challenge of loneliness during the holidays, offering faith-based ways to find comfort in Christ and reach out to others, with references like Isaiah 41:10.
Christmas Blessings – A special replay examining whether we feel worthy of God’s blessings at Christmas, drawing on scripture to affirm His abundant grace.
Christmas Is Real – Affirms the historical and spiritual reality of Christmas, debunking myths and focusing on Jesus’ birth as the ultimate gift, with practical applications for believers.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, charity, Christmas, Gift Giving, the true meaning of Christmas

Christian Hospitality (Holiday Replay)

December 1, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Christian Hospitality

Episode # 47 (Holiday Replay)

How are your Christian hospitality skills? Is this something that needs practice or do you have an open door policy and invite people into your inner circle, often?

In this episode, Felice Gerwitz discusses how hospitality is a gift but a skill that can improve and grow. Who knows, you may be entertaining angels!

Hebrews 13:22 is a warning from St. Paul who says, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”

I know we are all busy and the idea of one more thing often tips us over the edge.

Yet, Christian hospitality really begins at home. I know many churches are equipped with various ministries and they all have a very important place. In fact, those ministries are a way for people to connect and grow in faith. In the past, I volunteered to teach many classes at church and for over ten years was very involved. As the seasons of my life changed, I began working on Christian hospitality and ministry in other ways. This podcast reflects one of those ways.

The Bible gives us much food for thought.

Jesus was an example when he went to a tax collector’s home, someone who was considered a crook by many because they often charged more than they should in order to keep some of the money. Read Matthews 5:46-48 — here Jesus challenges us to extend our Christian hospitality even to our enemies and one line always gets me, “So be perfect, just as our heavenly Father is perfect.”

How can we be perfect?

The Father, our heavenly Father perfects us – -we can’t do it alone. We are such a mess most of the time, one friend calls it being a “hot mess.” How can we minister to others when we can’t even minister to ourselves? Well, with the help of our heavenly Father!

Here is some suggestions.

Pray. Is there someone at church who catches your eye and perhaps someone you should invite out for coffee?
Ask the Lord for guidance. Is there a particular ministry He wants you involved with or something you should join?
Introduce people you think might get along and see if you can connect others.
If you are Catholic and are able, go to daily Mass. Or, no matter what your denomination, take time to sit in quiet and listen to the Lord.
Pray about ways you can be used by the Lord in Christian hospitality.
If you are in a group setting, speak to those you don’t know.
Invite someone you don’t know into your own group.
Invite someone to listen to this podcast — it is a form of Christian ministry and hospitality. Better yet, listen with a friend!

The simple gesture of kindness and hospitality toward a stranger can be turned into something wonderful by the Lord.

Take the time to talk to those you don’t know. If you are in prayer about this, the Lord will provide those wonderful “God-incidents” to connect you with those in need.

Remember to fill up! Go to church, pray, read the Bible and be still before the Lord. You can’t give to others if you are spiritually empty yourself.

Let’s pray:

Dear Lord, I thank you for the gifts you’ve given me and to those who are listening to this broadcast. I know that nothing is impossible for you and if you call us to service, you will provide not only for us but for those who we minister to, in Your Name, Jesus. We ask you to send us out in service for You, as your hands and feet. Point us to those who need You the most and let us help in any way that we can. Thank you Lord for giving us the gift of hospitality and bring good for the kingdom of God from our efforts. I pray this in Jesus, Name. Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Moments with God, Christian hospitality, hospitality, serving others

Pray Deeper: Overcoming Barriers to a Vibrant Prayer Life

November 24, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Show Notes: Episode 361 – Pray Deeper: Overcoming Barriers to a Vibrant Prayer Life

Podcast: A Few Minutes with God
Host: Felice Gerwitz
Network: Ultimate Christian Podcast Network

Episode Overview

In this episode, Felice Gerwitz explores practical strategies for deepening your prayer life and overcoming common obstacles such as doubt, busyness, and spiritual dryness. Drawing from personal experience and scripture, listeners are encouraged to persevere in prayer and experience God’s transformative presence.

Key Topics & Takeaways

1. Recognizing Barriers to Prayer

Prayer routines can become stagnant or distracted by daily life, social media, and work pressures.
Common obstacles include doubt, lack of time, spiritual dryness, and routine prayers.

2. Scriptural Encouragement

Luke 18:1: Jesus teaches perseverance in prayer.
Romans 12:12: Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Matthew 6:6: Pray privately and intentionally.
Psalms 42:1-2: God revives our spirit when we seek Him.
Ephesians 6:18: Pray in the Spirit on all occasions.
James 5:16: The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
1 Timothy 2:1: Intercede and give thanks for all people.
Philippians 4:6: Present requests to God with thanksgiving.
Daniel 6:10, 1 Samuel 1:10-20, Luke 5:16: Examples of bold and persistent prayer.
2 Corinthians 12:9: God’s grace is sufficient in weakness.
Romans 5:3-4: Suffering produces perseverance, character, and hope.

3. Practical Strategies for a Vibrant Prayer Life

Start small: Even five-minute increments can make a difference.
Make a “prayer appointment” and treat it as an important meeting.
Use tools like devotionals or scripture apps to begin your day intentionally.
Incorporate praise, worship, journaling, and quiet reflection.
Lean on community for support and accountability.
Intercede for others to shift focus from self and serve.
End prayers with gratitude to foster joy and remember God’s faithfulness.

4. Personal Reflections

The host shares personal experiences of praying with children, using short segments, and finding revival through intentional prayer.
Encouragement to recognize distractions and respond to God’s nudges.
Importance of community prayer and sharing requests for mutual support.

5. Encouragement & Closing

Prayer is for our transformation, not to change God.
Rely on God’s grace and the Holy Spirit’s help.
Commitment to break through barriers together and grow in faith.
Host prays for listeners’ renewed prayer lives and asks for prayers in return.

Related Episodes on Prayer and Faith

Deepen your prayer journey with these episodes from A Few Minutes with God on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:

Praying for a Friend – Explore the power of intercessory prayer for loved ones.
Prayer to God – Practical ways to communicate with the Almighty daily.
Faith Minutes – Turn brief moments into powerful faith-building prayers.
Asking God – A replay on boldly approaching God with your needs.
Your God-Given Purpose – How prayer reveals God’s plan for your life.

Resources Mentioned

Call to Action

Subscribe, rate, and share the podcast.
Visit afewminuteswithgodpodcast.com for show notes and more episodes.
Join the community and share prayer requests.

May God bless you today and always. Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, prayer, prayer life, struggles with prayer, struggling to pray

Faith Challenge – Episode 200 (Replay)

November 17, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Faith Challenge ~ Episode 200 (Replay)

It’s time for a challenge, a faith challenge! When was the last time you asked God for more of Him and less of you? When we look at our faith is it something we take for granted, or is it something we need to cherish? Felice shares three faith challenges in this 200^th episode of A Few Minutes with God!

Visit my website for great faith challenging books, such as One More Child and A Few Minutes with God.

What is a faith challenge? It is a way to increase our faith in good times and in bad. It is a time to grow, to become stronger, and to be light to others. It is also helpful to be prepared and get your faith-kit together. Something you can pull out in times of need that will help you to overcome with God. God is here for us all of the time, yet in times of crisis, we freeze up and forget we have many tools in our arsenal!

Perhaps your faith has been challenged when something terrible happens in your life or the life of someone you love. What do you do during these times? Usually, we drop to our knees and pray, but sometimes we feel like God doesn’t hear us. Has this happened to you? For many Christians when our faith is challenged we get more of God, not less. We may not feel Him, but we know without Him we would fall.

First Faith Challenge Prep:

Be prepared. Do you have a prayer you can pray to calm yourself down? If not find one or write one.
What are your favorite go-to scriptures when you are in need? Write them down with the subheading for each topic. Have your Bible handy with marked passages to read.
Be ready to use your praise journal (and prayer journal) and have it handy.

Faith Challenge 1 ~ Hard Times:

Pray for strength and wisdom.
Pray with someone else and if necessary, pick up the phone and text or call someone who will pray for you.
Put your need on a prayer chain. If you do not have one, ask around. There are many eMail prayer chains available as well as on social media. The Facebook page here is just for that need.

All of us have been challenged by recent worldwide events. I don’t need to list them, I am sure you have a mental list of your own. It was and has been a horrible time with fear the number one ingredient that everyone in the media keeps pushing. Are you fearful? What do you do when you experience fear?

Faith Challenge 2 – When Things Are Out of Our Control:

Know that God is in control, remind yourself of this.
Remind yourself that God always wins.
The enemy is a liar and fear is one way to manipulate us, pray this verse: 1 John 4:4 “…for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.“

Another challenge in our lives is when someone lets us down. This is more difficult when it is someone we know or love. We feel abandoned and alone. We feel misunderstood. We feel at a loss. During these times where can you turn?

Faith Challenge 3 ~ When People Let Us Down.

Remember that God will never let you down. God is always there, even in the midst of difficulty and trial.
Focus on today, don’t let past hurt or future what-ifs bog you down.
Pray Jeremiah 29:11 –For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

The biggest challenge we have as Christians is to get out of our own way and allow the Lord to work in our lives. We often give the enemy the credit, but truly it is our own obstacles that are the most deferential to our spiritual growth. If things are not going as we planned we are quick to blame (or I am quick to blame, and maybe you are a bit like me?) but I’ve realized the older I get that the only person responsible for my spiritual growth or lack, of growth, is me.

Ask yourself these quick questions:

Am I taking time to pray and read the Bible?
Am I spending quiet time with God?
Do I praise God in all things?
Am I allowing the Lord to work in me?
Do I surround myself with like-minded Christians?
Am I spending time ministering to others (even if it is your family – that counts).
Do I share what God has done for me with others?
Do I see the miracles of God’s grace in my life?
Am I appreciative of all that I have?
Am I loving and kind to my own family or Christian support group?

These are just a few of the ways we can check our own hearts and motivation. If we are striving to become more faithful in thought, word and deed we are working toward a goal and not becoming stagnant. The challenge for you this week and in the next is to grow in faith and challenge yourself in this way! May God be blessed.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, faith, faith challenge, Felice Gerwitz

Thanksgiving and Faith (Holiday Replay)

November 10, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving and Faith Episode 162

Thanksgiving and faith go hand in hand even when our faith is always being tested by the forces of this world. Even if everything in your life is going well, or as well as can be expected, it is as if we have one eye looking in the rearview mirror just waiting for something to happen. Maybe, however you are an optimist and you look at things as being in God’s hands, a very good place to be… and for us as Christians there is a very simple lesson and that is to get our priorities in the right place.

Where are your priorities?

Your family, your immediate needs, maybe you are struggling with an illness and your priority is to get better. We must get our priorities straight and that includes thanking God in all things, having faith when faith seems distant, and looking at our lives as a temporary place yet, somewhere the Lord wants us right now.

Do you remember, some time ago (for those of you who have listened for a while) I did a show on being in the present moment? When our peace is robbed, it is because we are looking too far in the future.

Today, focus on today.

And, as you are focusing on today—what are you thankful for. As I record this it is a time of difficulty as well as the holidays around the corner. And truthfully, many people might feel like there is not much to be thankful for…however, that is never true. As disciples of Christ, we have so much to be thankful for!

Gratitude is something that is innate for some people, it comes naturally—yet, for others it is difficult. Being grateful means we see the little things, the things often overlooked by others. We see the it in the sunset, in the time with family or friends. We see it in the ability to go to church and praise God. Without gratitude, we have no hope. Without hope we have no future. Where is our hope? It is with the Almighty.

Lately, the news has been dire. And when you listen to the news you hear doom and gloom, yet when you open the Bible, the Word of God is encouraging for those who love and follow the Lord and His commands. Remember the children’s song, based on scripture? This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad? Psalm 118:24 says, The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. But what about verse 25? Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!

Remember success varies, and what you consider success is not what I consider success.

For some success translates into money earned, and for others, success is in the smile of a child or a sunset or sunrise. Thanksgiving doesn’t depend on success. Thanksgiving takes a conscious effort of determining that you will be thankful…why? Why not? What is it in your life that you can praise God for, and mean it? Take some time to think about this. I see people post things on social media that show a sense of hopelessness. There is a sense that things are all bad and there is no redemption, but those people have not only lost a sense of hope and dare I say, faith. If we have faith—the faith that surpasses all understanding we have hope. And, if we have hope – we are thankful.

Why is it that it is easy to list all the things that upset you?

If I gave you five minutes to list all your grievances you could probably fill a sheet of paper, but if I asked you to list all the ways you are thankful and have hope, what would your paper say? The enemy does not want us to have hope and he has robbed a society glued to social media and television of hope. Do you have the weight of the world on your shoulders? Do you feel defeated? Think about this:

Here is what we know.

God is the victor, and to Him goes the glory and honor.
You are a child of God. Remember that.
Unite your will to God’s every day – Lord I give you my will, please give me your will. Thy kingdom come thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
In God there is hope. Never forget that.
The battle is not for us to fight, but the battle is for us to prepare for (Ephesians 6:10-18- put on the armor of Christ: –because once again the battle has been won. Let me remind you what this amazing scripture says:

Ephesians 6:10-18

New International Version

The Armor of God

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

How can we be vigilant? By praying dear friends, praying to our Lord because only God and God alone can change our hearts from being burdened to overflowing with Thanksgiving and hope!

Let’s pray.

Dear heavenly Father, I praise you and I thank you for everything. For the sun, the moon, and the stars, for the mornings and the evenings. For giving me the breath each and every day to not only survive but to thrive and to praise YOU who are worthy of my praise. I love you my God and I thank you, only YOU are victorious against the enemy and I thank God the Father for sending His only son that we can not only be saved but to be healed and to be joyful and hopeful people. Dear Lord, I pray for the following needs: And I pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, Gratitude, prayer, Thanksgiving

Pray – Pray – Pray

November 3, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Do you know how to pray? Many of us learned the basics through the Lord’s Prayer. This prayer is wonderful, and prayer is our lifeline to God. In this uplifting episode of A Few Minutes with God Podcast, hosted by Felice Gerwitz, discover timeless insights to elevate your prayer life and draw closer to the Heavenly Father. Whether you’re a lifelong Christian or exploring faith, this episode reminds us that prayer brings joy, peace, and a sense of Divine connection in our busy world.

Pray – Pray – Pray! Episode 360

Do you truly know how to pray in a way that transforms your life? While many Christians start with the familiar words of the Lord’s Prayer, as taught by Jesus in Matthew 6:9-13, genuine prayer is our vital connection to God, fostering deeper intimacy and spiritual growth. Some of you are lifelong believers, and others are just beginning your faith journey, but we all need help to experience prayer as a source of peace amid life’s chaos. Prayer is a conversation with our Heavenly Father that can renew your spirit and align your heart with His divine will.

The Power of Prayer in Everyday Life

Prayer is a foundational habit most Christians learn early on. From grace before meals to bedtime petitions, it’s woven into our routines. As Psalm 100:4 encourages, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” My family instilled this in me, and we passed it on to our children. Yet, in today’s fast-paced society, prayer often takes a backseat amid distractions.

Social media, with its clickbait and targeted ads, can pull us away from what matters most. Algorithms track our interests—recipes, crafts, or news—and feed us more, but they also amplify division and anger. Proverbs 15:18 (read on air) warns us. This social engineering fosters rage over differing opinions, robbing us of peace and shifting our focus from God.

I’ve noticed this even in my limited time online for business. It’s insidious, dulling our spirits and distancing us from prayer. But there’s hope: unplug and reconnect with God. As Romans 12:2 urges, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Prayer transcends the earthly, inviting us into holy communion with our Creator, nourishing our souls with harmony and joy.

Cultivating a Heart of Constant Prayer

How do we pray without ceasing? Start with every breath: “Thank you, Jesus, for this day.” Luke 18:1 reminds us, “We ought always to pray and not to faint.” This grace comes from God alone. In our spiritual journey, we must remember that without His grace, we can do nothing, but with it, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).

God often blesses us beyond our requests, anticipating our needs with love and mercy. Recently, a family medical scare was resolved in the best way possible—praise God for His protection! Yet, for many blessings, He waits for us to ask: “Ask and it shall be given to you” (Matthew 7:7). Prayer is essential, fostering gratitude and drawing us into God’s will.

Living Out Prayer Through Scripture

1 Thessalonians 5:12-24 offers profound guidance on Christian living, emphasizing peace, patience, and prayer. Let me share this portion: (Read on air).

We are called to counter worldly tendencies—irritation, division, impatience—with grace.

Key takeaways include:

Rejoice always
Pray constantly
Give thanks in all circumstances

Why? It’s God’s will in Christ Jesus! Don’t suppress the Holy Spirit—despite past abuses in ministry, God’s gifts of prophecy and healing are for our good. Ephesians 6:18 adds, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.”

Using the Lord’s Prayer as Your Guide

If you’re unsure how to pray, follow the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) as a blueprint:

Worship and Thanksgiving: Begin by honoring God, as in “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.”
Seek God’s Will: Submit your requests, trusting “Your kingdom come, your will be done.”
Daily Provision: Ask for needs with gratitude, “Give us today our daily bread.”
Forgiveness: Forgive others as God forgives us, promoting peace (Matthew 6:14-15).
Protection from Temptation: Pray for deliverance, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”
Praise and Glory: End with doxology, glorifying God forever.

Friends, prayer unlocks faith, love, and purpose. If peace eludes you, it’s a sign to pray more. I’m praying for you—please pray for me too. Let’s embrace this truth and let prayer transform our lives.

Related Episodes on Prayer and Faith

Deepen your prayer journey with these episodes from A Few Minutes with God on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network:

Praying for a Friend – Explore the power of intercessory prayer for loved ones.
Prayer to God – Practical ways to communicate with the Almighty daily.
Faith Minutes – Turn brief moments into powerful faith-building prayers.
Asking God – A replay on boldly approaching God with your needs.
Your God-Given Purpose – How prayer reveals God’s plan for your life.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, pray, prayer, prayer habit, praying

Commitment to Pray (Prayer Challenge)

October 27, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

A Commitment to Pray

with Felice Gerwitz

Are you ready? Today’s challenge is a commitment to pray. However, will you find the time? In today’s broadcast, Felice shares how you can begin with one minute, add another and another until you reach your goal of spending time with God each day.

Sponsor: Media Angels, Inc. Novels – Truth Seekers Mystery Series available on Amazon. Three novels for tweens!

Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels, Inc. A Few Minutes with God, The Journey Begins

Show Notes: Commitment to pray

Beginning steps to listening to the Lord and how to prepare to enter God’s presence.
Do you need more of Jesus in your life?
It is no accident you are here!
Can you make a commitment – today?
Be still before the Lord. The Lord will pour out an abundance of blessings during this time!

First, there are some decisions to make:

Are you a Christian – if not, consider becoming one today.
How much time will you spend in prayer?
How can you rearrange your schedule to make it happen?
Do you need daily reminders? This handout contains information on receiving daily reminders: AFMWGod- Podcast Handout

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, commitment to pray, pray, prayer, prayer challenge

Mirror of Scripture (Replay)

October 20, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Mirror of Scripture Episode 261

When was the last time you read a passage in the Bible, and it was as if the Lord was showing you a mirror image? I call that the Mirror of Scripture! In this episode, we’ll look at scripture verses that highlight areas that need our attention.

Visit our sponsor – CTCMath.com, for information about this wonderful math curriculum for kids ages K-12

Everyone wants to hear, “Well done,” or “Great job,” or better yet, “You are on the right track!” Yet, often the response we get when praying is silence. A silence of mind and of our hearts. How are we doing in our spiritual walk, and what does the Lord have to say to us in the words of scripture?

When we least expect it we hear God, it can be in reading a Scripture verse that we feel is powerful or just for us. Or, it can be in the words of a friend or something we hear at Church, maybe in a sermon but often in the Word being read. At my church, we hear readings from the Old and New Testaments each week. The readings may be ones I’ve read many times before yet they are powerful, and more so when it hits me as if a mirror is held up and I see my reflection.

Spiritual Mirror

I can say with assurance that many of us do not like what we see in the mirror. In fact, we possibly avoid looking into it other than getting ready for our day, in the morning. A mirror shows all of our flaws, the spots on our faces, the bad hair day, or other things we’d rather not address. By looking in the mirror we see how we look to the world.

Having a good body image and being happy with our own worth, inside and out is important. The point I’m making is that as a mirror shows our flaws and imperfections so too does a spiritual mirror. It shows us areas of faith we should work on to gain a better sense of where we are going. Hopefully toward a deeper faith.

Mirror of Scripture

Matthew 5:14-18 (Read on air.) ¹⁴“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. ¹⁵Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. ¹⁶Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

I love this verse! There is a Bible Song, “This Little Light of Mine,” we taught our children, and they sang it at Bible camp. It further illustrates that the light of Christ should shine through us to others. Alone we do not shine light but with God we do, and if we have this holy light we have work to do for the Kingdom.

If we hide our light we are not sharing the good news. God knows our situation, He knows what is happening in our lives. He understands our trials and He doesn’t call us to do anything He is not preparing us for ahead of time. A friend of mine didn’t want to embrace faith strongly because he was afraid God would send him to Africa on the mission field. He was a doctor, and he was seriously worried about this! But, when he finally opened his heart to the Lord, He was ready to go anywhere God called him. He and his wife lead our prayer group for many years, and they are some of our closest friends. God never did lead him to the mission field, but God allowed him to pray with his patients and at times allowed healing.

What is the weakness of our lives? Do we make excuses so that we don’t have to go to the mission field as well? Opening our hearts to God allows Him and only Him to work in our lives in a powerful way if we allow Him.

James 1: 22-24 (Read on air)

²²But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.^[a] ²³For if any one is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who observes his natural face in a mirror; ²⁴for he observes himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. ²⁵But he who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer that forgets but a doer that acts, he shall be blessed in his doing.

Powerful! We can be doers with the grace of God, and His providence. Friends, God so loves you. And we can spread that love to others. Today I was at a store and something I purchased was way cheaper than I expected. I told the lady checking me out that God was blessing me. I hadn’t paid too much attention to her, other than to say hi and ask how she was since I was busy loading up the items on the conveyer belt. When she smiled back at me after hearing me say, God was blessing me she said, “I wake up each day and thank God for it, each and every day.” As I looked at her, I was smiling and agreeing with a hearty, Amen! This lady was missing some teeth and fairly elderly, and working, but praising God.

Some of us have harder lives than others and yet if we can praise God in the midst of our trials that is using our lives in a positive way.

By looking at Scripture as a mirror, exposing our shortcomings and ways we have not pleased God, we can offer this to the Lord with a heartfelt purpose and that is to change. By continuing to show God we are dooers not just listeners we can better align our will to His. This week your challenge is to pray to the Lord before you read the Scriptures. Ask Him to use the Word to be a mirror. Let this help you grow closer to Him and in your faith. I will do this as well. May God bless you today and always.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, faith, prayer, Scripture

Overcoming Hopelessness

October 13, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Why would anyone want to talk about the topic of hopelessness? Because that’s how many people feel today—overwhelmed by a heaviness that seems to press in from every side. Yet in this podcast episode of A Few Minutes with God, we’ll explore how we are called to be people of joy and thanksgiving. In all things, God is glorious, righteous, and the source of true hope.

Overcoming Hopelessness: Embracing Joy, Thanksgiving, and God’s Unfailing Hope ~ Episode 359

Introduction: Why Talk About Hopelessness in a World Full of It?

Hey friends, welcome back. Today, we’re diving into overcoming hopelessness because all around me, I sense it: people depressed and worried about the future, unable to let go of the past. We’re taught to give glory to God in everything, but what happens when we feel abandoned? Today, I want to unpack how hopelessness is a lie from the enemy. Our focus shouldn’t be on what is, but on what is to come.

The “If Only” Trap: From Unhappiness to Faith-Filled Perspective

When I was younger, I looked at life’s hardships as temporary. I thought, If only we had a bigger house, if only we had another car, if only we could (fill in the blank). The good news? As I grew in my faith, I realized that “if only” kept me in a state of unhappiness. Yet another lie of the enemy to keep my eyes on the wrong thing!

Many times on our journey toward Christ and a deepening of our faith, certain truths are revealed. Usually, this comes later in life. Why not earlier? Why can’t we grasp this as young people? Well, some can. People like Charlie Kirk understood and was given a grace few people have. He was given the grace to understand God’s love, to articulate it, and to challenge those who lived with unbelief or doubt. He was also, I believe, given the grace of martyrdom. His work on earth had come to an untimely end for us, but not for the glory of heaven. God is not surprised, while we are often left in shock, disbelief, and hopelessness.

Sadly, the truths of faith most likely are revealed when we are younger, but we (I) weren’t ready to hear them.

That’s why, when I see helplessness in the world today, I know this too shall pass. Some people are ready for the good news; their eyes have been opened. Others just aren’t there yet. And yet there is a way to overcome hopelessness.

Don’t you think the Lord Almighty, the God of heaven and earth, knows this about us? He knows everything about us—which is why we should be thankful and joyful people. Truly, our lives on this earth are but a fleeting moment in the vastness and awesomeness of our God and Creator.

Yet when things hit us personally, we often see them as a personal attack or punishment for something we did. Neither is true. If that were the case, we’d only see righteous people walking around unscathed.

As it is written in (Psalm 42:5): “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my Savior and my God.”

Trusting God’s Love: The Key to Joy Beyond Circumstances

We do not know the mind of God—only He knows why bad things happen to good people. What we must focus on is the love God has for us, an undeniable truth. If we’re open to this love, we can live a life of joy without bounds.

If you’ve ever contemplated God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, you’re at a place where you know the depth of His love. If you haven’t had a chance to reflect on the Trinity, I encourage you to do so—it will change your life.

In this fast-paced world, filled with differences of opinion, strife, contention, even among families, and deep sadness, we can rest in knowing the Lord is with us.

If you don’t know this yet, get on your knees, pray, and ask the Lord to reveal that He is there. He has not abandoned us. He has not left us without His love and protection. That doesn’t mean we always feel it, but we should know it in our minds and hearts.

One of my favorite scriptures (Jeremiah 29:11): “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

I choose to be hopeful. I choose to believe in God. I choose to understand that His will is not mine. In doing so, I’ve been freed from the shackles of this world—the “what ifs” and “how comes.” No more questioning, “Lord, I’ve been a good servant—why haven’t I been blessed?” Instead, we can release these thoughts and declare, ‘Here I am, Lord.‘ I come to do Your will. (Remember the enemy wants you hopeless, the Lord wants you, with His help, to overcome hopelessness!)

(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) Read on air.

Conclusion: Choose Hope in Jesus Christ Today To Overcome Hopelessness

(Romans 15:13)“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”

I pray that you, too, find hope and understanding in the faith of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

Additional Listening: More Encouragement from A Few Minutes with God

For deeper dives into faith, joy, and overcoming challenges, here are four recommended episodes from the podcast:

Shock and Awe: Finding God’s Hope in the Midst of Tragedy: Have you been in shock and awe over the events of the day? In this podcast, we will discuss how God works in the midst of tragedy and how to keep things in perspective.
Spoiler Alert! God Wins (Special Replay): We live in a divided world, where right is wrong and wrong is right, but the good news? God wins! This podcast focuses on the ultimate reality in our lives: God reigns now and forever.
Never Underestimate Prayer (Replay): Do you think your prayers never get answered? I believe you should never underestimate prayer! In this podcast, Felice discusses ways we can shortchange the Lord and what a blessing it is to realize that our prayers have been answered.
Keeping Your Faith Alive: When is our faith most tested? During the storm. Keeping your faith alive is only possible when you look to the Lord for the help and guidance you need today and always. This podcast will encourage you to keep Him first.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, Christian Encouragement

Never Underestimate Prayer (Replay)

October 6, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Never Underestimate Prayer ~ Episode 281

Do you think your prayers never get answered? I believe you should never underestimate prayer! In this podcast, Felice discusses ways we can shortchange the Lord and what a blessing it is to realize that our prayers have been answered.

Thanks to our sponsor – Media Angels, you can find curriculum as well as books such as One More Child and A Few Minutes with God.

Before you ask, no, my prayers do not always get answered, well–let me rephrase that. They do get answered but not how I would like them to be answered. I hope that makes you feel better. But that is no excuse to underestimate the power of prayer. We can pray, sometimes for years (or it seems like years), with no results.

Never Underestimate Prayer

If you haven’t done, so already, I invite you to listen to a previous podcast I did that is on the topic of forgiveness. What does this have to do with prayer? Well, I prayed for many years, and it turned out to be seven years, for a situation that happened in my life. Basically, I was praying for a person who had hurt me. Every time I was upset or felt helpless, I asked the Lord to bless this person. Did I feel like praying was a blessing? No, but felt led by the Lord to pray it anyway.

I invite you to do this. If you are upset with a person or hold a grudge against them, it is always best to go to the Lord in prayer and to pray for this person. The reason is that the enemy dislikes it when we pray for someone. The enemy wants us to be upset and unkind in our thoughts and in our actions, and when we reverse that and pray for a person who we believe has wronged us, then the enemy has no power over us and usually leaves us. In my case, a chance meeting showed me that all of that animosity and hurt feelings and everything else that I was feeling was gone.

This was truly a miracle, and seven years–wow! That’s why we should never underestimate prayer! I didn’t even realize it had been so long. However, the outcome was such a blessing in my life and one that I wanted to share with all of you. It isn’t always easy to admit when we are at fault, and holding grudges and unforgiveness in my heart is an example of being at fault. None of us are exempt from sin.

I learned through perseverance and prayer that the Lord always answers our prayers, and we should never underestimate prayer or his power in our lives, we feel defeated and alone and that no one hears us or understands us, and I think that’s what leads so many people into sin —they think that no one understands them, that God doesn’t hear them until finally a situation crops into their lives that they feel is an answer— but instead the situation becomes worse than the solution.

Friends, we must be steadfast and continue to pray. When I look at the lives of the Saints, those holy men and women who’ve gone before us. I see their lives are marked with struggle, yet they continue on and persevere. What a wonderful example that is for each one of us. Can you imagine if Abraham had given up or if David had stopped worshiping God after sinning? Sure, it took him some time to repent, but eventually God, God wants our hearts and minds to be single, focused and living the best life we can keep him at our center. The key is repentance and prayer.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

That is a scripture we should commit to memory!

One of my sons started listening to a podcast from a businessman. He has been very successful, and he wants to share his success with others who are striving to live lives that he calls “striving for excellence.” I may have mentioned this to you in a previous podcast, but it’s worth mentioning again, especially since it has encouraged my son to strive for excellence. I explained that when we strive for excellence we’re striving to put on the mind of Christ. Excellence only comes from God, the same way we receive grace or blessings in our lives. It is a pure gift.

When we strive to live each day the best way we can, we should offer up our day to the Lord. Otherwise, are attempting the impossible, especially with daily temptations. Striving to do something on your own is a recipe for failure. How can we strive to put on the mind of Christ? One way is to focus on what is important each and every day to our day to the Lord and ask him to come into our lives in a deeper way. I often pray this prayer. I don’t know how successful I am, but I do ask the Lord to come into my life in a deeper way.

We should set aside some time for prayer. How often you can do this depends on what is going on in your life; I know people like the idea of downtime, but what better way than spending time with God? On the days that I can’t spend time with God, I offer my day to him. I try to focus on what is important that day and give it the rest to him.
We can make our lives a prayer to God, and in that way, even if we are not verbalizing our intent, God knows our heart and perhaps will bring a scripture verse to mind or maybe a song of praise. Challenge yourself to memorize a scripture verse this week. Then another one next week. Soon you will have four verses memorized by the end of the month. Can you imagine if we did that monthly? We’d have 48 verses memorized by the end of the year.

Colossians 3:16 (Read on air.)

Gratitude And Prayer

Can we sing gratitude? I’m sure if we were all in a room together and sharing about how the Lord has answered our prayers, we would be amazed at each of our stories. Each one of us has hardships that we bear, but each one of us has been blessed whether or not we realize it. If not, perhaps you can pray for an attitude check. Praising God in all things, seeing the good in our lives and those around us. This takes prayer, and it takes grace!

One way we can see how we are doing in our faith walk is to look at our lives as a glass that is half full or half empty which is it? Is your life half full, or is it half empty? If you believe your life is half full, meaning that you are blessed, rather than half empty, meaning you are lacking, that is one indication. No, it’s not an exact science, but it is an illustration that shows how we can look at things optimistically or pessimistically. The choice is ours. Believing that God hears all of our prayers is really Important.

Ultimately, when we pray, it is up to the Lord; if he answers the way we would like him to answer or not, if it is a prayer that is important to our salvation, those are the ones that are answered the most. For example, Lord, give me more faith, our Lord, bring me closer to you. Remember, when we pray, it is not a feeling; it is a decision we make. We make a decision to pray similarly to making a decision to forgive ourselves as well as others as we are closer and closer to the Advent season. As I record this, and it will probably play for the first time during December, the season of Advent, let us call to mind how important it is to pray to the Lord and offer our daily struggles to him.

Your challenge this week is to look at answered prayer as a gift and give God all the glory that He rightly deserves.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: Answered Prayer, faith, prayer

Vocation and Purpose

September 29, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

This episode of ‘A Few Minutes with God’ explores how Christians view vocation and purpose. In a recent NBC Gen Z poll, the findings showed how different men and women look at the world. No wonder so many people are depressed. In this episode, we explore ways to incorporate a faith-driven approach to balance family, work, and purpose. Whether you’re wrestling with career pressures or family goals, discover how God’s plan brings peace.

Vocation and Purpose

Typically, I don’t approach news trends, but this one struck a chord. The saying that men and women are different is highlighted along with the political divide. If you want to dive into the exact poll and its findings, we won’t cover them here, but what we will cover is the solution that is uncovered in Christian, and especially Catholic, beliefs.

How the NBC Poll Highlights Gen Z’s Divide on Success

Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus is an old book, yet that caption could not be more real, as evidenced by the poll results in a nutshell. Without getting into the politics, the NBC News Decision Desk Poll (August 2025) shows that Gen Z (13-28 year olds) are split in their vision of a successful life. For young conservative men, getting married, a good family and “having children” is their top priority, while more liberal women prioritize “fulfilling work” and “emotional stability,” with only 6% valuing family. Both cite economic pressures, with 40% of Gen Z naming inflation as their top concern. This gender and political divide reflects a broader cultural question. And it is not a new one.

Can family, career, and inner peace coexist? Catholic teaching on vocation offers a timeless answer, guiding young adults to live counterculturally through faith. In fact, this is true for all Bible-believers if they believe and hold dear the Word of God. My Christian friends are often closely aligned with the same ideals and values that I hold as a Catholic.

What is more important than family? Well, God, of course. The Lord should be first and foremost the center of our lives. However, some of these young people have it so wrong.

Catholic Teaching on Vocation

Vocation is God’s call to holiness through love and service, not just a career choice. How do we serve others before ourselves? This is a countercultural idea. We as parents serve our children and our extended families. Most of this service is self-giving. The Bible is clear, faith and family are important. Having a special vocation and calling is a gift from God.

The Bible is clear, we’ve been created for a purpose, and you are not an accident. Genesis 1:27–28 (Read on air).

Matthew 6:33 (Read on air.)

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1603, 1877) emphasizes this aspect of family life. The family is a “domestic church” (a community of love). When we work as God intended within our families, we participate in God’s plan for our lives. And what’s more is that every person has a universal call to love God and others, lived out through marriage, single life, or service.

What does all of this have to do with the poll? The survey shows that men value family, while women seek work and stability. Our vocation unites these as sacred paths when rooted in faith.

Balancing Work and Family Through Faith

The Catholic perspective is that work has dignity (Laborem Exercens, Pope John Paul II). This is reflected by the grace that God gave us, and the God given ability. How do we use it? It can be any role, from parenting to professional work, whether it is white-collar or blue-collar, or anything in between. What does this mean for us? It shows us that our family and relationships take precedence over “hustle culture” or self-focused goals, guided by faith.

Every person has the choice to show up at work or at home. Professionals can strike a balance between work and time for loved ones. Parents can find purpose and joy within the home despite economic strain. Many of us chose to have a single-income household because we prioritized family over income.

Faith offers a countercultural path to fulfillment beyond the pressures of society. Living this way means trusting God’s plan over temporary cultural trends.

Even if you are not in the category of Gen Z we can still ask the Lord to lead us daily and guide us. What is our purpose today, or this week? Often, we float through life without giving any thought to what God wants for us. And, truthfully, we may be afraid to ask!

Practical Tips to Discern Your Vocation and Purpose

Pray Daily: Ask God, “What’s my purpose?” through simple gratitude prayers to find clarity.
Be thankful! No matter what happens each and every day, we thank God even when we are not thankful. Choose to be thankful and soon you will see that whether we are or not, it will change our outlook on life.
Use Your Talents: What gifts do you have? If you have a specific gift or calling use it! Apply these skills, for example helping your neighbor, friend, or church. Creating and leading a Bible study. Serving others even from home. If you pray to God and ask Him to use you, offers will come finding you! Each of us wants to be wanted and needed in some capacity and we want to do worthwhile and fulfilling things. When you work for the Kingdom of God, it is very rewarding!
Build Faith-Based Community: Connect with friends or parish groups for support. When I was asked by our local pastor to help with the Pre-Cana, or marriage prep, I agreed. My husband and I meet with couples at our home and work through their needs, addressing some difficult questions as they arise before marriage. In this way, it allows us to act as mentors, and it is fulfilling to both of us because we can work together in this ministry, sharing the knowledge we have gained over our 46 years together.
Offer Your Work: Dedicate daily tasks to God as acts of love. Try it and again it will change you! God doesn’t need anything from us but we need him. When we dedicate our tasks, our work, and even those chores we don’t want to do to our Lord, it is a great blessing. It transforms routine into purpose. We are basically grounding our lives into God’s call.

Additional podcasts:

Finding Your God-Given Purpose in a Chaotic World

Finding Hope

Power Focused Prayer

Fruits of Faith

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, Catholic vocation, emotional stability, faith, family vs career, Gen Z success, NBC Gen Z poll, Purpose

Shock and Awe: Finding God’s Hope in the Midst of Tragedy

September 22, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Have you been in shock and awe over the events of the day? In this podcast, we will discuss how God works in the midst of tragedy and how to keep things in perspective.

Shock and Awe – Episode 356

As I record this in the early fall of 2025, our world has been shaken by events that have left us in shock and sorrow. Whether you’re a Christian or someone searching for truth, these tragedies have struck a deep chord in the hearts of all who hold faith dear.

I don’t often focus on the specifics of these events, as dwelling on the negative can overwhelm us. Yet, the pain is undeniable—natural disasters and senseless violence have made it hard to catch our breath. Many of us have wept for those we don’t even know, grieving for a world in desperate need of a Savior. As believers, we know that Savior is Jesus Christ. Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Still, the evil we’ve witnessed points to one source: the enemy, satan, who seeks to divide and destroy. I have been in shock and awe over what has happened.

The State of Our World

Relentless challenges—hurricanes, earthquakes, ruthless killings—leave us asking, “What has happened to our world?” Many of us just want to live simply: to go to the grocery store, pick up our kids, or spend time with family. For those who homeschool, like I did, we often shield our children from the news because it’s too painful to process. On social media, we see not only hate but also a disturbing joy in tragedy. How can anyone take pride in suffering? The answer lies in the enemy’s influence, capturing hearts and minds across generations.

When churches reopen to half-empty pews, when people turn to horoscopes or New Age philosophies instead of God, when our airwaves are filled with filth, it’s hard to find refuge. Even watching a movie requires careful vetting. As Christians, we face a critical question: What can we do?

The Temptation to Despair Online

I see frustration boiling over. Many are fed up, unwilling to “turn the other cheek” or seek reconciliation. But this is exactly what the enemy wants—division, strife, and hatred, even toward our neighbors. The oppression is palpable, and it’s in these moments that we, as believers, must storm heaven with prayer.

Yet, even prayer is mocked. Some ask, “Where is your God?” I know where my God is, but do they? The September 2025 issue of The Magnificat offers wisdom for these times. (Read on air) On September 17th, it reflects on trusting God’s providence, drawing from Psalm 36:6: “Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep.” St. Augustine reminds us that God’s plan is often hidden, like a single tile in a grand mosaic. We may question why the wicked prosper or the righteous suffer, but we cannot see the full design. God’s justice is not absent—it is beyond our understanding. We must trust Him and leave judgment in His hands.

A Call to Prayer and Hope

We don’t fully understand why God permits evil, but we know He is righteous and good. He has given us free will, and with it comes the choice to follow Him or the enemy. In these dark times, we must pray unceasingly—on our knees, for ourselves, our families, and those who don’t know the Lord. Many who perpetrate evil have bought into the enemy’s lies, and we must pray for their hearts to turn to God.

Amid the pain, there is hope. I hear stories of miracles—people who haven’t opened a Bible or attended church in years are turning to God. Conversions are happening; seeds of faith are being planted. Our role is not to judge how long this will last but to nurture these moments of grace.

Faith in the Midst of Tragedy

Why do we follow God? Is it out of duty, or because we love Him with all our heart and soul? I pray it’s the latter, for that love endures. We are all in this together, praying for a world that reflects God’s love and justice. Jesus died on the cross for our redemption, yet many have turned to self-centeredness and evil. If that’s you, there’s still time to turn back to God.

Begin each day with praise: “Lord Jesus, I thank You. You are the King of Kings, the Alpha and Omega, the Bright Morning Star. I worship You.” At day’s end, pray: “My God, I thank You for today ‘s joys and sorrows. Thank You for the chance to serve my family, friends, and those who don’t know You. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Let us pray unceasingly, trusting in God’s wisdom, and hold fast to the hope of His salvation.

Podcasts You May Enjoy:

Calm in the Storm This episode explores finding peace and trust in God amid life’s storms and crises, echoing the call to prayer and reliance on divine wisdom during overwhelming events. Listen here
Not Abandoned Addressing feelings of isolation and despair in the face of evil and loss, this reflection emphasizes God’s unwavering presence and mercy, much like the script’s message of hope amid shock and sorrow. Listen here
Be Not Afraid This episode delves into overcoming fear from tragedies and uncertainties through scripture and faith, aligning with the somber tone and encouragement to pray unceasingly. Listen here

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: Catholic reflection, Christian hope, Christian Podcast, faith in tragedy, finding hope in suffering, God’s providence, overcoming despair, prayer in dark times, Romans 8:28, shock and awe, trusting God in sorrow

Spoiler Alert! God Wins (Special Replay)

September 15, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

We live in a divided world, where right is wrong and wrong is right, but the good news? God wins! This podcast focuses on the ultimate reality in our lives: God reigns now and forever.

God Wins ~ Now and Forever ~ Episode 321

The Issues That Divide Us

The issues that plagued our country were and are truly diabolical. Each one of us knows them and we are astounded that this is the world in which we live. Yet God knows. He has delivered us at this point of time, but we must always put our trust in Him and not in man! Somehow, we can see the evil where others are blinded. As one young adult told me recently, “No one believes the news on television.” That wisdom.

Yet, what does wisdom teach us? It teaches us the truth, and it teaches us God’s sovereignty. Our God is a God of order; He is not a God of chaos. There are things that are clear. There are other things that are not, yet God has given us the ability to make up our own mind and act upon it. Yet, are we willing to accept the consequences?

God is indeed control of our lives, but God gives us:

The leader we deserve
God gives us free will
God allows people of ill intent to cheat

Therefore, not voting is becoming complacent in a way, and that is not my teaching; it actually comes from Fr. Rippenger, an exorcist priest. He says we must choose the less of two evils. Why am I discussing this after an election and not before? No matter when you hear this, you are responsible for your own choices, and how those choices affect you (and me) is often overlooked. The prayers and sacrifices of the Christian people I aligned within my own state of Florida managed to overturn very detrimental amendments to our constitution. I am still in total shock they did not pass, and I praise God for this blessing.

God is victorious. God wins – God always wins, yet we must do our part.

We must pray, we must fast, and we must hold those truths of faith in our hearts. I’m going to read you a portion of Romans 8. I normally quote Romans 8:28 this is one of my favorite verses, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

That is you and me, yes, but while God works out things for good, we might not like the trial and tribulation (for our own good) that we must go through. It is echoed in Romans 8:31-32 …If God is for us, who can be against us?He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?

For our salvation God sent His only begotten Son John 3:16: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

For our salvation, for our sake, for us. Do we cherish this? Do we praise God on a daily basis? Do we say, “Oh my gosh I can not praise and thank-you enough?” Do we truly understand the concept of God wins?

Romans 8:31-39 (read on air).

Amen and Amen! But, friends, what will you do with this information? How will you handle the truth? In what way will you go forth from today onward? We must look within our hearts and pray daily for a growth in our faith and for a true longing for wisdom that only God can bring.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, biblical wisdom, christian faith encouragement, christian life lessons, christian podcast inspiration, faith in troubled times, god is victorious, god reigns forever, trusting god in hardship

Mary Mother of Jesus (Special Replay)

September 8, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Mary Mother of Jesus – Episode 97

Mary, Mother of Jesus is known throughout humanity, nations and time. We can learn so much from her! Most Christians know her name and read about her in the Bible. She receives a staring role in the New Testament that begins with humble roots, becomes elevated by her, “Yes,” to the Angel, Gabrielle – the spokesperson for Almighty God and culminates in the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Why are we discussing Mary – as I record this it isn’t anywhere near Christmas when people consider Mary’s part in redemption history as they set out a Nativity scene perhaps to commemorate the birth of Christ. Yet, I believe that Mary is more than that and we need to take a closer look. She is a kindred spirit. She suffered as we suffer, she felt compassion, loved, trusted God and she is our example.

Mary is known by many names, she is known as Mary Mother of Jesus, she is known as the Virgin Mary, as Theotokos in Greek -Mary Mother of Jesus or in Easter Christianity and the Latin translation is Mother of God or God’bearer

Yet, while the Bible talks so little of Mary. We know her by her attributes:

She was a willing servant
She trusted God
Mary Obeyed God’s call
Mary had great suffering in her life

Can you imagine being a poor girl and learning that you were chosen by God for a great task? As a young Jewish girl, Mary must have learned as all the children did that they were awaiting a Messiah, a Savior to free them from Roman rule. She learned the Old Testament and she must have known about Isaiah and the prediction that a young virgin would bear a son, and he would be named Emmanuel which means God with us. Read all of Isiah 7 but the verse I will read to you is at follows and begins in verse 10-15

Emmanuel – God is With Us: Isiah 7: 10-15

When Mary was approached by the angel she didn’t say – “I’m sorry you’ve got the wrong person, didn’t you take a wrong turn at a castle somewhere?” No – she said, “Let it be done to me according to your Word.” She said yes.

How often do we feel like God asks us to do something and we are conflicted. As I’ve shared with you its happened to me often. Yet, Mary was from a poor and humble family. Luke 1:38

The Infancy Narrative is in the Scriptures and you can read the entire verses in Luke 1:1-50 read this in your Bible and think about the words and what they mean. How can you apply this to your life? Luke 1:26-45 especially announces the birth of Jesus to Mary by the angel Gabriel. He was sent by God, and Mary humble servant said, “Yes.” She then visited her cousin Elizabeth. She was unselfish. And the visit turned out to be a blessing when Elizabeth greeted Mary. “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.” (Luke 1:42)

Mary Filled with the Holy Spirit:

Responded with, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior.” Luke 1:46-47 Mary needed a Savior, and her son was the Savior.

For many of us these verses are so familiar and if they are not for you – go back and revisit them, take your time, journal about them. While they are often read around Christmastime, it is so important we take time now to study them now.

God sent His Son for us – and God picked a humble lady.

Now, Joseph’s lineage we read is from the house of David with a direct lineage to Abraham, this is very important and not the topic of today’s podcast. However, know that because of prophecy and the fulfillment of prophecy

First known miracle -wedding feast of Cana – do what he tells you.
Mary reminds us that Jesus serves our needs – but we must be obedient to Him.

She was present in the days before Pentecost and she was there at the foot of the cross

A woman of great courage and self-giving – went to visit Elizabeth to help her!

Isaiah 7:14 speaks of the Virgin Mother of Emmanuel

“Virgin-Mother of Emmanuel”: “Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and His name shall be called Emmanuel.”

Emmanuel means God with us

The child – Jesus, would be a

Luke 1:46-49 – My soul magnifies the Lord …

Greatest of all saints – chosen by God, prepared by God to be the mother of his son – His divinity at the Council of Nicea was determined by defining his mother. Was Jesus half man and half God – God his human form from May and his Divinity from God or was he fully man and God – all as one?

Mary was called Mother of God

Mary was immaculate by an act of God at the time she was conceived so that she would be sinless and therefore a worthy vessel

God gave Mary so many wonderful attributes of Grace
She is the symbol of hope, obedience, and pointing us constantly to her son – do what he tells you. Her life is a witness to the Glory of Jesus

Is Mary Mother of Jesus a Kindred Spirit?

Image Attribution:
Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato – http://www.bridgemanartondemand.com/art/104827/The_Madonna_in_Sorrow

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: Mary, Mary Mother of Jesus, Virgin Mary

Your God Given Purpose

September 2, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

In this fast-paced, chaotic world, have you ever wondered how to uncover your God-given purpose? With the busyness of life pulling us in every direction, how do we find the quiet moments to truly listen to His voice and discover the path He’s calling us to walk? Today, we’re diving into this journey together, seeking His wisdom and grace to guide us toward the purpose He’s designed just for you. Let’s take these few minutes to draw closer to God and find the clarity we all need!

Finding Your God-Given Purpose in a Chaotic World

Gosh, what a week. There is always something going on, but this week has been extremely stressful and chaotic. I won’t bore you with the goings on in my life, but I bet you can relate to this feeling or have suffered a similar week yourself. At times, I feel like a firefighter, putting out fires wherever they land. When I am in the midst of chaos, I wonder to myself, “Seriously, Lord? Is this my purpose in life?”

Yet, even while I feel lost in the whirlwind of life, I believe you can still discern your vocation or search for your true calling within what God has planned. Today, we’re diving deep into discovering your God-given purpose, finding peace and direction through faith. How do we do this? By searching the scriptures for reference, and today you will hear verses I love and share with you often, as well as ways I find peace to continue on this path of faith.

Scripture Reflection
No matter where you are, whether you are driving in a car, sitting on a back porch with a cup of hot tea, or doing your laundry as you listen, try to quiet your heart as I read this scripture to you. Let’s pray. Dear Lord, I ask a blessing on all of the listeners today. I ask that you open their minds and hearts to what you want for them. Not their best, Lord, but your best for them. And I pray this in Jesus, Name. Amen.

Let’s begin with Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Oh, friends, these words are ones that I remember as giving me hope. As I’ve shared with you before, we all need hope, and God promises to give us hope and a future. Plans to prosper us. What does prosper mean? If your mind is racing to the next lottery ticket purchase, that isn’t necessarily what the Lord has in mind for our lives. Prosper in this sense can mean well-being and safety. It can mean a deeper faith which brings happiness, hope and peace. These are the things that bring us closer to God and His purpose for us.

Finding Your God-Given Purpose
What are the ways you can discover your God-given purpose? First, listen to God’s voice. The world’s noise—endless tasks, distractions—can drown out the Holy Spirit’s whisper. As Christians, we’re blessed with faith. We can pray and use whatever prayer brings us the peace and joy that surpasses all understanding. What works for you? How do you pray in silence and ask the Lord, “What do you want of me today?” I try to attend daily mass. On the way, I meditate on one aspect of Jesus’ life. Either on His life, His death, or His resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Whether I do this in church, by praying a Rosary or going to Eucharistic adoration, a time of peace and quiet, I try to focus only on Him. Find what works for you. How can you pray?

Here is a suggestion. Spend five minutes or more praying daily, “Lord, show me Your purpose today.”

[In my children’s book, A Few Minutes with God, available on Amazon or at MediaAngels.com, I share a story that brings home the importance of spending time with God. When you purchase the book on my website, you will receive a complimentary accompanying study guide journal.

You can also receive a free journal on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network by signing up for emails. I share journaling prompts to help you capture God’s guidance. It’s not about perfection but about opening your heart to His call.]

Second, embrace your unique gifts.

Romans 12:6 says, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.” God crafted you with talents—maybe teaching the faith, creating beauty, or showing compassion. In a previous podcast, I shared a story about a listener who found her purpose leading a parish Bible study after feeling unfulfilled. I’m part of the Magnificat Prayer Ministry, and four times a year, we host a prayer breakfast for women to encourage them in their faith journey. We have a book ministry where people come and, for a donation, can take home a book that is virtually free. This ministry enhances our ministry and gives women another avenue to learn more about God’s calling. Do we use these gifts, or do we think that someone else will do the job? Stepping up and volunteering is another way we say yes to the Lord. There is no job too small if you are giving God all the glory for a job well done.

When we read scripture we are exploring our faith and the teachings that have been handed down to us. But be sure to add prayer to the scriptures you read. Ask the Lord for direction, yes, but consider that what brings you joy and serves others—that’s a blessing from the Lord. He blesses us as we try to bless others! If you are not sure about where the Lord is leading you, praying or talking to your pastor can help you discern what gift you have that you can share with others.

Third, trust God in the chaos.

Why? Because we know He has not abandoned us, and we need to remember this! Ephesians 1:11 assures us, “In him we were also chosen… according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will.” We want to know his will now. We want it all laid out for us, illuminated by a lamp or a large flashing sign. This way.

Unfortunately, life does not work that way. Instead of being a chosen people, we become a stubborn people. My way or no way.

Everything that happens in our lives, the good and the bad, is something that is not a surprise to the Almighty God. He knows everything. So, how do we navigate finding our purpose when faced with all these roadblocks that lead us down the wrong path? By stopping, acknowledging our sins, and confessing that we are wrong and ready to begin again.

Take small, faithful steps toward what you consider God’s calling for you.

And, how do you know it is the correct one? Seek the “peace that surpasses understanding” (Philippians 4:7) as a sign that this could possibly be God’s yes! Still, evaluate whether your actions bear spiritual fruit, such as joy and a feeling of closeness to God.

Additional Recommended Episodes
Deepen your journey with these A Few Minutes with God episodes on Ultimate Christian Podcast Radio Network:

Not Abandoned: Discover how God stays with you, even when purpose feels distant.
Renew Your Mind : Align your thoughts with God’s truth to discern His plan.
Caring and Compassion: Learn how serving others reveals your purpose.
Miracles Happen: Be inspired by God’s guidance in unexpected ways.

Friends, how is God revealing your purpose?

Maybe a Scripture spoke to you, or a quiet moment brought clarity. True discernment gives us a peace that persists through trials. Many times we soldier on and rarely take the time to think, “Am I at peace?”

If you are on social media, share your story on our A Few Minutes with God Facebook page—your words could inspire another person, truly! Post a prayer request or praise report, and let’s grow as a family in Christ. Visit the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network for more episodes and our weekly Christian podcast newsletter.

Let’s pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your perfect plan for us. Help us hear Your voice, embrace our gifts, and trust You in the midst of chaos. Guide all listeners to live Your purpose boldly. Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Christian faith, Christian Inspiration, discerning God’s will, Felice Gerwitz, finding peace, God-given purpose, prayer and reflection, scripture encouragement, Spiritual Growth, Trusting God

Let Your Yes Be Yes | A Few Minutes with God Podcast

August 25, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

I heard a sermon about this topic, “Let your yes be yes.” It made me think and wonder if this is something I do. In this podcast, we are going to explore some podcasts that point to this, as well as how to include this way of thinking in our prayer life and in the promises we make to other people, and more importantly, to the Lord!

Let Your Yes Be Yes, and Your No Be No ~ Episode 354

God’s faithfulness is unwavering; He always keeps His word. As humans, we often fall short in keeping our promises to God, much like the Israelites, whose pride led them to stray despite God’s mercy and repeated chances for redemption. This episode explores how we, as Christians, can commit to a steadfast “yes” to God, honoring our word with integrity and humility, rooted in a Catholic perspective.

God’s reliability is our anchor. Our challenge is to align our words and actions with our commitment to Him, overcoming pride and human weakness to live faithfully.

Scripture Verses

Matthew 5:37: Read on air.
- Jesus calls for simplicity and truth in our words, reflecting a heart aligned with God’s will.
James 5:12: Read on air.
- Reinforces the call to integrity in our commitments, avoiding empty promises.
Numbers 23:19: Read on air.
- God’s unchanging faithfulness contrasts with human inconsistency.
Deuteronomy 7:9: Read on air.
- Highlights God’s covenantal fidelity as a model for our own.
Psalm 15:4: Read on air.
- Describes the righteous person who keeps their word, even when it’s costly.

Main Points:

God’s Faithfulness vs. Human Failure

God’s word is eternal and trustworthy (Numbers 23:19). He never wavers in His promises, as seen in His covenant with Israel and the new covenant through Christ. The Israelites, however, repeatedly broke their “yes” to God due to pride, idolatry, and disobedience (e.g., the golden calf, grumbling in the desert). Like them, we often let pride—thinking we know better—derail our commitment to God.

Catholic Practices That Strengthen Our “Yes” to God

In Catholicism, our “yes” to God is lived through the sacraments, prayer, and obedience to Church teaching. For example, the sacrament of Reconciliation restores us when we fail and ask for forgiveness, and he forgives us. In the Blessed Sacrament, He strengthens our resolve to live faithfully.

Why We Struggle to Keep Our Word

Pride, distractions of the world, and fear of sacrifice make it hard to keep our word to God. The Israelites’ pride led them to trust in their own ways over God’s. We face similar temptations when we prioritize personal desires over faith.

Five Ways to Let Your Yes Be Yes

Practice Humility: Recognize our dependence on God’s grace to keep our commitments. Pride led the Israelites astray; humility keeps us grounded. Regular examination of conscience, a Catholic practice, helps us identify where pride creeps in and seek forgiveness.
- Example: Pray, spend time with God, take time to read the Scriptures.
Root Commitments in Prayer: A consistent prayer life aligns our will with God’s. Daily prayer, such as the Rosary or Morning Offering, strengthens our resolve to say “yes” to God’s call.
- Example: Dedicate time each day to ask for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in keeping promises.
Live with Integrity: Let your actions match your words, as Jesus teaches (Matthew 5:37). If you commit to serving in your parish or helping others, follow through, even when inconvenient.
- Example: If you promise to volunteer at church, prioritize it over personal leisure.
Seek Accountability: Engage with a faith community, such as a Catholic small group or spiritual director, to stay accountable. The Israelites failed when they isolated themselves from God’s guidance; community helps us stay faithful.
- Example: Join a parish group or find a trusted friend to share your spiritual goals.
Embrace Sacrifice: Keeping our word to God often requires sacrifice, as Psalm 15:4 notes. Be willing to bear the cost of discipleship, whether it’s time, resources, or comfort.
- Example: If you commit to tithing or fasting, do so joyfully, trusting God’s provision.

Reflection: Living Out Integrity in Faith

Reflect on a time you said “yes” to God but struggled to follow through.

What caused the disconnect—pride, fear, or distraction? How can you use one of the five practices above to strengthen your commitment?

God’s “yes” to us is unwavering—seen in His covenant, Christ’s sacrifice, and the Church’s guidance. As Catholics, we’re called to mirror that fidelity through humility, prayer, integrity, community, and sacrifice. Let’s strive to let our “yes” be yes, trusting God’s grace to sustain us.

Download a Reflection Sheet for This Podcast

Let_Your_Yes_Be_Yes_Reflection_Worksheet

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, catholic faith podcast, catholic prayer life, christian living podcast, deuteronomy 7:9, God’s faithfulness, humility and faith, integrity in faith, james 5:12, keeping promises to God, let your yes be yes, matthew 5:37, numbers 23:19, psalm 15:4, saying yes to God, Scripture reflection

Answered Prayer Through Journaling (Special Replay)

August 18, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Answered Prayer Through Journaling?

Episode 24

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

Only when I began journaling did I see answered prayers. Have you found that by journaling to see answered prayers you can actually see that God has listened to your pleas? In this episode, I discuss journaling as a tool as well as the blessing that I found within the pages.

Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels, Inc. A Few Minutes with God, The Journey Begins

Show Notes: Answered Prayer Through Journaling

In today’s show notes, I want to ask you some questions to gauge your interest in journaling.

Do I feel that God hears my prayers?
Do I know how many times the Lord has answered my prayers?
I have journaled in the past and …
Journaling has been a passion of mine because …
I’ve never tried journaling but would consider it, because…

Have you ever journaled? If so you know the impact it can have on your life and those around you. By documenting the answers to prayers, it helps us to see that the Lord hears us. In addition, it helps us by allowing us a snapshot back in time. Was there a desperate prayer, or one you really wanted answered? Was it answered? Was the answer all you hoped it would be or did it fall short.

No one said Christian life is easy, but it certainly is blessed and by journaling, you can keep an eye on ways you need to improve your relationship with God. There are many different ways you can journal. In the next episode of A Few Minutes With God Podcast, we will explore some of those ways.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Christian journal, Journaling, Prayer Journal

Unworthy Of God

August 11, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Unworthy of God? Discover His Boundless Mercy ~ Episode 353

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

Do You Feel Unworthy of God?

Scripture 1: God’s Mercy Is Steadfast

Let’s begin with a verse that shows us the character of the Almighty God. In Psalm 103:8, we read:

“The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”

Application: Write down Psalm 103:8 and place it somewhere you’ll see it daily, like your mirror or workspace. Let it remind you of God’s patience and love.

Scripture 2: You Are Valued by God

In my little corner of the world, I sometimes feel so small. But God sees me, and He sees you. Our efforts, no matter how small, matter to Him. Luke 12:7 says:

“Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.”

Application: Take a moment to thank God for His personal love for you. Journal about a time when you felt seen or valued by Him. If you can’t think of anything, thank Him for the gift of life!

Scripture 3: God is Waiting

A fitting verse is Revelation 3:20

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.”

Application: Take a moment to pray and ask Jesus to help you open the door of your heart. Journal about what it means to you to know He’s waiting to come in.

Scripture 4: Mercy Brings New Life

Finally, let’s look at Ephesians 2:4-5:

“But God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ.”

Application: Each morning, pray a simple prayer of gratitude for God’s mercy. Ask Him to help you live in the freedom of His love.

How to Respond to God’s Mercy

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Next Steps:

Pray: Spend a few minutes each day thanking God for His mercy. Use my book, A Few Minutes with God, for guided reflections.
Journal: Write about how God’s mercy has shown up in your life. What scriptures encourage you?
Connect: Join our A Few Minutes with God Facebook group (facebook.com/groups/AFewMinutesWithGod) to share prayer requests and praise reports.

More Encouragement from A Few Minutes with God

Not Abandoned: Discover how God never leaves you, even when you feel far from Him.
Calm in the Storm: Learn how God’s peace sustains you through challenges.

These episodes, along with others at The Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, are designed to encourage your faith journey.

Let’s Pray Together

Call to Action: Subscribe to A Few Minutes with God Podcast on Spotify, iHeartRadio, or your favorite podcast app. Let’s grow in faith together!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Bible verses about mercy, Catholic podcast, Christian Encouragement, feeling unworthy, God's mercy, overcoming doubt

Why? A Powerful Question For Christians

August 4, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

I recently listened to a secular YouTube video, and when the speaker said, “I always go back to my why,” it hit me. Why? A Powerful Question for Christians to ask ourselves. Do we as Christians go back to our why? In this podcast, we will explore this concept of the why behind our faith.

Why? A Powerful Question for Christians ~ Episode 352

Are you searching for deeper meaning in your spiritual life? In this episode of A Few Minutes with God, host Felice Gerwitz tackles the profound question of “WHY.” Discover why you pray, what you hope to gain from a relationship with God, and how faith can be truly freeing. Drawing from six powerful Scripture verses from the Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSVCE), Felice explores free will as God’s gift and ways to grow in faith by inviting Jesus into your daily life. Whether you’re a longtime believer or just starting your faith journey, this episode offers insights to strengthen your Christian walk. Exploring Your Spiritual “Why” in Prayer, Faith, and Relationship with God

Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or directly on the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network website.

This episode is inspired by our ongoing journey to deepen our connection with the Lord, and I’ll share some scriptures that you may want to spend time with at a later point. If you’re driving, walking, or just taking a moment to listen in, I invite you to open your heart and let the Holy Spirit speak to you through these words. Let’s pray – Dear Lord Jesus, inspired by the confidence that you hear all of our prayers, I ask Lord that you be with us today and allow us to focus on why we believe, why we pray, and encourage us in our walk closer to you, today and always, Amen.

Why Faith, Prayer, and Relationship with God Matter

Let’s start with the question: What is your “why”? Why do you pray? Prayer shouldn’t be a checklist item; it’s our lifeline to God. It’s how we communicate with our Creator, express our gratitude, seek guidance, and intercede for others. But have you ever stopped to ask yourself why you pray? Is it out of habit, fear, or a genuine desire to draw closer to God? I thought about this very question, and it hit me hard. I’ll share my why with you at the end, but first, let’s look at the scriptures.

This is from James 5:16 (Read on air.) Here, St. James reminds us that prayer has power—not just for our own healing, but for others too. Prayer transforms us, aligns our will with God’s, and unleashes His grace in our lives. If your “why” for prayer is simply to get through the day, I challenge you to shift it toward building that intimate connection with the Father who loves you unconditionally. Remember God loves us. On the other hand, the enemy despises us, our weakness, and uses every chance to exploit those weaknesses. Prayer helps us to be strong in Christ! 2 Timothy 2:1-3 (Read On Air.)

Now, let’s think about what we hope to receive from a relationship with God. In a world full of temporary pleasures and temporary satisfactions, a relationship with God offers something eternal. It offers peace, (that peace that surpasses all understanding, Phillippians 4:7 (Read on air). Our relationship with God also gives us purpose and profound joy. We hope for His presence in our trials, His wisdom in our decisions, and His love that never fails. But ultimately, what we receive is God Himself—the blessed assurance that He is there for us, is something the pleasures of this world can not withstand or compare with.

In the Gospel of John, we read, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in me, and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5 Read on air). Jesus invites us to abide in Him, to remain connected, because without that relationship, our efforts are fruitless. What do you hope to receive? Perhaps strength for today, hope for tomorrow, or the ability to love as He loves. In this, we find fulfillment that the world cannot give.

This leads us to another layer: Is your “why” for yourself or for others? It’s natural to pray for our own needs—health, finances, peace of mind. But true Christian living calls us to look beyond ourselves. Our faith isn’t meant to be self-centered; it’s communal. When we pray for others, we participate in God’s redemptive work, becoming channels of His grace. That is why a faith community, a church, is so important. We join with other like-minded believers to worship and give glory to God.

St. Paul in his letter to the Philippians says: “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4). This verse challenges us to examine our motivations. Is your “why” only personal gain, or does it extend to lifting up your family, friends, and even strangers? Praying for others not only blesses them but also deepens our humility and compassion, drawing us closer to the heart of Christ, who prayed for us on the cross. It is especially important to pray for our enemies, those whom we don’t like. It is a choice, a decision, and not a feeling. We are told to love others, and faith in action is one way we show this, even if only to ourselves.

In this jaded world, why choose faith? To some, faith may seem outdated or irrational, but it’s the foundation of my spiritual life. Faith isn’t blind belief; it’s trusting in God’s promises even when we can’t see the full picture. It’s what pleases God and opens the door to His blessings. We don’t know the mind of God, and no amount of explaining can ever fully capture Who He is, but when we have faith, true faith, it surpasses anything else. There is nothing we can do for God but everything He can do for us.

Hebrews 11:6 says, “And without faith it is impossible to please him. For whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” Why faith? Because it connects us to the invisible reality of God’s kingdom. The examples we are often given are that you can’t see the wind, but you feel the effects of the wind. While we may not see God, we see the effects of God in our daily lives. Faith assures us that He is real, that He cares, and that seeking Him brings rewards—not material wealth necessarily, but spiritual riches like inner peace and eternal life.

But faith isn’t just about belief; it’s freeing. In a world bound by fears, addictions, and the pressures of society, faith liberates us. It breaks the chains of doubt and despair, allowing us to live in the freedom Christ won for us. Faith reminds us that we’re not slaves to sin or circumstance; we’re children of God, empowered by His Spirit.

Galatians 5:1 states, (and again, this is Paul). “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand fast therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Faith is freeing because it shifts our reliance from our own strength to God’s infinite power. It frees us from the need to control everything, from the burden of perfectionism, and from the fear of failure. When we embrace faith, we step into the freedom of trusting that God has a plan, even when we don’t know it.

But what is faith without understanding freedom, and this freedom is tied to the gift of free will. Many people believe that faith restricts your freedom and does not allow you to do what they want. On the contrary, God didn’t create us as puppets; He gave us the ability to choose—to love Him or not, to follow His ways or our own. This free will is a profound expression of His love, respecting our dignity as His creations.

The Book of Sirach captures this truth: “It was he who created man in the beginning, and he left him in the power of his own inclination” (Sirach 15:14). Free will is a gift because it allows us to choose God on our own accord, we make our faith authentic by this choice and therefore our love for God is real. But with this gift comes responsibility: We must choose daily to join our will with His, resisting temptations that lead us astray.

Finally, how can we grow in faith by allowing the Lord Jesus to work in our lives? Growth doesn’t happen in isolation; it requires surrender. We grow when we let Jesus prune our us, enlarge our hearts with the capacity to love and to forgive and to guide our steps, and fill us with His grace. Through prayer, Scripture, sacraments, and community, we invite Him to transform us.

Friends, growing in faith means saying “yes” to Jesus every day—yes to His teachings, yes to His corrections, yes to His invitations. It means allowing Him to work through our weaknesses, turning them into strengths for His glory. As we do this, our “why” becomes clearer: We pray, relate, and believe not for temporary reasons, but for the eternal joy of knowing Him.

As promised, I will share my “why,” the reason behind what I do. The reason is ultimately because I can’t stop thanking God for all that He has done for me. In the hardships, in the midst of crisis, in life, and death. I praise Almighty God and the love He has given me, even before I was born. I do what I do because I genuinely believe I can never outgive the Lord. He is my WHY.

Take a moment to consider your “why,” write it down, and ask the Lord to encourage you in your faith journey. If you can, close your eyes and ask God: “Lord, what is my ‘why’? Help me align it with Yours.”

Key Takeaways: Deepen Your Christian Faith Today

Prayer Isn’t Just Routine: It’s a powerful tool for healing and connection—make it intentional.
Relationship with God Offers Eternal Rewards: Abide in Him to bear fruit and find purpose.
Faith for Others: Extend your “why” beyond yourself to bless your community.
Faith Frees You: Break free from fears by trusting in God’s plan.
Embrace Free Will: Choose daily to align with Jesus for authentic growth.
Grow Through Surrender: Invite the Lord to work in your life for deeper faith.

Thank you for joining me today on A Few Minutes with God. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to explore these past episodes for more inspiration:

Faith in Action: Living Your Faith Boldly – Episode 348 – Dive deeper into putting faith into practice.
Keeping Your Faith Alive – Tips on nurturing your faith daily.
Open Your Heart to God’s Love – Episode 328 – Reflect on receiving God’s love in relationships.
Praying for a Friend – Episode 350 – Explore intercessory prayer for others.
God’s Provision: Trusting Him – Trusting God’s why in provision.
Relationship with God – Building that vital connection.

Remember, God is always calling us deeper. Until next time, spend a few minutes with God each day, and may His peace be with you.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Christian living, Christian Podcast, Christian why, CTC Sponsored, Episode 352, Faith Journey, Felice Gerwitz, free will, freedom in Christ, prayer life, relationship with God, Scripture study, Spiritual Growth, why question

Christian Example

July 28, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Christian Example ~ 272

What is a good Christian example? We can point to the saints, people like Mother Teresa and others. But, truly we can be an example to others by asking the Lord for His grace and His help.

Sponsored By: CTCMath.com a curriculum for students grades K-12 with online tutorials and help. Visit the website for more information.

Sadly, we, as Christians as a whole, are not the best examples of how to live. The promises of the gospel message show others, especially those who are suffering, that there is faith, hope, love, and compassion from the Lord.

God gives us many examples through the scriptures of how he expects us, his people, to act, and we fall short. Sometimes we fall short by word, sometimes by deed, and most of the time, just because we’re too lazy to do what is right truthfully, sometimes we can be so hard on ourselves or as one of our pastors says we have Christian scrupulosity. We care more for the letter of the law rather than the law itself. When we read the scriptures, we see it plainly, and yet how many of us take it to heart I know I’m guilty of this myself.

In Luke 7:31-35 we read, (on air).

Now, if we read the gospel of Luke Chapter 7, we will see before this happened, Jesus had been very busy. He was curing many who had diseases and sicknesses and casting out evil spirits. He gave sight to the blind and cured those who had leprosy. Those who were lame walked, but yet Jesus was reprimanding the people because even though they saw these miracles, they were not ready to change their lives

As Christians, we know the end of the story. We know what it is we should do God had compassion on those, and on those who were suffering, he brought people back to life. This is an example to us today of the gift that God gives us as Christians. We have the opportunity for everlasting life with him, so how are we going to be an example as Christians? How are we going to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to the Lord?

I can give you a list, of five or ten things you can do. But, my list might not be the one that is right for you. And, in doing this good thing, being a Christian example, it can cause us to be boastful, or to congratulate ourselves that we are not like those sinners over there. Friends, we must be cautious.

I did a podcast sometime back that I titled Judgmental Christians, and I’ll put a show a link I’ll put a link in the show notes. (Tell the story on air)

To summarize the other podcast, I explained how I should live my life according to the gospels I should improve my life, and I needed to forgive those who hurt me and ask forgiveness for those I had hurt. Friends, we are all flawed! It is difficult to show an example of Christianity to others when we are hurting, and as my mother used to say we need to get our own house in order before we can try to fix the houses of others

In giving others an example of what it means to be a Christian, we are following the example Christ gave us. However, when we pray, when we give alms, we do this because we should out of obedience, it is a free-will decision

Being a Christian is a free-will decision, and acting like one means we show others humility, love, and compassion, especially if they are hurting and especially if they feel rejected by others. When Jesus walked the earth, he called his disciples, I love the phrase “Come follow me” This is an example of what it means to follow and to be called by God.

But we know we are all called by God, the Scriptures tell us, He has called us by name…(Isaiah 43:1). Knowing someone’s name held great importance in Biblical times and even today. Aren’t you happy when you remember someone’s name or they remember yours? The significance is import. Even more, God knows the “number of hairs on my head– And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” Matthew 10:30.

In Matthew 9:9-13 we read (on air).

Wow! God is calling us; he is calling all of us. Not the perfect, not the ones that have it all together, but us. The sinners.

As a Christian, our example may be flawed, but it is at least an attempt, not at perfect but of example. All of these things show us that there is a right and a wrong way to act, but one thing we know, we should not be judgemental like the Pharisees.

Think about everyday life, driving in traffic trying to find a parking spot or maybe returning something at a store when the clerk is very frustrating. We can use these everyday opportunities to say thank you or some other greeting that is welcoming. Or, “I appreciate the excellent job you have done or appreciate how hard you’re working if they haven’t done an excellent job.” You know what I mean.

Sometimes it only costs us a few minutes of our time, and sometimes it costs us much more. It is a sacrifice, and that is a small price to pay. If we can all show just a little bit of grace to others because God has given us grace, we should. Jesus asks us to follow him. It is not a call we should take lightly. It is those baby steps that take us closer to Christ.

Let’s all pray and ask the good Lord to give us the grace we need to be a Christian example because only by his gift of love and grace can we possibly show others just a tiny bit of the goodness of God. My friends rejoice and are glad because he is there for us not just today but every day, and I just pray that this week your challenge will be, can you guess it that’s right, to be a Christian example to either yourself or to others in your life and beyond take care and may the Lord bless you today and always.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Keeping God’s Word (Replay)

July 21, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Keeping God’s Word ~ Episode 254

How can we keep God’s word close to us? In this podcast, we explore ancient traditions still practiced by those of the Orthodox Jewish faith today and how we can learn from these practices.

Thanks to our sponsor CTC Math and the curriculum receiving rave reviews. Check out the sponsor of this week’s episode.

When reading the Bible, we often hear of the Lord saying over and over again, especially to the Israelites, to keep his WORD next to their hearts and never to forget what the Lord has done for us. The Israelites were taken out of bondage as slaves, yet they had much to learn as they wandered in the desert. And, if you read Exodus and Numbers, you will find they were an ungrateful nation!

We would like to think we would be different, but as we both know, that is impossible without God’s grace. As we live our lives, we do not want to be forgotten. We want to leave a legacy for our family. When people talk about us, we want it to be with fondness and consideration. You can think about this for a moment. What is an accomplishment you do not want to forget or want others to forget?

Throughout salvation history, God has and continues to save His people. It was clear when he took the Israelites to the promised land. The Jewish culture still remembers this and keeps a sign of God’s word on their doorposts, sometimes even in their homes. I was fascinated when reading about the Mezuzah, [MA-ZOO-ZA ], and I looked it up. The word itself means doorposts. It is a small scroll with a piece of parchment paper handwritten by an expert scribe. Some are very basic, and others are quite elaborate. On the outside are Hebrew letters. The Mezuzah is believed to be an extra spiritual protection to the family that places one at the door. When the Jewish person enters or exits their home, they kiss their fingers and then place them on the mezuzah and recite – May God keep my going out and my coming in from now on and ever more – which is from Psalm 12:18

The foundational text of the Holy Scriptures – Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21 begins with Hear, O Israel, the Lord is our God, and the Lord is One. This is the command that God gave the Israelites. “And you shall write these words upon the doorposts of your house and upon your city gates.”

It is a beautiful verse; let me read it in its entirety. (read on air) Deuteronomy 6:4-9
“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. Bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes.

Why don’t we, as Christians, have these on our doorposts? Why are we not continuing this tradition? Well, one of the reasons is Jesus is the fulfillment of the prophecy of the Old Testament, yet, the Old Testament has many things we ascribe to – for example, teaching our Children diligently, putting the words of God in our hearts, and more. We have Bibles in our homes, often multiple Bibles. I have two different apps on my phone where I can read scripture. In reading the Bible, we consider and ponder the words and place them in our hearts, both the Old and New Testaments.

Think about your home, car, apparel, and maybe even a religious symbol like a cross. These are outward reminders of our faith. The Bible verse plaques in my home or on the doors to our bedroom. Where do you see signs of God’s word in your home?

I love the idea of a mezuzah, and I believe we must never forget; we take so much for granted as Christians. Consider how you can improve on your faith journey and keep God’s Word in your heart. What can you do?

We read in Psalms 119:105-106

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. I have taken an oath and confirmed it, that I will follow your righteous laws.

By our Baptism, we have been made sons and daughters of God; He is the way, the truth, and the life. John 14:4-6 we read (read on air). Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” ⁶Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

At times in our lives, when we are lost, and we, like Thomas, do not know where we are going, we can remember this passage. Through Jesus is everlasting life. While God took the Israelites out of bondage and slavery physically and spiritually, the same applies to us today. With our faith in Christ, he takes us out of slavery from sin and into the life everlasting. We must follow that path less traveled, but it is lit with the true light of righteousness.

We may believe that the Old Testament is obsolete and it does not apply to us today. We think it is written for a people long ago. It does apply to us today because, just like any history lesson, if we do not learn from past sins, the sins of our forefathers, we will continue to make the same mistakes. The sins of Adam and Eve, of Moses being a humble servant but in his anger hitting the rock twice and not setting foot in the promised land, in countless events during the time in the desert. Making an idol to worship while Moses was speaking with God for direction for the people. Why go back into sin and slavery when you left it behind?

Because we are stubborn people, we want what we want. We think what we do is not “that bad,” especially if we compare ourselves to others. Friends, I am sure there is some truth to that, but shouldn’t we strive to do the best we can each day? To keep God’s word in our hearts and yearn for time with Him. Our relationships hinge on our relationship with God first. Everything else will fall into place!

This week, consider all the ways you can keep God’s word in your hearts and mind.

I pray that you are reminded of all God has done for you and that you continue to put God’s Word in your heart and never forget! May God be praised, now and forever!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: Bible Study, Christian living, Christian parenting, Deuteronomy 6, Family discipleship, Homeschool faith formation, keeping God's word, Mezuzah, New Testament fulfillment, Old Testament insights, Orthodox Jewish traditions, Psalm 119, Scripture memorization, Spiritual Growth

Special Replay: How To Plan Your Prayer Time

July 14, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

How To Plan Your Prayer Time #4

with Felice Gerwitz

Talking to the Lord

Whether you are happy OR upset – bring that to the Lord – either way begin by praising HIM – use Scriptures such as … or you can use extemporaneous prayer – You are the Lord of Lords, you are the Almighty, the King of Kings – I praise you and I thank you, I thank you Lord for _____
If you are a singer – sing! Praise God in song… allow yourself to think about the words – singing allows us to get into the presence of God –it lifts us…brings us joy.
If you are not a singer – proclaim and praise God longer… don’t go to the Scriptures right now… If you want to proclaim certain scriptures get those out ahead of time and write them out – read from a journal rather than the Bible – right now our focus is to allow our minds to calm down and be in a place where we can pray and be still before the Lord – we want to listen but first we need to unload our baggage all the things on our mind – any emotions whether it is fear, anger, hatred – when do we stop? When we feel hope – joy – forgiveness – calm.
Ask the Lord to come into your heart. If you have a prayer request you can ask it – if you just want to spend time with the Lord and be available to Him – just be still, close your eyes and listen.
Give Him time – don’t expect anything – but you will be blessed whether you hear anything or not!!

Journal what you thought during your quiet time – is it random or is it specific? If it is confusing or chaotic – take it to the Lord – ask him for clarity. Typically, random or chaotic thoughts are not from the Lord unless it makes sense to you!

The Lord doesn’t bring us guilt or make us feel bad – I so love that!! God is a good God – He gives us HOPE

NOW pull out your Bible – read through a passage or two that maybe came to mind during your quiet time, or perhaps something is drawing you to read a specific page.
Journal if you want to add these passages.
No end with praise and worship again – thank the Lord.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, Bible Journaling, Catholic devotion, Christian podcast episode, Christian prayer habits, CTC Math sponsor, daily quiet time, family prayer routine, Felice Gerwitz, homeschool moms faith, how to pray effectively, prayer journaling, prayer time planning, quiet time with God, spiritual growth tips, time with God

God’s Love is Sufficient (Replay)

July 7, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

God’s Love Is Sufficient – Episode 182

Uncertainty surrounds our lives yet with God we know that His love is sufficient for all of our needs. In this podcast, learn how you can live a life that is free from worry, stress, and anger.

Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath for all of your children’s (grandchildren or friends and neighbors) math needs. Check out CTCMath.com for more information.

If you know your scriptures you are probably thinking – why is she talking about God’s love being sufficient when the scriptures say, my grace is sufficient: Read: 2 Corinthians 12:9

God’s Love IS Sufficient

We hold on tight to the things that don’t matter in the end.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: 2 Corinthians 12:9, Catholic perspective, Christian Encouragement, Christian Podcast, CTCMath, faith over fear, faith stories, God's Love Is Sufficient, Grace of God, healing testimony, Holy Spirit empowerment, miracles, prayer life, stress-free living, Ultimate Christian Podcast Network

Overwhelmed – Find God! (Replay)

June 30, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Overwhelmed? Find God!

Episode 18

Overwhelmed, find God! When you are overwhelmed that is the perfect time to find God. In this episode, I’ll discuss how you can find God even when you are under pressure, busy or overwhelmed by life. It is the perfect way to get refreshed in a hurry and continue on with your schedule. This sure-fire way has been my go-to for years, and when I actually *remember to do this, it has been a lifesaver.

The World’s Best-Selling Study Bible for a Reason
Trusted by homeschool moms and Bible students for decades, the NIV Study Bible offers in-depth notes, full-color maps, cultural insights, and verse-by-verse commentary. Whether you’re studying with your kids or on your own, it brings Scripture to life in powerful ways.🔗 Explore the NIV Study Bible »

Other episodes you may enjoy on our sister network, and my podcast Vintage Homeschool Moms.

No time for Mom

Depression During The Holiday

Show Notes: Overwhelmed? Find God.

Spiritual Side:

Identify why you are overwhelmed. Writing helps
Ask for an infilling of the Holy Spirit.
Renew your commitment to the Lord.
Ask the Lord to give you more of HIM and less of you.

Practical Applications:

Ask God to help you find answers
- Simplification
- An answer to a pressing problem
- Cutting back
- Saying, No!
Find God in the simple things
- Sit and listen
- Enjoy the outdoors
- Watch the antics in nature
Ask God to use you.
- To be an answer to someone else’s prayers
- To be His hands and feet
All God asks for is our love – that’s it!

Rejoice, the Lord is waiting for you to ask, and He is ready to answer. You can find the Lord even when you are overwhelmed and especially when you are so busy — like during the Christmas holiday. The Lord has an answer. The Lord hears you. It is that small still quiet voice. Are you listening?

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Spiritual Sandpaper (Replay)

June 30, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Spiritual Sandpaper – Episode 264

Spiritual sandpaper describes the events that happen in our lives that purify us and make us better than before, yet they are painful. In this episode, Felice shares how this can actually cause spiritual growth if we open our eyes to the possibilities.

Visit our sponsor CTCMath.com for all of your family’s math needs. My own grandchildren use this curriculum and I’m excited they are sponsoring our network.

Have you heard sermons about being tested in faith? The longer you follow the Lord, the more you understand this concept. At various times in our life, we strive for goodness, honesty and perhaps even holiness. Yet, our faith deepens not by all the good things that happen in our lives but through our trials.

In the book of Job 23:10 we read, “But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.”

Our resolve goes one way or another. After being tested, or purified we are not lukewarm but either for or against God. Proverbs 27:21 speaks truth in the verse, “

The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but people are tested by their praise.

We’ve discussed praise and worship on my past episodes, and praising God in our daily walk can make the difference between happiness and strife. In fact as I write this the Lord has reminded me of a private matter of which I have been praying and beeseching God and I am now going to thank God for the situation. I am not thankful, but if it is God’s will – or God’s permissive will then I will be thankful out of obedience.

Is this true faith to blindly follow? Not at all. It is faith that understands that while we have free will, God’s will is for us to join Him in heaven at the end of our life, and a life of ease and comfort rarely gets us to that destination. The areas of our life that are unchecked lead to temptation. This can look different for each one of us.

Spiritual sandpaper is that time in our life when things are uncomfortable, and yet we see, after the trial, that the outcome is better than we could have hoped and prayed. We had some years of reduced income due to the economy. We never lived over our means, but even our savings accounts and investments did not prevent the outcome. After this very uncomfortable time, the Lord allowed us to keep our home when many around us with deeper pockets went bankrupt, and we were able to pay off our debt in a difficult yet fulfilling way. This time has taught us to value money in a better way than would not have happened without this uncomfortable time in our life.

I praise God for the outcome, which was so much better than I could imagine. In prayer I kept getting those words, they would pop into my mind, “It will be better than you imagine.”

We know sandpaper can be gritty and abrasive, but what happens afterward? The surface is primed and smooth. The sandpaper in our lives was reduced income, it was not a life and death situation, even though it felt like it at that time. Many of you have had a situation with someone who has been abrasive in your life, and it has been a challenge.

Our pastor talks about a husband and wife being sandpaper to each other and it works out our flaws and shortcomings. Our family is also our spiritual sandpaper.

The scriptures talk about being tested many times. The most notable in our spiritual sandpaper focus today is Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

How are we sharpening each other? Are we helping each other in our walk toward the Lord –that is what we should be doing, but we often fall short. I don’t want to come off as preachy when I talk to my children about spiritual matters. Yet, sometimes I do. I send them videos of good sermons, Scripture verses, or encouragement. That helps in ways that are beneficial without me using a bunch of words.

Our job as parents is to aid our children. Our job as a husband or wife is to aid our spouse. The same goes if you are dating. We are to help and not antagonize each other.

Matthew 5:43-44:

“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!’”

God commands us to love as He loves, which is difficult and sometimes impossible. That is why I have prayed, “Lord, I can not love this person right now, but I know you love them; please bless them abundantly.”

MOST OF THE ANIMOSITY WAS LIFTED whenever I prayed this prayer or something similar. Sometimes it took years, but the Lord was victorious in teaching me to forgive.

Why should we love even when people hurt us? Even when we are chafed, annoyed, or persecuted? Because the Lord asks it of us. I love how Jesus explains the main purpose of this command to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us in Matthew 5 verse 47, he says:

“If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that.”

Do we want to be compared to pagans? Of course not; as believers, we want to do better than those without belief or those who believe in false gods. And that is our challenge today or this week. It is three-fold.

First, to be aware of situations where we are sandpaper – that is, abrasive to others without cause. (Not sure there is ever a cause to be abrasive!)
Be aware of situations where others have been abrasive to us, and we harbor unforgiveness. Remember the Lord’s prayer.
Look at the spiritual sandpaper in our lives as a good thing, one that will help us to grow spiritually.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: Christian Podcast, spiritual sandpaper

Stop. Pause. Reflect on Your Faith

June 24, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

What do you believe? Have you taken the time to stop and reflect on your faith? Today, we will discuss ways to increase your faith and spend time with God.

Reflect On Your Faith – 313

Friends of mine attended an international conference and shared their experiences with me. There was such joy and hope expressed not only in the experience and the speakers they heard but also in how motivated they were to spread the good news to others. This fire, if you will, the fire that comes from the Holy Spirit, is what we all need. We need a boost from time to time and encouragement. We need that shot in the arm to get going and to spread God’s love for others. This can happen to you when you take the time to reflect on your faith. Why should we?

Thanks to our sponsor, CTMath.com

Romans 8:30-32: What then shall we say to this? If God is for us, who is against us? ³²He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, will he not also give us all things with him? ³

Because of who we are in Christ, we are called to speak to anyone who will listen about His love and goodness, yet if we don’t take the time to reflect on our faith, it is difficult, at best, to know what we believe. What do you believe? Do you know? When was the last time you read a book of faith or studied the scriptures? Do you have time set aside for prayer?

Maybe you have not prayed because what you believe is not crystal clear. How can we worship a God we don’t know? How can we worship a God we can not see? How can we worship when we feel empty inside? The answer is you can not worship a God you don’t know and can’t see. And, if you are in the middle of a life crisis, then it will seem more difficult because we as humans tend to blame God, even if our faith in God is weak! Do you know someone who has abandoned their Christian faith because they blame God for their trials and for unanswered prayer?

Listen, we’ve all been there; if you have not doubted God or had a chink in your armor of faith, you have not lived long. Everyone has thoughts that I attribute to the evil one. These thoughts are not from the Almighty, let me tell you! The thoughts are something like this: God doesn’t care about you, God isn’t real, and you are wasting your time. Or even worse, Where is the God that you believed in? He has let you down. No, God never lets us down, but by the free will God has given us, we have a choice to make. Do we follow Him or not? Do we believe or not? Do we continue to worship when we don’t feel like it, or not?

God does not force His will upon us. He did not create us as puppets with Him pulling the strings. No. He gave us a heart and soul, a spirit to worship or not, and a hunger in each one of us for more. But why do we hunger and thirst without it ever being quenched? God created us to know, love, and serve Him because how could we not serve the one who gave us so much?

And here is the bottom line: Faith is a gift—yes, that’s right, a gift. Faith is a gift given to us by the Almighty God, and while it begins with a feeling, it involves so much more. It involves your free will—your free will to continue to love and serve God when you don’t feel like it.

Look up the Nicene Creed (Council 325) and the Apostles Creed. The Nicene Creed is believed to be the oldest creed. Read on air.

What do you believe? Reflect on your faith. Ask the Lord to increase your faith.

Prayer is a conversation with God; it is praying, but it also takes time to listen—spend some time in quiet. This means being present and aware of God’s love for you, meditating on this—God does love you, and you are here for a reason. Last week, the topic was belonging. We are His people, and He is our God. Podcast here.

Spend time in prayer and speak to the Lord.
Spend time in quiet, listen.
Read scripture.
Journal
Praise God, thank Him for everything.

Dear friends, I pray your faith is increased. In this world, there is a need for people who are on fire for the Lord. Christians need to help those who are suffering, and one way we can do this is by having the love of God within our own hearts and pouring our love into others. Amen!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Praying For A Friend

June 23, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Many of us find ourselves praying daily, but often the call is praying for a friend. It is such a blessing and privilege to bring you this episode and share some ways we can help others in need.

Praying for a Friend ~ Episode 350

Welcome, friends, to A Few Minutes with God Podcast! I’m Felice Gerwitz, and today we’re talking about something close to my heart—praying for a friend. There’s something powerful about bringing a friend before the Lord, whether they’re facing a storm, celebrating a joy, or just need a touch of God’s love. Prayer is a gift we can offer, and it’s a way to show care and compassion. Let’s dive in with a prayer.

(Prayer said on air.)

Why Pray for a Friend?

Prayer is a bridge that connects us to God and to each other. When we pray for a friend, we’re not just asking for blessings—we’re partnering with God in His work. It’s a way to show love, bear burdens, and trust God’s plan. The Bible calls us to this in Galatians 6:2: “Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

Praying for a friend also changes us. It softens our hearts, deepens our empathy, and reminds us to rely on God. Whether your friend is struggling with health, relationships, or faith, your prayers are a powerful act of love. Let’s explore how to pray effectively with some practical steps.

Steps to Pray for a Friend

1. Listen with Love

Before you pray, take time to listen to your friend. What’s on their heart? Are they overwhelmed, grieving, or seeking direction? Listening helps you pray with specificity. Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and kinsfolk are born to share adversity.” Show your friend you’re there by truly hearing them. Maybe they’ve shared a specific need, like a job interview or a family challenge. Use those details in your prayer.

Reach out via a call, text, or coffee date. Ask, “How can I pray for you?” Then, jot down their needs in a journal. Or better yet, if you forget and you are praying, ask the Lord to help you remember, but either way, the Lord knows their specific needs.

2. Pray with Scripture

God’s Word is powerful, and praying Scripture over your friend brings truth and hope. For example, if your friend is anxious, pray Philippians 4:6-7: (Read on air)

Choose a verse that matches your friend’s situation. Write it on a card or pray it aloud.

3. Be Consistent

Prayer isn’t a one-time event—it’s a commitment. Set a routine to pray for your friend daily or weekly. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 urges us to “pray without ceasing.” Consistency shows your friend they’re not alone.

If you have one available, be sure to add their name to a prayer list or set a phone reminder.

4. Trust God’s Plan

Sometimes, we want to “fix” our friend’s problems, but prayer reminds us to trust God. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, (Read on air, one of my favorite verses!) Lift your friend up, then release the outcome to God.

After praying, say, “Lord, I trust You with [friend’s name].”

5. Follow Up

Prayer doesn’t end with “Amen.” Check in with your friend to see how they’re doing. This shows your prayers are backed by care. James 5:16 says, “Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective.”

You don’t have to let your friend know you prayed, unless they ask. OR you can send a text like, “I prayed for you today—how’s it going?” Share praise reports on our Facebook page, A Few Minutes with God.

Friends, praying for someone you love is a beautiful way to serve. It’s not about having perfect words—it’s about a heart turned toward God. Think of a friend who needs prayer today. Maybe they’re facing a trial, or maybe they just need encouragement. Take a moment now to pray for them silently. This is our mission field we aren’t always able to go on the mission field, but we can serve the Lord in this mighty and powerful way. Never underestimate prayer.

Thank you for joining me today, friends! Let’s close with a prayer: Prayed on air.

Please like, subscribe, and share this episode with a friend. Join our community on Facebook or Instagram. Until next time, may you find joy in spending a few minutes with God!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, bearing one another's burdens, Bible verses for friends, Christian Encouragement, Christian friendship, Christian podcast for women, faith and friendship, Galatians 6:2, homeschool moms prayer, how to pray for others, NIV Application Bible, practical prayer tips, prayer and empathy, prayer and scripture, prayer journaling, prayer podcast, praying for a friend, praying with purpose, Spiritual Growth

Blueprint For Making MAJOR Decisions (Replay)

June 16, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Blueprint For Making MAJOR Decisions

Episode #14

Using a blueprint for making major decisions.

Every once in awhile making major decisions is a must, and having a blueprint for making major decisions is important. Decisions such as where do I go to college, should I change jobs, should I write a book – should I do another podcast? Those are some of the decisions I’ve had to make in my life. In this episode, I’ll discuss a blueprint for making those major decisions in your life!

Sponsors: NOW PROGRAMS

and Media Angels, Inc. Novels – Truth Seekers Mystery Series available on Amazon. Three novels for tweens!

Thanks to our sponsor, Media Angels, Inc. A Few Minutes with God, The Journey Begins

Major decisions can hold us captive! What do we do? Where do we turn? Oh if God would only answer us clearly we could make good decisions, quickly! How does this happen? It happens with lots of perseverance and prayer as well as some of the steps I’ll share with you.

So, if you listened to the previous podcast – episode 13 you will hear some of the same points mentioned except with a few powerful additions. Making a big decision includes those that can impact you for the rest of your life – I remember when praying for a spouse, I finally gave up. The choices were slim and in my town, truthfully with teaching full time I had no time – and my workplace had one single guy who I was not interested in – at all.

It was difficult to think about my future and I finally said, “Lord if you want me to be single forever that is fine with me – your will Lord, not mine.” I gave it to Him. I could not make decisions at that point – such as moving to another town, closer to some college friends.

Well, the Lord took care of it by having my now husband move into the same town to teach school, he and I went to the same college and while I knew him, I did not know him that well. But, I did think he was awfully cute – and I still think that 38 years later!

This blueprint for making major decisions is a process I’ve used with some additions and modifications throughout the from years. The hard knocks of life and real-life experiences have caused me to fine tune my list. When do I use this blueprint for making major decisions? When I had to make those big decisions – what do I do about college, a job – which one to take – what do I do about homeschooling Lord –should I or shouldn’t I? Lord, should I write a book? Lord, should I podcast? I will tell you in those times I did not turn to the Lord first – no, I’m not perfect – often things fell apart!

I’m quick to jump into a new idea and often the Lord is there to catch me. In those big decisions, we need to give our ALL to Him and he will not let us down.

Blueprint Making Major Decisions:

Here are some helpful tools to use in praying for those major decisions.

Pray specifically for your decision.
- God knows, but do you?
- Stress creates havoc on nerves, be single-minded in prayer
Be open to God’s will in your life.
- Sometimes it may not be specifically what you want to hear.
- Sometimes God’s will is different than our own
- Sometimes we think we “hear” God, but need confirmation
Give it to the Lord
- Praying and seeking God means leaving it at His feet
- Try not to dwell on it further
- Let go and let God
Ask the Lord’s guidance
- Pray for guidance
- Seek outside help, friend or a pastor
- Look for guidance in the Bible
Read Scripture
- Pray specifically, and read through Scripture
- Sometimes the Lord answers prayers in verses you’ve read 100 times before
- Be open to the Lord’s word and your prayer request
Pray specifically for your need and ask the Lord to give you the gift of knowledge about what to do.
- Many gifts fo the Holy Spirit
- Ask the Lord for the Gift of Knowledge, peace, joy
Our subconscious listens and often when we are in tune with God
- Ideas will come into our minds, miraculously
- We can pray and think about thoseWrite anything down that comes to you.
Write anything down that comes to you.
- Keep a journal
- Be sure to take “co-incidences” with a grain of salt (more in the audio)
- God-incidences do happen but keep our eyes focused on Him, not just the events
Look into your options
- Research
- Be informed
- If needed visit the place or seek more information.
Seek counsel if you continue to be stuck.
Ask the Lord to direct you
- We are constantly praying in this situation, however ask for direction if you are still “stuck”
- Praise Him ahead of time.
Continue to read Scripture
1. Believe that the Lord talks to us through His word.
Pray about any thoughts
- Ask the Lord to confirm thoughts that come to mind
- Confirmation can be through others or the Bible
Do you have peace of mind?
- Peace is a sign from the Lord that it is right.
- If you are stressed or agitated keep praying!
Be careful with signs – continue to journal
- Continue to journal
- See #8 above.
- Sometimes we look for those God-incidences and while those are wonderful, we want to use caution.
Make an informed decision.
- Don’t just go on feeling, especially if this is a major decision.
- Think wisely with your head – and your heart.
- Sometimes you just know-that-you-know!
If you can’t make a decision… wait!
- Satan rushes, God leads
- Pray and continue to read scripture.
Once you make a decision trust in the Lord and give it to Him.
- Surrender to God.
- Have peace about the decision.
Ask the Lord to go ahead of you and prepare the way.
- Praying for intervention
- Praying for those involved in your decision.
If you make a mistake learn from this and regroup.
- Go back to the Lord and ask Him for help – again!
- God can make crooked paths straight
- If it was the wrong decisions look at this as a learning tool
Give all the glory and praise to God!
- God deserves our praise for the little and big things in our lives
- Praise conquers all! Continue to praise God in all of the success in your life
- Continue to praise God in all the failures in your life!

Make your decision for the glory of God – not for ulterior motives, sometimes we want the Lord to bend to our will – and sometimes the Lord allows those mistakes to teach you that HIS way is best. Use all of these methods as a tool but not a miracle guide – it is a blueprint and blueprints are meant to be added onto and revised. This list can be used to add your own revelations from the Lord.

The main idea here is don’t jump or be hasty with your major decisions – rely on the Lord and He will not only make your paths straight He will guide you along the way!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, biblical wisdom, blueprint for choices, blueprint making major decisions, Christian decision making, discernment tips, faith and decision making, Felice Gerwitz podcast, God’s will for my life, homeschool family life, how to make big decisions, how to pray for clarity, major life decisions, making major decisions, Media Angels, prayer and discernment, seeking God’s direction, spiritual guidance, trusting God with decisions, waiting on the Lord

Trusting God In Summer Adventures

June 9, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Are you trusting God this summer? Embracing God’s plan during your family’s summer adventures can transform your faith journey. In Episode 349 of A Few Minutes with God, we explore why trusting God’s will is life-changing, especially when summer plans take unexpected turns.

Trusting God in Your Summer Journey: Episode 349 of A Few Minutes with God

Trusting God This Summer

Summer is a time for exploration—think family road trips, hiking trails, or new experiences. But what happens when plans go wrong? This episode dives into how summer adventures can deepen your trust in God’s perfect plan. Reflecting on scriptures like Proverbs 3:5-6, we share a heartfelt story of a family camping trip that didn’t go as planned but revealed God’s guidance in a powerful way.

Listen to the Episode: [Family Size]

Key Bible Verses for Trusting God

These scriptures anchor our reflections on trusting God during life’s adventures, offering hope and guidance for your summer journey:

Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”
Psalm 37:5: “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will act.”
Isaiah 55:9: “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.”
Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

These verses remind us that God’s plans are always better, even when summer outings don’t go as expected.

God’s Guidance

Imagine a family gearing up for a camping trip, excited to hike along a scenic river. The pop-up camper is packed, the cooler is full, and the trail map is ready. But rain clouds roll in, soaking the trails and dampening their spirits.

Ready to give up, the family returned to the campground. Then, a neighbor invited them for a moonlit walk. Leaving flashlights behind, they wandered through moonlit trees, where raindrops sparkled like diamonds. This unplanned moment was magical—a vivid reminder of Isaiah 55:9, where God’s ways surpass our own.

This story shows how summer adventures, with all their surprises, teach us to trust God’s path over our own plans.

3 Practical Tips for Trusting God This Summer

Grow in faith during your family’s summer activities with these actionable steps:

Pray Before You Go: Begin each adventure with a prayer, asking God to guide your plans and bring peace when things change.
Embrace the Unexpected: When detours or disruptions occur, seek God’s hand. A canceled plan might lead to a meaningful conversation or a hidden gem.
Reflect as a Family: At day’s end, gather to share where you saw God’s presence, strengthening your family’s faith.

Why Trusting God Matters

Trusting God isn’t just for life’s big moments—it’s for every summer road trip, hike, or rainy day. By focusing on God’s will, you’ll discover peace and purpose in every adventure. Ready to deepen your faith? Listen to Episode 349 now and start trusting God in your summer journey.

Subscribe to A Few Minutes with God for weekly inspiration. Share this episode with a friend and leave a review to help others find this message.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Christian Encouragement, Christian family, Christian living, Christian parenting, Christian Podcast, faith and family, Faith Journey, family devotions, God's guidance, God's will, Isaiah 55:9, Jeremiah 29:11, Proverbs 3:5-6, Psalm 37:5, Spiritual Growth, summer adventure, summer faith, summer plans, Trusting God

Keys To Unlocking Your Faith

June 2, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Keys to Unlocking Your Faith ~ Episode 276

The keys to unlocking your faith are not complicated, yet often missed in our hectic lives. In this podcast, we discuss the key elements of faith and ways we can be open to receiving more of Him and less of us.

Sponsor: Judson College

Everyone likes keys, and what’s not to like? They unlock previously blocked or locked items and often treasures. What is more important than the treasure of faith? For those of you who are lifelong Christians, the answer may be obvious, but still, when was the last time you asked the Lord to come into your life and unlock those places you’ve previously blocked?

You may enjoy these previously recorded episodes:

Think about this. Many of us pray and have an openness to God. We read the Scriptures, pray our prayers, and maybe even confess our sins. But, there is the place we ignore, we don’t think about, and we won’t release to the Almighty.

One time, I felt strongly in prayer that God was calling me to do more. He was asking me to give Him my all — but in a way that made me pause. “Lord, I’ve given you my heart, mind, intellect, all of me.”

But what about your health, your family, your finances?

Do we release everything to Him and say – Your will, Lord, not mine? Sure, within reason or what we believe is reason. We worship God, but what do we leave on the table? There is a saying in business that often we leave money on the table. That means we do not maximize our investment or profit to the fullest. We are, in essence, short, short-changing ourselves.

The same can be said in faith; we give God everything except everything.

The key to unlocking your faith is a complete surrender, and some of you listening are just not ready. Join the club. We are rational human beings. God gave us intellect, He gave us reason, He gave us free will (which often gets us in trouble). But He has also given us everything.

Jesus gave me everything by lowering Himself to come as a babe, live among us, suffer, and die to atone for my sins and the sins of humanity. He opened the gateways of heaven for me. He loves me. And I can choose to deny Him.

We walk around with heaviness and a lack of joy because we carry the burdens of life. We live in a world of war, strife, anger, and deceit. How do we see the silver lining in this world? Yet, we hold on and cling to life, don’t we? On occasion, I suffer from migraines. The pain is excruciating, but it is debilitating. For those of you who are fellow suffers out there, you know. I can do nothing, but I hope and pray it ends soon. Amid the suffering, the thoughts are disjointed as they believe there would be respite in death. How many suicides are there? The number has grown exponentially, especially among our young people. That is a lie from the evil one, and I rebuke it in Jesus’ Name. There is death, yes, when God wills it and only then.

If you are struggling, you can figure out the cause in this way. Try to listen to praise and worship music, try to watch something that is faith-based, and try to read Scripture. Does any of this bring a struggle in your mind or make you want to turn it off or away? If so, you are in the midst of a spiritual struggle. It happens to all of us from time to time. We want to bury ourselves in fluff, entertainment, and veg out occasionally. And, of course, there is nothing wrong with this. However, remember, the enemy wants to keep us in a loop of entertainment to rob us of the joy of a genuine faith infilling (Come Holy Spirit) and the joy that only comes from God.

There is good news! The good news is that true faith comes from releasing our will freely to the Almighty God.

So, back to the keys. The keys to unlocking your faith, what are they?

Surrender to God’s will in your life—all of me, Lord, for all of you.
Know that God will provide no matter what you cross if you lean on Him.
Fill your mind with all that is good; listen to praise and worship music.
Join a faith community. There is power in praying with other faithful Christians.
Go to church.

Friends, the truth is that the struggle, while real, can be overcome with the simple keys to unlocking your faith. Come, Holy Spirit, come and fill each person listening today! Your challenge is to pray this week for more of Him in your life, and if you are ready, surrender all to Him. Amen!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: Christianity, faith, Judson College sponsor

Faith In Action: Living Your Faith Boldly

May 26, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

You have faith, right? But is your faith something you act upon or share with others? Today our topic is faith in action. This is a challenge for all believers. Join me, Felice Gewitz, as we explore the joys of sharing our faith with others.

Faith in Action~ Episode 348

Have you ever felt a tug to share your faith but hesitated, wondering if it’s too personal? A recent sermon inspired me to move beyond a private faith and let my love for God shine through my actions. For many of us, faith can feel like a quiet conversation between us and God—especially if we’re new to this journey. But when God works wonders in our lives, the joy often can’t be contained, and sharing it becomes a natural response. So, how do we turn that joy into bold, everyday acts of faith?

Let’s start with James 2:17, which declares, “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” This isn’t about earning God’s love—it’s about faith so alive it spills into action. Similarly, Matthew 5:16 urges, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Our lives can be a living testimony, reflecting God’s goodness to everyone around us.

Prayer is the starting point. Ask God to open your eyes to opportunities, and trust His gentle nudges. While scrolling through my phone to find a contact from over a month ago, I rediscovered the phone number of a neighbor I meant to call. A quick text led to coffee plans and a heartfelt catch-up. Those small moments aren’t accidents—they are God’s invitation to show care and live out our faith.

God designed us for connection, as 1 John 4:7 reminds us: “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God.” Love doesn’t always mean grand gestures. It’s the text you send to a friend whose parent is ill, the smile you offer a stressed cashier, or the time you spend listening to a child’s story. These acts weave God’s love into the fabric of our communities.

Faith In Action – Not Just Words

Faith in action isn’t just about words—it’s about embodying Christ’s heart. Romans 10:14 asks, “How are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard?” You don’t need a megaphone; your life speaks volumes. Whether it’s forgiving a family member after a disagreement or volunteering at a food pantry, these choices plant seeds of faith. And here’s the gift: acting on your faith deepens your trust in God, drawing you closer to Him and others to His light.

After a painful divorce, one of my friends spent her Thanksgiving celebration at a local food pantry. She and her boys did this for many years. She said instead of feeling sorry for herself, she wanted to help others and considered herself fortunate by comparison. This is faith in action, praising God in all things and being thankful.

Ready to live your faith boldly? Try these five practical steps:

Pray with Expectation: Ask God daily to reveal where you can serve or share His love.
Embrace Small Acts: Send a kind text, help a neighbor, or offer a prayer for someone in need.
Share Your Faith Story: Tell a friend how God answered a prayer or brought you peace in a storm.
Engage Your Community: Volunteer at church or join a local outreach to meet practical needs.
Live with Purpose: Show Christ’s love through patience, kindness, or generosity in every interaction.

Here’s a new way to start: join me for a 7-Day Faith in Action Prayer Challenge! Each day, pray for one person in your life, then take a small action to show them God’s love—a call, a note, or a helping hand. Share your experience on the A Few Minutes with God Facebook page—we’d love to hear how God moves! Not sure where to begin? Try this reflection: Who in my life needs a touch of God’s love today, and how can I reach out? Jot down your thoughts and let the Holy Spirit guide you.

Faith in action is about progress, not perfection. Every step you take strengthens your relationship with God and lights the way for others. So, what’s one way you’ll live your faith this week? Share your ideas or praise reports on our Facebook page and let’s inspire each other to shine brightly for Christ!

Here are some other episodes of A Few Minutes with God Podcast you may enjoy:

Episode 347 – Prayer Time – Time With God Well Spent
This episode focuses on the importance of prayer as a way to strengthen faith, encouraging listeners to dedicate time to connect with God and grow spiritually.
Episode 346 – God’s Timing
URL: http://afewminuteswithgodpodcast.com/episode-346-gods-timing/
This episode explores trusting in God’s timing, a key aspect of faith, and how patience and reliance on God’s plan can deepen one’s spiritual journey.
Episode 345 – In The Moment
URL: http://afewminuteswithgodpodcast.com/episode-345-in-the-moment/
This episode discusses living faith in the present moment, encouraging mindfulness and trust in God’s presence in everyday life.
Episode 344 – God’s Gift Of Grace
URL: http://afewminuteswithgodpodcast.com/episode-344-gods-gift-of-grace/
This episode reflects on grace as a cornerstone of faith, exploring how accepting God’s grace can inspire a faith-filled life.
Episode 343 – Overwhelmed? Look To God
URL: http://afewminuteswithgodpodcast.com/episode-343-overwhelmed-look-to-god/
This episode addresses turning to God in times of overwhelm, emphasizing faith as a source of strength and peace.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Bible verses on faith, Biblical encouragement, Catholic podcast, Christian Encouragement, Christian homeschool podcast, Christian living, Christian Podcast, daily faith, Faith in action, faith stories, faith-based podcast, Felice Gerwitz, how to show God’s love, James 2:17, live with purpose, living for Christ, living your faith, Matthew 5:16, outreach ideas, prayer challenge, serving others, share your faith, sharing faith, Spiritual Growth

Salvation History & You

May 19, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Salvation History and You Episode 112

Have we considered salvation history in the light of not only what Jesus did for humanity but what Jesus did directly for us? In this episode, we will learn how to apply this to our lives and others.

Thanks to our sponsor: CTC Math

The Bible consists of the Old and the New Testament. The first book of the Bible begins in Genesis and ends in Revelations. It is the behind the scenes look at the new heaven and the new earth and at the apex or the center is Christ. This is a story of love – the greatest love of all, the love of God for a humanity that He created, that is fallen. It is the story of God’s promise before Jesus came and about Jesus fulfilling the promise by his life, his death, and His ultimate Resurrection.

Simply put, the salvation of history is the storyline of the beginning of time, the creation of man and the redemption by God. The Bible is this intricate puzzle with many books that seem to be unrelated yet overall paint this amazing picture of our history and God.
When we read the Bible we get a glimpse into the lives of the saints that lived before us, the tragedy and the triumph. It really happened. It isn’t an allegory, a theory or a fluff piece. It is real.

Before God created the world He existed. The Father. The Son. The Spirit. For us it is difficult to imagine an always was – always is and always will be because we are finite people.
And before

History is His – Story, the story of a God who was not made, not created, but who always was and will always be. This amazing creator God wanted to enjoy the universe he created with us. He began our story with our first parents, Adam and Eve.

Before the fall we read a wonderful, idyllic story of our ancestors that lived in this beautiful garden with everything they wanted or needed provided. This was how God planned it. No toil, no sin, no problems.

God created the angels before our first parents – and we learn about their sin in Revelations:

And there was a great battle in heaven, Michael and his angels fought with the dragon, and the dragon fought and his angels: and they prevailed not, neither was their place found any more in heaven. And that great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, who seduceth the whole world; and he was cast unto the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. (Apocalypse 12:7-9)

We know the story, our first parents sinned and were banned from the garden, from that idyllic place because they were tempted by the devil or Satan. The punishment from God to the enemy was swift yet he did not find mercy from God, but man did. Read 2 Peter 2:4

We do not know the mind of God – from paradise on earth, our parents were condemned. The need for a Savior was born. Read Genesis 3:15. Then the trouble began and continued throughout history to this present moment and we still need a Savior!

God has not deserted us – God is active in our lives, each and every day. It is the mission of you, of me, of the CHurch to
The history of salvation leads us to be disciples, and bring others the gospel message.

We must understand the beginning to realize the end.

Salvation history forces us to look at the actions of those who went before us, the story of God’s people from God’s point of view. God’s word tells us all about the way he time and again saved the people who cried out to Him. Do we cry out to God for saving? And if we do, how do we apply what we know not only to our lives but the lives of others? Are we a witness not by word, but by deed? If not we should be.

Let’s pray:

Dear God Almighty the Creator of Heaven and Earth, we thank you for sharing the story of how the world came to be and the history of your people through your point of view. I thank you, God, for giving us this world in which to live, for our family, for our friends, and for those who we will meet in the future. Let us be an example of your kindness, your love, your peace, and your joy. Let us learn from the holy men and women who went before us as well as those who turned their backs on you. Please keep us free from the temptations of the evil one and keep us in your holy mantle of protection. Dear God Almighty we pray for the following: … Please hear our prayers and grant them if they are in your Divine Will. I praise you for all you have done in my life and I thank you until I draw my last breath. And, I pray this in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

How To Pray

May 12, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

How To Pray ~ Episode 156

Have you thought about how to pray? When I think about how to pray sometimes I am at a loss. So, how can I dedicate an entire podcast to this topic? Well, it is a challenge. And the key is the following words, God’s will be done…

Sponsor Media Angels, Inc. – CTC Math.

How to Pray:

Is there a formula? Is there a quick way to have a hotline to the Almighty? I’m sure if you do a search online you will see the correct way, the wrong way, and everything in between. For me, prayer is a conversation with the One True God. The God that cares about everything I do and cares about the number of hairs on my head (Matthew 10:30) or has us in the palm of His Hands:

Isaiah 49:16

“See, I have inscribed you on the palms of my hands; your walls are continually before me.”

I think struggling with prayer happens when we are in the midst of a tragedy or are fearful and feel a situation is hopeless. Nothing is easy, so why should pray? In addition, we think that if we pray and the prayers are not answered we will struggle with our faith. So, again why pray? Then there is the prosperity gospel which is a spin on Christianity as it focuses on our beliefs. If we believe (and that depends on the strength of our belief), we will get the outcome we deserve in prayer. God will only answer us if we pray hard and believe harder. Right? That simple philosophy of prayer has led more people out of the church and away from their faith than any other. I’ve talked to people who have turned their back son Christianity because their belief did not pan out in answered prayers, so in essence, God has let them down.

Let’s think about this… we worship the Almighty God of the universe in Exodus 3:14 we read: “God said to Moses, “I am who I am.” He said further, “Thus you shall say to the Israelites, ‘I am has sent me to you.’”

Do we really think we have power over God? Of course not! As humans, we are given the dignity that only a Creator God who loves us gives – God has given us hope that the future we see on this earth is not all there is. Faith is not a coping mechanism. It is also not a “get out of hell card.” Some think that if we pray we don’t have to worry about eternal damnation. Prayer is so important but also living a life that is right and just. In other words, walking the walk instead of talking.

Yes, we can pray a salvation prayer. Or, if you are a Catholic participate in the sacraments, but once again it is more. There are many forms of prayer for a pentecostal or charismatic there is praying in tongues, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, there is praying extemporaneously, from the heart and in prayers such as the Lord’s prayer. There is singing with I’ve been told is like praying twice. Christian prayer is as diverse as the people praying.

Prayer, like faith, is a choice–a decision that you embrace wholeheartedly, or is it another step in the list of things you should do. Complacency in our faith is a tool of the evil one.

Prayer does not necessarily save us, only Christ can. But, prayer does save us from ourselves. When we pray we are in a state of humility realizing that we are not in charge, and we are in a position of asking the Lord that His will be done for us, and the hope and prayer that we accept His will.

We realize with faith that we are not in charge, we can not manipulate our world or “make our own luck,” as I’ve heard countless people say. Yes, we can choose to be happy, chose to follow God, and select a greater good in this life, but that is a choice. Luck is chance. Faith is not.

Some people think that when prayer is answered, it is pure luck. No! Absolutely not. Answered prayer is Divine intervention of God’s will. I’ve shared this in previous podcasts that sometimes when we pray it is no, not now or yes, but as I contemplate prayer it is really more. God in His infinite wisdom and goodness knows what is best for us so His answer is always His will.

In the Scriptures, Jesus taught us how to pray in what is famously known as the Lord’s Prayer. This is the key to praying and it is simply praying in the Father’s will. I know I recite the Lord’s prayer daily, but like some of you, I have become complacent and say it without thinking.

You should read the entire book of Matthew, but here in chapter six is where we find the Lord admonishes us to pray, not as those who give alms and want everyone to see their good works, but as someone who is humble and realizes our lives are in the care of One who really loves us and not only created the world in which we live but had a hand in creating each one of us, we are the handiwork of God.

Concerning Prayer Matthew: 6:5-14

Please pray the Lord’s prayer, ponder the words and place then in your heart. The keys for me might be different than for you, but the main points are to pray God’s will be done, to pray to forgive others and to ask that the Lord forgives us as we forgive others. God wants us to have peace not turmoil in our lives and it calls to mind

Faith is a gift from our Father. Matthew 16: Peter said, “You are the Christ the Son of God.” For those of us who are believers then our focus as we pray is that the Name of the Almighty the great I AM should have greater significance and be front and center in our lives. Thy will be done–now and forever! Lord give me the words to pray…

Let’s Pray:

Dear Father, thank you for the gift of faith, I believe you are the great I AM and I ask that you continue to increase my faith, and I pledge to follow you in all things, the things that matter, the focus on what is right and good. I stand for life, Lord — all lives from conception to death. I stand for all the is holy and righteous. Thank you, Lord, for all the ways you have answered my prayer, and I pray your will be done. I pray for the following needs and intentions…. and Lord, if your will be done, grant these prayers and petitions in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: A Few Minutes With God Podcast, CTC Math

Finding Joy On The Road To Calvary

May 5, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Have you considered the road less traveled? Finding joy on the Calvary road is a foreign thought for many, but without the cross, there is no Easter Sunday to celebrate. In this podcast, we look at the hope that came out of complete devastation and our hope for today.

Finding Joy on the Road to Calvary

Growing in faith means taking the time to contemplate the hard issues, one of which is the road to Calvary. Thinking about the title, Finding Joy on the Road to Calvary, we may consider it a bit of a paradox. How can we find joy on a road that leads to suffering on the cross? But that’s exactly what God invites us to explore in our walk with Him. It may take additional reflection, and this podcast will hopefully be the first step toward a closer walk with Jesus.

If you enjoy this podcast or this episode, please share it with someone who might need some encouragement. Thank you so much for listening.

Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath.com – visit the website at CTCMath for more information. Our podcasters allow us to bring you wonderful programming at the Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, where you can find other podcasts on wonderful topics that will bless you.

When we think of Calvary, we often picture the weight of the cross, the pain Jesus endured, and the sacrifice He made for us. Without a cross, there is no resurrection. And that’s all true—it’s the cornerstone of our faith. But there’s another layer to this journey, one that gives us hope and even joy when we think about the hardest moments in our faith journey. The road to Calvary isn’t just about suffering; it’s about purpose, love, and the promise of what’s beyond. How can this be?

Let’s look at John 16:33. Jesus says, “I have said this to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” Isn’t that beautiful? Jesus doesn’t say we won’t have any problems, and we talked about this in the last podcast about dealing with the struggles in our lives. Jesus tells us that trouble is part of life. I work hard to not focus on the negative in this world. Yet, when hard things happen, Jesus doesn’t leave us stranded. Jesus offers us peace, and not just any peace—His peace. On the road to Calvary, Jesus knew what was coming, yet He walked forward with a heart full of love for us. That’s where joy begins: knowing that no matter what we face, He’s already overcome it.

Now, let’s think about that road for a moment. Imagine Jesus carrying the cross—exhausted, mocked, and in pain. And yet, He continues for us because this injustice has a purpose. I’ve often wondered how He kept going. One answer comes in Hebrews 12:11-14 which says, (Read on air.)

The peaceful fruits of righteousness. That stops me in my tracks every time. Jesus saw beyond the cross—He saw you, me, and the reconciliation of the world to God. That joy wasn’t in the moment of suffering but in what it would accomplish. Friends, when we’re on our roads to Calvary through those tough seasons of life, can we look ahead to the praise report at the end? Maybe not right away, but it’s there, waiting. Today’s trial is tomorrow’s praise report!

I’ll be honest. Sometimes, my own “Calvary” moments feel overwhelming. Maybe you can relate to the problems in your life. Maybe it is a health scare, a strained relationship, or the business of everyday life wearing you down. But here’s where God meets us. In Philippians 4:4, Paul writes, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” This is the same Paul who didn’t believe that Jesus was indeed the Lord; he was the one who, when he converted, faced all types of trials. He was in prison, facing uncertainty. Yet he tells us to rejoice—not in our circumstances, but in the Lord. On the road to Calvary, joy isn’t about pretending everything’s okay; it’s about anchoring ourselves in the One who never fails us. The King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. When I learn to trust in God to give up my will and unite it to His, I find a sense of peace that carries me through.

So how do we live this out in our lives? For me, it starts with small steps, praying when hardship hits, thanking God for His presence even when I don’t feel it, and trusting Him. And that brings us to one of my favorite verses, Romans 8:28 (Read on air.) This includes all things, including the road to Calvary, and this includes our own struggles. God knows how our life will turn out even if we don’t. Our goal is eternal, and that’s a reason for joy.

Remember this truth, the road to Calvary didn’t end at the cross. It led to the resurrection, to victory over sin, to new life in Christ. The gates of heaven were open, and salvation was a possibility for all of those who believed. Whatever you’re carrying today, know that Jesus walks with you, and there’s joy ahead. Not because the road is easy, but because He is enough. Take a moment right now and spend a few minutes with God. Ask God to show you the joy He’s planned for you, and know that He hears all of your prayers. And I pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Christian Podcast, Jesus, joy

Spiritual Sandpaper (Replay)

April 30, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Spiritual Sandpaper – Episode 264

Visit our sponsor CTCMath.com for all of your family’s math needs. My own grandchildren use this curriculum and I’m excited they are sponsoring our network.

In the book of Job 23:10 we read, “But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.”

Our resolve goes one way or another. After being tested, or purified we are not lukewarm but either for or against God. Proverbs 27:21 speaks truth in the verse, ”

The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but people are tested by their praise.

I praise God for the outcome, which was so much better than I could imagine. In prayer I kept getting those words, they would pop into my mind, “It will be better than you imagine.”

Our pastor talks about a husband and wife being sandpaper to each other and it works out our flaws and shortcomings. Our family is also our spiritual sandpaper.

The scriptures talk about being tested many times. The most notable in our spiritual sandpaper focus today is Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

Our job as parents is to aid our children. Our job as a husband or wife is to aid our spouse. The same goes if you are dating. We are to help and not antagonize each other.

Matthew 5:43-44:

“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!’”

MOST OF THE ANIMOSITY WAS LIFTED whenever I prayed this prayer or something similar. Sometimes it took years, but the Lord was victorious in teaching me to forgive.

“If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that.”

First, to be aware of situations where we are sandpaper – that is, abrasive to others without cause. (Not sure there is ever a cause to be abrasive!)
Be aware of situations where others have been abrasive to us, and we harbor unforgiveness. Remember the Lord’s prayer.
Look at the spiritual sandpaper in our lives as a good thing, one that will help us to grow spiritually.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Spiritual Grace From God

April 28, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

What is that gift that is given freely, it is unearned, and it is totally and purely love. It is the spiritual grace from God. In this podcast, we will delve into the topic of grace.

The Spiritual Grace From God ~ Episode 346

Welcome to A Few Minutes with God Podcast. I’m your host, Felice Gerwitz, and today, we’re talking about a topic that is important to me, and that is the spiritual grace God pours out to those who are open to it. This grace is a gift that God is waiting to give us, but often we are too busy to notice, or if we are being honest, to care. A divine embrace is available for those who see miracles in everyday life. We’ve discussed this in other podcasts, highlighting that miracles are all around us and that we must look for them.

I know that many of you listening today are enduring hardships. For those struggling to make it through each day under the weight of financial or medical burdens, I pray that this episode brings you comfort and hope. Let’s spend these few minutes together reflecting on God’s unending love.

Spiritual Grace From God

Spiritual grace is God’s unconditional love that is unearned. In fact, it is probably truthful to say it is often undeserved. It is a gift that flows to us when we open our hearts, even just a crack, to the Lord and His providence for us. In Ephesians 2:8-9, we’re reminded, (Read on air.) This grace isn’t something we work for; it’s something we receive, often in the moments we need it most.

Let’s start with those who are open to seeing miracles in daily life. You know who you are; you are the ones who may go unnoticed, but you see the small wonders in life, and best of all, appreciate them. Think about the way a song comes on the radio, or a child’s laughter cuts through a heavy day, or what about a stranger’s kindness? These all feel like messages of love. I watched a short video about acts of kindness, and it featured a young adult girl with a bandaged leg, which appeared to be broken, and she was using crutches. She had to go down the escalator, and one man actually cut her off and walked in front of her. Another young adult, also a man, noticed her and offered to carry her on his back. I’m not sure I would have accepted; maybe I would have asked him to hold my arm as I navigated the escalator. However, she allowed him to carry her, and he did all the way down.

An act of kindness, however small, is within our ability, and it is something we can do to bless another person. If the person is puzzled or asks why you did what you did, you can answer, “Because God has blessed me.”

Being Open to God’s Presence

When we’re open to God’s presence, we see His hand in the ordinary. During a tough season, I appreciated the clouds in the sky more than ever before. We have amazing clouds where I live, and they are beautiful. The sky is huge, and yet I often hurry to one place or another, so I don’t take the time to appreciate it. Yet, one morning, I saw a rainbow. To me, it was a miracle, a reminder that beauty can emerge even when we feel broken inside. Grace helps us see these signs, and you can remind yourself, “God’s got this.” And He does!

But what about those carrying heavier burdens? To those suffering hardships, perhaps the loss of a loved one, a broken relationship, or a betrayal, God’s grace is there, too. It doesn’t always erase the pain, but it offers strength to endure. I think of Psalm 34:18 (Read on air).

Grace is like a quiet companion, sitting with you in your sorrow, reminding you that you’re not alone. We’ve all heard horrible and heartbreaking stories about people who are ill, or a sudden death in the family, or someone who is disabled and who needs help. Sometimes in these darkest moments, a church community or even strangers will rally together to help with much-needed funds. These people may realize that it is the grace of God working through others to lift them up.

God’s Sees Your Struggle

And to those struggling to get through each day—maybe because of financial strain, medical challenges, or the weight of endless responsibilities—God sees you. Your struggle is not invisible. Grace might come in the form of a moment of peace amidst the chaos, a kind word from a spouse, or a bill that is taken care of quickly through God’s providence. It’s God saying, “I’m carrying you through this.”

My mother had breast cancer in her late fifties, and I was in college at that time. I recall bombing a test, and my professor took me aside to ask what was wrong. I began to cry and told her about my mother. She hugged me and told me she would give me time to retake it. That’s grace—sustaining us when we’re too weary to stand.

So, how do we open ourselves to this grace? It starts with a simple act: turning to God. You don’t need fancy words or a perfect life. Just say, “God, I’m here. Help me see You.” It’s about trusting that He’s working, even when life feels unfair. Grace meets us in our vulnerability, in our willingness to let go of control and lean into faith.

Be Encouraged with God’s Grace

I want to encourage you today: if you’re feeling overwhelmed, look for the small miracles. If you’re hurting, let God sit with you in that pain. And if you’re barely making it through, know that His grace is enough to carry you, one step at a time. In 2 Corinthians 12:8-9, (Read on air.) Your weakness is where His strength shines.

There is so much more I can say, but I encourage you to reflect on where you’ve seen God’s grace in your life. Maybe it’s a moment you didn’t recognize until now. Hold that close, and let it remind you that you are never alone. If this episode has touched your heart, I would be grateful if you could give us a star rating on your favorite podcast app—it helps others discover this message of hope. And please, share this episode with a friend who might need to hear it. Together, we can spread the light of God’s love.

Thank you for joining me today. May you feel God’s grace surrounding you, now and always.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: 2 Corinthians 12, a few minutes with god, Christian Encouragement, Christian Inspiration, Comfort in Hardship, Divine Providence, Encouragement Podcast, Ephesians 2, faith, Faith in Difficult Times, Felice Gerwitz, God's love, Grace of God, Grace-Filled Living, Hope and Healing, Miracles in Daily Life, Psalm 34, Spiritual Grace, Spiritual Growth, Strength in Weakness, Trusting God

Christian Strength

April 21, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Christian Strength ~ Episode 269

We have tools and resources available to us; what about Christian strength that comes from the grace of God? In this podcast, we will discuss the tools God has given us to combat the evil one.

Have you visited CTCMath.com for an award-winning curriculum designed for the entire family? It is a great math program for ages K-12, and we are thankful for their sponsorship.

One of my sweet friends, who gets our emails, sent me this quote, “If you get on the scale and don’t like your weight, remember that you are carrying the full armor of God!” Thanks, Carolyn Wright, for sending me this quote. I love it! It is the little things that remind us we are not alone. Our strength comes from the Lord.

Nehimah 8:10 – “Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” How can we have this strength?

If we love and worship the one true God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, that is half the battle.
We must remember to put on the armor of God, Ephesians 6:10-18 (Here is a podcast on the Armor of God.)
We are in good company! We are adopted children of the Almighty God, so we should rejoice.

Today, I was filled with joy that surpasses all understanding. There was no reason for this; in fact, before I went to church, I was burdened. I was praying for my family and felt a weight pressing on me. Whenever I felt this weight, I gave it to the Lord; in my mind, I said, “Your will, Lord, not mine.” Then, I kept praying. When I finally arrived at church and knelt down to pray, I felt an overwhelming sense of the love of God.

Have you realized that as Christians, we have powerful tools given to us through Baptism by the Almighty God? Not only are we claimed during our Baptism, but for some of us, we were infants claimed through the intercession of our parents and godparents, and at other times as adults, for those who convert to Christianity. But there is more. God knows everything about us, and we are worth so much in the eyes of God. We are worth much more than any animals. In Mark 5, we see that Jesus restores one man, casts out the evil spirits, and puts them into the swine, who proceed to go off the cliff. One man was worth so much more than all of the swine!

The concept of exorcism shows us that God is greater than evil. There is more to this world than just what we see; there is a spiritual world. There are principalities and powers, and ever since the fall, we see this brokenness and disobedience of man. Yet, God is light and continues to shed His goodness on a fallen world; we have the choice, and God gives us this free will. After the fall, the world belongs or is under the dominion of the evil one. Jesus came not just to teach, heal, and forgive sins but to fight. We see this with the verses in Ephesians about the armor of God. People looked at Jesus as a prophet; they expected Him to lead an army and wipe out the evil of the day, but He did this in the way that God works. God does not work by outward force. He works by word and deed. He only has to utter a word and evil was cast out. He instructed His disciples to go forth and to command evil to leave in His Name.

After the Baptism of Jesus with John the Baptist, he went into the desert to prepare for the trials to come, and he did it with a fight to take back what belongs to God, and that dear friend is you and me! Praise God, what fantastic news. If that does not give us a boost of faith, remember that the exorcisms that occurred then and now were to reclaim what belongs to the Almighty God.

During the Rite of Baptism (in the Catholic church, I’m not sure about other denominations), there is a right of exorcism; it happens in every Baptism. We are claimed for the Kingdom of God, but we must be delivered from the evil one before this can happen. Wherever the gospel has been proclaimed, wherever Christ is proclaimed, it is accompanied by exorcisms. We have stories of exorcism from the beginning of the New Testament. When missionaries went to various countries, they also had to do exorcisms to deliver the people from bondage.

I heard a teaching on the topic, and there was a man, a priest who was from Spain and a renowned exorcist, who wrote a book on the topic and studied it extensively. In his studies, he found so few exorcisms during the Middle Ages, and he wondered why, but he concluded that the amount of Baptisms had risen. They were transferred from the kingdom of the evil one; they were brought into the Kingdom of God.

Today, there is a rise in exorcisms; why? Well, for many reasons, one is that people are not having their children baptized, and another is that those baptized deny faith in God, in Jesus as the true Savior; those in sin are choosing the evil one. It is their choice. Therefore, this leaves them open to evil. It is a gateway, if you will, an open door.

Fear not! If you are baptized, you have been transformed into the Kingdom of God! Jesus says do not be afraid. We have strength in God through the Holy Spirit. In the book of Romans, particularly Romans 1, we read about the early church and their struggle but, more importantly, how they were encouraged. Romans 6:1-2 “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? ²By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?”

We have been saved, in fact Romans 6 heading states Dead to Sin Alive in Christ. What good news.

Romans 6:23. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

This reminds me of a podcast I did on the present moment on being mindful. Link here. God provides for us today. In the present, when we need Him most. We torture ourselves with regrets from the past and the fear of the future, yet we only need to focus on today.

So, friends. Rejoice. Today, as always, the Lord will provide for me and you. He will provide for your family. Continue to pray, continue to storm heaven for what we need. This week, your challenge is to pray for Christian strength for the Lord to provide the grace we need when we need it!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Keeping Your Faith Alive

April 14, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

When is our faith most tested? During the storm. Keeping your faith alive is only possible when you look to the Lord for the help and guidance you need today and always. This podcast will encourage you to keep Him first.

Keeping Your Faith Alive in the Storm ~ Episode 345

Hey there, friends! Welcome to A Few Minutes with God Podcast, where we focus on God’s Word and find encouragement for the journey. I’m Felice Gewritz, and today we’re talking about something we all face: struggles. Life can throw so many problems when we least expect it; it can be family issues—financial stress, health battles, and more. It’s easy to feel like your faith is being tested. But here’s the good news: God’s got you, and His Word gives us hope along the way of trial or the way of the cross. As I record this, it is the season of Lent, the 40 days leading up to Easter. And we are reminded of the hardships of our Lord and Savior (read the book of John), and that gives us hope.

Today, we’re focusing on four powerful Bible verses to remind us how to keep our faith alive, even in the storm. So grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s get started.

Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath – visit the website for more information.

Keeping Your Faith Alive Scriptures:

Hebrews 6:19 (hope as an anchor)
2 Corinthians 12:9 (grace in weakness)
Galatians 6:9 (perseverance)
John 16:33 (peace through Christ’s victory)

Do you need an anchor of hope? Just imagine an anchor that is huge and immovable with the word “hope” on it. It is a foundation, a rock, and it is weighed down with steel. It isn’t going anywhere. If we hold on to it, our grasp can fail, but if we are tied to it, we are immovable. This anchor is Christ, and He is our hope and our salvation.

Have you ever felt like you’re drifting, unsure if you’ll make it through? Hebrews 6:19 says: (Read on air.)

I love that image—an anchor. Hope in Jesus keeps us steady. Years ago, a house in my neighborhood had a big anchor (like a ship-sized anchor) in their front yard. You couldn’t avoid seeing it before you turned right to go to our street, and we used that anchor as a point for directions. We’d tell friends When you see that anchor, the street on the corner is ours. It was a beacon, a point of reference, and it took a huge crane to move when the new owners purchased the home.

An anchor is not flimsy; it is not a symbol of we will drift, or ” maybe things will get better kind of hope. No, this anchor is a rooted promise from God Himself. We know from the scriptures that God is here and will not leave us even if we have turned our backs on him. So, when you’re tempted to give up, picture that anchor. Your faith isn’t built on your strength; it’s built on His.

Real Strength in Weakness – Keeping Your Faith Alive

If we are honest, sometimes we feel too weak to keep going. I’ve been there, staring at a mountain of problems, thinking, “God, I can’t do this any longer; please help me.” But listen to 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 (Read on air). Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, wrote that when he was struggling with his own “thorn in the flesh.” God didn’t take it away, but He gave Paul something better: His grace. That’s the secret, friends. When you’re at your lowest, God’s power shines brightest. So don’t hide your weakness—bring it to Him. Say, “Lord, I’m struggling, but I trust You’re enough.” He’ll carry you through each and every time.

Don’t you feel better already? I do because every time I read God’s Word, I feel like it is a lifeline. It pulls us out of the pit of despair to quote a line from a book and sets us on our feet on solid ground. When we feel lost, remember you are not alone.

Struggles can feel endless at times. It is as if you’re running a marathon with no finish line. But Galatians 6:9 has this beautiful encouragement. (Read on air.) That’s a call to keep going. Maybe you’ve been praying the same unanswered prayer, and you are praying for a breakthrough, or you’re trying to stay faithful in a tough situation. The creator of the universe knows all things. We can not lose hope, and even if the prayer isn’t answered in the way we want it to be answered, it will come. Some of the greatest praise reports are not of answered prayers but in the fact that the person praying was able to embrace the situation and say, “Your will, Lord, not mine.”

John 16:33. Jesus says, (Read on air.) Isn’t that amazing? Jesus doesn’t say no trouble is coming, but He tells us to be of good cheer. Why? Because of Christ, He has already won, and so have we. When everything’s falling apart, you can have peace because Jesus has overcome it all—sin, death, and every struggle you’re facing. So, take a deep breath today. Even if your faith has been shaken by the chaos, pray John 16:33 over and over again, and soon your faith will be rooted in the One who’s already conquered it. Rest in that. He’s got the final word.

Friends, our struggles, and our hardships don’t get to define our faith—God does. Anchor yourself in His hope, lean on His strength, keep pushing forward, and rest in His victory. Hebrews 6:19, 2 Corinthians 12:8-9, Galatians 6:9, John 16:33—these aren’t just verses; they’re promises to cling to. Maybe today’s been rough, but you’re not alone. God is right here whether we can feel His presence or not.

Next time, we’ll dig into Finding Joy on the Road to Calvary. Calvary is a topic that has always been difficult for me. We all want to find happiness and joy in Christ but don’t want to consider the price He paid for our sins. Join me next week as we delve into this topic, especially during this time before Easter.

If this podcast has encouraged you, share it with a friend. And you can always comment on the podcast post—I’d love to hear how God’s keeping your faith alive. Until next time, may the Lord keep you and bless you. Amen.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Humility

March 31, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

The Gift of Humility ~ 344

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Deliver Us From Evil

March 24, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Deliver Us From Evil ~ Episode 275

The Return of the Unclean Spirit

Luke 11:24-26 (Read on air.)

Spiritual warfare doesn’t take a break; those who get free of addictions, if you get free of the evil, you need to change your lifestyle to maintain that freedom. Turn to a life of prayer and a sacramental life. We are made as a spiritual vessel for the Holy Spirit, and if it is not filled by the Holy Spirit, it gets filled by other spirits. We can not leave it empty.

How do you avoid evil? Recognize it.

Even as Christians, the lure for understanding or knowing the future is prevalent in our society. Two years ago, I was in New Orleans for a conference and visited St. Louis Cathedral. The church had erected a high metal fence in front of it, which I found strange until I saw, little by little, people in colorful garments coming and setting up shop in the open, public space in front of the church. Who were these people? They were the “sellers” of evil. There were fortune tellers and palm readers, to name a few. Some people took tours to talk about the ghosts that inhabited many of the buildings and had been “seen” in years past.

Where there is good, evil abounds. You may think I am exaggerating, but the truth is that the enemy will do anything for your soul. The enemy is allowed in through a gateway, but always with our permission.

One way that evil enters is through occult practices; many are unaware of items such as occult games, for example, the Ouija board and tarot cards. Or activities such as seances and mediums, which is how evil gets in, because people welcome and allow it, believing it is just for fun or not real. Friends, it is real. Evil does have power, but only what we give it; God is greater, He is Almighty, He has dominion over evil. Who will we serve?

Deliver Us From Evil, Scripture Warns Us

The scriptures warn us. The Old Testament is filled with worship of idols, of false gods. The true God, the Creator of heaven and earth, gave warning after warning. The 10 Commandments, the prophets, and what happened? All of the twelve tribes of Israel fell because while two of the twelve (in the south) worshipped the true God, they would not remove the “idols from on high” that the people worshiped. We can not be divided in our worship.

A verse that should give us pause is in Isaiah 47 – in verses 10-11 (Read on air.) Leviticus 20:6 (Read on air.)

Deliver Us From Evil – Five Easy Steps

Renounce your sin, ask the Lord to call the sins to mind, and rebuke them in the Name of Jesus.
Renounce permission you may have given the evil one to enter through the sin. Spiritual warfare prayer.
Claim in the Name of Jesus that you are a child of God.
Pray with a spiritual advisor or clergy.
If you are Catholic, go to confession and receive the sacraments often.

Praying, reading the scriptures, asking for more of the Holy Spirit, and confessing are ways to avoid evil.

Spiritual Warfare Prayer

Renounce sin – in the Name of Jesus, I give you dominion over my life and renounce the sin of *** ____________________ (pray and quietly wait on the Lord to reveal sin to your mind.)
Put on the armor of God Ephesians 6:10-18.
- RIGHTEOUSNESS: Girdle of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, flaming arrows against the evil one, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit.
- WHOLE ARMOR: In verses 13-18,” Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.
- TRUTH: Stand, therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness.
- PEACE: As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace.
- FAITH: With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
- SALVATION: Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
- PRAY: Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.Pray in the Spirit – come Holy Spirit, and keep alert.

***Once you have prayed against evil – for example, the spirit of lies, ask the Lord to fill you with the opposite, “the spirit of truth.” Always pray the opposite of the evil and ask God to fill you with His grace. If you do not know the opposite, pray, Come Holy Spirit.

Remember, the battle has been won! Alleluiah. Alleluiah. Jesus lived, died, has risen, and has broken the bonds of death. We must be open and vigilant and recognize that we can pray, “Come Holy Spirit, Come…fill my heart today and always.”

Your challenge this week is to pray the spiritual warfare prayer and take back any areas you have given over. Amen! May God be praised.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

God’s Provision: Trusting Him

March 17, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Does God hear you when you pray? Sometimes, He hears those unspoken prayers as well. God’s provision is always timely and comes just when we need it.

Hey there, friends! Welcome to A Few Minutes with God Podcast. Today we will dive into God’s Word and His promises to lift our spirits and strengthen our faith. I’m your host, Felice Gerwitz, and you can find today’s show notes at AFMWGPodcast.com – I also want to thank our sponsor, Judson College. If you want a unique college experience that is authentically Christian. In this day of not knowing what you will find on a college campus, it is worth checking out. JudsonCollege.com

God’s Provision: Trusting Him

Today we’re talking about something so close to my heart: how God provides for us. If you’ve ever wondered if God sees your needs—or if you just need a reminder of His faithfulness—this episode is for you.

You know, life can feel uncertain sometimes. Bills pile up, plans fall apart, and we’re left wondering, “How am I going to get through this?” But here’s the beautiful truth: we serve a God who isn’t distant or distracted. He’s a provider—Jehovah Jireh, “The Lord Will Provide.” And He’s been showing us that from the very beginning.

Let’s start with a story from Scripture that I love—Exodus 16. The Israelites have just been freed from slavery in Egypt. They’re in the wilderness, and they’re hungry. They start grumbling, saying, “At least in Egypt we had food!” All I can think about is that God just saved you from captivity, and you are no longer slaves. How can you not be grateful? But God doesn’t punish them. Instead, He provides. He sends manna—bread from heaven—every single day. Not just once, but faithfully, day after day, teaching them to trust Him.

I think there’s something so powerful here. There are so many lessons. The first is that God provided. But even more, he didn’t give them a stockpile to hoard; He gave them daily provision. Enough for today, with a promise for tomorrow. It’s like He was saying, “Depend on Me. I’m not going anywhere.” And that’s still true for us today. Maybe your “manna” looks like a timely paycheck, a friend’s encouragement, or even strength you didn’t know you had. God provides what we need, when we need it.

In the New Testament—Matthew 6:26. (Read on air.) Jesus is teaching, and He says, “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” Don’t you I love that! Jesus points to the sparrows—little, ordinary birds—and says, “If God takes care of them, how much more will He take care of you?”

A lady recently recounted that her feet were hurting, and she usually walked to church and home afterward. It wasn’t far, maybe two or three miles, but this one day, she wondered how she would get home. Another lady going her way offered her a ride home. She was so amazed. This lady had no idea her feet hurt, but God did. She had already sacrificed and walked to church, but now God provided for her to get home. She was so thankful, but then she said, “Why am I surprised God watches over me!”

A miracle happened when we needed to remodel our home (my husband is a contractor) to make room for our third child. All of a sudden I started saving extra money. I asked my husband if things were going better at work. He said, no things are the same. And, I explained that our savings was growing without us even trying. The cost of the remodel was all that extra money we had in savings, almost to the penny. And, then the big savings stopped! It is like the manna. God provided for right then, this specific need. He didn’t give us a big, big surplus, just what we needed. And, yes we would rely on Him.

And that’s the thing—God’s provision doesn’t always look how we expect. Sometimes it’s miraculous, like the loaves and fishes feeding 5,000 in John 6. Other times, it’s quiet—a kind word, a job opportunity, a moment of peace when your heart’s racing. Philippians 4:19 promises, “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Not some needs—all of them. And not from a limited supply, but from His endless riches.

So, what do we do with this? How do we live like we believe God provides? First, we look back. Think of a time God came through for you. Maybe it was big, maybe small—but write it down, remember it. I use to encourage you all the time to keep a Praise Journal. Prayer Journals are great we write down specific prayer petitions and we pray that God blesses them, but a praise journal acknowledges that yes, God – you are there for me. I see you. I know in my heart that I am loved. Those are your “stones of remembrance,” like the Israelites set up in Joshua 4, to remind you He’s faithful. Second, we pray. Jesus taught us in Matthew 6:11, “Give us today our daily bread.” It’s simple, but it’s trust—asking God for what we need today. And third, we rest. Stop striving so hard to control it all. The birds don’t stress, and neither should we.

Please know that you are seen, you are loved, and you are held by a God who provides for you, not just today but always. He sees you, and He knows everything that happens in your life. Some of it is good, some of it a cross to bear and a hardship. Yet it is no surprise to God. Maybe you’re in a wilderness season right now, waiting for your manna. Hold on—He’s already at work. Maybe you’re in a season of plenty—praise Him and share it. Either way, God’s got you in the palms of His hands, and He’s not letting go.

Let’s pray:

“Father, thank You for being our provider. Thank You for seeing our needs and meeting them in Your perfect way. Help us trust You, rest in You, and see Your hand at work. Help us to understand that you truly love us. For anyone listening who’s worried today, please Lord wrap them in Your peace, Your love and Your joy – that joy that surpasses all understanding and please, show them Your provision. We love You, Lord, we praise You, Lord, you are worthy of all the glory and the honor. We pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Pray and Fast

March 10, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

When you pray and fast, you take an active role in your faith journey. In this episode, we discuss how your prayer life and faith can improve for the better.

Pray and Fast ~ Episode 342

This is probably one of the least popular tasks of a Christian. We don’t mind attending church, opening and reading our Bible, and giving money to charity. But when challenged to pray and fast? That makes it so much more complex.

However, prayer and fasting are two spiritual powerhouses. These are proven disciplines that can transform your life as a Christian. If you’re ready to learn more, grab your coffee—or maybe skip it if you’re fasting—and let’s get started!

But first, I want to thank our sponsor, Judson College. Judson College offers biblical and practical training wherever a student is called to equip and live all of life for Christ.

Fasting is a timeless practice, especially for Catholics during Lent. This is a time of preparation and penance leading up to Easter, commemorating the 40 days Jesus spent fasting and praying in the desert before beginning His public ministry. This starts on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Thursday, the week of Easter. Lent is a time not only for Catholics but all Christians to deepen their relationship with God through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Why? Because it causes us to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice and a personal call to conversion.

The number 40 is indicative of different biblical periods. I’m sure you’ve read about how the number 40 in the Bible is related to times of trial and purification—for example, the Israelites’ 40 years in the wilderness and Noah’s 40 days of rain. Rooted in the Church’s tradition, Lent invites us, the faithful, to turn away from sin and embrace self-discipline. We are denying the flesh, remembering to say no to whatever we have selected to fast from, and in this way, using it as a powerful reminder. It also is a renewal of our baptismal promises, preparing our hearts to celebrate the joy of the Resurrection. Lent is both a personal journey and an act of solidarity, uniting Catholics and Christians worldwide in spiritual growth and sacrifice.

So, how do you fast? Simply, add the element of “fast” or giving up something in penance to your prayer life. What that looks like is different for each person. Skipping lunch or giving up chocolate and offering it up for a special intention makes it powerful. When we give things up, we are reminded to deny ourselves and our flesh. And when we deny ourselves, we recall the importance of denying sin.

Prayer and fasting aren’t just old-school Catholic habits; they’re actually tools God gives us to grow closer to Him and improve our lives. But why are they so important?”

Let’s start with prayer. It’s our direct line to God. When we pray, we raise our minds and hearts to God, and through prayer, we talk to the Lord, we listen to Him, and we align our will with His. It is not easy, and it takes practice because we are often distracted when we pray. Why is that because the enemy doesn’t want us growing closer to God? We witnessed Jesus, before he began His public ministry, in the desert for 40 days, and at the end, satan tempted the Word and made Flesh. Jesus gave us an example of withstanding temptation.

Prayer takes discipline, and when we do it with a focus on wanting to grow in the Lord, we are not just asking God for things—it’s about building a relationship. Think of it like spending time with a friend: the more you talk, the deeper the bond. Yet, with the Lord, it is so much more powerful. It is as if we are in the presence of Christ.

Now, what about fasting? How can we think about God when we want that cookie or that cup of coffee? Let’s read Matthew 6:16-18, (Read on air.)

Jesus says, ‘When you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by men… But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father who is in secret.’

Jesus doesn’t say if you fast—He says when. Fasting’s for a Christian is not optional; it’s a given for a life of faith. But it’s not about showing off to others and letting them know how holy you are by your works. No. It’s about humility, discipline, and turning to God.

In fact, prayer and fasting were so important for the disciples that it was the only way to defeat the evil one. In the following scripture, the disciples tried to heal a young boy suffering from demonic possession. Yet they were unsuccessful. The desperate father brought his son to the Lord and asked him for healing. When you read the scripture, listen to the words as I read them, take note of Christ, as he expresses his frustration with his disciples, but then, when they ask him, “Why could we not cast it out?” Jesus explains it is because of weak faith. : Matthew 17:14-21

Jesus Cures a Boy with a Demon

¹⁴When they came to the crowd, a man came to him, knelt before him, ¹⁵and said, “Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and he suffers terribly; he often falls into the fire and often into the water. ¹⁶And I brought him to your disciples, but they could not cure him.” ¹⁷Jesus answered, “You faithless and perverse generation, how much longer must I be with you? How much longer must I put up with you? Bring him here to me.” ¹⁸And Jesus rebuked the demon,^[a] and it^[b] came out of him, and the boy was cured instantly. ¹⁹Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” ²⁰He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a^[c] mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.”^[d]

The second place we read about this situation is in Mark 9: 14-29. In Mark 9:27-29 a further explanation of the situation is as follows:

²⁷But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he was able to stand. ²⁸When he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” ²⁹He said to them, “This kind can come out only through prayer.” (In the footnotes it adds the word fasting. )

What are the takeaways from these verses? Pray and meditate on them, but in a nutshell, the Lord is asking us to have faith the size of a mustard seed, which only comes with praying and fasting.

So, how do prayer and fasting together improve your prayer life? Your faith journey? First, they help to tame the chaos. Life’s busy—work, family, endless notifications, the pull to look at social media or watch the news. Prayer gives you peace and a moment to hit pause and refocus on what matters. Fasting, on the other hand, trains your body to say ‘no’ to instant gratification. Skipping a meal or turning off the television for a day reminds you who’s in charge—not your stomach, not your screen, but your soul, guided by God.”

Second, they supercharge your spiritual growth. When the disciples couldn’t cast out a demon, Jesus told them in Matthew 17:21 that ‘this kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer and fasting.’ There’s power here. Fasting sharpens your prayer life, making it more intentional. Ever notice how skipping lunch makes you hungrier for God? It’s like clearing the clutter so His voice comes through louder.

Third, they connect you to the Church. Even if you are not Catholic, Christians I know practice fasting often. Catholics have been fasting since the beginning—Lent, Ash Wednesday, regular Fridays, and especially Holy Thursday-Good Friday-Holy Saturday before Easter. When you fast, you’re not alone; you’re joining millions of believers, past and present, in a shared sacrifice. And prayer? Whether it’s the Our Father at Mass or a quiet moment with your Bible, it’s the essence of our communion with each other and with Christ.”

How To Pray and Fast:
Start small. Pray for five minutes a day—read your Bible, think about what you read, and ask the Lord for some insight or guidance to what you read. Spending time with God is the essence of your prayer life. As far as fasting, I encourage you to try fasting with something simple—snacks between meals or social media for a few hours. Offer it up for someone you love or a struggle you’re facing. You’ll be amazed at the clarity, the strength, the joy that creeps into your life.

Make praying for others a habit. Does the Lord bring someone to mind? If you think about them often, this can be an indication that they need prayer.

During Lent, select one thing and fast from that thing or group of things during the entire 40-day period. Some Christians do not fast on Sunday but only on weekdays and Saturdays because the Lord rose from the dead on Sunday. However you do it, make it work for you. It always amazed me that when my kids were in college often, non-Catholic friends often joined in their Lenten fast. Some have continued it to this day.

As Christians, prayer and fasting aren’t just duties; they’re gifts. They draw us out of ourselves and into God’s heart. They make us better spouses, parents, friends—better Christians. So, this week, take up the challenge. Pray a little deeper. Fast a little more. Let God work in the quiet spaces.

Please share this episode with a friend and join us next time as we explore more ways to live our faith boldly. Until then, keep praying, keep fasting, and keep seeking Him.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Fruits of Faith

March 3, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Fruits of Faith – Episode 341

Do you ever feel that the more you know, the more you don’t know? Whenever I study scripture or a topic I want to learn more about, it seems that the Holy Spirit directs me in a specific way, or I “accidentally” stumble upon something that sparks an idea. This happened to me, and my planned topic was postponed until I could write this one. I pray it is a blessing to you.

I was praying and thinking about faith and its importance; I started thinking about the fruits of faith–what are they, and how can we see them in our lives? Jesus said, and I’m paraphrasing, they will know we are Christians by our love. Look up John 13:35. But what are the fruits of faith? Where are those blessings?

If we are faithful, a decision we make, we receive blessings. (Check out my podcast on Blessings here.) But not necessarily how you might think this happens. For example, if you follow God, everything will go great; you will never have hardships or difficulties, right? In some ways, yes, because we can cope with these things, and we realize in the grand scheme of life, they are minor, even if, at that moment, the hardships seem insurmountable. I remember a close friend once shared that she never was concerned with having no money because she had her faith, happiness, and health until her health and that of her husband were under attack. Yet, without faith, how would you live?

Faith is not a feeling. Faith is a belief in the unseen. Faith is truly a gift from God. Can we ask for more faith? Yes, of course. What is faith? It is a belief that there is more in life than what we can see, the material things around us. If we can use our senses to experience the material, that is not faith.

Oh, to live when Jesus roamed the earth in the flesh. Not that I would enjoy all that dust and dirt or even the primitive ways of life. There is something attractive to the simplicity of living, even under those hardships. Can you imagine being one of the disciples? Listening in as Jesus spoke to Joseph and Mary? Can you imagine the Holy Family living life together and learning from Christ? In the movie The Nativity, one of my favorites, there is a line where Joseph talks about the coming Messiah with Mary and says, “Will I even be able to teach him anything?”

Yet, only Jesus, Mary, and Joseph knew before his public ministry that Jesus was God. Joseph and Mary had faith beforehand, but they were chosen and said yes to participate in the greatest mystery of all time. Can you imagine being chosen? Well, we are, and we participate not in the same way as the Holy Family but in a special way by our faith in Jesus.

The Word became flesh.

Thus, Christianity was born, and our faith in Christ grew along with that of many other believers. As Christians, we realize this greatest miracle, and we, through no effort of our own, expect our “yes” we can participate in the miracles and gifts and blessings. After all, God gave us free will, and He will not force us to believe, but the signs are all around us if we have eyes that see!

An unbeliever thinks that hard work and effort cause the good in their life. I remember hearing an acquaintance say, “I make my own luck.” Luck is often attributed to chance or good fortune. But how can you make or create “chance” or “fate”? In this case, I believe it is impossible.

Fruits of Faith Through Scripture

It is more challenging to be without faith than to have faith. I can rest assured that even though many of us fight against sin, we are often victorious because we have the grace of God. Galatians 5:22-23 talks about the presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of Christians, which is a contrast or the opposite of the sin in our lives. These can be considered the fruits of faith. What are they?

Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self-Control

We can all pray for these gifts, and if we receive them, how will we use them for the kingdom?

Read Galatians 5:15-23 – here you are warned against the things that will close the doors to heaven. A section of verse 20 reads: “I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” But verses 22-23 are more joyful! (Read on air.)

Fruits of Faith Purely Grace

When we have the Holy Spirit and these fruits available to us through faith, we can definitely find joy. One year, I wrote those spiritual words on cards and passed them out randomly to my family. Whatever word we selected was the word for the year. It was amazing that many of us selected the word we needed the most; only God could know this, right? All of us were amazed by God’s hand in this simple family activity. But why are we surprised? When we participate with the Lord and share the good news, He is in our midst. He is always there, but we often do not recognize the gift.

I know I use the word gift in a seemingly cavalier manner, but it is truly a gift.

Remember, virtues are a gift, as are the fruits. God gives them through His grace. But our Lord and Savior provide us with these things, and we must do our part to strive toward the goal of attaining these in our lives and also in our prayers. Ask the Lord, “How can I share this with others? How do we participate in the spiritual life?

First of all, it is a journey. It is a walk, and for some of us, we arrive quickly; for others, like myself, it is a long and winding path. The quickest way to get to the goal is to set aside the old ways of life. How do we shed this old life? One way that helps me understand this is to compare it to a diet.

It means a lifestyle change if you’ve ever been on a diet to lose a few pounds. We eliminate the chips, soda, and other packaged foods that harm our health. We buy fresh produce, and we eat healthily. We exercise, drink lots of water, and get rid of sugary drinks. And we work super hard to try to lose that weight. But what happens after we reach our goal? Hopefully, we will lose the weight we want to shed. But what happens when we go back to our old ways? We gain weight back, sometimes more than we started with initially.

A lifestyle change is only possible by the grace of God, with His blessings, and through prayer. In fact, you can accomplish this both by praying and fasting. Some things take our focus off of self and onto God. But often, we are too hard on how we look or what we do; we think we fail God and the others we love the most.

I recently read the staggering statistics for suicide. This is tragic, and the enemy’s goal is to make us think that life is not worth living. This is a lie; remember, the evil one is the father of lies. God’s grace and goodness are there for each of us to lean into and rely on if only, as the scriptures say, we have “eyes that see.”

Open your eyes wide to the wonders and goodness of the Lord through faith. The fruits of faith are joy, goodness, and so much more. God loves you; He cares about you, and He created you for a purpose.

The fruits of faith are a happier life, the ability to cope with the unexpected, and seeing God in those little things that happen in our lives. One friend who recovered from cancer would tell me how she took such delight in the sunset and the sunrises. She shared that she would tease the Almighty God that He was showing off just for her.

This is true faith when you can see God in the everyday wonders we take for granted and appreciate it as a personal gift. Dear friends, you are a gift; your life is not an accident, and you are here for a reason. Do not ever lose hope, but remember the awesomeness and ability that God has given us because we live. Once again, share the good news with others.

Enjoy your faith, count your blessings, and look toward the grace that comes only through faith in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Blessings In Our Life

February 24, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

The blessings we receive in our lives are a total gift. Are you ready for more blessings? This podcast discusses how we can be open to God’s grace.

Blessings In Our Life ~ Episode 340

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our entire lives were filled with blessings? One blessing after another. Take a moment to imagine what that would look like.

Thanks to NOW Programs. Check out this amazing personalized program

What came to mind? I can imagine incredible blessings, but the ones that truly matter are a faith-filled, happy, healthy home and family. The material blessings in this life are wonderful. For many of you listening to this podcast, even if you are not in the USA, you enjoy clean water, a home where you live, food to eat, electricity, and the internet. These things make our lives easier, and we often take them for granted over those less fortunate.

Yet none of the things I mentioned are forever. They are temporary gifts in our lives.

What is a true blessing? Let me read a favorite Psalm of many of us: Psalm 23: (Read on air.)

Consider these words with the eyes of faith. Material blessings are wonderful, but we don’t need them to have everything as much as we need spiritual blessings. God is there to comfort us in our distress; we have the basic needs to live, and we may be blessed with a wonderful family and friends. These are all special gifts and graces.

In the Scriptures, blessings are abundant. They are given in abundance when the will of God is followed. The Divine Will is something I am currently studying, and it is a vast subject. At some point, I will share more about this topic.

Sometimes, God gives, and God takes away. That may be the story of your life. Think about Job’s life and the lessons to be learned from those passages. As you get older, you will not be able to escape the difficulties that happen in life. And yet we can rejoice because the blessings abound, knowing that the Almighty and King of the Universe cares about us. We may not see it. We may not hear it. We may feel lost but know He is there.

This brings me to the topic of loneliness. Many people are lonely. It transcends age. Young people, as well as old, can all suffer from feeling alone and left out. The common thread is a relationship, or lack of relationship, with God. As a young homeschool mom, I tried to make daily Mass a routine, and I failed miserably. On occasion, we did go, and I was impressed by the little ladies we sat near and how they seemed to make it routinely. One was always smiling and asked me my children’s names. I watched as she wrote them down in her prayer book and said she would pray for us (and them) each day! Even if I couldn’t attend, God took care of us and blessed us through this lady. She wasn’t lonely; she had a relationship with Christ and prayed for others, and God gave her the gift of joy.

As a young single woman in my first job, I had little chance of meeting anyone. I worked long hours and didn’t like the bar scene. Online dating wasn’t a thing at the time, and I’m not sure if I would have done it anyway. I finally realized it was my choice to be lonely, and I renewed my commitment to God, and all loneliness was gone! I was happy and content.

Truly spiritual blessings demonstrate the goodness and awesome power of God. I heard a priest once explain that the Catholic churches are such vast structures because they attempt to give the glory that God is due within the church through a beautiful structure but also because God is enormous and it is, in fact, symbolic. I believe that is why the oceans and sky are so vast, with millions of stars in the sky. It highlights the glory of God.

Psalm 19: 1-4, 8-10, 14 (read on air). Pray and meditate on that Psalm, especially when you doubt God’s blessings or feel lonely and lost!

A blessing is a grace, a gift. After the Resurrection, the Holy Spirit came upon the Apostles and Mary in a mighty way. This blessing was a gift to infill them with the ability to preach and teach. In this way, while the blessing upon the person is personal, it is for the entire community.

What talent, spiritual gift, and time do you have to work for the Kingdom of God? Do you volunteer in a ministry? Do you give your time and talents to others? When my children were little, the only energy I had was for my husband, children, and extended family. This was my calling, I believed, from God. Family first. Mother Teresa, in her acceptance speech for the Nobel Peace Prize, gave a fantastic speech, and a paraphrase is the following: “If you want to bring peace to the whole world, go home and love your family.”- Mother Teres.a

Blessings include spiritual gifts, talents, personality traits, ideas, and material possessions. Have you read the scripture about the talents? Read Matthew 25 in its entirety. The story’s moral truth is that if God gives you a blessing in the form of a “talent” and asks how will you invest the gift I’ve given you?

Will we use it for ourselves? For our family? Or will we seek God and ask how to use it for the kingdom?

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

The Cost of Following Jesus

February 17, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

As a Christian, there is a cost to following Jesus. Is it worth it? What does this mean? In this podcast, we compare the minimal sacrifice to the wonderful blessings that come with faith.

The Cost of Following Jesus ~ Episode 329

According to Scripture, we realize there is a cost to following Christ. The sacrifice can include giving up personal and sinful desires; all of those things will lead us to death. These sacrifices can bring us peace and joy, yet many people who look at Christians and the Christian faith see only the sacrifice, not the blessings.

I may have told you this story, but it bears repeating. In college, I watched a committed Christian friend suffering many trials. I worried about her and silently thought that while I was happy, I knew the Lord and loved Him; I wasn’t the target of what I felt was an attack.

Her parents gave her a new car, and soon after, she was in an accident that wrecked it. She praised the Lord that she wasn’t hurt badly. Then she was often sick because she spent much time in the science lab. Her lab work required her to look at a microscope, which made her nauseous. It seemed like one thing after another after another. I learned so much from her, and my faith grew. I saw how her love of God transcended all of those things.

But, what did people at school think of her? They were confused and puzzled. They believed that if you followed God, all things should be easy. And they are in some ways. As a Christian, we know what is essential.

When we prioritize Jesus above all things, we essentially say that we will deny ourselves and carry our cross in following Him. In Luke 9:23-26 (Read on air.)

And he said to all, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. ²⁴For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake, he will save it. ²⁵For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? ²⁶For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.

This life is not all there is; we have an everlasting life with God. Having everything in this world, all the riches, all the luck, all the things people think are important, we can’t take it with us. We should consider this; each day is a gift and a blessing that we are alive. But we all know we will not live forever. Is our house in order? Do we see what is important, and what do we think could be more important than our faith in God?

When we prioritize Jesus above all else, we must carry our cross and do this daily. Some days are difficult, but do we see it in perspective? Some days, I don’t want to work, I don’t want to participate in the ministry where I am the coordinator, I don’t want to cook or clean or do anything! I want to go on strike from my busy schedule and have a day off. I was purely miserable until I realized it was something I could not change in the short term. So, my days continue, and I carry my cross, whatever that is, and follow Jesus.

Some people are ill, and that is a cross. Some people have to work way past retirement age, which is a cross. Some people have financial difficulties or struggles with personal situations or people. All those things are a cross. Pick up your cross and follow Jesus.

I want to caution you if you are a complainer, and we all are occasionally. Complaining wastes time takes effort, and makes us all around miserable. Focus on the things you can change, do something about this, and leave all the things you can’t change alone.

When we deny ourselves, we become more resolved. As a society, we have become soft; we want what we want, and that has led to a sedentary lifestyle and general overeating, which then can lead to illness as we age. Denying ourselves and fasting occasionally are all good for you. I read a study that said fasting at least one to two days a week improves your health. And Jesus asks us to fast, especially when we pray for something important. Denying our needs in conjunction with prayer can be powerful. Fasting and prayer go hand in hand.

—>Thanks to our sponsor, NowPrograms.com, whose philosophy is to remediate instead of accommodate. Something I’ve been saying for years!

When we follow Christ, we may lose friends. The cost of following Jesus may lead to strained relationships with family or friends. I have personally lost friends over being “too Catholic.” Is that even a thing? Shouldn’t you be all in when you have faith? Following Christ is not a halfway measure.

Sometimes, it is a material sacrifice; maybe you’ve never given money to a church or a charity, and now you do. Luke 21:1-4 says (Read on air.)

He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury; ²and he saw a poor widow put in two copper coins. ³And he said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; ⁴for they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all the living that she had.”

Any material sacrifice we make is not all we have. Sometimes, a material sacrifice may be to not cheat someone out of money or charge too much for something. It might mean returning to a store to pay for an item you inadvertently took out without paying.

None of these things are as difficult as facing persecution. In this context, in some countries, Christianity is being eradicated. This is a great cost, yet it is what people are willing to take.

Following Jesus means changing our lives and adopting values that may require a different way of life. A friend shared that a couple living together attended a service and were convicted to change their life. They stopped living together and worked on learning more about the Lord’s teachings. Luke 9:23 states: “And he said to all, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”

But the joy of following Jesus means everlasting life in heaven with Him! Eternity in heaven as opposed to a temporary satisfaction here on earth? Which will it be?

For those of us who have spent our life following Christ, it is an easy answer. It is a daily “Yes, Lord, yes!” While I’m blessed to have grown up in faith, that may not be the case for some of you listening. Learn more about the Lord, spend time in prayer, and ask the Lord for more faith. These things bring joy that surpasses all understanding and allow me to share the good news with you. I pray that you share the good news with others.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Open Your Heart To God’s Love

February 10, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

What happens when you open your heart to God’s love? In this episode of A Few Minutes with God, we will discuss the grace of God’s love and how it can empower you.

Open Your Heart To God’s Love 328

God’s love is amazing; it is such a blessing, and His love is unconditional, and yet we often turn from His love because we feel unworthy. Yet we should recall this verse, which is listed as the Greatest Commandment. Matthew 22:34-40 (read on air).

But when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sad′ducees, they came together. ³⁵And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question, to test him. ³⁶“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” ³⁷And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. ³⁸This is the great and first commandment. ³⁹And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. ⁴⁰On these two commandments depend all the law and the prophets.”

Can we embrace that, and can we open our hearts to love the Lord totally?

Recently I’ve reread C.S. Lewis’ popular book, The Screw Tape Letters. This was in preparation for attending the play, which I am looking forward to seeing. This book is excellent if you want to know how the evil one works. One of the ways is by allowing us to doubt that we are worthy of an Almighty and loving God. But we know that is not true.

Romans 3:10-12 states:

as it is written:“None is righteous, no, not one;¹¹ no one understands; no one seeks for God.¹²All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good,not even one.”

If we don’t believe, we have difficulty doing good. Or, as the verse states, we have turned aside altogether.

Psalm 14:1-3 says a similar thing, but we should take heart because later in Romans, we see there is hope for us.

Romans 3:22-24 states: the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: ²³for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, ²⁴and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.

Faith is a grace, a gift from God. And with faith, we can see through the eyes of love. Faith opens up an entirely new world for us, and the way we develop it goes a long way in how we can grow in faith. Opening our hearts gives us the capacity to love God more and to love others.

The first step is to open your heart to the Lord through surrender. We have to “let go and let God.” We must believe in faith and trust that He loves us and that His love is available for us, no matter who we are or where we live. God loves you, and yes, if we are in sin, we should repent, but by opening our hearts to God, we will see the sin in our lives. We can be blinded or ignore sin, yet God waits for us.

Proverbs 3:5 — it takes trust. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make straight your paths.”

This takes vulnerability. Be honest with God about your fears, struggles, and desires. God knows, but in doing this act, we show our willingness to grow in faith.

Next, open your heart to God with prayer. We thank God and praise Him for all He has done for us. When was the last time you thanked the Creator of the Universe for the gift of life? Sometimes, we have to look hard to find something to be thankful for, and other times, it is easy. By praying and quietly reflecting on the Lord, we can prepare our hearts for a deeper love.

—>Thanks to our sponsor, NowPrograms.com, whose philosophy is to remediate instead of accommodate. Something I’ve been saying for years!

How do you further your relationship with the Lord? Through scripture study, reading the Bible, and listening to faith-filled podcasts or videos. In this way, we make an effort to know more about the Lord. How can we love someone we don’t know? How can we expect to open our hearts to the Lord if we don’t understand his mercy? (Podcast on God’s Justice and Mercy.)

When we open our hearts to the Lord, we will find areas or people we need to forgive. Sometimes, we need to forgive ourselves or forgive others. In doing so, we are released from the burden of unforgiveness, and this allows us to give to the Lord freely.

Create a list of Scripture verses that discuss God’s Love.

John 3:16: For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
Romans 5:8: But God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
1 John 4:19 : We love, because he first loved us.

This leads us to the last point. When you open your heart to God, you will be flooded with gratitude. You will see with new eyes, and you will become a thankful person. And you will see that God’s love has always been present. You just never saw it in the same way! Your life will bear fruit.

And what will you do with this knowledge? Who will you tell? How will you share the good news? That is the challenge we all have, and we can once again ask God for the ability and opportunity to share his love with others!

May God be blessed.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Justice and Mercy

February 3, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Where do you see true justice and mercy played out other than in Christ Jesus? We read the scriptures and learn that Christ is just, yet He is also merciful. How is that possible? We see it in His charity and the mercy that comes even while we are sinners. This podcast examines how we can grow in our Christian faith and evangelize to others.

Justice and Mercy of Christ ~ Episode 327

Before we can delve into the dichotomy between Christ’s justice and mercy, we must look within ourselves. How do we perceive the world and others? If we don’t look at this issue through the lens of faith, the truth can often become distilled.

Our outlook on life is one of the ways we see others and approach life’s issues. One of our pastors made the statement, “To the evil, all things are evil, and to the good, all things are good.” He then smiled and said, “Don’t blame me; this is a teaching from Jesus.”

The verse he alludes to is in Luke 6:45, “The good man out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil man out of his evil treasure produces evil; for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.”

What is in our hearts? Is it love, or is it the grace that comes from God? Is it compassion? When we love, we show mercy to others because we have a greater capacity to love. Jesus taught us so much about justice and mercy, yet we fail to understand this because of the way we see others. Matthew 7: 1-6 reads. (Read on air.)

Do you see the good in others or only the bad? Sometimes we don’t get along with people, and it is difficult to change our mind about the person or to see the good that person has within. This scripture verse tells us to look at ourselves first.

[Thanks to our sponsor NOWPrograms. Their philosophy is don’t accomodate, remediate. And it really works.]

So, as we look within our hearts we can examine our attitude. Are we self-righteous? Is it compassionate? What do you see when you see when you look at yourself? Sometimes we see areas that need to change but take heart. Jesus is there for us!

Jesus lived his life challenging us, yes, but with love and mercy. His teachings and His sacrifice on the cross demonstrate his justice and his mercy. Jesus showed us, as sinners, how to be reconciled to Him. How do we do this? By picking up our own cross and following Him.

How do we thank Jesus for his death on the cross? How do we see his death as the moment where justice (not for Him but for us) and mercy intersect? Jesus was crucified not for any sin He committed but to save us from our sins.

God’s Justice and Mercy Demonstrated

The justice of God is highlighted by the requirement that sin, by its very nature, must be punished.
The law of God requires obedience. Not through our strength but through our will and the grace of God.
The penalty for sin is death. Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Justice is attributed to God alone, and because of His holiness, the wrongs of this life can be reversed.
God is mercy exemplified by His very nature.
God forgives through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus.
Jesus’ death was the atonement for our sins. It was payment, and through God’s justice, our sins were forgiven.
Jesus forgave our sins by his death and resurrection without compromising His righteousness. Romans 3:23-26
Mercy is available to all who believe. That is the key–> those who believe in Jesus.
God wants to reconcile with humanity (us) despite our sinfulness.

The Lord is righteous, He is the just judge, He is the Alpha and the Omega and through Jesus and Him alone do we have mercy for our sins.

We are healed by his stripes. Isaiah 53:5 foretold this! (Read on air.) The stipes, the wounds of the scourging at the pillar that Jesus endured and then His torture and death on the cross was for us, for each one of us. So when we are upset or down or feel that no one understands us, we must remember that God is just and merciful to those who repent, believe and call upon His name. He is there for us always.

Share the good news with others!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

The Rock of the Church ~ Jesus Christ

January 27, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Have you heard that the rock of the church is Jesus Christ? Our faith and belief in Jesus is the foundation of the church, our faith, and all that is good and holy. So what do we do with this knowledge as Christians, and where can it take us? This podcast explores the truth of Christ’s teaching and the importance of evangelizing by example.

The Rock – Christ Our Lord ~ Episode 326

Have you seen a theme in the podcasts this year? If you said “evangelization,” you are correct. If we have the gift of faith, we must nurture it through prayer, study, listening to good things, and focusing on those who encourage us along our faith journey. However, once you’ve reached the point of having a solid faith, it is time to share the good news with others. One way is to share this podcast.

[Thanks to our sponsor NOWPrograms. Their philosophy is don’t accomodate, remediate. And it really works.]

The Rock Of The Church

If you are listening to this podcast I’m going to assume you have faith. Where have you built this faith? Think about this.

I grew up Catholic, with a strong faith in God. I knew Jesus and loved Him. I thought about God and His teachings. But as a child, I remember a traumatic time when we were moving away from family in New York and traveling to a foreign land. Canada! Looking out the window, I was upset and wondered if God was there. So, I decided, in my naivety, to test God. I was thinking about the verse in Matthew. Matthew 17:20: The verse reads,(read on air).

I asked the Lord to move the mountain. I said, “Lord, I have faith; it is greater than a mustard seed. Make this mountain move.” This was as we were traveling down an interstate, and as far as I could tell, the mountain didn’t move. At this point, my faith was fledging, and it was that of a child. Years later, I realized that testing the Lord was unwise. When we doubt, it shows we are struggling with our faith. And, yes — we all have times of doubt.

Yet, situations in our lives cause us to struggle, allowing thoughts to become doubtful and to build up without placing our trust in God. This can hurt our relationship with Him. When we turn away from God, the human heart has no boundaries. It becomes weak. It allows the enemy to creep in and sow doubt. Through the scriptures, if you’ve ever studied them, you will see time and time again that the Lord gives multiple chances to change, and yet, so many times, people turn their back on God.

Read the book of Romans, chapters one and two. It is depressing, to say the least. Some people lived at the time or shortly after the Lord lived upon the earth. They either witnessed or heard about the great things of God, and yet they decided to stay with their sins. How can we prevent evil in our hearts if our minds are not turned toward God? Our intellect will be dimmed and darkened further if we turn away. Many of us are committed Christians, so the gospel is for those of us, and we have no excuse. We either believe or we don’t. Is God the rock on which the church was built? If so, how do we proceed?

Matthew 7:24-26 (read on air).

This verse places Peter at the head of the church, yet the rock of the church is Christ. Without the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, there is no forgiveness of sins; there is no church, and the gates of heaven would remain closed. Yet, God gave his only Son so we could have everlasting life. This is an honor and a privilege, wow!

Jesus spoke in Aramaic and the word for “rock” is Kepha. So Jesus actually said, “You are Kepha, and upon this kepha, I will build my church.” Later we read in John 1:42. (Read on air.) The footnote in regard to where it says “which means Peter” states: “From the word for rock in Aramaic and Greek, respectively”

Where is the reference to Peter as the rock in scripture?

Kepas or Cephas both mean rock and refer to Peter. Other verses also point to Peter as the rock:

1 Corinthians 1:12
1 Corinthians 2:33
1 Corinthians 9:5
1 Corinthians 15:5
Galatians 2:11
Galatians 2:14

The Bible continues to show us how it is an integrated puzzle. Sure, some verses take studying and research, but it is wonderful to see it repeatedly! If you have ever wondered where Catholics get the primacy of the Pope from it is those verses.

Let’s get excited about God; if we are, we will be excited about all he can do for our lives and share the good news with others! We can be a hearer (wow, that’s nice, and go on with our lives) or a doer…that’s amazing, and I want to tell everyone I know about the Lord!

This next verse is strong, but hopefully, it wakes all of us up!

Is that us? Are we building our lives and our faith upon the true rock of Christ? Are we prepared? Are we ready for the unexpected? Wherever we go, we take Christ in our hearts and know intellectually that God is everywhere; He is always present. Remember that the Lord wants to bless us and give us good things, but we must also be ready for the times when things don’t turn out as we expect. When there is a tragedy, when there are hardships.

Think and pray about this.

I read something that said, “The sincerity of a husband is known during the sickness of his wife. The sincerity of a wife is known during financial difficulties of her husband. The true love of a child is known during the old age of their parents. The true nature of siblings is known during the sharing of inheritance.” and it goes on until the end where it states: “A true believer is known during hardships.” (Source unknown.)

Where have you built this faith? I asked you this question at the beginning of this episode. If we’ve built our faith on people, things, and things that do not matter, we will often be disappointed in this life. Yet, if we build our faith in the Lord, He will never disappoint us.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Spiritual DeCluttering

January 20, 2025 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Spiritual decluttering occurs when we decide to do the hard thing before we do the “me” thing. If that doesn’t make sense, stay tuned to learn how to declutter your life meaningfully.

Spiritual DeClutter – Finding God In The Mess – Episode 325

Decluttering is not my gift. I always think I need something, so I find a place for it, only to move it or decide months later to give it away. I’ve read so many books on decluttering and how following the important steps in the 400+ pages will make my life so much easier. Many books later, my office looked like a thrift store at times.

[Thanks to our sponsor NOWPrograms. Their philosophy is don’t accomodate, remediate. And it really works.]

Why is it so difficult for some of us to part with things we will never use, articles we won’t read, or momentos (this is the hardest) that we treasure? Sometimes, keeping all of these things gives us a sense of security, and it makes us feel closer to the person to a good time in our lives rather than putting it somewhere we won’t see it.

If we must declutter, there are some steps. The best advice I ever read was to take three boxes: one to trash, one to keep, and one to donate or give away. This was simple enough for even me to implement. And when I am successful at decluttering, I feel like a weight is lifted; it is clean and sparse, and I can actually think! I can put my laptop on my desk without moving a pile of papers or books. it doesn’t help that my office is also the family office, and I file papers for business, my husband’s and mine, and a stack of things I need to shred but don’t have the time to do often. This trash takes up so much room, making me think of other areas where there is trash.

I believe decluttering can relate to the sin in my life. When we look at spiritual decluttering, we are getting rid of those things that are not helpful but harmful. And, when we do this, it can lighten our hearts. Decluttering is more than getting rid of things in our homes; in a sense, when we purge, we get rid of the trash. So, the first step in a spiritual sense is to look at the trash in our lives. I may have shared with you that I gave us reading light-hearted books for a period of time. I found that my time was eaten up by reading for pleasure and putting off all of the important things I needed to do. I decided to put that time to good use and do it for a month. Time kept extending for different reasons. It has now been over a year. There is nothing wrong with pleasure reading unless it takes over your life.

Some of us tend to be “all in” in our lives and in our focus on life. This is a good thing, but it can become an obsession or a distraction. Take an inventory of your life. What are those things keeping you from deepening your relationship with others and God? We can keep those things in moderation or put them in a giveaway later, but we can also keep an eye on the distractions.

Decluttering spiritually can be to shed those burdens. When we take a trip, we often wish to pack light, yet we take many things we do not need. I often pack and bring home half a suitcase of things I never wore or used. Burdens happen in our lives when we carry things around; they become a weight oppressing us. I talked to my brother earlier today, and he shared a situation with his friend. He was getting more and more upset as he was sharing the story. I let him vent for a while and then asked him, “Why is this upsetting you? Is this something you can change?” He agreed he could not change it but had been carrying around this burden that was no fault of his own.

Do we do this? Do we carry the baggage of others? Take inventory of this and think about it. This could be the situation with a child or a family member. Sometimes, we want more for them than they want for themselves. And this is exactly what the Lord wants for us. He wants more than we want for ourselves! When we give to the Lord what is truly His, we can live lives that are less burdened.

Spiritual decluttering can be purging our lives of social media for a time. I’ve often shared how I’ve done this with the news since 90% of it is sensationalized for profit. Bad news sells. Spending too much time on social media can cause difficulties in our lives.

Forgiveness is another way to declutter our lives. We ask the Lord to help us forgive others and allow God to heal any hurts in our lives.

Decluttering is the same as unburdening and we will find we are walking tall in the sense of not carrying all that baggage.

Psalm 51:10 (Read on air)

This new and right spirit will allow you to rejoice and become the version that God wants you to be, and in this way, you can minister to others by your witness.

Matthew 5:16 (Read on air.

Let’s Pray:

We ask YOU, Lord, to allow your light to shine in us so that others may see this – I want to be “all in” for you and to give you all the glory you deserve. Friends, I pray this for you in this new year: that you are blessed and unburdened and rejoice in today, the day the Lord has made. Amen!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Love As Christ Loves (Replay)

January 13, 2025 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Love As Christ Loves ~ Episode 241

How can we love as Christ loves? Is it impossible, or is it? In this episode, we explore what true Christian love means to us.

Visit the website at MediaAngels.com for books and products written by Felice Gerwitz, specifically her ministry books, A Few Minutes with God and One More Child. Please share this episode with a friend, and share God’s love with all.

Renew Your Faith this New Year

December 30, 2024 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Renew Your Faith This New Year~ Episode 211(replay)

It is time to renew your faith in God. Today. There are so many things we renew but often our faith is not one of those things that we think about in that way. In this podcast, we will discuss ways to recharge your faith and how to do this in a way that makes sense for your life.

Visit MediaAngels.com for books, curriculum, and other offerings, just for you. Check out the books One More Child and A Few Minutes with God there as well. Available in print or digital.

When we renew things such as our auto, health or life insurance, it causes us to pause in our lives to do something that is sometimes painful. Shopping for insurance is no fun. What about our faith? Does your faith need renewal or a recharge? When we stop and look at our faith we may see places that need shoring up or other places where we spend much time but maybe do not see as much fruit in the way of change.

Many times we have not matured into our faith. Our years move on but our faith remains stagnant. I can see the evidence of this when I go into a church and see few people in attendance. Sure, you can watch many different services online, but it is different than participating in purpose, especially if there is no physical reason that you can’t. And, on the other hand just because you go to church doesn’t mean you believe. It can be an obligation you fulfill or you go to make someone else happy.

We go and we worship because it is one of the commandments of God, “Keep Holy the Sabbath,” and the wisdom of God trumps anything else, or it should.

In Christian homes, a child may believe because of their parents, and their faith is their parent’s faith. Faith is a personal decision, it is a fundamental option to choose God, follow God, and live a life that is holy. What does this mean to you?

Take a look at your daily walk with the Lord and ask yourself the following:

Do you wake up praising God or in some way thinking about the Lord?
Do you pray?
Do you spend time in God’s Word, at church or with the Bible, or another app?
Do you spend time in quiet with God?
Do you journal or are you in a Bible study?

If you find yourself falling a bit short, don’t worry. We can look back to see where we want to improve, but then move forward in how we want our lives to look. All of us want joy, peace, and love in our lives, and these come directly from the source of all love, and that is God. Renewing our faith means renewing our dedication to doing God’s will.

Renewing Your Faith ~ A New Beginning

Where do we begin? With a profession of faith. We can start with a prayer such as the Nicene Creed or the Apostles Creed, but I would invite you to take it a step further. Write the Lord your own love letter, a pledge to love, honor, and follow Him. It can look something like this:

“I praise you and I thank you my Lord for all you have done in my life. I want to dedicate my life to you in a new way, in a deeper way, and in a way that is pleasing to You, my Lord. Come into my heart Lord and fill it to overflowing with your love. Jesus, I trust in You. Help me to place You before all else. Help to keep me on the straight path, do not allow me to stray, and keep me from sin, my God. I dedicate all that I do and say to You and ask that You help make it pleasing. And I pray this in Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

You can add or take away anything you want, but make it a heartfelt prayer that tells the Lord you trust in Him and His divine will. When we fill ourselves with thoughts about God the darkness is dispelled. We can not live in fear and faith at the same time. God has already overcome the enemy and we need to place our lives under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

We can easily look at examples in the Bible of people who turned their back on God, the Israelites come to mind. God’s people suffered in exile and yet they continued to be unfaithful. If we trust in God we can not serve two masters.

Examine your life and look at the way that you spend your time. Is there anything you can do to place God first? Is there something you can avoid, or move in your schedule to make more time to learn more about your faith? What can you do to surrender your time to God?

I learned that to be more productive during the week I needed time to recharge. Renewing your faith is like a “recharge” of your faith battery. Keeping holy the sabbath is a way to enjoy the world that God has given to you, to enjoy your life in some small way. Enjoying a beautiful day or finding beauty in a storm with the lightning flashing in the distance. Basically praising God in all things.

While we live in a time of darkness this weariness with the world can get us down to a point that we can not see the light that is God through the sin in the world. We can’t help anyone else if we do not help ourselves first. 2 Corinthians 5:17 “If then any be in Christ a new creature, the old things are passed away, behold all things are made new.”

God can make us new, each and every day. You can renew your faith daily with a quick prayer and ask the Lord to give you the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome the trials that come with each day. Faith or religion without a relationship is hollow. Jesus wants a relationship with us, we know this, but we don’t seem to have the time. We make time for all things except this most important element in our lives.

God loves us with a love that is nothing something we can understand or grasp. Our human love by way of comparison is so inadequate. It falls short of the glory and wonder of God. We look to others for this love and find ourselves disappointed. People will disappoint us, this is one of those things we can count on. Each of our lives has some type of sorrow, tragedy, or hardship. Some of us have harder lives than others. Yet our Father who is in heaven looks to us with open arms.

Read 2 Thessalonians 12 – the entire chapter. It is a teaching to those who suffered, but this verse stands out for me, verse 13: “We also unceasingly give thanks to God because, when we handed on the word of God to you, you accepted it not as a human word but as what it truly is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe.”

Accepting faith, accepting the Word of God as truth, and accepting the truth that belief in God will help us in our lives is just the start of our faith journey, not the end. You see our struggles become insurmountable when we put our trust in others or in ourselves over God. We can do nothing without God. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things in him who strengthens me.”

The best news is that each day is a new day and we can look to the Father for a faith recharge anytime we want or need it. We grow in our faith in the same way as we mature in body. Our faith grows deeper if and when we invite the Lord in, and pray more of you Lord, and less of me.

Read the scriptures and see which verses jump out at you and write them down. Think about them and see what it is that you can learn or what you feel the Lord is telling you.

The challenge this week is to take the time to renew your faith in a meaningful way. Whether it is to purpose to read the Bible each day or spend time with the Lord. What is a way that you can be open to the blessings that can come into your life? This week the focus is on you, not someone else (yes, I know that is hard). Recharge you first and watch the worries and cares fall away! May God be blessed, Amen and Alleluiah!

Thank you to our sponsor, NOW Programs.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god

Outgive God

December 23, 2024 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

Can you outgive God? I challenge you to try it. In today’s episode of A Few Minutes with God, we explore this concept and ways we can be blessed, even as we give.

Outgive God ~ Episode 324

The idea of giving makes some people happy, and for others, it becomes stressful. How can you give the perfect present or, if not perfect, a present that someone even wants? Some people don’t like to buy or even give presents. Some people like to give presents but not receive them. Maybe you fall somewhere in the middle or like to give and receive!

[Thanks to our sponsor NOWPrograms. Their philosophy is don’t accomodate, remediate. And it really works.]

The people who are extremely good at giving presents are those who take the time to figure out what makes a good gift and what the person they are buying or making a gift for is. The idea of gift-giving follows this idea:

Who are you gifting?
What does this person like or dislike?
Is this gift idea within your budget?

It’s simple, really. Buy the gift that person likes. Easy, right? That is why gift cards are such a popular option nowadays—the task can be insurmountable or daunting at best!

There are so many symbolic elements to gift-giving that we don’t see in relation to our spiritual walk. The idea of a gift ultimately is the idea of giving of ourselves. We give of our time, our talents, and our money when we gift our family and friends. But what are we giving when we give to God? Do we give our talents? Do we give our time? What is the most valuable part of us that we give to Him who has given us so much?

Let’s look at the same three questions in light of giving to God.

Outgive God – Gift Giving Survey

But, with God, it is easy, right? Let’s ask the same three questions.

Who are you gifting? God.
What does this person like or dislike? He is all goodness and light. He wants us to love Him and serve Him in all we do.
Is this gift idea within your budget? It is everything. Do you have that to give?

Outgive God – Try it.

Giving to God first necessitates having faith. Do we believe in God as the creator of all things? Do we believe in God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit? If we know God is all goodness and light, then we know what is expected of us, our whole heart and soul.

Some things we “do” for God would be:

Study the scriptures.
Spend time in prayer.
Praise and worship
Living Godly lives
Going to Church

Yet when we do these things, study the scriptures; for example, who benefits from this? Or spending time in prayer or praise and worship? We are the ones who receive so much more in return. We find we are thankful and in awe of what God has done for us. The blessings that happen are a gift from God. We take every breath and every step because God wills it. Are we thankful for these things?

We can not outgive God. We can trust in Him in humility, that humble trust, that hope that within our failures, the Lord still finds us and loves us—not the sin, but He loves us. When we reflect on the goodness of Our Lord and Savior, we find the gift is totally selfless. God gave us the world in which we live—He gave us our very lives, our family, our friends. God gave us the most important thing, and that is salvation. God did not leave us orphans.

What a gift! The elements of gift giving is taking care of the other person in some way and showing our gratitude of having them in our lives. Yet, God is our Good Shepherd.

Psalm 23, also known as the Psalm of David, is one we may know by heart. Let me read it to you. (Read on air.)

God is there for us in good times, yes — but more importantly, when we think we have been forsaken. Look at what He has done for us and try daily to outgive God. Will we succeed? No. But we will be blessed more than ever! I pray you have a wonderful week and that the Lord blesses you beyond anything you can expect or hope for!

This podcast sponsored by NOW Programs.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Gift Giving, NOW Programs

Loneliness At Christmas (Replay)

December 16, 2024 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Loneliness At Christmas ~ Episdoe 282

Loneliness can happen at any time of the year, yet loneliness at Christmas seems especially painful. In this podcast we will discuss our role as Christians and how to bring to those in need the joy of the season of light.

Visit Media Angels.com for gifts for your family, especially the Character Planners that help you and your children focus on the importance of developing good habits.

Thank you to our sponsor, NOW Programs.

Here are some podcasts you may enjoy.

Loneliness

Connection With Others

Temptation is Real

As I think back on Christmas past, I remember how my father felt after my mother’s passing. Every time there was an event or holiday, he missed her, especially the first time. He was so used to spending time with her and sharing his life that when she was gone, it was as if a piece of him was missing. My neighbor died this summer unexpectedly, and I am certain his widow also feels the pains of firsts, the first Thanksgiving without him, the first Christmas, and more. We are only neighbors, and friends, but when someone has a special place in your life, you will definitely feel the loneliness at Christmas.

In Isaiah 41:10 we read: (Read on air.)

God gives us the strength we need, but we need to ask. How often do we forget to ask? I know I do. In living our lives we can feel lonely even in the midst of people. I think that is why we stay so busy, so we don’t feel loneliness and so that we don’t focus on what is bothering us.

Loneliness At Christmas Can Be A Struggle

Psalm 16:11 – (Read on air.)

When we are in a good place with our faith and our Lord, it seems to stem the loneliness. We don’t feel as alone or afraid. We find that joy that surpasses all understanding. Yet at times, we feel as if we are being tested.

In 1 Chronicles 29:17, we read on air.

Loneliness At Christmas Understood

There is no secret formula to combat loneliness at Christmas other than to give our hearts to the Lord. My friend would take her three boys and spend time at the soup kitchen or Church ministries. She did this at Thanksgiving as well as at Christmas. This took place after she was divorced, and she felt that her holiday was different, sad, and lonely. She decided that in giving, we receive, not for the sake of receiving. And she did! She said it was the best holiday and she wished she had done it sooner.

That is truly a gift.

Make me an instrument of your peace is a song as well as a prayer attributed to St. Francis…O, Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; it is in dying that we are born again to eternal life.

St. Francis gave up his life of wealth to serve the Lord and to serve the poor. We may not all have the opportunity to spend time with the poor this Christmas, but if you can, it is well worth it. Sometimes ministering to our own families and extended families is serving the poor in spirit. Other times they are blessing us with their joy and presence. It takes an effort to travel, especially during the holidays.

Loneliness can be a blessing; it is a pearl of great price. Think about how the Lord Jesus prayed at the garden of Gethsemane and the apostles could not stay awake with him for one hour. I pray in my mind that I am there with him. God, Jesus doesn’t need me, yet we can offer the simple tasks as an offering of our hearts even if it is just in our thoughts.

Matthew 13:44 states (read on air).

Loneliness Overcome

Our loneliness is a struggle, and it is something we may try to overcome, but each in our own way. Finding other like-minded people is helpful. I often see people at church who have lost a loved one join together for the holidays or even after church for coffee. I try to reach out to friends I know who may be struggling. I know they are being social even if they do not feel like it. It is easier to stay home, but putting out the effort is often rewarded.

We can all pray that the Lord uses us to minister to others, whether it is visiting someone without family in a nursing home, serving the needs of the poor, donating to a worthy cause, or buying gifts for those less fortunate. All of these things are small in the scope of our lives, but each one of these things brings us closer to the Lord.

This week the challenge is to pray for those who are struggling and lonely this Christmas as well as other times of the year and to ask the Lord to use us to bring joy to their hearts. Let God be praised now and forever.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: Christmas, loneliness

Christian Spiritual Inspiration

December 9, 2024 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

How do we enjoy spiritual inspiration? We can look within. In our hearts, we crave the love of the Lord, joy, and enjoyment in our lives. Today, we unfold ways to bring inspiration and awe back into our lives.

Christian Spiritual Inspiration ~ Episode 323

The importance of forgiveness, joy, and faith in the spiritual life cannot be overstated. How do we do thi?

Daily practices for cultivating forgiveness must be actively implemented. These practices could include journaling about forgiveness, praying for those who have wronged us, or engaging in acts of kindness towards them.

The benefits are undeniable: emotional healing, strengthened relationships, and a deeper connection to God our Savior.

How do we do this? We can find joy in everyday life, beginning with enjoying ordinary moments. This could be as simple as appreciating the beauty of nature, finding joy in our work, or spending quality time with loved ones. We can transform our routine tasks into worship. View every task as an opportunity for prayer; this mindset change is crucial. This can be helpful if you enjoy praise and worship.

The Holy Spirit’s role is not just powerful; it is transformative. Its potential to bring about profound changes in our lives is a source of hope and inspiration, leading us toward spiritual growth and a deeper connection with God.

2 Timothy 3:16 (Read on air.)

Psalm 46:1-4 (Read on air)

***

The Lord can help you to find like-minded friends and, through prayer, bring those people into your life!

I prayed at a low point in my life and cried out to the Lord for friends who were not only the same denomination as me but also would encourage me. These two dear friends were that and so much more and are still my dearest friends today. We exchanged good Christian and faith-filled books to read, we prayed for each other’s families, and we knew that we were here for each other.

The journey of faith is ever-changing.

Only we can make the decision to forgive if that is needed in our lives—sometimes daily—and also to pray for ourselves because often we pray for everyone else and forget that we, too, need prayer.

Faith and trust in God can grow through prayer, spending time with God, and making it a routine. A few minutes with God, daily

Seeing the beauty of God’s creation, especially when we don’t expect it, means being open to the Holy Spirit’s infilling. How many sunsets have we seen yet never appreciated? How many times have we missed those amazing occurrences of God’s blessings and grace, even in the midst of tragedy? If we recognize the blessings in our lives, we can’t help but forgive others and ourselves as well —

Sometimes, when I write these talks, the Lord leads me in the opposite direction I want to go — this is one of them. Is this Christian spiritual inspiration from the Holy Spirit?

The idea of forgiveness keeps cropping up when I wanted the focus to be on joy – on wonder and awe. Maybe someone needs to hear this; maybe that person is you or someone you know. But, truly the idea of forgiveness is not new, it is what the Lord did for us the greatest gift. It is what the Lord continues to do in our lives – the focus of the Lord’s Prayer is to be thankful for our daily bread, yes — and to forgive as God forgives us! What a challenge in our lives, but what an amazing way to help us to grow, transform, and overcome the discouragement that tends to creep into our lives … we must find strength in God.

As I record, Christmas is coming soon, and the holidays tend to be the most difficult for most people. This is a time when we see joy all around us or the facade of joy. There is so much hardship and challenge in all of our lives, yet with God, all things are possible.

Remember Philippians 4:13. I can do all this through him who strengthens me.

We can receive that strength from the Lord and ask Him to renew the awe and wonder we may be missing in our lives. Let’s look toward Him and only Him for our spiritual needs. Let’s pray for each other. Me for you, the dear podcast listeners. Some of you I know, and many of you I have never met. I pray the Lord blesses you this season of love and joy, that you can see Him in all things, that you have that joy that surpasses all understanding, and that you thank Him from where all blessings flow. Amen!

This episode is sponsored by NOW Programs.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God Tagged With: a few minutes with god, Christian spiritual inspiration, finding joy through faith, forgiveness, praying for forgiveness

Celebrate Christmas and Advent

December 2, 2024 by radioadmin Leave a Comment

Celebrate Christmas and Advent – Episode 280

When you celebrate Christmas, does it include Advent? Advent is the time before Christmas. It is the 24-day countdown to the blessed event, the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Advent helps us to put the holiday in perspective. In this podcast, Felice discusses ways you can celebrate this joyous time, whether you are living alone or celebrating as a family.

Thank you to NOW Programs for sponsoring this podcast episode replay.

More podcasts on Celebrating Christmas here:

Countdown to Christmas

Christmas Blessings

Christmas is Real

Advent deals with the coming of Christ, yes, but also the openness of our heart to receive our Lord and Savior, as well as the more profound meaning of recognizing he came for a purpose: to open the gates of heaven and to set us free from sin.

In my church, Advent brings in the Christmas season or the start of what is called the liturgical year. This is the season of Christmas and ends in January with the feast of the Epiphany is celebrated—the coming of the wise men to visit Christ.

The liturgical year is also celebrated with special colors worn by the priests at church. They are as follows:

White: joy and purity, and the resurrection
Green – hope and perseverance the call to continue to listen
Purple – penance, waiting and morning
Red – martyrdom of Jesus and the sayings
Blue is in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Pink —solemnity
Gold – royalty

Suppose you had to pick a color which would you pick to celebrate Advent. You would think white, possibly, but it is purple. Advent is a time of waiting and morning. It is a time of joy because we know the end of the story, but it is a time of hope and sorrow for what had to be because of the sinfulness, the free will choice of man. When we celebrate Christmas, we can follow the Lenten practice of prayer and fasting. This is difficult to do unless you live alone. But, some families do make this their practice.

One idea is to fast from a particular bad habit or from overeating during the holiday when it seems that cakes, cookies, and parties are abundant. It does not have to follow the strictness of Lent, the 40 days before Easter. The importance is to recognize the Christmas season as a time of reflection.

What can you do to celebrate Christmas? Decorations, sure. But keeping the focus on the “reason for the Season,” the Christ child. In our decorations, be sure to add a Nativity scene or two, a picture of the Holy Family, or something that reminds you of the coming of our Savior.

Isaiah 7:14 (read on air).

Or we can read the geology of Jesus in Matthew 1 – again a reminder of the prophecy of God the Father to Abraham, Genesis 26:4 (Read on air).

While we love the Christmas season for so many reasons, it is also a time of hardship for many. It is difficult because of the loss of a loved one, financial hardships, or perhaps illness. Yet, the key to the season’s joy is not on the external but the internal, the focus on Christ.

Isaiah 9:6-7 (Read on air)

Who doesn’t want to celebrate the season with joy after hearing that? We can each celebrate in a way that makes sense for your individual family. For us, it begins with nightly prayer. This year, Advent begins on December 3. We will begin early because everyone will be home on Thanksgiving. So we will do the first week twice. Each evening, we light one candle and pray from my favorite book.

During the Advent season, we use a round advent wreath with four candles, three purple and one pink. The pink candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent to remind us of the momentous occasion that is to come the following week. It is a time of prayer and scripture readings, and our family adds the prayer of thanksgiving. We share what we are the most thankful for each evening after our prayer time. It is wonderful and I celebrate this time with joy with my family.

I’ve given the children advent wreaths to take to college with them so they could celebrate on their own until we gather at Christmas time. It is called the Season of Light: Daily Prayer for the Lighting of the Advent Wreath. I have purchased other books but do not like them as well. The readings are not very long, but they are heartfelt. The suggestion is given to do this during or before a meal.

However you celebrate this Christmas, I pray you are surrounded by joy. Your challenge this week is to think about how you want to prepare in the coming weeks and, as always keep Christ in your heart.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God

Micro-Prayers

November 25, 2024 by Felice Gerwitz Leave a Comment

What are micro prayers? Is that even a thing? In this podcast, we will explore the concept of praying throughout the day in small pockets of time. It will change your life!

Micro-Prayers ~ From Our Lips to God’s Ears ~ Episode 322

Thanks so much to our sponsors NowPrograms.com – Don’t accommodate, remediate is their slogan. Visit the website for additional information.

Friends – please give me a star rating…

Do you want to grow closer to God? Of course, we all do. At times it seems impossible due to our business and our schedules. To create that special bond, we need to spend meaningful time with God. I’ve often tried ambitious Bible studies or podcasts, such as the “Bible in a Year” with Fr. Mike Schmidt. These things are wonderful but tend to fail if we are inconsistent. For example, the Bible in a Year has taken me two years to complete. If I work hard, I’ll finally finish it this year. I like to take my time and savor the lessons, think bout them, and figure out what God is trying to say to me. That is why I like the idea of practicing micro prayers.

The idea of micro prayers is praying throughout the entire day. It means doing things incrementally or in small doses but putting God first. In essence, it means giving my day to God and including Him.

Matthew 6:33 (Read On Air.)

With micro-prayers, I can begin small. We are doing as Matthew 6:33 states, seeking first the kingdom and his righteousness. There is no overwhelming schedule to adhere to. I can begin at my own pace and add to this as I can or as time permits. Once I get into a routine, it is easier to be consistent, which is the next point. Being consistent and adding micro prayers to your morning routine, such as a morning walk, can be a benefit. Or, you can pray before bed. In this way, I can focus on God when I wake up and before I go to bed.

What I like the most is the personalization of the prayers. I pray to the Lord using my own words, sharing my thoughts and hardships, and putting the Lord first. I can use a rote prayer or a scrupulous verse if I want, but it is totally up to me. It has a wonderful lifting effect and puts things into perspective, especially in a busy life.

Best of all, it is doable. There is no excuse; you can make time to do this for short periods of time.

We are seeking God, trusting in Him, and making an effort in those small steps we take each day. Proverbs 3:5-6 states: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight.In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

God makes our path straight when we look for ways to please Him, seek Him, and honor Him with our thoughts and our deeds. It is an unselfish way to place ourselves and our needs after that of prayer.

Proverbs 16:1-3 puts it in a nutshell: (Read On Air.)

How wonderful is that? Commit our work to the Lord, and our plans will be established – blessed, sanctified, and purified. In our own eyes, we think we are right or just, but in God’s eyes? He sees our hearts and knows why we do what we do, and it is not too late to change our hearts toward the Lord.

If you need motivation other than that, read Galatians 2:18-20 … I’m going to read verse 20 to you:

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

Do we live for ourselves or for the Lord? Do we live to glorify ourselves and our needs, or do we live by faith in the Son of God? Do we give ourselves to Him and remember the love He had for us to die for us personally? We can answer these questions by seeking the Lord and His help because we can’t do it alone.

Our greatest weakness is the lack of time, yet today, right now, you can plan to add a micro prayer to the list of things to do, and you will be blessed in a mighty way.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: A Few Minutes With God