Tag: spiritual growth

Creating Intentional New Year Goals Rooted in Faith

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

As the year draws to a close, many of us begin thinking about resolutions and goals for the new year. It’s a time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we hope to go. However, as believers, our goals don’t just stem from personal desires—they are an opportunity to align our plans with God’s purpose for our lives.

Instead of focusing solely on external achievements, we can create Christ-centered goals that promote spiritual growth, strengthen our relationships, and honor God in every area of our lives. Let’s explore how to set intentional New Year goals rooted in faith.

1. Begin with Prayer

Before setting any goals, start with prayer. Ask God to guide you in reflecting on the past year and discerning His will for the year ahead. Invite Him into your planning process so your goals are aligned with His plans.

Prayer Prompts:

  • What lessons did God teach me this year?
  • Where is God calling me to grow?
  • How can I better serve Him and others?

Scriptural Reminder:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (James 1:5)

2. Reflect on Your Spiritual Journey

As you set goals, take time to evaluate your walk with Christ. Are there areas where you’d like to grow deeper in your faith? Perhaps you want to spend more time in prayer, read through the Bible, or become more active in serving others.

Consider goals that nurture your relationship with God, such as:

  • Establishing a daily quiet time.
  • Memorizing Scripture.
  • Joining a small group or Bible study.
  • Journaling prayers and answers.

Scriptural Reminder:
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18)

3. Set Goals That Glorify God

When creating goals, focus on how they can bring glory to God. Whether your goals are personal, professional, or relational, they should reflect your desire to honor Him.

Examples of Christ-centered goals:

  • Building healthier habits to honor your body as God’s temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
  • Strengthening your marriage or family relationships through intentional time together.
  • Using your talents and skills to serve in your church or community.
  • Managing your finances according to biblical principles.

Scriptural Reminder:
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)

4. Be Specific and Measurable

God is a God of order and intentionality, and our goals should reflect that. Vague goals can leave us feeling overwhelmed, but specific, measurable objectives give us direction.

For example:

  • Instead of “pray more,” set a goal to “pray for 15 minutes each morning.”
  • Instead of “read the Bible,” aim to “read through the New Testament by June.”
  • Instead of “serve others,” plan to “volunteer monthly at a local shelter.”

Scriptural Reminder:
“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” (Proverbs 21:5)

5. Balance Personal Growth with Serving Others

While self-improvement is valuable, our ultimate calling is to love and serve others. Consider setting goals that prioritize generosity, kindness, and community.

Ideas for outward-focused goals:

  • Start mentoring someone in your church or workplace.
  • Organize a monthly outreach with friends or family.
  • Commit to praying for specific individuals or causes each week.

Scriptural Reminder:
“Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:4)

6. Trust God with the Outcome

While it’s important to plan, remember that God’s plans are always greater than our own. Some goals may unfold differently than expected, and that’s okay. Trusting Him means surrendering our goals to His will and being open to His redirection.

Scriptural Reminder:
“In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)

7. Stay Accountable and Celebrate Progress

Share your goals with trusted friends or family members who can encourage and hold you accountable. Celebrate the small victories along the way, remembering that every step of growth is worth acknowledging.

Encouragement Tip: Keep a journal to track how God works through your goals. Looking back on His faithfulness will inspire gratitude and perseverance.

Final Thoughts: A Year with Purpose

As you step into the new year, let your goals reflect your faith and trust in God. Whether big or small, each intentional step can bring you closer to Him and help you live out His purpose for your life.

Closing Scripture:
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” (Proverbs 16:3)

Let’s approach this new year with hope, purpose, and a heart ready to follow where God leads.

Happy 2025!

Finding God’s Purpose in Seasons of Waiting

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts2 Comments

Waiting is one of life’s greatest challenges. Whether it’s waiting for a job, healing, a relationship, or clarity about the future, these seasons often feel unproductive, frustrating, and endless. Yet, the Bible reassures us that waiting is not wasted time—it’s an opportunity for growth, preparation, and deepening our faith.

God often uses these moments to shape us, strengthen us, and align us with His perfect plan. Let’s explore how we can embrace seasons of waiting with trust and purpose.

1. Biblical Examples of Waiting

The Bible is filled with stories of people who waited on God’s timing, often for years or even decades:

  • Abraham and Sarah waited 25 years for the promised son, Isaac, after God declared they would be parents.
  • Joseph endured 13 years of slavery and imprisonment before rising to power in Egypt and seeing his dreams fulfilled.
  • Hannah prayed fervently for a child and waited until God blessed her with Samuel, who became a great prophet.

In each of these stories, God was working behind the scenes, preparing these individuals for the fulfillment of His promises. Their waiting wasn’t passive—it was an active season of faith and trust. “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9)

2. Why Waiting Is Important

Seasons of waiting serve a purpose, even if we can’t see it in the moment. Here’s what God might be doing during this time:

  • Refining Your Character: Waiting can cultivate patience, humility, and perseverance.
  • Strengthening Your Faith: Trusting God during uncertainty deepens your relationship with Him.
  • Preparing You for the Next Step: Often, God uses waiting to equip us for what’s ahead, whether it’s a new role, responsibility, or blessing.

“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)

3. What to Do While You Wait

Instead of viewing waiting as a time of inaction, see it as an opportunity to grow and glorify God. Here are some practical steps:

  • Pray Continually: Use this time to draw closer to God through prayer. Share your hopes, fears, and frustrations with Him.
  • Serve Others: Shift your focus outward by finding ways to bless those around you. Serving can bring purpose and joy to a waiting season.
  • Seek Wisdom: Read Scripture, meditate on God’s promises, and seek counsel from trusted mentors or friends.
  • Take Small Steps: If there’s something within your control, take action. For example, if you’re waiting for a new job, update your resume or network with others.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

4. Trusting God’s Timing

One of the hardest parts of waiting is letting go of our own timelines and trusting God’s. His timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t align with ours.

Sometimes, what feels like a delay is actually God protecting us or preparing something far greater than we imagined. Remember, He sees the bigger picture. “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart, yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

5. Embracing Hope in the Waiting

Seasons of waiting are not void of hope. God promises that He is with us every step of the way. Even in uncertainty, we can find peace knowing that His plans are for our good.

Encouragement:

  • Write down God’s promises and revisit them daily.
  • Surround yourself with a community of believers who can pray with and encourage you.
  • Reflect on past seasons where God showed His faithfulness.

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

Final Thoughts: Waiting with Purpose

Waiting is never easy, but it is an essential part of God’s work in our lives. Instead of rushing through these seasons, let’s lean into them with faith, trusting that God’s plan is far greater than anything we could imagine.

If you find yourself in a season of waiting, know this: God is with you, He is for you, and He is working all things together for your good. Trust Him to bring beauty and purpose in His perfect time. “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)

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.

Where Is Your Faith?

On By Naty MatosIn Articles1 Comment

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift as many people choose to leave their churches or distance themselves from their faith. This trend often stems from negative experiences within their religious communities or deep disappointment in religious leaders who have been found guilty of despicable acts. These situations beg a crucial question: where is your faith placed? Is it in God or in the fallible humans who lead religious congregations?

It’s essential to acknowledge that religious leaders, despite their higher calling, are still human beings. They possess the same weaknesses and capacity for wrongdoing as anyone else. The Bible reminds us in Psalm 118:8, “It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans.” This verse emphasizes that placing our faith solely in human beings is fraught with risks. Humans can fail, disappoint, and lead us astray, but God remains constant and unchanging.

When a religious leader falls from grace, the impact on their congregation can be profound. Feelings of betrayal and disillusionment are natural. However, it is critical to remember that these leaders are not the foundation of our faith. Jeremiah 17:5-7 states, “Thus says the Lord: ‘Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the Lord. Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord.’” These verses highlight the dangers of placing our ultimate trust in people rather than in God.

The Bible consistently directs us to place our faith in God, not in humans. Hebrews 12:2 advises, “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” This guidance is crucial, particularly in times of disappointment and disillusionment. When our faith is firmly rooted in God, we can withstand the storms that arise from human failure and sin.

It is beneficial for each of us to reflect on the foundation of our faith. Are we more invested in the personalities and actions of our religious leaders than in God Himself? Matthew 7:24-27 tells the parable of the wise and foolish builders, emphasizing the importance of building our spiritual foundation on the solid rock of God’s teachings rather than on the shifting sands of human behavior.

For those feeling disheartened by the actions of others within their religious community, take heart. Use this opportunity to refocus and realign your faith. Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Persistence in faith, despite human failings, will ultimately lead to spiritual growth and fulfillment.

As we navigate the complexities of faith within religious communities, it is vital to continually examine our hearts and ensure that our faith remains anchored in God. Reflect on where your faith is placed and recognize when it may have been affected by misplaced trust. By keeping our eyes fixed on God, we can find strength, resilience, and true peace, even amidst human imperfections.

In the end, let us remember the words of Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” This scripture is a timeless reminder to trust in God above all else and to find our security and direction in Him alone.

Until next time, stay blessed.

Remember to check out our Youtube Channel

Overcoming Ego for Spiritual Growth: A Christian Perspective

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In the pursuit of spiritual growth, Christians often face the significant challenge of overcoming the ego. The ego, our sense of self-importance and individual identity, can be an obstacle to deeper faith and communion with God. By embracing humility and selflessness, Christians can transcend the ego, drawing closer to the divine. This blog post explores the Christian approach to overcoming ego, supported by scripture and practical steps for spiritual growth.

In Christianity, the ego represents our self-centered nature, often manifesting as pride, arrogance, and selfishness. The Bible consistently warns against these traits, highlighting the importance of humility and self-denial. Jesus’ teachings and the writings of the apostles provide clear guidance on how to manage and overcome the ego.

The Bible addresses the dangers of ego and the virtues of humility extensively. One of the most profound teachings comes from Jesus Himself:

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.” – Luke 9:23-24

This passage emphasizes the need to deny the ego, symbolized by taking up the cross, to follow Christ truly. The call to self-denial is a call to let go of personal pride and selfish desires.

The apostle Paul also speaks about the importance of humility in his letters:

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:3-4

Paul’s message underscores the Christian ideal of putting others first, a direct challenge to the ego-driven mindset.

The ego can impede spiritual growth in several ways:

  1. Pride: Pride leads us to believe we are self-sufficient and superior to others, diminishing our reliance on God and separating us from Him.
  2. Selfishness: An ego-centric life focuses on personal gain rather than serving others, contrary to the teachings of Christ.
  3. Resistance to Change: The ego resists humility and self-examination, hindering our willingness to grow and transform spiritually.

Practical Steps to Overcome the Ego

  1. Practice Humility: Embrace humility by recognizing that all good things come from God. Regularly remind yourself of God’s greatness and your dependence on His grace. “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10
  2. Engage in Self-Reflection: Reflect on your thoughts and actions to identify where ego might be influencing you. Prayer and meditation can be powerful tools for self-examination. “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” – Psalm 139:23-24
  3. Serve Others: Actively seek opportunities to serve others. Acts of kindness and service help shift focus from self to others, aligning with Christ’s teachings. “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45
  4. Seek Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Acknowledge your faults and seek forgiveness from God and others. This practice humbles the ego and fosters spiritual growth. “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” – James 5:16
  5. Cultivate Gratitude: Regularly express gratitude to God for His blessings. Gratitude shifts focus away from what we lack or desire, reducing the ego’s grip. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Overcoming the ego is essential for true spiritual growth in the Christian faith. By embracing humility, selflessness, and service, Christians can align themselves more closely with God’s will. As we surrender our ego, we open our hearts to the transformative power of God’s grace, leading to deeper spiritual fulfillment and a closer relationship with Him.

In the words of Jesus:

“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” – Matthew 5:5

May we all strive to overcome our egos, fostering a spirit of humility and love in our journey with Christ.

Until next time, be blessed. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel

Keeping Faith Grounded

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In the realm of faith, it’s easy to find ourselves admiring and respecting those who hold positions of authority within the church. Pastors, ministers, and leaders guide us, inspire us, and often serve as examples of faith in action. However, as Christians, it’s vital to remember that these individuals, while worthy of respect, are fallible humans just like us. Placing them on pedestals risks turning admiration into idolatry and can lead to profound disappointment when they inevitably stumble.

Scripture repeatedly reminds us to keep our focus on Christ alone. In Psalm 62:5-7, David writes, “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.” Here, David underscores the unwavering reliability of God as our ultimate source of strength and salvation.

Jesus Himself warned against putting too much trust in human leaders, stating in Matthew 23:9, “And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father, and he is in heaven.” This isn’t to diminish the importance of spiritual leaders but to remind us that they are conduits, not the source, of our faith.

When individuals in positions of authority fail morally or ethically, it can shake the foundations of our faith if we’ve placed too much reliance on them. Paul addresses this in 1 Corinthians 3:4-5, where he admonishes against forming factions around human leaders, writing, “For when one says, ‘I follow Paul,’ and another, ‘I follow Apollos,’ are you not mere human beings? What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task.”

The danger of idolizing human leaders within the church becomes painfully apparent when scandal strikes. When a trusted pastor or revered minister falls from grace, it can cause widespread disillusionment and even drive people away from their faith. This underscores the importance of anchoring our faith firmly in Christ rather than in fallible human vessels.

Our relationship with God should never be contingent upon the actions or integrity of those who lead us. Instead, it should be grounded in a personal connection with Jesus Christ, who remains steadfast and unchanging regardless of human frailty. Hebrews 13:8 reaffirms this truth: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

Ultimately, while we should respect and honor those in positions of authority within the church, we must always remember that they are imperfect vessels through which God works. Placing our complete trust in Christ alone guards against the pitfalls of idolatry and ensures that our faith remains steadfast, even in the face of disappointment or betrayal.

In conclusion, let us heed the words of Psalm 118:8, which declares, “It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans.” By keeping our faith firmly rooted in Christ, we find unwavering strength, hope, and salvation that can never be shaken by the failings of mortal men.

Until next time, be blessed

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

Deepening Our Roots in Faith and Life

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In the ebb and flow of daily life, where the hustle often overshadows our spiritual needs, the “Thrive” podcast stands as a beacon for those seeking to ground themselves in faith. As part of our ongoing promotional campaign, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on how “Thrive” continues to offer guidance, inspiration, and a sense of community for listeners navigating the intersections of Christianity, mental health, parenting, family, and women’s issues. This platform is not just a podcast; it’s a journey towards spiritual enrichment and personal growth.

Nurturing Faith at Home

“Thrive” dives deep into the heart of faith-based parenting, emphasizing the critical role of introducing our children to God’s teachings from an early age. Beyond just the inclusion of faith-related books alongside academic ones, the podcast underscores the importance of living out the tenets of our faith in our daily lives. It’s about setting an example—showing our children the power of prayer, the strength found in turning to God during difficult times, and the impact of a personal relationship with Jesus witnessed through our actions.

Living the Teachings of Jesus

Each episode of “Thrive” is a treasure trove of wisdom on how to embody kindness, forgiveness, and empathy, just as Jesus did. The podcast offers strategies for parents eager to arm their children with Biblical wisdom to face today’s cultural challenges head-on, all while maintaining a foundation built on biblical principles. From engaging in acts of kindness to teaching gratitude and establishing a dialogue about faith within the safety of home, “Thrive” serves as your guide in fostering a nurturing, faith-filled environment.

A Family’s Spiritual Journey

“Thrive” champions the concept of spirituality as a collective journey, encouraging practices such as attending church as a family, engaging in regular prayer, and making Scripture reading a part of daily life. These shared experiences not only strengthen the family bond but also instill profound spiritual truths in children from a young age. Furthermore, the podcast discusses the significance of prayer in parenting, suggesting practical tools like prayer journals to keep families aligned with their faith goals.

Join the “Thrive” Community

As we continue to unfold the layers of integrating faith with the complexities of modern living, “Thrive” invites you to become part of a growing community that seeks to live a life reflective of their faith. This podcast is your companion in navigating the challenges and joys of parenting, mental health, and personal growth through a Christian lens.

Remember Thrive launches on April 7th and will be available on your favorite podcast platform. Take a step towards a life where faith and daily living intertwine seamlessly. Together, let’s embrace the journey of thriving in faith, hope, and love, one episode at a time. You can also subscribe to our Youtube channel, where the video version of Thrive will be housed.

Join us, as we explore the depth of living a spiritually enriched life that not only seeks understanding but also puts faith into action. Let’s not just navigate life; let’s thrive in it, with every story, every teaching, and every conversation guiding us closer to the heart of what it means to live fully in faith.

Until next time, take care and God bless.

Join Us on a Journey of Healing and Understanding with “Thrive” Podcast

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Welcome to a world where understanding meets action, where compassion transcends cultural boundaries, and where your voice and story find a home. We’re excited let you have another peek behind the curtain of the launch of “Thrive,” a podcast dedicated to exploring the depths of Christianity, mental health, parenting, family, and women’s issues, with an open heart and a discerning spirit. Our voyage begins on April 7th, but the conversation—and the community we’re building—starts now.

Diving Deep into The Role of Culture in Mental Health

“Thrive” is more than just a podcast; it’s a movement. A space where the invisible threads that weave culture and mental health together are untangled and examined. As a sneak peak on one of our topics, we confront an often overlooked yet fundamental aspect of our well-being: The Role of Culture in Mental Health.

Shattering Cultural Stigmas

Our journey will take us into the heart of how diverse perspectives on mental health can both harm and heal. We’ll explore the stigmas that silence sufferers, the cultural barriers to seeking help, and the disparities in access to mental health services. It’s time to break the silence and start the conversation.

Culturally Competent Care: A Path Forward

Through engaging discussions, expert interviews, and heart-touching stories, “Thrive” will illuminate the path toward culturally competent mental health care. Education, community engagement, and collaboration stand at the core of our mission—to create a world where mental health care is accessible, sensitive, and inclusive of all cultural backgrounds.

Why “Thrive” is a Must-Listen

“Thrive” is not just another podcast; it’s a commitment to understanding, a promise of hope, and a testament to the power of community. Here’s why you can’t miss it:

  • Engaging Content: Dive deep into the intersections of faith, culture, mental health, and more through thoughtful discussions and storytelling.
  • Expert Insights: Gain unique perspectives from a diverse range of voices, including mental health professionals, religious leaders, and individuals with lived experiences.
  • Community Focus: Join a growing community dedicated to breaking down barriers, understanding cultural nuances, and fostering a supportive environment for all.

Mark Your Calendars

The journey begins on April 7th, but the conversation starts now. Subscribe to our podcast on here to ensure you never miss an episode. Together, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of cultural background.

As we countdown to our launch, remember that “Thrive” is more than just a podcast—it’s a community, a conversation, and a chance to make a real difference. Whether you’re struggling, know someone who is, or simply wish to deepen your understanding of the complex interplay between culture and mental health, “Thrive” welcomes you.

Join us on “Thrive,” where every story matters, every voice is heard, and every struggle is acknowledged. Together, we’ll explore, learn, and grow, embracing the beautiful diversity of our experiences and backgrounds with open hearts and open minds.

Don’t forget to follow us, engage with our content, and spread the word. The path to understanding, acceptance, and healing starts with a single step. Let’s make that step together on April 7th. See you there! 🌟

Finding Meaning in our Challenges

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Amid life’s challenges, gratitude is often the last emotion we feel. Whether it’s physical or emotional pain, navigating through difficulties is never an easy task. However, as we reflect on our journey, we may find that these trials bear fruit, offering us invaluable lessons and growth.

The Control Freak’s Journey:

“I am controlling. I like to plan. I like to know when, what, who, how, and where… all the time.” How many of us can relate to this sentiment? God often places us in situations where we must surrender, throw our hands in the air, and say, “Whatever you want, God.” It’s a journey filled with improvement, setbacks, and the constant need for reminders.

Desires of the Heart:

We’ve all heard the scripture about God granting the desires of our hearts. Yet, timing can be an issue. God may withhold a desire not because it’s not meant for us, but because we aren’t ready to receive it. Be cautious in asking God to protect us while robbing a bank or to dissolve someone else’s marriage for our own desires. I assure you that’s not part of his will.

Unexpected Blessings:

My greatest desire—to become a mother. The journey wasn’t as expected, not in the timing, circumstances, or package I envisioned. Yet, it turned out to be perfect. The lesson? God’s plans are often beyond our understanding, and His timing is always perfect, even if we don’t see it at first.

Rejection and Growth:

When faced with rejection, like being passed over for a promotion multiple times, it may be a clue to move on to a place that appreciates our talents. Every experience teaches us something, ensuring that nothing learned is in vain. Just like in the movie “Karate Kid,” where Mr. Miyagi’s unconventional training methods turned out to be invaluable lessons for Daniel, God often works similarly. The challenges we face today are the lessons we need for a better life in the future.

Seeking God’s Lessons:

Ask God today, “What are you trying to teach me in this season?” By embracing challenges with faith, we open ourselves to the possibility of learning valuable lessons that will shape our future.

Life’s challenges may seem overwhelming, but through gratitude, faith, and an openness to learning, we can navigate them with strength and resilience. Just like the writer’s journey of surrendering control and embracing unexpected blessings, our own stories may unfold in ways we never imagined. Until next time, be blessed on your journey of growth and faith.