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  • Raising Expectations, August 17, 2026
    2026/08/17
    Guest, Teri Werner, COVID Angels, Courage, and Conviction: Finding Faith Through Trauma and Speaking Up in Uncertain Times A Testimony of Isolation and Faith Terry Warner centers the episode on what she calls her “COVID angels,” recounting a severe hospitalization in which she was isolated from her husband and feared she might die. She describes the emotional impact of being alone, the medical staff who cared for her, and multiple encounters she interpreted as signs of God’s presence. Terry says nurses, a pastor who worked as a night nurse, a janitor, medical technicians, and doctors repeatedly encouraged her and told her she would live. Her primary purpose in sharing the story is to comfort families who could not be physically present with loved ones during COVID hospitalizations. Medical Crisis, Prayer, and Meaning Terry describes needing substantial oxygen, having very low blood pressure, developing kidney problems, and experiencing a severe medication reaction. She recounts lying in her hospital room with gospel music playing and praying when doctors said they did not know what else to do. She says she heard what she experienced as the voice of God telling her, “I am the answer,” and that her condition began to improve afterward. Throughout this section, Terry frames her recovery as a spiritual testimony rather than simply a medical story, emphasizing that people may never know all the acts of care, prayer, and compassion that surrounded their loved ones. Shared Memories of the Pandemic Ron Greer, Paul Hall, and Melba Hernandez add their own experiences of COVID and pandemic restrictions. Ron describes anger over hospital visitation rules and recounts trying to advocate for his mother-in-law, who had dementia, while friends watched loved ones die in nursing homes from outside windows. Paul discusses his wife’s prolonged illness and lingering effects, while Melba recalls having a milder case and relying on a “faith over fear” mindset. The discussion repeatedly returns to grief, isolation, unanswered questions, and the belief that God remained present even when families could not be. Trauma, Forgiveness, and Lessons Learned The conversation broadens from personal COVID stories into a discussion of trauma, patterns, forgiveness, and how people process what happened. Terry argues that traumatic experiences can produce long-lasting accommodations and habits that need to be examined rather than simply carried forward. She and the co-hosts discuss learning from the past while attempting to release resentment, become more discerning, and help others recover. The speakers also express strong political opinions about pandemic policy, censorship, government decision-making, and church responses, presenting those views as part of their interpretation of the period. Christian Leadership and Cultural Concerns The latter part of the episode moves heavily into Christian leadership, courage, Islam, national identity, and what the speakers believe churches should do in a changing culture. Ron says the pandemic exposed weakness and complacency in parts of the church and calls Christians to “wake up and strengthen what remains.” Terry and the others argue that believers should be more active in sharing their faith, engaging their communities, and resisting distraction within the church. They also make broad and strongly critical claims about Islam and cultural change, framing the issue as both a political and spiritual concern from their Christian perspective. Courage, Mission, and Moving Forward The program closes with repeated calls for courage, action, discernment, and evangelism. Terry emphasizes keeping “the big thing the big thing,” avoiding internal distractions, and seeing people of other faiths as a mission field rather than merely as political opponents. Ron urges believers to get out of the pews, strengthen their faith, and actively serve their neighbors. Paul adds that Christians should pay attention to actions rather than words and remain alert to what he sees as spiritual and cultural dangers. Pastor Joe closes by thanking Terry and the team, praying for listeners’ safety and faith, and encouraging the audience to move forward together. SEO Keywords / Key Phrases COVID trauma recovery, faith over fear, Christian leadership, pandemic isolation, spiritual resilience, trauma and forgiveness, courage in faith, church leadership, religious freedom, Christian evangelism
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    1 時間 9 分
  • Raising Expectations, August 31, 2026
    2026/08/31
    Guest, Teri Werner, part 2, Healing the Residue: Faith, Forgiveness, Trauma, and the Road to Restoration https://trainwrecktotriumph.com/ Healing the Residue Terry Warner centers the episode on what she calls “residual remnant realities,” meaning the emotional, physical, relational, and spiritual residue people can carry from one season of life into the next. She illustrates the idea with a pair of new sandals that still had adhesive on the sole, unknowingly collecting hair, jewelry pieces, and debris. For her, the image becomes a spiritual metaphor for unintended burdens carried forward from past experiences. She asks listeners to consider recurring patterns, pain, relationships, jobs, or circumstances that may reveal unresolved residue. Her central premise is that people often continue to experience what they have not released. From there, the discussion turns toward healing, restoration, and hope. COVID, Trauma, and Lingering Effects A major portion of the conversation focuses on the speakers’ experiences and interpretations of COVID and its aftermath. Terry recounts severe illness, isolation, medical treatment, and the prayers she remembers receiving while hospitalized. She says she later experienced a spiritual moment in which she believed God was releasing the lingering effects of COVID from her mind and body. Ron Greer broadens the discussion by comparing lingering COVID-related effects with residual trauma seen among veterans, firefighters, police officers, and other first responders. He describes brain fog, memory lapses, emotional instability, and other aftereffects that may remain after the most obvious symptoms have subsided. The speakers consistently frame these observations as personal, pastoral, and spiritual perspectives rather than as clinical conclusions. Faith, Medicine, and the Question of Healing Dr. Craig Thayer contributes a surgeon’s perspective, saying that although physicians cut, remove, repair, and reconnect tissue, he regards God as the ultimate healer. Dr. Paul Hall then raises one of the episode’s central questions: what should be said to people who sincerely pray, read Scripture, seek counsel, and still do not experience the healing they desire? Terry responds that healing may look different from person to person and may come through doctors, surgeons, personal spiritual work, or other paths. Pastor Joe adds that sometimes the answer may not be physical recovery in the form requested, but rather the “peace that passes understanding.” He recounts ministering to people facing death who found spiritual peace even when their illness remained. The panel therefore treats healing as a complex subject that includes physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual dimensions. Forgiveness, Bitterness, and Spiritual Growth Forgiveness becomes one of the strongest recurring themes in the episode. Terry says people seeking healing may need to examine unresolved resentment toward others, themselves, or even God. Stephanie Thayer expands on the point, describing anger, bitterness, false beliefs, and long-held wounds as possible barriers to freedom and spiritual growth. She encourages listeners to ask how God sees them rather than continuing to live under damaging messages they may have accepted earlier in life. The speakers also emphasize community, prayer, accountability, and what Stephanie calls “doing life with other people.” Terry later applies forgiveness to divisions that arose during the COVID era, urging people who spoke wrongly about others or helped divide relationships to take responsibility and ask forgiveness. Seeking Intimacy Rather Than a Formula Terry describes a period in which her devotional life felt dry and Scripture no longer drew her with the same intensity. Instead of looking primarily for physical healing, she says she deliberately immersed herself in Bible teaching because she was seeking renewed intimacy with God. She listened before bed, in the morning, took notes, and intentionally “fed” herself the Word until spiritual hunger returned. She emphasizes that she was not searching for a formula but for reconnection. That experience becomes part of her larger argument that healing cannot always be reduced to a single technique or explanation. Across the panel, the speakers repeatedly return to dependence on God, willingness, forgiveness, trust, and surrender rather than presenting a guaranteed process. Veterans, First Responders, and Practical Compassion The closing portion turns toward veterans, first responders, homelessness, trauma, and practical ministry. Terry describes her affinity for veterans and first responders and discusses work connected with an organization she calls Rise for Veterans. She says the group seeks to meet immediate physical needs by providing items such as socks, underwear, snacks, water, rain gear, and other essentials, while also offering prayer and personal support. She stresses that meeting practical needs can be...
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    1 時間
  • Raising Expectations, August 10, 2026
    2026/08/11
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer Limitless Faith: Speaking Grace to the Mountains in Your Life Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman joins Pastor Joe Schofield and the Raising Expectations team for a faith-centered conversation about mustard-seed faith, spiritual mountains, grace as “undeserved divine deliverance,” prayer, repentance, healing after painful choices, hearing God’s voice, practicing His presence, and trusting His limitless power in every circumstance. Friends, We join our wonderful Audience with great anticipation as we welcome Sheila Schuller Coleman back on the show this week! She has Gods call on her life to share deep thought- provoking truths from God’s Word… just like her wonderful father, Dr. Robert Schuller did each week from the pulpit of The “Crystal Cathedral” in Southern California! She worked closely with him and loves people as he always did! We are blessed by her heart, thoughts and life changing insights from God’s Word. Friends, here is a special word from Dr. Sheila just for you and tonight’s “Raising Expectations “show! “If little faith can move mountains, what can limitless faith do?” There is a thought that should make us all stop and think! The power of Faith is beyond words as we experience Gods Love and walk with Him each day! It’s going to be a great , informative and encouraging night together , so tune in watch and listen Guest Spotlight: Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman is introduced as a minister, author, speaker, and daughter of Dr. Robert Schuller. She reflects on her father’s legacy of possibility thinking and mountain-moving faith while sharing how her own faith has deepened over time. The episode centers on a question she says God placed on her heart: “If little faith can move mountains, what can limitless faith do?” Raising Expectations Through Faith and Hope Pastor Joe opens by welcoming listeners, celebrating the program’s new theme song, and reaffirming the show’s Christian foundation. He speaks about salvation through Jesus Christ, God’s plan for each person, and the importance of knowing Christ personally rather than only publicly. He also introduces the panel and explains how listeners can find previous episodes, books, biographies, and program information online. What Can Limitless Faith Do? Sheila explains that people often focus on the size of their problems instead of the power of God. Drawing from Jesus’ teaching about mustard-seed faith, she says the question of limitless faith challenges believers to stop placing limits on God’s deliverance, healing, and power. She connects growing faith with growing hope and says that looking toward God rather than the mountain changes how people understand what is possible. Speaking Grace to the Mountain Sheila connects mustard-seed faith with Zechariah 4 and the declaration, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit.” She defines grace as “undeserved divine deliverance” and teaches that a mountain may be leveled, removed, transformed, or turned into something beautiful through God’s action. Rather than attacking every obstacle through personal force, she encourages listeners to speak grace both to their circumstances and to themselves. Prayer, Repentance, Children, and Restoration Sheila describes prayer teams conducting strategic prayer walks in Orange County and says they begin with humility and repentance. She and the panel discuss children, abortion, transgender medical services, restoration after painful decisions, and the responsibility of Christians to combine moral conviction with compassion. Stefanie emphasizes that the church should not stop at identifying sin, but should also help people find healing, accountability, forgiveness, and freedom. These sensitive medical, legal, and social claims are presented as statements made by the speakers and were not independently verified in the transcript. Grace After Failure, Shame, and Regret Dr. Paul Hall asks how the church should respond when people are defined by their worst moments, including failure, addiction, divorce, imprisonment, abortion, or regret. Sheila answers that grace is not a one-time experience but an ongoing daily need. She describes deliverance as movement not only from guilt, fear, anxiety, and shame, but also into mercy, joy, restoration, and new life. Hearing God’s Voice and Practicing His Presence Sheila says discerning God’s voice begins with knowing His character and Word. She uses her experience as her father’s ghostwriter to explain how familiarity makes a voice recognizable. She recommends testing impressions against Scripture and God’s nature, seeking confirmation, and cultivating habits such as prayer walks, worship, journaling, memorized Scripture, and writing prayers to God as “Abba.” She also discusses Practicing the Presence of God by Brother ...
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    1 時間 15 分
  • Raising Expectations, July 27, 2026
    2026/07/28
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer AI, Identity Theft, and the New Rules of Personal Protection Pastor Joe Schofield and the Raising Expectations panel welcome Frank Roberson of Black Rhino Protection Agency for a wide-ranging conversation about AI-enabled scams, voice cloning, social media exposure, drone threats, identity theft, executive protection, travel safety, and practical security habits for families. Friends, Frank Roberson, Founder and CEO of “Black Rhino Group”, returns, joining us once again on Raising Expectations! He’s Ba’ack! Yes, Monday night as requested we're thrilled to welcome back our dear friend and valued ‘Raising Expectations’ family member Frank Roberson. With expertise in protective services, counterintelligence, and threat analysis, Frank will share insights on safeguarding political leaders, like President Trump, and cultivating 'Situational Awareness' for everyday life. By learning from Frank's expertise, you'll gain clarity on navigating life's safety challenges and have a better understanding of the importance of preparedness in the face of adversity. Lives can depend on it, and with this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to protect and serve your loved ones. Frank will offer practical wisdom to help you navigate life's complexities with confidence. You won’t want to miss this powerful and yet entertaining discussion. Guest Spotlight: Frank Roberson Frank Roberson, founder of Black Rhino Protection Agency, returns to Raising Expectations for another conversation on personal protection, security awareness, and emerging threats. Drawing from his experience in executive protection and family security planning, Frank discusses AI-driven impersonation scams, social media risks, fake identification, drone surveillance, identity-theft restoration, and the practical habits everyday families can use to protect themselves. Faith, Family, and the Raising Expectations Table The episode opens with the Raising Expectations theme and Pastor Joe Schofield’s familiar message of optimism rooted in faith. Joe reminds listeners that the program is built around hope, family, friendship, and the belief that God is active in people’s lives. He introduces the show’s extended panel, including Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer, with the show’s usual warmth, sports banter, humor, and family-style conversation. The hosts also direct listeners to the Raising Expectations page on BBS Radio, where they can find show information, books, prior episodes, and donation options. Black Rhino’s Growth and New Operations Frank begins by updating the panel on the growth of Black Rhino Protection Agency. He says the company has been building out an operations center, including a classified SCIF connected to overseas contracts, and preparing satellite offices in Dallas and Washington, D.C., with Santa Rosa being considered as another possible location. He also describes building proprietary software to run operations from payroll to scheduling, with an added protective-service component for protectees. Frank says the shift from field protection work to CEO and board-level responsibilities has been a major adjustment, but also an exciting journey. AI Changes the Protection Game Dr. Craig Thayer raises the subject of AI threats, asking about risks to individual clients and national security. Frank says AI has changed protection work dramatically, especially for families, diplomats, elected officials, and high-profile individuals. He explains why code names and code phrases matter, giving examples of families using prearranged phrases when something feels unsafe or when an urgent exit is needed. He says what once sounded overly cautious has become necessary because AI can now imitate voices, generate convincing images, create fake IDs, and help scammers or attackers gather believable details. Voice Cloning and Kidnapping Scams One of the strongest warnings in the episode involves AI-enabled voice cloning. Frank describes scams where a family receives a call that sounds like a child or loved one screaming that they have been kidnapped, pressuring the family to send money quickly. He explains that wealthy families in particular may pay immediately if they believe a child is in danger, which is why families need private code phrases or proof-of-life details known only to trusted people. The panel also discusses real-world examples of people losing money to fake emergency calls, including cases involving gift cards, urgent car trouble, or threats of jail. Fake IDs, Deepfakes, and Building Access Frank then expands the concern beyond phone scams into physical security. He says AI and digital tools can help bad actors create fake identification, recreate images, and produce convincing documents. He describes how weak front-desk security, casual handling of ...
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    1 時間 17 分
  • Raising Expectations, July 20, 2026
    2026/07/21
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer Faith, Freedom, and the Fight for America The Raising Expectations team welcomes attorney, retired Army colonel, and author Kurt Schlichter for a wide-ranging discussion on faith, American leadership, cultural change, national security, education, civic responsibility, and the role Christians can play in shaping the nation's future. Friends, We are thrilled to have our longtime friend Kurt Schlichter back with us this Monday night, to share his wisdom and enthuse us all about our great nation! He is an outstanding author, political pungent, United States Army captain, teacher at the National War College in Washington D. C. and renown lawyer. He is a leading speaker on CPAC and highly respected for his ability to powerfully present the common sense and Judeo- Christian principals upon which we stand as a nation! His books are best sellers and “WE’LL BE BACK: the fall and rise of America” has made everyone think again as we watch America rise before our eyes with President Donald Trump and his incredible Cabinet! Boldness and appropriate transparency has aided in making us proud to be Americans once again! Kurt Schlichter has value driven conservative insights that are true and continue to inspire us as a nation! You won’t want to miss the show so tell your friends and tune in and watch… Guest Spotlight Kurt Schlichter returns to Raising Expectations as a respected political commentator, attorney, retired U.S. Army colonel, and bestselling author known for combining military experience, legal insight, and cultural commentary. Throughout the conversation, Kurt discusses current events through the lenses of patriotism, faith, and public service while sharing perspectives drawn from his writing career, military background, and observations of American culture. Although the conversation covers numerous political topics, it repeatedly returns to the importance of personal responsibility, moral conviction, and active civic engagement. Faith, Freedom, and the State of the Nation Pastor Joe Schofield opens the program by reaffirming the show's commitment to faith in Jesus Christ, love for America, and confidence that God continues to work in the lives of those who trust Him. After introducing the panel and welcoming returning guest Kurt Schlichter, the conversation turns toward the current condition of the nation and the challenges facing American society. Kurt describes himself as optimistic about the country's future, arguing that many Americans have become dissatisfied with existing political and cultural institutions and are seeking meaningful change. The discussion establishes a hopeful yet candid tone as the panel explores leadership, public policy, and the responsibilities of citizenship from a Christian perspective. Leadership, Faith, and Public Service One of the conversation's earliest themes centers on political leadership and personal transformation. Kurt shares his view that President Donald Trump has pursued significant policy changes by challenging assumptions about what government can and cannot accomplish. Beyond politics, he also reflects on what he believes has been a noticeable change in Trump's personal faith following the assassination attempt against him, describing it as an example of how life-changing experiences can deepen spiritual awareness. The panel discusses the distinction between identifying with religion and developing an authentic relationship with God, emphasizing Bible reading, prayer, and continued spiritual growth over religious labels alone. Throughout the exchange, the speakers encourage listeners to pursue faith as a daily relationship rather than merely a public identity. Stories Shape Culture The discussion shifts toward Kurt's work as a novelist and his belief that culture is influenced not only through politics but also through storytelling. He introduces several of his books, including his upcoming novel American Warlord, and explains why he believes conservatives and Christians should actively create fiction, entertainment, and cultural works that reflect their values instead of simply criticizing existing media. Kurt argues that many ordinary Americans who work hard, raise families, practice their faith, and contribute positively to their communities are rarely represented in modern entertainment. For him, participating in culture is another way of preserving important values and broadening public conversation. Christians and Civic Responsibility The panel repeatedly returns to the role Christians play within American society. Pastor Joe expresses concern that many believers remain disengaged from public life or become informed only shortly before elections, while Kurt encourages greater participation in civic affairs. Rather than viewing political involvement as separate from faith, the speakers suggest that informed ...
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    1 時間 11 分
  • Raising Expectations, July 13, 2026
    2026/07/14
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer Never Doubt the Power of a Positive Word Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman joins the Raising Expectations team for an uplifting conversation about hope, Christian identity, compassionate ministry, and the lasting influence of words spoken with faith and love. Friends, Here is a special word from Sheila Schuller Coleman just for you and tonight’s “Raising Expectations “show! "Never Doubt the Power of a Positive Word! Have you ever considered that you carry the power of life and death in your words? When I became friends with a homeless man, Mark, I saw firsthand that the positive words I’d been taught by my father really can save lives! It’s my mission in life to remind others that they, too, have this within themselves. To receive and even to give words of life to others." It’s going to be a great and informative night together! Guest Spotlight Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman brings a deeply personal and pastoral message shaped by her Christian faith, her ministry experience, and the teachings of her father, Dr. Robert Schuller. Throughout the episode, she reflects on lessons she received about reframing negative language, encouraging people through words of hope, and recognizing practical needs as an essential part of compassionate ministry. She shares stories from her work with homeless families, children, churches, international ministries, and individuals she has encountered in everyday places. Her message centers on the belief that even one sincere and compassionate statement can plant a seed whose eventual impact may be far greater than the speaker ever sees. Don't forget to check out our guest, Dr. Coleman's books! "The Heart of a Warrior: Delivering the Children of the World for Christ" "The Living Tree" "Unearthing the Lost Treasure: Wisdom" "Claiming The Identity of Christ’s Children: A Handbook for Families" Never Doubt the Power of a Positive Word Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman introduces the evening’s central theme by explaining how her father taught her to examine every word and reframe messages from a positive perspective. She acknowledges that speaking this way requires intention and discipline but says Christians can express the hope of Jesus Christ through language that encourages rather than discourages. To illustrate the principle, she recalls meeting a homeless man named Mark through a weekly meal ministry she established at the Crystal Cathedral campus. When Mark told her that he did not believe in God, she responded that God believed in him. Years later, she encountered him again and learned that he had embraced Christianity and was playing guitar in a worship band. For Dr. Coleman, the experience demonstrates how words can function like seeds whose growth may remain unseen for years. Restoring Hope Before Despair Takes Hold The conversation expands into the relationship between encouragement, despair, and the human need for hope. Dr. Paul Hall observes that the loss of hope can be associated with suicidal despair, prompting the panel to discuss the responsibility carried by parents, grandparents, pastors, teachers, counselors, and other caring adults. Dr. Coleman and the Raising Expectations team describe words as capable of producing either healthy or damaging fruit, especially when spoken repeatedly over children. Stefanie Thayer explains that an offhand criticism received in childhood can become a destructive belief that follows someone into adulthood. The speakers therefore encourage replacing inherited negative messages with Scripture-based affirmations and truthful declarations of identity. Their discussion presents hope as something that can be strengthened through intentional language, prayer, community, and compassionate attention. Speaking Identity Over Children and Grandchildren Dr. Coleman shares how she applies these principles within her own family by deliberately choosing affirming language for her grandchildren. Rather than calling an energetic child a “handful,” she calls him a “heartful,” reframing his liveliness as something valuable rather than burdensome. She tells the story of that grandson praying for a sibling and eventually welcoming triplets into the family, which she describes with humor and gratitude. Dr. Coleman teaches her grandchildren to describe themselves as one-in-a-million miracles, blessed and highly favored, and beloved children of the Most High God. She believes children must learn to claim their spiritual identity for themselves so they can resist harmful messages when parents and grandparents are not present. The panel agrees that repeatedly speaking loving and truthful words can help children develop healthier beliefs about their value, abilities, and purpose. Lessons from Dr. Robert Schuller’s Ministry A substantial portion of the program reflects on the ministry philosophy and personal example of...
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    1 時間 16 分
  • Raising Expectations, July 6, 2026
    2026/07/07
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer Faith, Freedom, and the Future of America A spirited conversation about America’s founding principles, the responsibilities of citizenship, and the sustaining power of faith during times of national change. Guest: Janet Price, Past President of GSRW (Golden State Republican Women) Janet Price is a faith-centered civic advocate and a leader involved with Golden State Republican Women. During the conversation, she speaks about public education, constitutional awareness, election concerns, and her belief that citizens should remain informed, prayerful, and actively engaged in the future of their communities. Her enthusiasm for American history and her commitment to California shape much of the episode’s discussion. Friends, We are blessed and thrilled to have Janet Price: past President of GSRW, back with us on Monday night helping us celebrate our nation’s 250th Birthday and rejoice in what God is doing all around us through answered prayers! We will look back at our Founding Fathers and the sacrifices made to procure the Constitution and win an impossible war against the most powerful nation in history. She often says as people of faith know... “God is in Control!”. As a woman of great faith and leader in the creation of “Golden State Republican Women” , Janet shares heartfelt insight into the political situation and what it means to all of us in America today. Her enthusiasm is contagious and anchored in her deep relationship with God through Jesus Christ! Janet is part of our Raising Expectations family and loved by countless people of our audience in California, across the nation and around the world. The discussion and interaction will be contagious and very enlightening for everyone… so tune in , call in, watch and listen. A Celebration of Faith and American Heritage Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, and Dr. Paul Hall welcome Janet Price for a wide-ranging conversation inspired by the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. The participants reflect on Independence Day events, patriotic traditions, and the emotional significance of remembering the sacrifices made by previous generations. They also discuss the enduring influence of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the nation’s founding ideals. Throughout the opening conversation, the speakers connect their appreciation for America with their Christian faith and their belief that gratitude should lead to greater personal responsibility. Remembering the Sacrifices Behind America’s Freedom The panel looks back at the courage, hardship, and personal sacrifice associated with America’s founding and later generations who defended the country. Pastor Joe and Janet emphasize that freedom should not be treated casually because it was secured through the efforts of people who risked their lives, families, property, and reputations. The discussion touches on George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, the Revolutionary War, and the spiritual convictions the speakers believe influenced the nation’s early leaders. They encourage listeners to study history more deeply rather than relying on simplified or incomplete accounts. The participants present historical understanding as an important safeguard against manipulation, political apathy, and the loss of national identity. Education, History, and the Responsibility to Participate Janet describes her efforts to promote education about the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, flag protocol, and election integrity. She argues that many younger Americans have not been adequately taught the history of their country and may therefore be more vulnerable to misleading political messages. Stefanie adds that civic responsibility also requires participation, pointing to low voter turnout and the influence that small but highly organized groups can have on elections. The panel encourages listeners to research candidates, examine their records, and evaluate the principles demonstrated through their actions. Rather than simply complaining about political outcomes, the speakers urge citizens to vote, speak thoughtfully, and take responsibility for the direction of their communities. Speaking the Truth Without Losing Compassion A central theme of the episode is the challenge of expressing strong convictions without becoming consumed by anger or hostility. Dr. Paul Hall reflects on the dangers of silence when people recognize wrongdoing but choose not to speak, while other panelists stress that truth should be communicated with love and humility. The speakers discuss how arguments often create more conflict than understanding, especially when people feel personally attacked. Stefanie explains that she frequently returns to the Bible as her moral compass when difficult ethical questions arise, allowing the ...
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    1 時間 17 分
  • Raising Expectations, June 29, 2026
    2026/06/30
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer America's 250th Anniversary, insights into the courageous Founding Fathers, Faith, Freedom, and the Duty to Keep the Republic Alive Guest, Pastor Will Hobbs Friends, Pastor Will Hobbs is back with us on “Raising Expectations!” “America's 250th” has arrived! Join us this Monday evening for a powerful discussion with Pastor Will Hobbs on 'Raising Expectations!' as he shares transformative insights on America's founding and the courageous individuals who shaped our nation's history. Amidst today's challenges, let's stand strong in faith, gratitude, and trust in God's unwavering presence, power, love and faithfulness that guides us. His plans unfold with purpose, bringing Him glory, us guidance, and demonstrating His love…Experience His peace that transcends understanding. John 14:27! Pastor Will and the 'Raising Expectations' team invite you to pray ahead, explore the facts, and discern your role in God's plans for your life and our nation. Celebrate America 250 and express thanks for God's blessings! A Fourth of July Conversation Rooted in Faith In this episode of Raising Expectations, Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Dr. Craig Thayer, and Ron Greer welcome Pastor Hill Hobbs of Kelview Baptist Church in Midland, Texas, for a Fourth of July-themed discussion about America’s founding, Christian faith, civic responsibility, and the spiritual meaning they attach to the nation’s 250-year legacy. Pastor Joe opens by reaffirming the show’s Christian foundation and introduces the team before welcoming Pastor Hill, who frames Independence Day not merely as a civic celebration but as a holiday connected to gratitude, biblical principles, and the opportunity to live out faith in public life. Lives, Fortunes, Sacred Honor, and the Cost of Independence Pastor Hill reflects on the Declaration of Independence, emphasizing the risk taken by the signers when they pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor. He notes that many were willing to face death, loss of wealth, and public disgrace if the Revolution failed. He also discusses the timing of the Declaration’s approval, announcement, and signing, noting that July 4 became the public date of celebration even though the approval and signing unfolded across multiple dates. For Hill, the willingness of the founders to risk everything reveals the seriousness of the moment and the spiritual weight he believes they attached to America’s beginning. The Founders, Prayer, and Christian Influence A major theme of the episode is the team’s argument that America’s founding was deeply shaped by Christian thought, preaching, prayer, and biblical principles. Pastor Hill cites John Quincy Adams and John Adams to connect Independence Day with gratitude to God, while Ron Greer discusses Benjamin Franklin’s call for prayer during the founding debates. The group also discusses early congressional prayer, Bible study, the influence of pastors, George Whitefield, the Black Robe Regiment, and the way sermons helped shape the language and principles behind the Declaration of Independence. The discussion presents the founding not as perfect, but as intentionally aimed toward Christian moral order. Slavery, Jefferson’s Draft, and the Imperfect Union The conversation turns to slavery as one of the great contradictions and sins in American history. Pastor Hill discusses Thomas Jefferson’s original draft of the Declaration of Independence, which included a strong grievance against the king over the slave trade, a section that did not survive into the final version. Dr. Craig Thayer and Ron Greer then discuss the economic and social complications surrounding slavery at the time, while stressing that context is not the same as justification. Ron also brings up Anthony Johnson and John Casor as examples of the complexity of colonial slavery history. Pastor Hill grounds the discussion in Proverbs 14:34, saying righteousness exalts a nation while sin brings reproach. History, Churches, and the Responsibility to Disciple The panel repeatedly argues that America’s current cultural confusion is connected to historical ignorance and the church’s failure to disciple effectively. Pastor Joe contrasts the American Revolution with the French Revolution, highlighting George Washington’s refusal to become king as an example of servant leadership. Ron Greer says that Christians must return to the Great Commission, not merely sing, pray, or attend services, but actively make disciples. Pastor Hill adds that what happens in the home is more important than what happens in the White House, because discipleship, character, and cultural renewal begin with families, churches, and one person influencing another. Young Men, Revival, and Hope for the Next Generation The episode also looks at younger generations with a mixture of concern...
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    1 時間 26 分