Humility

August 31, 2026 by Leave a Comment
The Gift of Humility | 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 | #AFewMinutesWithGodYou 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

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Podcast Index | TuneIn | RSS | More

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

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

August 24, 2026 by 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

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Podcast Index | TuneIn | RSS | More

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.

  1. Offer your day to God.
    Begin the morning with a simple prayer: “God, I am here to do Your will. I choose You today.”
  2. 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.
  3. Offer ordinary tasks to God.
    Laundry, errands, commuting, homeschooling, caring for children, and serving your family can become quiet acts of love.
  4. Fill your surroundings with reminders of Him.
    Listen to praise and worship music, pray throughout your day, and intentionally redirect your thoughts toward God.
  5. 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: , , , , , , , ,

Strengthening Your Faith

May 4, 2026 by 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.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

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Podcast Index | TuneIn | RSS | More

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:

  1. Faith In Action: Living Your Faith Boldly
  2. Discipline And Faith
  3. God’s Provision: Trusting Him
  4. Holiness Is Possible
  5. Overcoming Hopelessness

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: , , , , ,

10 Lies We Believe

March 23, 2026 by 2 Comments

10 Lies We Believe | 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! | #lies #podcast #ChristianPodcastTen 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? 47 Whoever 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

  1. 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!
  2. 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

    26 Then 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. 30 And 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. 31 God 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.

  3. 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.
  4. 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’?”

2 The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, 3 but 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?

  1. 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.
  2. Arm yourself with the power of Scripture – pray this verse daily! Ephesians 6:10-12 – I love Ephesians 6:10-12 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.
  3. Surround yourself with like-minded Christians. This is so important!
  4. Go to church. I go to Mass each day as much as I can. By the time I get home, and I feel joyful!
  5. 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

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Podcast Index | TuneIn | RSS | More

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

Holy Reliance (Special Replay)

March 9, 2026 by 2 Comments

Holy Reliance | 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 | #Friends #GrowingCharitytoUprootGreed #UprootGreed #GrowingCharity #TipsforConnection #GreaterPeaceJoyandfreedom #Joyfreedom #MargaretVasquezs #GrowingVirtue #ModelofHonesty #TipsforConnection #OpennesswithGod #KnowingGod #Body #Mind #Spirit #RespectingtheBoundariesofOthers #Bound #RespectingBound #BoundariesofOthers #Knowing&BeingKnown #HealthyCommunication #Episode314 #HolyRelianceIn 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.” 2 As 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. 4 The 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?
2 My help comes from the Lord,
    the Maker of heaven and earth.

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

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

7 The Lord will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
8 the 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.
8 I 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

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Podcast Index | TuneIn | RSS | More

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

Faith Challenge – Episode 200 (Replay)

November 17, 2025 by Leave a Comment

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 200th episode of A Few Minutes with God!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 200th 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:

  1. Be prepared. Do you have a prayer you can pray to calm yourself down? If not find one or write one.
  2. 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.
  3. Be ready to use your praise journal (and prayer journal) and have it handy.

Faith Challenge 1 ~ Hard Times:

  1. Pray for strength and wisdom.
  2. Pray with someone else and if necessary, pick up the phone and text or call someone who will pray for you.
  3. 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:

  1. Know that God is in control, remind yourself of this.
  2. Remind yourself that God always wins.
  3. 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.

  1. Remember that God will never let you down. God is always there, even in the midst of difficulty and trial.
  2. Focus on today, don’t let past hurt or future what-ifs bog you down.
  3. 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:

  1. Am I taking time to pray and read the Bible?
  2. Am I spending quiet time with God?
  3. Do I praise God in all things?
  4. Am I allowing the Lord to work in me?
  5. Do I surround myself with like-minded Christians?
  6. Am I spending time ministering to others (even if it is your family – that counts).
  7. Do I share what God has done for me with others?
  8. Do I see the miracles of God’s grace in my life?
  9. Am I appreciative of all that I have?
  10. 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

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Podcast Index | TuneIn | RSS | More

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

Mirror of Scripture (Replay)

October 20, 2025 by Leave a Comment

Mirror of Scripture | 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 | #podcast #christianpodcast #catholicpodcast #Godandmercy #mercifulGod #mercy #Trust #MirrorofScripture #ScriptureMirror 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. 15 Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 Let 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)

22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.[a] 23 For 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; 24 for he observes himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. 25 But 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

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Podcast Index | TuneIn | RSS | More

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

Never Underestimate Prayer (Replay)

October 6, 2025 by Leave a Comment

Never Underestimate Prayer | 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 | #christianpodcast #catholicpodcast #Godandmercy #mercifulGod #CelebrateChristmasandAdvent #CelebrateChristmas #NeverUnderestimatePrayerNever 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

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Podcast Index | TuneIn | RSS | More

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

Vocation and Purpose

September 29, 2025 by 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...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: , , , , , , ,

Keys To Unlocking Your Faith

June 2, 2025 by Leave a Comment

Keys to Unlocking Your Faith | 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 | #christianpodcast #catholicpodcast #Godandmercy #mercifulGod #FaithfulChristian #KeystoUnlockingYourFaith #UnlockingYourFaith #KeystoYourFaithKeys 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?

  1. Surrender to God’s will in your life—all of me, Lord, for all of you.
  2. Know that God will provide no matter what you cross if you lean on Him.
  3. Fill your mind with all that is good; listen to praise and worship music.
  4. Join a faith community. There is power in praying with other faithful Christians.
  5. 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

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Podcast Index | TuneIn | RSS | More

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

Spiritual Grace From God

April 28, 2025 by Leave a Comment

Spiritual Grace from GodWhat 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

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Podcast Index | TuneIn | RSS | More

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

Supernatural Faith

July 4, 2022 by Leave a Comment

Supernatural Faith - What is supernatural faith? It is faith that surpasses all understanding. Join me as we delve into the topic of faith.Supernatural Faith ~ Episode 209

What is supernatural faith? It is faith that surpasses all understanding. Join me as we delve into the topic of faith especially when times get hard. We are called to live in the hope that is in Christ, but in our humanness, we often fail.

Please visit my website at MediaAngels.com for books and products for Christians as well as homeschooling.

Have you heard is a tragic story and then the person who lived through the trauma thanks God in some way? This should give us more faith but do you feel like you are not enough, or don’t believe enough? Do you doubt and think, “I am not sure I could have gone through the trauma and come out ahead with my faith intact?” What you may not realize or remember is that when God allows these things to happen in our lives, He equips us to handle them, especially if we pray.

Supernatural faith is following when the times get tough. In the sermon on the mount (Matthew 5-7) we learn what it takes to be a follower of Christ. Once we commit there is no going back, and if we do turn back there are consequences. Think about what happened to the Israelites who were freed from slavery in Egypt. They saw miracles, for heaven’s sake the parting of the Red Sea should have been eye-opening, and then the ten commandments, and the manna in the desert. But many turned their backs on God and worshipped false gods. All the time that these people were in Egypt, they saw the worshipping of false gods and pharaohs treated as gods. Did they leave it behind when they left? No. And what happened to the people in the desert? Only their ancestors were able to go to the promised land. They all died beforehand.

Matthew 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

We can not have one foot in both worlds because God’s world is a supernatural world. The gospels reveal the truth and the way of holiness. What is at stake? Only the entrance into the Kingdom of God…heaven. God is calling us, each and every one of us to give 100% and for any of us as Christians, we know that the other side is pulling for our demise.

It is seeing the hand of God in all of the places in our lives that need help and restoration, and it is in knowing that God wants redemption for our world and the hope that comes in that belief. We should not be surprised when we see the evil in the world. The Lord tells us He will save us from evil. The mercy of God is for everyone even those who have done evil if they will repent.

Friends the way ahead for us is very treacherous with the overturning of the law that finally, finally stated that abortion was not a constitutional right. Can killing your child ever be a right? The pagans long ago used child sacrifice to their gods and that was what abortion was, a child sacrifice on the altar of a mother’s right over their child’s right. Should we help those who struggle and are less fortunate? Of course, but the church already does so much for those in need. Sadly, many not connected to churches are the ones who struggle.

Whenever we struggle and look for that supernatural faith, think about the apostles on that boat with Jesus in the midst of a storm. I love that story of Jesus telling them not to be afraid, and he ordered the seas to be calm. This is a wonderful picture of what would we think about when are lives are unsettled, or there is turmoil in our life. We should remember to be calm. The faith we crave takes a connection to Christ. It is a personal encounter with Jesus that will help us in our time of need.

When we have this personal encounter we hope that our lives will be easier. But that is not the promise of a Christian. The promise is that there is hope in our salvation and everlasting life. But, this is not heaven. The last four things are death, judgment, heaven or hell.

Matthew 16:23-28

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. 26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. 28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.

The reward my friends is worth it. The reward is life everlasting. When we look for that faith that surpasses all understanding we must remember that the words, “Be not afraid,” are in the Bible over 365 times. We can’t fear and have faith at the same time. We will be tempted and the evil one is really good at making us second guess and overthink.

So, here are a few tips for you to practice this week as we all work toward that supernatural faith that surpasses all understanding.

  1. Every day pray the words, “Jesus I trust in You.”
  2. When we are overwhelmed we thank the Lord for being there with us. (He will not leave us orphaned!)
  3. Take a few minutes daily to rest in God. This means closing our eyes, thinking about the Lord, and allowing our minds to focus on the beauty of God and the hope that is in Christ.
  4. Journal. If you are not keeping a daily journal consider doing one, if not daily then often. Start with what you are thankful for and end with a prayer request. Be sure to thank the Lord for answered prayer.
  5. Remember Romans 8:28 – And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

May God be praised today and always!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Podcast Index | TuneIn | RSS | More

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

Are you participating in your faith life?

July 1, 2022 by Leave a Comment

Scripture

He entered a boat, made the crossing, and came into his own town. And there people brought to him a paralytic lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Courage, child, your sins are forgiven.” At that, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” Jesus knew what they were thinking, and said, “Why do you harbor evil thoughts which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic, “Rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home.” Matthew 9:1-6

Do you accept what is offered?

Do ever feel as if you are not participating in your own spiritual or faith life? Maybe waiting for Jesus to do it all? In the passage, we can see that yes, Jesus is forgiving but the man accepts what Jesus does for him and acts on Jesus’ words. (I’m saying man, but it could be a woman.)

Do we ever sit there with a great idea, thinking, not me, nope, it’s for someone else? Let’s stop thinking Jesus isn’t offering us the best or the forgiveness or healing or a gift. Why can’t it be you?

Faith and Action

We can do both. And if our action seems daunting, pray this prayer, “Lord, I believe you have asked me to do what I am about to do, but if it is not what you want me to, please stop me.”

This week, pray to put fully participate in your faith life. If you get a direction from God, do it!

And, please, drop me a comment about how it goes or suggest a topic for discussion! I love to hear from listeners.

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS | More

Filed Under: Not LukeWarm Podcast Tagged With: , , ,

Faith, Present, Future

December 17, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Our Three Quotes

“Faith is the fundamental response to the love that has offered itself up for me.”         Fr. Hans von Balthasar

 “Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1

“It is because of faith that we exchange the present for the future. ” St. Fediles 

The Incarnation

Our faith begins when we accept that God did send his Son in the form of a newborn baby to begin the way to our salvation. Our view then, can be on the future, not to the exclusion of taking care of life in this world but with the perspective that this world is not what is most important.

As St. Fidelis says, we exchange the present for the future, embracing what is to come. Knowing that when Jesus comes again we will have the truth, beauty and goodness faith offers us.

 

When you need a boost in leaning more on your faith this week, call on the Holy Spirit to lift you up. A simple “Come Holy Spirit, fill and help me” is enough. One deep breath in and out. Be filled with faith!

Sign up for the email newsletter list!

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Not LukeWarm Podcast Tagged With: , ,

What’s your passion?

February 12, 2021 by Leave a Comment

What kind of passion am I talking about?

I’m talking about the kind of passion that propels your life in a positive direction, and ideally, of course, toward God and for his glory.

5 things I’m passionate about

  • My faith:
    • specifically Scripture,
    • Sacraments and
    • most especially the Eucharist
  • My family
  • People – getting to know them, serving them, teaching them, being with them

What’s your passion?

What propels you forward? What are the things in your life that drive you and that without, you would be bereft? Do these draw you to or away from God? Others? Yourself?

Find or rediscover your passion. It’s in you, let it out. If we live out the passion God poured into us, we will give him glory.

And if scripture is your passion or you’d like to discover if it could be your passion, join me to learn about the Gospel of Mark. You can join the group at any time. It is a no pressure group of supportive people who love God’s word.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS | More

Filed Under: Not LukeWarm Podcast Tagged With: , , , , ,

Faith in difficult times

January 15, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Why Vn. Pierre Toussaint?

I find his story compelling and an excellent example for our times. In the face of many obstacles he lived a life of holiness and virtue. His faith guided his life.

A  bit about his life

He was born a slave in what is now Haiti in 1766. His master allowed him to be educated by the family tutor which was extremely rare. In 1787 part of the family was sent to New York City due to political unrest. Pierre and his sister were among the slaves who went with the family. In, NYC Pierre trained as a hairdresser and was allowed to keep the money earned. His master died and his family was left almost desittiue. Pierre supoprted the widow for mnay years, until her death. It was then that she finally gave Pierre his freedom. ONce freed, he purcahse his sister’s freedom and his future wife’s.

Once free

Pierre and Juliette married. They had no children of their own but did adopt Pierre’s sister’s daughter when his sister died. Sadly, she died at 14. Faith and discipline is what kept Pierre going. He moved forward, every day, praying and serving those in need, as well as working. He worked long many years, not for himself, but so that he could use his money to  help others.

Charitable works

Juliette and Pierre opened their home to orphans and those on need. Pierre helped St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in her work. He also donated substantial funds towards the building of the first St. Patrick’s Cathedral in NYC.

There’s so much more about this great man to learn, this episode just scratches the surface but I hope you’ll listen to hear more!

This week consider emulating Vn. Pierre Toussaint’s charity. Choose a charity to help, with your time, resources or prayer and plan a way to help them.

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS | More

Filed Under: Not LukeWarm Podcast Tagged With: , , , , ,

Faith Overcomes Fear

March 13, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Faith is a gift from God that we can use to overcome our fears. It isn’t always easy, but we have many examples of faith around us and in scripture. Right in the beginning of Genesis, Abram is an example of faith in God, indeed it says in Gen 15:6, “Abram put his faith in the LORD, who attributed it to him as an act of righteousness.” We too can put our faith in God no matter what is happening around us.

When we have struggles and concerns, do we try to solve them, or do we worry instead? God gave us the mental capacity to think and find solutions to our problems. Sometimes though, we give in to our fear that we can’t solve the problem, or we think we are not capable. Call on God, turn to scripture, listen to praise music – give in to your faith. And when you do, God will see and give you more faith!

In Matthew 8, the apostles are at sea and a storm comes up while Jesus is sleeping. When they wake him up, he has stern words for them before he solves the problem, “He said to them, “Why are you terrified, O you of little faith?” Then he got up, rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was great calm.” (Mt 8:26) Jesus is right beside us, even if it seems as if he is sleeping. By keeping our focus on him fear cannot take hold of us.

Like the sign in my friend’s house said, “Faith and Fear cannot live in the same house.” Let faith overcome fear, not the other way around. Hold onto the faith God has given to you, ask for more, rely on it and you will grow stronger in your faith, better able to withstand the storms of life.

 

the not lukewarm challenge  This week, spend some quiet time asking God what your fears are and to replace them with faith!

 

 

 

Here is your download for today’s episode and don’t forget, please leave a review wherever you listen to this podcast, it’s greatly appreciated!

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS | More

Filed Under: Not LukeWarm Podcast Tagged With: , ,

Faith, a gift from God

October 25, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Hans von Balthasar says that “Faith is the fundamental response to the love that has offered itself up for me.”  That love is God giving up his Son so that we might have eternal life. That love is Christ crucified.  I believe that God offered up his love for me, just as he did for you.   In thinking about that love intellectually, it is beyond our grasp.  Most of us have experienced love in our lives, both given and received, but even those who profess to love us unconditionally and want nothing but our happiness let us down.  God never lets us down.  He never takes away the visible and real reminder of his love, which is Jesus, broken and poured out in the Eucharist for us.  Matthew 8:26

God does not demand we have faith, he offers it to us as a gift, we choose to accept it or not. People who profess no faith usually fall into two categories:  they do not need faith or they are afraid to accept it. Others want faith; seeing in people of faith something that they do not have in their own lives.  But they know that by accepting the gift, there are responsibilities that come with the gift of faith.  Changes would have to be made and possibly difficult choices, so instead of accepting faith they are adrift, constantly trying to fill the emptiness.  As St. Augustine says, “Our hearts are restless, Lord until they rest in thee.”

In Hebrews 11:1 we read that “Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen.” None of us can see the future, but we can trust and rely on God to guide us in our lives, no matter what happens.  Too often, we use our faith to get us through the bad times, not remembering that God wants to be with us in the good times as well.  Jesus died for us, that is TRUTH.  But he also rose for us.  It is in that rising from the dead that faith of the Apostles grew and changed, eventually, the Holy Spirit came down and gave them the power to move in that faith.  His resurrection is what we have faith in because in that action he gives us new life.  The cross tells us that we must die to self, but once we do we are raised to a new life of faith far greater than the one we gave up on our cross.

Faith gives us strength and the ability to grow into the persons God meant for us to be.  Each of us has a purpose, we are told, that “No one lights a candle and hides it under a bushel basket.” Faith is not meant only for your good, but for the good of others. To thank him for that gift I accept I do what I can to not only grow my faith but to share it with others.

Faith is the ability to see God at work in this world; to believe in a power much bigger than you.  With faith the impossible becomes possible.  It is faith that gives us the courage to bring children into this world. The desire to walk with another on their life’s journey is part of faith.  It is the strength in our soul to say yes when every other part of us is screaming no.  Sometimes faith means trusting just enough to get out of bed believing that God will clear a path, knowing that when I fall, he will lift me up.  Faith also gives us the ability to question the nuts and bolts of our religious beliefs and practices, knowing that God is there in those details and wants us to come to him using our intellect as much as our soul.

Scripture Verses quoted:

“If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith?” Matthew 6:30

‘He said to them, “Why are you terrified, O you of little faith?” Then he got up, rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was great calm.” Matthew 8:26

 

the not lukewarm challengeOur challenge this week is to write down each day, one thing to give to God for Him to take care of instead of worrying about it.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Podcast Index | RSS

Filed Under: Not LukeWarm Podcast Tagged With: , , ,

The Struggles of Being a Mom

June 25, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Podcast #19

The Struggles of Being a Mom

 

Being a Mom

 

Motherhood is not easy. Motherhood has its seasons and each one has its struggles. Looking around in life, at the grocery store or on social media, we as moms are struggling and it is normal, but we don’t have to be alone.

 

Everywhere we look there are mom’s struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety, loneliness, and so much more…

 

How can we do this “Mom” thing?

 

As we go through the day to day. Knowing the struggles we have and seeing the struggles of those around us, how do we do it? What “thing” can help us? God. As cliché as this sounds, it is something that one honestly can’t go without. Look at your day, start a day with prayer and gratitude and then start a day without. Which one goes better?

 

How do we add this element to our day?

 

Find a friend, a church group, message me. Know that we are all struggling but through prayer and fellowship, we honestly have some of the best examples in our Christian faith- Our Blessed Mother and Jesus. Reach up to them and out to your friends in Christ.

 

There is no better way to do this Mom thing than with Mary as an example and Christ Jesus at our side.

 

As always,

Be grateful & have faith!
God Bless!

 

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Podcast Index | RSS | More

Filed Under: Simple Blessings and Oils Podcast Tagged With: , , , , , , ,