Hello everone!

In this episode of *Rise and Reclaim After Divorce*, I share a special interview where I was featured on *Start Your Comeback*, hosted by Toni Thrash. Toni graciously allowed me to share this conversation with my listeners as we dive deep into the topic of facing judgmentalism in the church and Christian circles as divorced Christians.

Episode Highlights:

- Facing Judgment in the Church as Divorced Christians:

Divorce often carries a stigma, especially in church communities. In this episode, I talk about how I processed through the feelings of disqualification and judgment from the church. We discuss the importance of understanding your identity in Christ and overcoming the negative self-talk that often accompanies judgment.

- Steps to Overcome Judgementalism and Reclaim Your Destiny:

We outline key steps to reclaim your identity and step into your calling:

- Know Who You Are in Christ:

It’s crucial to dispel the negative talk in your own head by reminding yourself of who and WHOSE you are. I share my journey of realizing my true identity in Christ after my divorce.

- Educate Yourself on What the Word Says About Divorce:

The Bible has much to say about divorce, and understanding the truth can bring healing. Recommended resources include, The Divorced Christian by Pastor Darius Good and *Divorce: God's Will?* by Stephen Gola.

- Surround Yourself with Supportive People:

We discuss the importance of having people around you who can help you rediscover your identity, pouring truth into you during challenging times.

- Seek Therapy or Life Coaching:

A therapist or life coach can help you sift through lies and find the truth, which is a key step in healing and growth.

- Walking as a Child of God:

Once you fully know who you are, you can walk confidently as a child of God, no longer defined by past mistakes or societal judgments.

- Pray the Word of God Over Yourself Daily:

Continual prayer and speaking God's promises over yourself are powerful tools to maintain spiritual strength.

- Prophetic Words and Encouragement:

Use prophetic words and scriptures, like 1 Timothy 1:18-19, to encourage yourself as you fight the good fight of faith.

- My Journey to Accepting My Calling:

We talk about how I was initially resistant to the idea of starting a podcast, but God’s calling continued to press on my heart. Through obedience and "learning to build my wings on the way down," I chose to step into my calling. Even now, I'm actively walking in obedience to God, not man.

- Healing Before Ministry:

We also touch on the importance of healing before stepping into ministry. If there are areas of disobedience or unresolved issues from your divorce, it’s crucial to seek repentance and healing before stepping into something big. Ministry should never be entered into without first ensuring that your heart is healed and prepared.

Join me and Toni in this candid conversation as we encourage those who have experienced divorce to rise up and reclaim their God-given destinies!

Blessings,

Dana

Scripture Reference:

1 Timothy 1:18-19 (NKJV)

*Fight the Good Fight*

"This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare, having faith and a good conscience."

Recommended Reading:

- The Divorced Christian by Pastor Darius Good

- Divorce: God's Will? The Truth of Divorce and Remarriage in the Bible for Christians by Stephen Gola

Hi Everyone!

In this episode, we explore the serious consequences of harboring unforgiveness. While unforgiveness is often seen as a justified response to hurt or betrayal, it is a destructive force that can affect your physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual life. We delve into how unforgiveness can manifest in chronic health issues, emotional disturbances, and spiritual disconnection. We also discuss the transformative power of forgiveness, guided by Scripture, and how it leads to healing and freedom.

Key Points:

1. The Nature of Unforgiveness:

- Unforgiveness is not just a psychological state but a spiritual condition that distances us from God.

- Holding onto anger and resentment traps us in a cycle of negative emotions with far-reaching consequences.

1. Impact on Physical Health:

- Unforgiveness triggers the body's stress response, leading to chronic health issues such as high blood pressure, weakened immune function, and increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.

- Personal testimony: Childhood stress from abuse led to lifelong gut issues and chronic health problems, even after forgiving the offender.

1. Impact on Mental Health:

- Unforgiveness can contribute to mental health disorders like depression and anxiety, trapping the mind in a negative loop.

- Continuous rumination over past hurts prevents joy, peace, and contentment.

1. Impact on Spiritual Life:

- Unforgiveness creates a barrier between us and God, hindering spiritual growth and answered prayers.

- Key Scriptures:

- *Matthew 6:12, 14-15 (ESV)* - Forgiveness is essential for receiving God's forgiveness.

- *Matthew 18:21-35 (ESV)* - Parable of the Unforgiving Servant emphasizes the severity of unforgiveness.

- *Ephesians 4:31-32 (ESV)* - Paul urges believers to let go of bitterness and embody forgiveness.

1. The Power of Forgiveness:

- Forgiveness leads to physical healing, mental peace, and spiritual freedom.

- Key Scriptures:

- *Romans 3:23 (ESV)* - We all need God's grace.

- *Colossians 3:13 (NIV)* - Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

- *Luke 23:34 (ESV)* - Jesus' example of forgiveness on the cross.

1. The Role of the Holy Spirit:

- The Holy Spirit empowers believers to forgive, even when it seems impossible.

- Key Scripture:

- *Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)* - The fruit of the Spirit includes qualities crucial for forgiveness.

- *Philippians 4:13 (ESV)* - "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me," including forgiveness.

1. Practical Steps to Embrace Forgiveness:

- Acknowledge the pain.

- Seek God's help.

- Release the debt.

- Practice empathy.

- Let go of resentment.

- Focus on God's forgiveness.

Conclusion:

Unforgiveness has severe consequences for both the body and soul, but through forgiveness, we can experience healing and freedom. With the Holy Spirit's help, we can overcome the pain and walk in the footsteps of Christ, embodying His love in the world.

We are the fragrance of Christ,

Dana

Find me on Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/redeemidentity/

https://www.instagram.com/redeemidentity

My Free ebook, "Who Am I After Divorce?" can be downloaded here:

https://dl.bookfunnel.com/4k769kpebf

Website and Blog link:

https://redeemed-identity.com/blog/

Hi everyone!

In this deeply personal episode, I explore the often hidden and rarely discussed topic of being offended with God. Through my personal story of spiritual wandering and eventual divine revelation, we delve into the impact of harboring offense, especially when it’s directed toward God. If you’ve ever felt abandoned, disappointed, or hurt by unmet expectations in your faith journey, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Silent Struggle: Discover how unresolved pain and lost dreams can lead to a spiritual desert, where we find ourselves lost and distant from God.
2. Naming the Offense:Learn about the importance of recognizing when our true source of pain and anger is directed towards God, even when it’s hard to admit.
3. The Invisible Prison: Understand how offense can grow unnoticed, much like a hidden illness, affecting our spiritual health and relationship with God.
4. Divine Revelation: Hear about the moment of awakening, where the realization of personal responsibility in harboring offense against God begins the healing process.
5. The Path to Healing: Explore the steps of acknowledging, forgiving, and inviting God into the deep wounds of the heart for true spiritual healing.
6. Seeing God’s Heart: Shift your perspective from what God does to who He is, allowing for a deeper and more intimate connection with Him.

Related Scripture:

Ephesians 4:31-32 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Numbers 14:18

"The LORD is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, forgiving iniquity and transgression, but he will by no means clear the guilty.”

Psalm 103:10–12

"He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities".

Psalm 86:5

"You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you".

Daniel 9:9

"The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him".

1 John 1:9

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Discussion Questions:

1. Have you ever found yourself offended with God? How did it impact your faith journey?
2. What steps can you take to begin the process of forgiving God and healing from past hurts?
3. How can changing your perspective from what God does to who God is affect your faith and relationship with Him?

Resources Mentioned:

- *My Utmost for His Highest* by Oswald Chambers

If this episode resonated with you, take some time this week to reflect on any hidden offenses you might be holding against God. Journal your thoughts, pray for revelation, and ask God to heal those deep wounds. Don’t forget to share this episode with someone who might benefit from hearing this message.

Join Us:

Subscribe to the Rise & Reclaim After Divorce Podcast to continue your journey of healing and restoration. New episodes are released weekly, providing you with the encouragement and support you need.

Links & Resources:

Connect with Us:

- Website: www.redeemed-identity.com

- Podcast: Rise & Reclaim After Divorce Podcast ( https://www.riseandreclaimpodcast.com)

Find me on Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/redeemidentity/

https://www.instagram.com/redeemidentity

My Free ebook, "Who Am I After Divorce?" can be downloaded here:

https://dl.bookfunnel.com/4k769kpebf

Website and Blog link:

https://redeemed-identity.com/blog/

Tags: #DivorcedChristian #Healing #Faith #healingfromdivorce #RiseAndReclaim #PrayingGodsWord #SpiritualGrowth