Tag: Christ

🎉 One Year In: The Episode You Didn’t Know You Needed 🎙️

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

We did it. One year. A full trip around the sun, filled with raw conversations, unexpected laughs, tough lessons, and everything in between. This episode is not just a celebration—it’s a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really taken to get here.

No filters. No fluff. Just the truth. We’re talking mistakes, mindset shifts, growth spurts, and real talk about what it means to stay committed when the hype wears off.

Whether you’ve been riding with us since day one or just jumping in, this episode brings it all full circle.

🔊 Hit play and hear the unfiltered reality of building something that matters.

🎧 Available now wherever you get your podcasts.

Faith, Family & Thought-Provoking Conversations

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In this powerful episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we dive into two intriguing incidents that have sparked deep conversations in the faith community. With thought-provoking insights, Naty and Veda break down some recent incidents regarding Paula White and Marvin Sapp, challenging perspectives and asking the tough questions many are thinking but few are saying.

How do faith, culture, and controversy intersect? What lessons can we take away from these moments? And most importantly, where do we go from here? If you’ve ever questioned the narratives shaping modern spirituality, this episode is for you.

Join us for a candid and unfiltered discussion that will leave you reflecting long after the episode ends.

🎧 Hit play and be part of the conversation now!

#MentalHealth #ThrivePodcast #CriticalThinking #ChristianCulture #DeepConversations

Finding God in Your Setbacks: Preparation for Growth

On By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

Life often presents us with setbacks—moments when our plans unravel, our dreams seem distant, and our hearts ache with disappointment. In these challenging times, finding solace in faith can offer profound comfort and guide us toward unexpected growth. It is in these setbacks that we often find God’s hand at work, preparing us for greater things.

Embracing Setbacks as Divine Preparation

Setbacks are not merely obstacles but opportunities for spiritual transformation. They test our resilience, deepen our trust in God, and refine our character. As the apostle James wrote:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2-3, NIV)

This perspective challenges us to see setbacks not as moments of despair but as chances to strengthen our faith and endurance. God uses these trials to prepare us for His purpose, shaping us into vessels capable of carrying His light in the darkest of times.

Trusting in God’s Sovereignty

Amid setbacks, it is natural to question God’s plan. Yet, Scripture reassures us of His sovereignty and unwavering love:

“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.” (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV)

Even when our circumstances seem bleak, trusting in God’s promises allows us to find peace and hope. His plans for us transcend our understanding, guiding us toward growth and fulfillment beyond our present struggles.

Seeking Spiritual Growth Through Adversity

Every setback offers an invitation to deepen our relationship with God. It is through adversity that we discover His strength within us:

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9, NIV)

In moments of weakness, God’s grace sustains us, empowering us to overcome challenges and emerge stronger in faith. These experiences mold us into vessels of His grace, equipped to share His love with others who may be walking through similar trials.

Finding Purpose in Pain

While setbacks may seem senseless, God works all things for our good:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28, NIV)

Even in our deepest pain, God is at work, crafting beauty from ashes and preparing us for His divine purpose. Our setbacks become part of a greater narrative of redemption and restoration, showcasing God’s faithfulness through every trial.

Conclusion

Finding God in your setbacks is not about denying pain or dismissing challenges. It is a journey of faith where we learn to trust in His timing, His wisdom, and His unfailing love. As we navigate life’s uncertainties, let us embrace setbacks as opportunities for spiritual growth, knowing that through them, God prepares us to shine His light and love in a world that desperately needs it.

“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” (1 Peter 5:10, NIV)

In every setback, may you find the seeds of growth, the presence of God, and the promise of His enduring grace.

Embracing a New Attitude in 2025: A Fresh Start for Your Mind and Body

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational Thoughts1 Comment

There’s no better time to hit the reset button and cultivate a new attitude toward life than at the beginning of the year. Each new year brings the promise of growth, opportunities, and transformation. But this year, let’s go beyond setting fleeting resolutions and focus on fostering a sustainable mindset and lifestyle that promotes both mental and physical health.

To help you kickstart this journey, consider embarking on the 15-Day Challenge to a Stronger YOU! — a practical, faith-based guide designed to lay the foundation for lasting change.

Why Attitude Matters

Your attitude shapes your reality. It influences how you approach challenges, interact with others, and ultimately, how you experience life. A positive attitude doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties but rather facing them with resilience, gratitude, and a solution-oriented mindset.

This year, make your new attitude stick by starting with the 15-Day Challenge to a Stronger YOU! It’s not just a self-help tool; it’s a roadmap to integrate faith into every area of your life while building a stronger spiritual, mental, and emotional foundation.

Cultivating Mental Health in 2025

Mental health is the cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Here’s how you can prioritize it:

  1. Practice Gratitude Daily
    The 15-Day Challenge helps you develop daily gratitude practices that shift your focus from scarcity to abundance. Each day of the challenge provides prompts to guide your reflections.
  2. Set Boundaries
    Boundary-setting is easier with clear, actionable steps. The challenge includes practical exercises to help you identify what matters most and set boundaries accordingly.
  3. Engage in Mindfulness Practices
    Discover faith-aligned mindfulness techniques that combine spiritual practices with emotional grounding.
  4. Seek Support When Needed
    The challenge emphasizes the importance of community, encouraging you to seek help when needed and surround yourself with uplifting individuals.

Boosting Physical Health in 2025

Your body and mind are deeply interconnected, and taking care of your physical health enhances your overall well-being.

  1. Move Your Body Regularly
    The 15-Day Challenge offers tips to incorporate enjoyable, faith-inspired movement into your routine to energize your body and spirit.
  2. Nourish with Purpose
    Explore ways to practice mindful eating, aligned with your values, to improve your physical health without overwhelm.
  3. Prioritize Rest and Recovery
    The challenge encourages you to embrace rest as a vital part of the growth process.
  4. Try Something New
    With prompts to push you out of your comfort zone, the 15-Day Challenge is designed to spark growth and joy through novelty.

The Power of a Fresh Perspective

Adopting a new attitude in 2025 is not about perfection; it’s about progress. The 15-Day Challenge to a Stronger YOU! can be your starting point to cultivate this new perspective, offering tools to align your spiritual, mental, and physical health.

Limited-Time Offer: Begin your transformation today! For a limited time, the Kindle edition of 15-Day Challenge to a Stronger YOU! is available at 67% off — just $1.99 until January 8th. Take advantage of this special offer to make 2025 your most transformative year yet.

This year, let’s commit to growth, finding joy in the journey, and becoming the best version of ourselves. Here’s to a transformative 2025 filled with vitality, resilience, and positivity!

Breaking Chains: Faith, Art, and Mental Health Advocacy

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Are you ready to be inspired by a story that will touch your heart and uplift your spirit? In our latest episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, we had the immense pleasure of sitting down with Kimberly Morrow, an extraordinary woman whose journey of faith, resilience, and creativity is nothing short of remarkable.

Kimberly, also known as Chosen Arts, is not just an independent artist, but a motivational speaker, inspirational rap artist, and pastor. Her passion for helping others break free from their chains and rise above their challenges is palpable in every word she shares. But what truly makes Kimberly’s story compelling is her authenticity and the raw truth she brings to the table. She speaks candidly about her life’s ups and downs, the rollercoaster of her faith journey, and how the scriptures became a lifeline that brought her peace and strength during the darkest times.

In this episode, Kimberly opens up about her childhood, sharing touching memories of her grandmother who first introduced her to church, a place that became her sanctuary. She also delves into the complexities of managing multiple roles—mother, wife, artist, and pastor—and the importance of prioritizing self-care to maintain balance and avoid burnout.

One of the most moving parts of the conversation is when Kimberly discusses her journey through mental health struggles and how her faith and music played a crucial role in her healing. Through her platform, she advocates for mental health awareness, encouraging others to seek help and speak out about their struggles. Her story is a powerful reminder that you are not alone, and that with faith and perseverance, you can overcome any obstacle.

But Kimberly’s influence doesn’t stop at music and ministry. Her creativity also shines through her visual art, which she uses to give back to her community. With the proceeds from her paintings, she supports those in need, embodying the true spirit of service and love.

If you’re looking for a story that will inspire you to keep pushing forward, no matter the challenges, then this episode is a must-listen. Kimberly’s words are a testament to the power of faith and the incredible strength that comes from trusting in God’s plan.

Don’t miss out on this uplifting and empowering conversation. There’s a little surprise within the episode. Don’t miss it! Tune in to Thrive by the Rising Muse now and let Kimberly Morrow’s story inspire you to discover the beauty within yourself and the strength to face any storm.

To follow Kimberly on social media:

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

To listen to this episode click here:

The Parable about Parables

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Writing HappeningsLeave a comment

By John Avery

(Context: Matthew 13:1-23. Parallels: Mark 4:1-20; Luke 8:4-15.)
Story time was over. The keel of the fishing boat ground into the gravel along the shore,
and the men stopped rowing. Jesus climbed over the side and paddled to the beach. As He
and the disciples gathered their gear and prepared to go back to the house to rest, one of
the disciples raised the question they had all been too shy to ask until the crowd
dispersed.
“Why do you speak to them in parables?”

I think we get stuck in the Parable of the Soils. 1 What I mean is that we spend so much
time trying to decipher the analogies and apply them to our lives that we miss the core of
what Jesus said. This is one of Jesus’ most important teachings because it answers the
disciples’ question, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” Jesus’ answer is the key to
hearing the voice of God and therefore the key to spiritual growth.
So, why did Jesus use parables? At first, His explanation seems cryptic:
Jesus answered them, “To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of
heaven, but to them it has not been granted. . . . Therefore I speak to them in parables; because
while seeing they do not see, and while hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. . . . But
blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. (Matthew 13:11, 13,
16)
Every crowd listening to Jesus’ teaching contains two types of people; those who have
functioning spiritual ears and eyes, and those who do not. Ears receptive to sound waves
and eyes able to resolve light patterns are not enough. Spiritual sight and hearing happen
when the heart understands, the mind perceives, and lives return to a healthy relationship
with God (Matt. 13:14-15). The disciples were spiritually receptive; they could grasp the
mysteries of the kingdom of God and change to live the kingdom lifestyle. Jesus used
parables to see which people were in which group. The Parable of the Soils illustrates this
essential lesson.
Every parable and truth about the King and His kingdom acts in the same way. Like a
seed, it tests the soil of the heart. Many people hear God speaking directly to them, or
through His followers, but only superficially. The truth is quickly snatched away from
hard hearts. Difficult times, when temptation or opposition comes, shrivel it. Distractions
steal all time and energy, hindering application. Only hearts that are like soft, deep, clean
soil will apply the truth in such a way that life changes. Each time that Jesus concludes
with the phrase, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear,” He means the ears of the will.
So, next time God drops a seed of truth into your life, will your will nurture it to fruition?

John Avery

Author of The Sparks Series. Collections of short meaty devotional/Bible Studies.

Becoming Like Jesus: How to Think and Live Like Jesus Christ (February, 2024).

The Questions of Jesus: Questions Asked by Jesus, Questions People Asked Him (October, 2022).

The Kingdom of God: Our Life with Jesus the King (March, 2023).

And

The Name Quest: Explore the Names of God to Grow in Faith and Get To Know Him Better (Morgan James Publishing, 2015).

www.NamesForGod.net/name-quest

www.BibleMaturity.com

Free Yourself: Embrace Forgiveness Today

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Are you seeking a way to find peace amidst life’s inevitable pains and challenges? Join us in our latest podcast episode as we delve deep into the essence of forgiveness—a journey from resentment to liberation.

On our most recent episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse we guide you through a profound conversation on forgiveness. With engaging and relatable storytelling, we explore how forgiveness intersects with faith, family, and mental health, offering transformative insights along the way.

We start by defining forgiveness through the lens of the American Psychology Association (APA), which describes it as an intentional process of letting go of anger and resentment while embracing empathy and compassion. They emphasize that forgiveness is not necessarily about reconciliation but about freeing oneself from the burden of bitterness.

There are 4 types of forgiveness:

  1. Forgiving Others: The most common form, where you forgive someone who has hurt you.
  2. Self-Forgiveness: Often the hardest, where you learn to forgive yourself for past mistakes.
  3. Forgiving Circumstances: Letting go of resentment towards situations beyond your control.
  4. Forgiving God: Acknowledging and processing feelings of anger towards God in times of personal loss or tragedy.

This episode also offers practical advice on how to embark on your own journey of forgiveness:

  • Acknowledge Your Pain: The first step is recognizing and admitting your hurt.
  • Gain Perspective: Try to understand the situation from different viewpoints.
  • Release Resentment: Learn to let go of grudges that weigh you down.
  • Practice Self-Compassion: Be patient and kind to yourself as you navigate the forgiveness process.
  • Seek Guidance: Whether through therapy, counseling, or spiritual guidance, don’t hesitate to seek help.

The Spiritual Dimension of Forgiveness

Our hosts discuss the spiritual aspects of forgiveness, referencing various scriptures that underscore the importance of forgiving others as God forgives us. They also touch on the necessity of forgiving God, a concept that might seem controversial but is essential for healing deep-seated anger and disappointment.

Why Listen?

This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with forgiveness. Whether you find it hard to forgive others, yourself, or even God, Naty and Veda provide compassionate and insightful guidance to help you release the emotional burdens that are holding you back.

Don’t miss out on this enlightening conversation that promises to uplift and inspire. Tune in to the Thrive podcast and start your journey towards true forgiveness today!

Ready to dive deeper into the topic of forgiveness? Click here to listen to the full episode now.

Unveiling Stories of Hope with Jacob Bowker

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Mental health is a profound journey, often marked by challenges and revelations. In the latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we dive deep into this topic with a remarkable guest, Jacob Bowker. As a father of four boys, an author, a podcaster, and a certified mental health coach, Jacob brings a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to our conversation.

Jacob’s story is both moving and inspiring. When his son was hospitalized due to mental health issues, Jacob realized the dire need for faith-based resources for families struggling with similar challenges. This realization spurred the creation of Story Ministry, an organization dedicated to supporting families through the intersections of mental health, addiction, and faith.

Story Ministry’s unique family-centered approach aims to empower families, helping them establish healthy boundaries and become stronger together. Jacob emphasizes the importance of not neglecting any family member and working collectively to heal and support one another.

Jacob discusses how Story Ministry collaborates with licensed therapists to create resources that guide individuals through their mental health journeys. By incorporating Bible verses and faith-based teachings, they offer a holistic approach to coping and healing. Jacob’s perspective on the need for healthy coping mechanisms, as opposed to simply relying on medication, provides a refreshing take on mental health treatment.

A key aspect of Story Ministry’s mission is to proactively educate and support communities. Jacob highlights their efforts to integrate mental health education into schools, starting with teachers and staff. By equipping educators with the knowledge and tools to support students, they aim to foster a more understanding and supportive environment from a young age.

Story Ministry also partners with churches, offering weekly small groups and Bible study sessions focused on mental health. These groups provide a safe space for individuals to share their struggles and find support within their faith community.

Jacob’s message is clear: mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being and should not be separated from our spiritual lives. He encourages listeners to reach out for help, support one another, and approach mental health with empathy and understanding.

Are you intrigued by Jacob’s insights and the mission of Story Ministry? Tune into the full episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse to hear more about Jacob’s journey and how Story Ministry is making a difference in the lives of many.

Subscribe to Thrive by The Rising Muse on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay updated on our latest episodes and mental health resources. Join us in breaking the stigma and building a supportive community where every story matters.

Don’t miss this enlightening conversation with Jacob Bowker. Click here to listen now and become part of a movement that embraces mental health and faith together.

Embracing Peace in the Midst of Chaos

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the pursuit of peace takes on profound significance for Christians. As we navigate the challenges of life, we are called to exemplify the peace that Christ offers—a peace that transcends circumstances. In this blog post, we will explore the Christian perspective on finding and embracing peace in the midst of chaos.

The Christian Concept of Peace

For Christians, peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a state of harmony and wholeness that can only be fully realized through a relationship with God. It’s the assurance that, no matter the storms of life, God’s peace guards our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7).

Navigating Chaos with Faith

  1. Anchoring in Prayer: In times of turmoil, turn to prayer as a means of connecting with God’s peace. The Bible encourages us to present our worries and anxieties to Him in prayer (Philippians 4:6).
  2. Trusting God’s Sovereignty: Recognize that God is in control, even when the world seems chaotic. Trusting in His sovereignty can bring a profound sense of peace (Isaiah 26:3).
  3. Seeking Solace in Scripture: The Bible is filled with verses that offer comfort and peace in times of trouble. Meditate on passages that speak to your heart (Psalm 46:10).
  4. Living Out Forgiveness: Practice forgiveness as a reflection of God’s forgiveness towards us. Letting go of resentment and grudges can bring a sense of inner peace (Ephesians 4:32).
  5. Community and Fellowship: Engage in Christian community and fellowship. Surrounding yourself with like-minded believers can provide emotional support and encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25).
  6. Spreading Peace: Be a peacemaker in your interactions with others. Seek reconciliation and understanding, following the example of Christ (Matthew 5:9)

In a world filled with chaos, Christians are called to be beacons of peace, reflecting the peace that comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ. As we navigate the challenges of life, let us remember that our faith is the anchor of our peace. By drawing near to God in prayer, trusting His sovereignty, and living out His principles of forgiveness and love, we can experience and share His peace with a world in desperate need of it. Embrace God’s peace and let it shine brightly in the midst of chaos, for it is a testimony to the transformative power of faith.

Until next time, be blessed!

Don’t forget to subscribe to our weekly podcast: Thrive by The Rising Muse

Nurturing Spiritual Discernment in the Word

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In a world where charismatic leaders abound, each claiming to have a direct line to God’s truth, Christians face the daunting task of discerning genuine spiritual guidance from deceptive falsehoods. Jesus Himself warned of false prophets in Matthew 7:15, saying, “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.”

As followers of Christ, we bear a solemn responsibility to discern truth from error, and this begins with a deep commitment to studying the Word of God for ourselves. In 2 Timothy 2:15, Paul instructs Timothy, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” This admonition applies to all believers, emphasizing the importance of personal engagement with Scripture to guard against deception.

False prophets often possess charismatic personalities and persuasive speech, making them all the more dangerous to unsuspecting followers. However, the surest defense against such deceit lies in cultivating a robust understanding of God’s Word through diligent study and prayer. Psalm 119:105 assures us, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” When we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we gain clarity and guidance that illuminate the path of righteousness and expose falsehood.

Moreover, it’s essential to surround ourselves with godly mentors and fellow believers who can offer wise counsel and accountability. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” By engaging in mutually edifying relationships grounded in biblical truth, we fortify ourselves against the wiles of false prophets.

However, it’s crucial to exercise caution even in seeking guidance from others. While mentors can provide valuable insights, their interpretations must align with Scripture. Acts 17:11 commends the Berean Jews for their diligence in examining the Scriptures daily to verify the teachings they received. Likewise, we must approach all teachings with discernment, testing them against the timeless truths of God’s Word.

False prophets often twist Scripture to suit their own agendas, leading unsuspecting followers astray. 2 Peter 3:16 warns of those who distort Scripture to their own destruction. Therefore, it’s imperative to maintain a firm grasp on biblical principles and sound doctrine to recognize and refute falsehoods.

In conclusion, while the prevalence of false prophets may pose a formidable challenge, Christians need not despair. By grounding ourselves in the unchanging truths of Scripture, seeking guidance from godly mentors, and exercising discernment in all things, we can navigate the tumultuous waters of spiritual deception with confidence. Let us heed the exhortation of 1 Thessalonians 5:21 to “test everything; hold fast what is good,” ensuring that our faith remains steadfast and our hearts guarded against the cunning schemes of the enemy.

Amen! and until next time, be blessed!

Remember to subscribe to our podcast: Thrive by The Rising Muse