Tag: christianity

Rediscovering Connection: Beyond the Screen in Military Life

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to feel connected through our screens, yet many of us, especially military spouses, still experience a profound sense of loneliness. This paradox is particularly challenging for those in military life, who often find themselves far from family and friends. In our latest episode, we explore the importance of stepping beyond digital connections to embrace real-life interactions.

The Challenge of Digital Connectivity in Military Life

Beth Runkle shares her insights on how the convenience of digital communication can sometimes fall short of fulfilling our deeper social needs. While social media and texting keep us in touch, they can’t replace the warmth of face-to-face interactions. For military spouses, who frequently relocate and face long deployments, the need for personal connections is even more critical.

The Lost Art of Hospitality

Hospitality is more than just inviting someone into your home; it’s about inviting them into your heart. Beth discusses how the pressure for perfection often prevents us from opening our doors. She encourages military families to embrace the imperfections of their homes and focus on the connections they can build with others.

Taking the Initiative in Military Communities

Loneliness is an epidemic that affects many, regardless of age or background. Beth highlights the importance of taking the initiative to make the first move in forming friendships. Whether it’s inviting someone for coffee or organizing a small gathering, these efforts can lead to meaningful relationships that enrich our lives, especially within military communities.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let’s remember that true connection goes beyond the screen. By fostering genuine relationships and practicing hospitality, we can combat loneliness and build a supportive community. For those in military life, these connections are vital. Let’s take the first step towards rediscovering the power of real-life connections.

Beth Runkle is an author, speaker, and women’s ministry leader whose new devotional, Another Move, God? encourages military wives to embrace the life God’s called them to — even when that means constant change. After twenty-five years as a military wife, fourteen moves, and raising two children through four deployments, Beth learned that peace isn’t about control — it’s about trust. She and her husband now serve with Cru Military, mentoring young military couples and cadets.

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Finding Faith in the Wilderness: Shaazia Terry’s Journey

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In a world where life’s challenges often seem insurmountable, Shaazia Terry’s story is a beacon of hope and resilience. Her journey, marked by profound loss and unwavering faith, offers a powerful testament to the transformative power of belief and perseverance.

Shaazia’s life took a dramatic turn with the loss of her mother, a period that tested her faith and strength. “I was like, God, no, I don’t understand this,” she recalls. Yet, through the darkness, she found a renewed purpose, using her voice and creativity to glorify God and inspire others.

Throughout her trials, Shaazia’s faith remained her anchor. “Even when nobody else sees you, God always sees you,” she shares, emphasizing the importance of holding onto faith even when life gives every reason to let go. Her story is a reminder that faith can carry us through the wilderness, turning our struggles into testimonies of grace and purpose.

Shaazia’s journey is not just about overcoming adversity; it’s about embracing humanity in all its imperfections. Her book, “Being Human,” explores themes of love, family secrets, and the power of forgiveness. “It’s not about being perfect,” she says. “It’s about giving God your best and trusting Him to guide you.”

Shaazia Terry’s story is a testament to the power of faith and resilience. Her journey reminds us that brokenness doesn’t disqualify us; it’s often the place where God begins His greatest work in us. As we navigate our own challenges, may we find inspiration in Shaazia’s story and hold onto the hope that faith provides.

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The Transformative Power of Gratitude: A Thanksgiving Reflection

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

As Thanksgiving approaches, we often find ourselves reflecting on the blessings of the past year. But what if gratitude went beyond the dinner table and transformed our very way of living? In this episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, Naty and Veda explore the profound impact of gratitude when it is intertwined with grace and mercy.

We are reminded that true gratitude isn’t just about acknowledging what we have; it’s about letting that thankfulness change how we see and treat others. They discuss the importance of extending grace, even when it’s inconvenient, and how this can lead to deeper, more meaningful relationships.

The episode delves into the concept of grace—giving others what they don’t deserve—and mercy—refraining from giving them what they do deserve. Naty shares personal stories that highlight the power of these virtues in transforming lives and fostering compassion.

Listeners are encouraged to let their gratitude be visible, to let it sound like grace, and to let it move like mercy. We’re challenged to embody the love and compassion that Thanksgiving represents, not just during the holiday, but every day.

This Thanksgiving, let’s make a conscious effort to let our gratitude transform us. By embracing grace and mercy, we can create a ripple effect of kindness and compassion in our communities. Tune in to this inspiring episode and discover how you can make your gratitude truly transformative.

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When Love Hurts: Recognizing Unhealthy Relationship Patterns

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In a world where love is often portrayed as the ultimate healer, what happens when it becomes the source of our deepest wounds? Join Naty and Veda in this eye-opening episode of “Thrive by the Rising Muse” as they delve into the complexities of unhealthy relationship patterns, offering insights that are both personal and universally relatable.

Naty shares her personal journey through friendships and relationships that left her questioning her worth and identity. From constant criticism to emotional manipulation, she highlights the subtle signs that often go unnoticed until it’s too late. “Love is supposed to heal, not hurt,” she reminds us, urging listeners to recognize the red flags in their own lives.

Through candid anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, they emphasize the importance of vulnerability in healing. She recounts moments of self-doubt and the courage it took to break free from toxic dynamics. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that true love builds up, rather than tears down.

This episode is not just about identifying problems but also about finding solutions. The hosts provide practical resources and support for those seeking to escape unhealthy relationships. She encourages listeners to reach out, share their stories, and embrace the healing journey.

Whether you’re navigating romantic relationships, friendships, or family dynamics, this episode offers a beacon of hope and a path to healthier connections. Tune in to “Thrive by the Rising Muse” and discover how you can step into a love that truly reflects God’s heart.

Don’t miss out on this transformative episode. Subscribe to “Thrive by the Rising Muse” and join a community dedicated to healing, growth, and thriving in love.

Unveiling the Hidden Scars: Understanding Spiritual Abuse

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In a world where faith is often a source of strength, there lies a shadowy corner where it can be twisted into a tool of control. This episode of “Thrive by the Rising Muse” delves into the often-overlooked realm of spiritual abuse, a form of domestic violence that manipulates faith and scripture to dominate and silence. Join us as we explore the profound impact of this hidden abuse and the path to healing.

Spiritual abuse occurs when religious beliefs are weaponized to control or harm. It can manifest in intimate relationships, families, and even within religious institutions. The episode highlights how scripture is sometimes misused to justify mistreatment, leaving deep emotional scars. Naty and Veda share personal stories and insights, shedding light on the subtle yet damaging nature of this abuse.

Resources for Healing: For those seeking support, the episode offers valuable resources, including the National Domestic Violence Hotline and the Faith Trust Institute. These organizations provide guidance and support for survivors of spiritual abuse. Additionally, the episode encourages listeners to connect with survivor groups and rediscover their faith outside the abuser’s influence.

Conclusion: Spiritual abuse is a silent epidemic that thrives in the shadows. By bringing it into the light, we empower survivors to reclaim their faith and their lives. Watch the full episode to gain a deeper understanding of this issue and learn how to support those affected. Remember, you deserve a life filled with faith, healing, and abundance.

Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel and share it with someone who might need to hear this message. Let’s spread awareness and support each other in the journey towards healing. Subscribe now to stay updated on future episodes.

Navigating the Silent Battles: Mental Health and Breast Cancer

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In the heart of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we delve into the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by those battling breast cancer and their caregivers. This journey is not just about survival but also about managing the silent battles of anxiety, depression, and fear that accompany the physical fight. Join us as we uncover these stories and insights in our latest episode.

The Unseen Struggles: Breast cancer is a formidable opponent, affecting one in eight women in the U.S.

While treatment advances have improved survival rates, the mental health toll remains significant. Patients often grapple with “chemo brain,” body image issues, and the constant fear of recurrence. Caregivers, too, bear a heavy burden, juggling medical appointments, emotional support, and their own mental health. Discover personal stories and expert advice in our episode.

Journaling, support groups, and therapy are vital tools for managing mental health. Movement, even gentle exercises, can offer healing. For caregivers, self-care is crucial. As one caregiver shared, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” Taking time for oneself is not selfish but necessary to provide quality care. Learn more about these coping strategies in our discussion.

Faith can be a powerful anchor, offering hope and strength. Community support, whether through churches or peer groups, provides a network of care and understanding. As one participant noted, “Faith doesn’t erase the pain, but it gives us an anchor.” Hear more about the role of faith in our episode.

Breast cancer is a journey of both physical and emotional healing. By acknowledging and addressing the mental health challenges, we can better support those affected. Remember, healing is not just physical; it’s emotional and spiritual. Let’s continue to raise awareness and support each other in this journey.

Don’t miss our latest episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, where we dive deep into these topics with heartfelt stories and expert insights. Subscribe now and join the conversation. Together, we can navigate these challenges and thrive.

Legalizing the Gospel

On By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

This may not be a popular topic, but here we go.

In the last decade or so, I have seen a movement of Christians trying to put laws in place according to what the Bible says we should or should not do. I am a follower of Jesus, but this movement, in my opinion, has brought out several issues.

1. Politicians who pretend to be Christian just to obtain votes.
The Bible says, “You will recognize them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). However, in my observation, the masses are bending over backwards to justify some people’s behaviors, decisions, and actions just because their mouths have said they are Christians—even though their fruits are not showing.

2. Looking the other way.
I’ve also observed Christians compromising their own values just to have someone in office who will get things done the way they want, something like “the end justifies the means.”

Here’s my issue with Christianity by law: Are people realizing that forcing someone into a particular behavior does not mean they are accepting or living for Christ?

For example, you could mandate by law that all citizens attend church every Sunday. People might show up at their nearest church, but that doesn’t mean the message is going into their hearts.

God gave us free will. “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17). Jesus never forced anyone to accept Him. Why are we? Jesus came to show us His unconditional love—a love that leads us to repentance and to fall in love with Him enough to follow Him to the ends of the earth.

When you force someone into submission, they don’t love what they’re doing—they resent it. They may outwardly show the “good” behavior you want to see, but their heart has not turned toward God.

Legislating Faith vs. Living Faith

Legislating faith is spiritual laziness. We are called to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19), to witness what God has done in our lives, and to show His love through our actions. Instead, some want the government to force people to behave according to our beliefs so we can feel like we’ve accomplished something—when in reality, we have not.

We don’t want to do the hard work of loving everyone, forgiving everyone, and showing mercy to everyone. Instead, we often live with selective love for those who think, believe, and behave like we do. We exercise selective outrage toward those we judge, while ignoring the person in the mirror.

Should society be a free-for-all? No. But when we impose laws to force our faith on the masses, we are not pleasing God. We are not making disciples—we are making people who resent the gospel. And it’s not because of their hardened hearts, but because of our hypocrisy.

We appear hypocritical when we only address the sins of others but excuse the sins of those “within the faith.” “Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” (Matthew 7:3).

When someone outside the church falls, we often respond with outrage. But when someone in our faith circle falls, we excuse it as a “moment of weakness.” That’s not mirroring Jesus—it’s hypocrisy.

The Call to Love

When someone doesn’t think like us, we dismiss them as evil, forgetting that God placed them in our path so we could witness to them and love them.

And yes, even love our enemies. “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).

So when I see people who claim to follow Christ spewing hate, it hurts my heart. Because we should know better. Did we forget where we were before Jesus rescued us? Did we forget that He forgave our sins—and continues to forgive them?

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

If that’s true for us, then it is also true for those around us.

The Harvest Is Plentiful

The Word says, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few” (Luke 10:2). It is time to reflect on how our thoughts and behaviors are either drawing people to Jesus or pushing them away.

You may say you’ve tried and seen no results. But sometimes you’re only meant to plant the seed. Someone else waters, and another sees the fruit (1 Corinthians 3:6–7). But don’t miss your role as a planter.

I know it’s hard not to give up, but I can testify: I was a wreck, and God chased me relentlessly to show me His love. Even now, when I fall flat on my face, He picks me up, cleans me off, and sets me back on solid ground. He knows my flaws, yet He still uses me to reach people. He has assigned each of us to love and serve specific souls.

The Bottom Line

It is our job to show God’s love, grace, and mercy. It is not the government’s job to legislate Christianity, so we can feel good about forcing people into behaviors that don’t lead to salvation.

We don’t win souls by writing laws. We win them by living out the gospel.

#FaithOverPolitics #ChristianLiving #discipline

“When God Seems Silent: Navigating Spiritual Desolation”

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In the quiet moments of our spiritual journey, we often encounter a profound silence that can feel both unsettling and enlightening. This silence, sometimes perceived as abandonment by God, invites us to explore the depths of our faith and the resilience of our spirit. On the most recent episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we discuss why this happens and how to overcome it.

Spiritual silence is a phase where the usual signs of divine presence seem absent. It’s a time when prayers feel unanswered, and the comforting sense of God’s presence is elusive. This silence can be a test of faith, urging us to seek deeper understanding and connection.

Feeling abandoned by God is a common experience during spiritual silence. It’s a period marked by doubt and questioning, where the absence of divine reassurance challenges our beliefs. Yet, this feeling can also be a catalyst for growth, pushing us to redefine our relationship with the divine.

Instead of resisting the silence, embracing it can lead to profound insights. This period of quiet can be an opportunity to listen more intently to our inner voice and to find strength in solitude. It encourages us to trust in the unseen and to find peace in the unknown.

Experiencing spiritual silence and feeling abandoned by God are integral parts of the spiritual journey. They teach us resilience, patience, and the importance of faith in the unseen. By embracing these moments, we open ourselves to deeper spiritual growth and understanding.

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Holistic Healing and Faith: A Journey Toward Wholeness

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In today’s fast-paced world, our minds, bodies, and spirits are often treated as separate parts of who we are. But what if true healing comes from seeing ourselves as whole beings? This is where holistic healing and faith integration meet—creating a path that brings balance, peace, and restoration.

On this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with Melissa Armstrong, a former nurse turned holistic health coach, to explore how faith and wellness complement each other. Melissa opens up about her personal journey from traditional nursing into holistic health, sharing the ways trauma, emotional wounds, and nutrition all impact our well-being.

Together, they dive deep into the role of faith as a bridge that connects the inner world with the divine—allowing healing to flow naturally. Through practices like meditation, mindful living, and spiritual grounding, Melissa reminds us that healing isn’t just about fixing symptoms, but about restoring joy, balance, and connection.

✨ Key Takeaways from this Episode:

  • Trauma affects both the mind and the body—and healing requires tending to both.
  • Faith provides purpose, strength, and hope throughout the wellness journey.
  • Holistic practices like meditation, nutrition, and mindful living create harmony when integrated with spiritual beliefs.
  • Healing is a journey, not a destination, and every person is worthy of wholeness.

If you’ve ever wondered how faith and wellness can work together, this conversation will inspire and encourage you. Whether you’re seeking healing from trauma, looking for balance in your daily life, or simply curious about holistic health, this episode will leave you with powerful insights and practical steps forward.

To connect with Melissa, www.holistichealthbymelissa.com

🎧 Listen now and discover how faith and holistic healing can transform the way you see wellness and wholeness.

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How Heartbreak Can Help You Shine Bright!

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive2 Comments

In a world where pain often feels insurmountable, the story of Shawna Foster offers a beacon of hope. Her journey from heartbreak to healing is a testament to the power of resilience and faith. As she shares, “What if the very fire that meant to destroy you became the light that guides you home?”

Shawna’s story is one of raw pain transformed into radical healing. She opens up about the heartbreaking experience of losing two children to parental alienation, a grief that reshapes the soul. Yet, through vulnerability, she finds strength. “Our stories are different,” she says, “and that’s fine. God knows the truth, and I’m just going to rest in that.”

Despite the challenges, Shawna emphasizes the importance of finding joy. A trip with her family became a turning point, allowing her to embrace the present and find happiness. “Just be happy with where you’re at and who’s here,” her son reminds her, highlighting the importance of gratitude.

Throughout her journey, Shawna’s faith remains a cornerstone. She speaks of the importance of prayer and trusting in a higher power. “The pain and suffering isn’t what He wants for us,” she shares. “He wants us to find grace and joy and peace and rest in Him.”

Shawna Foster is an inspiring author, speaker, and advocate for healing and transformation. Her powerful journey from trauma to hope is captured in her book, Faith in the Flames, where she shares her experiences of overcoming personal challenges, including the loss of her children to parental alienation. Shawna’s story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of vulnerability. Through her work, she encourages others to embrace their own healing journeys and find joy amid adversity. She also writes for Christianity.com. She also hosts a podcast titled Faith in the Flames Podcast.

Shawna’s story is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, even in the darkest times. By embracing vulnerability, finding joy, and leaning on faith, we can transform trauma into a journey of healing and hope. As Shawna beautifully puts it, “Healing isn’t about erasing the pain; it’s about rising through it.”

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