Tag: faith

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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Breaking the Silence on Burnout: A Journey to Healing

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In today’s fast-paced world, burnout is a silent epidemic affecting countless individuals. It’s more than just feeling tired; it’s a deep soul-level exhaustion that leaves us feeling empty and disconnected. In this episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, Naty and Veda open up about the hidden struggles of burnout and share insights on how to recognize and heal from it.

Burnout isn’t just about being overworked. It’s the exhaustion that comes when you give more than you receive, when the balance between pouring out and being poured into disappears. It manifests as irritability, numbness, loss of motivation, and even spiritual silence. Recognizing these signs is the first step towards healing.

Rest is not laziness; it’s sacred. In faith circles, we’re often encouraged to push through, but sometimes strength looks like taking a step back. Naty emphasizes that rest is a holy practice, modeled by God Himself. It’s essential to release the guilt associated with rest and embrace it as a form of self-care and stewardship.

Burnout thrives where boundaries are missing. Saying ‘no’ is crucial for maintaining balance and preventing burnout. It’s important to prioritize your well-being and understand that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Setting boundaries allows you to serve others from a place of abundance rather than obligation.

In faith communities, burnout can be mistaken for a spiritual attack. However, it’s often a sign that you’re doing too much of the wrong thing for too long. Naty reminds us that God doesn’t call us to burn out; He calls us to balance. By reconnecting with ourselves and God, we can find the strength to overcome burnout.

Burnout doesn’t mean you’re broken; it means you’ve been carrying too much for too long without refills. Remember, you are still enough, still chosen, and still loved. Embrace rest as your right and take the necessary steps to heal. Subscribe now to continue this journey with us and discover more insights on thriving in life.

Subscribe now to our podcast for more episodes on mental health and spiritual well-being. Let’s walk this journey together and find balance in our lives.

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.

“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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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.”

Subscribe now to follow more inspiring stories and insights on healing and transformation, and click below to listen to the full episode.

Embracing Faith: Trusting Through Life’s Greatest Challenges

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In a world filled with uncertainties, the power of faith and trust can be our guiding light. Imagine facing life’s toughest challenges and emerging stronger, not by sheer will alone, but through unwavering faith. This is the story of Debbie, a woman whose journey through infertility, loss, and adoption is a testament to the strength found in trusting a higher purpose.

Debbie’s story is not just about overcoming adversity; it’s about embracing the unknown with open arms. From the heart-wrenching loss of her children to the joy of adopting nine, her path is a vivid illustration of how faith can transform despair into hope. As she shares her experiences, Debbie reveals the profound impact of trusting in something greater than oneself.

Throughout her journey, Debbie learned that asking “Why me?” was less important than asking “How do I survive?” This shift in perspective allowed her to focus on the next best step, guided by faith. Her story encourages us to let go of the need for answers and trust the process, knowing that each step forward is a step towards healing and growth.

Debbie’s resilience has not only shaped her life but has also inspired countless others. Her work with Anchor Point, a community support organization, is a living legacy of her faith-driven mission to help families in need. By watching her story, you’ll discover how faith can be a powerful catalyst for change, not just in our own lives, but in the lives of those around us.

Debbie’s journey is a powerful reminder that faith and trust are not just abstract concepts, but tangible forces that can guide us through life’s storms. Her story is a beacon of hope for anyone facing their own challenges, showing that with faith, we can overcome even the most daunting obstacles.

Debbie Simmons is a community activist, businesswoman, wife, mother to 9 adopted children, and, most importantly, a devoted follower of Christ. Her boots-on-the-ground experience, hard-earned wisdom, and faith-centered approach will help you build your business or non-profit, family or life legacy. Her inspiring testimony of living “love without regard to risk” empowers you to boldly walk through the doors God is opening for you with no worries.

Debbie is not a coach; she is a builder. She will inspire you to build the business, family, and life legacies that you have dreamed of. Debbie will teach you how to be an Impact Player for the Kingdom both now and for eternity.

Listeners can download the B.E.S.T. free guide here – https://thedebbiesimmons.com/best-strategy/

Don’t miss the full episode to witness Debbie’s incredible journey and learn how faith and trust can transform your life. Subscribe now and be inspired by her story of resilience and hope. Click on the image below to access the full episode.

Impact of Absent Fathers on Our Perception of God

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts1 Comment

Our relationship with our earthly fathers can profoundly shape our understanding of God. For many, an absent father leaves a void that influences how they perceive divine love and authority. This blog explores the intricate connections between fatherhood and faith, offering insights into healing and transformation.

Understanding the Void

An absent father can create a distorted image of what a father should be—one of protection, provision, and unconditional love. This absence often leads to emotional and spiritual barriers, making it challenging for individuals to trust in God’s love and presence. As discussed in our podcast, these wounds can manifest in feelings of abandonment and mistrust.

Faith as a Healing Path

Faith offers a path to healing these deep-seated wounds. By understanding that God is a perfect father, unlike any earthly one, individuals can begin to rebuild their perception of divine love. Scriptures such as Psalm 68:5, which describe God as a father to the fatherless, provide comfort and a new perspective on God’s unwavering care.

Breaking Generational Patterns

A father’s absence can perpetuate generational patterns of mistrust and fear. However, breaking these cycles is possible through intentional healing and faith-building practices. Engaging in community support, counseling, and mentorship can help overcome the negative impacts of an absent father.

Moving Forward with Hope

Healing from the impact of an absent father is a journey that requires patience and self-reflection. By embracing faith and understanding God’s unconditional love, individuals can find peace and purpose beyond their past experiences. This journey not only transforms personal faith but also sets a new standard for future generations.

The absence of a father can leave lasting scars, but healing is possible. By finding faith and understanding the true nature of divine love, individuals can overcome these wounds and live a life filled with hope and joy. Remember, your story doesn’t end with pain—it’s just the beginning of a new chapter.

Subscribe Now: Join us on this journey of healing and faith. Subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring stories and insights. Click on the image below to view our Father’s Day Episode. We hope you had a great one!