Tag: Faith Journey

Three Kings Day: Honoring the Journey, Not Just the Gift

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

January 6th marks Three Kings Day, also known as Epiphany—the moment the Magi finally reached Jesus after a long, uncertain journey guided only by a star and faith that refused to let them turn back.

We often rush past this day, packing away the nativity and moving on to the next goal, the next resolution, the next task. But Three Kings Day invites us to pause—not at the destination—but at the journey.

Faith Isn’t Always a Straight Line

The Magi didn’t have a detailed map.
They didn’t know how long the road would be.
They didn’t have confirmation at every step.

They simply kept moving.

That’s important for us to remember as we step deeper into a new year. Faith doesn’t always feel confident. Sometimes it looks like asking questions, taking detours, or trusting God even when clarity hasn’t arrived yet.

Mental wellness and spiritual growth often work the same way. Healing, purpose, and alignment rarely come overnight. They unfold as we keep showing up—tired, hopeful, uncertain, but willing.

The Gifts We Bring Matter

The Magi brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh—gifts that symbolized kingship, divinity, and sacrifice. But what often gets overlooked is that the most powerful thing they offered wasn’t what they carried in their hands.

It was their obedience.
Their humility.
Their willingness to kneel.

As we reflect today, it’s worth asking:

  • What am I bringing into this season?
  • Am I offering God my trust—or just my plans?
  • Am I willing to surrender outcomes, not just intentions?

Sometimes the most meaningful gift we can bring is honesty—about our fears, our exhaustion, our hopes, and our need for guidance.

A Season of Revelation, Not Perfection

Epiphany is about revelation—God revealing Himself to the world. And revelation often comes quietly, through reflection rather than fireworks.

As you continue into this year, remember:
You don’t have to have everything figured out.
You don’t need to rush your growth.
You don’t need to compare your journey to anyone else’s.

Like the Magi, you are allowed to move at the pace of faith.

A Gentle Reflection for Today

Take a moment today to sit with these questions:

  • What “star” am I being asked to follow right now?
  • What distractions might I need to release?
  • What would it look like to trust God with the unknown parts of my life?

Three Kings Day reminds us that the journey itself is sacred—and that when we keep walking in faith, even imperfectly, we will arrive exactly where we’re meant to be.

Finding Joy in the Everyday: A Faithful Perspective

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Big achievements get all the attention. Graduations, promotions, weddings — they’re celebrated loudly. But the quiet truth is that real happiness often lives in the small, almost forgettable moments. A good cup of coffee. A random text from a friend. The way sunlight spills across the kitchen floor in the morning.

“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24)

We spend so much time chasing major milestones that we miss the everyday wins. We rush through breakfast thinking about the next deadline. We zone out during conversations because our minds are already five steps ahead. Meanwhile, life is happening in the background, quietly offering small joys to anyone paying attention.

Noticing these moments takes intention. It’s about slowing down, even briefly. It’s pausing to appreciate the rhythm of rain against the window or the smell of fresh laundry. It’s hearing your favorite song at the grocery store and actually letting yourself smile.

“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” (Zechariah 4:10)

Gratitude is part of it, sure, but it’s more than that. It’s a mindset shift: choosing to see your daily life as enough, rather than a waiting room for something “better” to happen.

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Start small. Put your phone down when you’re eating. Watch how your dog greets you like you’re the best part of its day. Laugh at a bad joke. Feel the weight of a cozy blanket. These moments won’t make headlines, but they build a quiet, lasting happiness that’s hard to shake.

Joy isn’t hidden in some grand future. It’s scattered all over your ordinary day, waiting to be noticed.

Finding Purpose Through the Storm

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

What if every trial, every storm, and every heartbreak in your life led you toward something greater? What if the pain you’ve endured wasn’t meant to break you but to prepare you for your purpose?

In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sit down with the incredible Bambi Makowski—a mother, grandmother, storyteller, and author whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From overcoming personal trauma to impacting lives one door at a time, Bambi’s testimony is a powerful reminder that faith can turn brokenness into beauty.

🚪 Knocking on Doors, Changing Lives
Bambi shares how her years working with Nielsen TV Ratings and the Census Bureau taught her the power of human connection. Each door she knocked on held a different story—some heartbreaking, some inspiring, but all life-changing. Through these encounters, she learned to see people beyond their circumstances and embrace the beauty in every journey.

💔 From Trauma to Triumph
Bambi opens up about the darkest moments of her life when she felt unseen and unheard. But she also reveals the incredible ways that God stepped in, time and time again, transforming her pain into purpose. Her story is raw, unfiltered, and filled with moments that will leave you speechless.

🙏 Faith, Healing, and the Power of Sharing Your Story
In this episode, we discuss why sharing our stories is essential for healing, how God never wastes our pain, and why embracing our scars can lead to true freedom. Bambi reminds us that our past does not define us—God does.

Bambi is a mother of six, grandmother to thirteen—and counting!—a passionate storyteller, and an author of two published books with more on the way. Her journey hasn’t been easy, but through every trial, she’s found purpose and hope. You can reach her on her website Healing Through Stories.

🔥 You Don’t Want to Miss This!
This conversation is one of the most powerful we’ve had on the podcast. It’s real. It’s vulnerable. It’s inspiring. If you’ve ever questioned your worth, struggled with trauma, or wondered if God has a purpose for your pain—this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

Let us know your thoughts! What part of Bambi’s story resonated with you the most? Drop a comment or send us a message—we’d love to hear from you!

Love Beyond Valentine’s Day: Exploring the Depths of Love

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Valentine’s Day is often reduced to chocolates, flowers, and romantic gestures, but what if love is so much more? In our latest Thrive by The Rising Muse episode, we peel back the layers of love and explore its true essence.

From the unwavering love of God to the deep connections we share with family and friends—and even the challenge of loving those who don’t love us back—this conversation will challenge your perspective on love.

Join us as we discuss how to navigate relationships through faith, what it means to love beyond conditions, and why true love is an action, not just a feeling. We will also dive into self-love and setting boundaries, ensuring that love isn’t just something we give but something we nurture within ourselves.

This episode is more than a discussion—it’s an invitation to live out love every day. Are you ready to redefine what love means in your life? Tune in now and let’s thrive together!

🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

#FaithBasedLove #GodsLove #SelfLove #FamilyLove #FriendshipGoals #MentalHealth #ValentinesDay #LoveBeyondRomance #UnconditionalLove #FaithJourney

The Truth About Spiritual Warfare & Walking in God’s Authority!

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive1 Comment

Have you ever faced a battle so overwhelming that it felt impossible to overcome? What if that battle was actually a path to discovering God’s power in your life?

In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sit down with Tom Snow, the author of The Daily Stand, a book that goes beyond the concept of spiritual warfare to reveal how walking with God transforms every aspect of our lives. Tom shares his powerful testimony of miraculous healing, overcoming deep-seated guilt, and finding true freedom through faith.

💡 What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
✔️ The life-changing moment when Tom heard God’s voice during his darkest hour
✔️ How spiritual warfare isn’t just about fighting battles—but about standing firm in God’s authority
✔️ The hidden dangers of unforgiveness and why it acts like a “spiritual cancer”
✔️ Practical steps to walk in faith, yield to God’s power, and break free from generational struggles

This conversation is raw, eye-opening, and deeply inspiring—a must-listen for anyone seeking to grow in faith and understand the true power of spiritual warfare.

Tom has over 50 years of experience walking with God, and through miraculous personal stories, they’ve uncovered profound lessons that every believer needs to hear. He’s the author of The Daily Stand, a book that’s not just about spiritual warfare but about learning to walk with God through life’s toughest moments.

Over fifty years ago, as a teenager, Tom was dying of terminal cancer. he had just lost my mother to cancer and was going through terrible guilt, blaming himself for her death. At that terrifying time in his life, he met the Lord. It was early in the Charismatic Movement and a time of many miracles, including how he met Him and how He healed him of that cancer. He started this book over forty years ago but didn’t pick it back up until going through CHF one and a half years ago. One month after CHF the Lord said “Pick up and finish the book.”

You can connect with Tom on his website.

🎧 Don’t miss it! Listen now here.

📢 Have thoughts on this episode? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments!

Living in the World but Not of It: A Call to Reflect Christ

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In recent times, many Christians have been led to believe that we are called to impose our beliefs on the world by force, forgetting a fundamental truth of our faith: we are in this world, but we are not of it. This misunderstanding has led to behaviors and attitudes that run contrary to the teachings of Jesus. It’s like asking hotel management to remodel the room we’re renting temporarily. We’ve forgotten that this world is not our permanent home. As believers, our mission is not to change the world by worldly means but to point others to Christ so that their hearts can be transformed.

Jesus’ words in John 17:14-16 remind us of our place: “I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.” Our calling is to live as ambassadors of Christ, reflecting His love, grace, and truth while remembering that hatred, division, and force are tools of the enemy, who seeks to kill, deceive, and destroy (John 10:10).

The Mission We’ve Forgotten

The Great Commission calls us to make disciples, not to coerce others into belief. Jesus commands in Matthew 28:19-20, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” This mission requires patience, humility, and love. It’s not about forcing others to conform to our standards but about lovingly pointing them to the truth found in God’s Word.

Some have even gone so far as to attempt to manufacture events to hasten Jesus’ return. This is not only an act of pride but also selfishness. In Matthew 24:36, Jesus said, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” It is not our place to decide when Christ will return. Our focus should remain on the mission He has given us. If we truly love others as ourselves (Matthew 22:39), we will desire their salvation as much as we desired our own. Remember, someone shared the Gospel with us when we were lost. Let us not give up on others who have yet to know the truth.

Jesus Was Not a Political Figure

Many Christians today seem to forget that Jesus did not come to establish a political kingdom. He didn’t seek to change the laws of Rome or Jerusalem. Instead, He came to reveal the kingdom of heaven and to transform hearts. When we focus on imposing our beliefs through political or social power, we lose sight of the example Christ set for us.

In John 18:36, Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.” This statement underscores the spiritual nature of His mission. Our task is not to make this world our home but to invite others to prepare for the kingdom of heaven.

Reflecting Christ’s Love

When we are unkind to those who are different from us, we’re not acting like Jesus. Loving the sinner while rejecting the sin is the delicate balance we’re called to maintain. Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 provide a clear picture of what Christlike love looks like: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

Sadly, many unbelievers are turned away from Christ and His church not solely because of deception but because of the behavior of Christians that fails to reflect Christ. As John 13:34-35 says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Love, not force, is the mark of true discipleship.

Staying Focused on Our Calling

As followers of Christ, our job is not to participate in the ways of the world but to preach the Word of God so that more people can be saved. Romans 12:2 reminds us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” We cannot transform hearts—only God can do that. But we can live in a way that reflects His love, inviting others to experience His grace and truth.

The enemy seeks to sow division and hatred, but we are called to be instruments of peace. Let us remember our true mission: to share the Gospel, love others as Christ loves us, and reflect the kingdom of heaven in all we do. In doing so, we honor God and fulfill the purpose He has set before us.

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:

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To listen to this episode click here:

Celebrating Faith, Resilience, and Cultural Change with Tanya Nemley

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive2 Comments

Are you ready to be inspired by a journey of faith, resilience, and personal transformation?

In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with the incredible Tanya Nemley, a mother, grandmother, and author, whose life story is a testament to the power of faith. Tanya opens up about her struggles with depression and suicidal ideation during her youth, her remarkable recovery, and how she found solace and strength in her deep relationship with God.

What You’ll Discover:

  • How Tanya’s faith helped her overcome immense personal challenges, including the loss of a family member to suicide.
  • Her unique perspective on how the church and society have evolved over the years, especially regarding mental health, family dynamics, and community support.
  • Insights into her experiences with aging and the wisdom she has gained along the way.
  • What motivated her to author the impactful books Obsessed With God and A Layman’s View on the Holiness of God, and how her role as a minister’s wife has shaped her ministry work.

Tanya’s journey is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the path may seem, there is always hope. Her story of resilience and her deep commitment to faith will resonate with anyone who has faced adversity. But that’s just the beginning—Tanya also shares her thoughts on the cultural shifts she’s witnessed over the decades and the ongoing work in her ministry.

Why You Should Tune In:
This episode isn’t just a story—it’s a celebration of seniors and the incredible lives they’ve led. Tanya’s reflections on how societal and religious landscapes have changed over the years offer a unique window into the past, as well as insights into how we can all grow from these experiences. Whether you’re looking for encouragement, spiritual guidance, or simply a story that speaks to the heart, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

Get a Glimpse of the Episode:
One of the most poignant moments in our conversation with Tanya is when she discusses the profound changes she’s seen in the church and society over the years, particularly in how we handle mental health and community connections. Her reflections are both eye-opening and inspiring, providing valuable lessons for listeners of all ages.

Ready to Be Inspired?
Don’t miss this heartfelt and uplifting episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse. Listen now to hear Tanya Nemley’s full story and discover the wisdom she has to offer. Whether you’re dealing with your own struggles or simply want to celebrate the strength and faith of others, this episode will leave you feeling empowered and hopeful. To hear more from Tanya you can go to her website

Listen Now: https://youtu.be/nQ0zFV-wqLo

Join the Conversation!
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. How has your own faith journey been influenced by the changes in society and the church? Share your reflections with us on social media using the hashtag #ThriveWithFaith.

Subscribe & Stay Connected
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thrive by The Rising Muse for more inspiring stories of faith, resilience, and triumph. Follow us on social mediato stay updated on our latest episodes and news.

Discovering Your Divine Purpose

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Are you ready to uncover your God-given design and ignite a fire within your faith journey? The latest episode of our podcast is a deep dive into the inspiring story of Brush Fires Ministry, featuring an exclusive interview with the founder, John Rennie. Whether you’re a believer seeking direction or someone intrigued by the power of faith-based guidance, this episode is a must-listen.

The Birth of Brush Fires Ministry

In a captivating interview, John Rennie shares the fascinating journey of how Brush Fires Ministry came to be. Starting as a reluctant participant, John reveals how a divine calling led him to create a ministry that helps believers discover their unique, God-given designs. This story is not just about a ministry’s inception but a testament to the transformative power of faith and obedience.

Unlocking the Mystery of Your Purpose

Brush Fires Ministry uses psychometric assessments to delve into the core of an individual’s personality, much like DNA analysis for your spiritual calling. John explains how these assessments, originally used by corporations like Coca-Cola and IBM, are now helping believers understand their true purpose. Imagine having a clear, objective understanding of your spiritual gifts and how they can be applied to build the kingdom of God.

Beyond Identifying Gifts: Kingdom Building

The mission of Brush Fires goes beyond merely identifying spiritual gifts. John passionately discusses the broader goal of kingdom building, emphasizing that true ministry extends far beyond church walls. It’s about igniting the fire within individuals to live out their God-ordained purposes, thereby transforming communities and making a global impact.

Real Stories, Real Impact

The episode is filled with powerful anecdotes that showcase the life-changing impact of Brush Fires Ministry. From a 15-year-old girl discovering her calling to an elderly gentleman finding new purpose, these stories illustrate the ministry’s profound influence on individuals of all ages. These testimonials are a glimpse into the transformative experiences that await those who engage with Brush Fires.

A Vision for the Future

John shares his vision for the future of Brush Fires Ministry, expressing a desire to see 80% of church congregations actively living out their divine purposes. This vision includes creating ministry incubators within churches and providing the necessary support for believers to thrive in their spiritual journeys. It’s an inspiring call to action for church leaders and believers alike.

How You Can Get Involved

Feeling inspired? John provides actionable steps for those who want to support or get involved with Brush Fires Ministry. From taking the initial spiritual gifts assessment to potentially partnering with the ministry, there are numerous ways to contribute to this incredible mission.

Tune in to this enlightening episode to learn more about how Brush Fires Ministry is changing lives and how you can be a part of this divine movement. Whether you’re seeking clarity on your spiritual gifts or looking to support a ministry dedicated to empowering believers, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.

Don’t miss out on this transformative conversation. Listen to the full episode now and discover how you can ignite your own faith journey with Brush Fires Ministry.

How I Transformed My Pain Into Power- Tanisha’s Story

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In our latest episode of “Thrive by The Rising Muse,” we are honored to have Tanisha Bankston, the remarkable author and founder of the ministry “My Pain is My Power,” share her deeply personal and transformative journey. This episode delves into the profound impact of childhood trauma and the incredible power of faith and resilience in overcoming life’s most challenging moments.

A Glimpse into Tanisha’s Journey

From an early age, Tanisha faced unimaginable pain and adversity. Her story begins at just five years old when she endured abuse and was subsequently disbelieved by those she trusted. This traumatic experience silenced her inner voice and set her on a path of fear, shame, and self-doubt that spanned nearly three decades.

In “My Pain is My Power,” Tanisha courageously recounts her journey of finding her voice again and reclaiming her life through faith. She speaks candidly about the struggles she faced, the healing power of prayer, and how she transformed her pain into a source of strength to empower others.

Tanisha also shares valuable information about her ministry, “My Pain is My Power,” and its mission to support women and children who have experienced similar traumas. She discusses the various initiatives and programs her ministry offers and how the community can better support individuals on their healing journeys.

Why You Should Listen

This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith. Tanisha’s story is not just one of survival but of thriving against all odds. Her journey from pain to power is an inspiration to anyone who has faced adversity and seeks hope and healing.

Tune In and Be Inspired

Don’t miss this compelling episode of “Thrive by The Rising Muse.” Tanisha’s story will leave you inspired, uplifted, and ready to embrace the power within yourself to overcome any obstacle.

Tanisha Bankston is a mother of 3 children from Grenada, Mississippi. She is a survivor of childhood abuse and domestic violence, and now an author and speaker. Tanisha was abused at the age of 5, leading her to lose her inner voice and withdraw into a shell for 27 years. She was taken from her mother, separated from her siblings, and adopted by her aunt. Despite feeling protected, she faced further challenges within the broken judicial system. Tanisha became a teen mom at 14 and again at 17. She rediscovered her inner voice on July 3, 2020, and found healing and deliverance from her pain and past on September 4, 2020. Tanisha wrote and self-published her book “My Pain is My Power” on May 21, 2021. She created a private support group for survivors called “I Believe You” on Facebook and founded the nonprofit organization I Believe You Inc. Tanisha launched her podcast, “My Pain is My Power Podcast,” on April 1, 2022, aiming to inspire others that they can overcome their challenges with hope.

To connect with Tanisha:

Listen to the full episode on here and join us in supporting Tanisha’s mission to empower others through her ministry.

Be sure to subscribe to “Thrive by The Rising Muse” for more inspiring stories and insightful discussions on faith, family, and mental health. Follow us on [social media links] and stay connected for updates on future episodes and special guests.

Together, let’s turn pain into power and support one another on our journeys of healing and growth.