Stories of Hope in Hard Times

Summary Tamara K. Anderson shared her personal journey of overcoming adversity through faith in God's help, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and seeking support from others. She discussed the role of Satan in causing resistance and doubt, and how God can strengthen and empower individuals to overcome these challenges. Tamara also shared practical principles for finding hope and faith in challenging situations, including praying for miracles and opening one's eyes to see the blessings in everyday life. She launched a new podcast focused on exploring Jesus Christ's teachings and women's stories in the Bible, and encouraged listeners to subscribe and follow her on YouTube for more content. Outline Bonus principle: New Podcast: Bible, Women & Bathrobes Applying biblical teachings and women in the Bible. Transcript Tamara Anderson 0:00 Have you ever set a goal to do something and then it's like all hell broke loose to try to stop you from accomplishing that goal? And you wonder, why did I try this to begin with? Why is this so difficult? If you have, you're not alone, I'm going to share with you three key principles of making positive progress, including overcoming the adversary in my personal journey and give you an update of everything that's been going on for the past year as I promised I would stay tuned. Tamara Anderson 0:37 Welcome to Stories of Hope in Hard Times, the show that explores how people endure and even thrive in difficult times, all with God's help. I'm your host Tamara K Anderson. Join me on a journey to find inspiring stories of hope and wisdom learned in life's hardest moments. Tamara Anderson 1:03 Hello, and welcome to another episode of Stories of Hope in Hard Times. I'm your host, Tamara K Anderson. And I'm so excited to be with you today. I promised you that as I paused this podcast to launch Women Warriors of Light, the group that God has kind of been nudging me to start for several years now, that I would give you progress updates. And it's been about a year since I've done that. So I apologize that I haven't done that sooner. I have been feverishly working towards this goal. And I am so excited to tell you that we launched that women warriors of light launched on March 28, we had our official launch virtual launch. Tamara Anderson 1:49 And it was wonderful. And I am so happy that it's finally started. But it's the beginning of the beginning. People are like, aren't you glad it's done? And I'm like, oh, it's the beginning of the beginning. And I have to tell you guys, I started a new podcast. And I'll tell you about that at the end of this episode. Tamara Anderson 2:09 But first, I want to talk you through some of the struggles that I've experienced over the past year. And I'm sure I'm not the only one who's ever felt that they needed to act on something only to have the adversary...

In this quick update I share 4 tips that revolve around a Bible verse I have learned by example which have helped me move forward while moving on to my new project: starting Women Warriors of Light. I also share about a giveaway I have going on right now. More details below. As I have started working on my new project, starting my women’s group called Women Warriors of Light there is a Bible Verse that has come to life as I have experienced setbacks and yet been given the guidance to know how to overcome the obstacles placed in my path. Bible Verse 4 Principles to Succeed when Upping Our Game Giveaway I also share about a giveaway I have going on. You can see more about that here: https://kingsumo.com/g/mzfa4b/deluxe-christian-womens-package-giveaway Transcript of today’s episode Tamara Anderson 0:03 Have you ever felt like you're hitting obstacles when you're trying to hit a big new goal? If so, you're not alone. I'm going to share with you some quick tips today that I have learned over the last couple of months as I have been launching a new company and share with you some personal examples as well as give you an update as well as an opportunity to enter a giveaway where you will win over $450 in items with my new women warriors of light group. Stay tuned. Tamara Anderson 0:42 Welcome to stories of hope in hard times, the show that explores how people endure and even thrive in difficult times, all with God's help. I'm your host Tamara K Anderson. Join me on a journey to find inspiring stories of hope and wisdom learned in life's hardest moments. Tamara Anderson 1:07 Hello, and welcome to an update version of the stories of hope in hard times podcast. I'm your host Tamara K Anderson. And oh, my goodness. First of all, thank you to everyone who has reached out since I finished my podcast in January. Thank you for the sweet comments. I feel so blessed to have been able to connect with so many of you on a personal level. Over the last four years as I've been doing this stories of hope in hard times podcast. Tamara Anderson 1:35 And as I promised you when I did that last episode, I would give you periodic updates. And so today, I wanted to just share with you some quick updates on how I'm doing as well as share with you for tips that I found to help me succeed, as I've kind of been upgrading to a new level, which is starting this women warriors of light company and I am so so excited for it. But I also have to talk to you about some obstacles that I've faced along the way. Tamara Anderson 2:08 One of the most common questions I've gotten from friends, and from even some of you who I've never met is Tamra, how has it been, you know, stopping the podcast, how's that felt? And there really was some grief involved and just changing from podcasting every week to now focusing on other little goals and trying to get this women warriors of light group started. It has been a more difficult transition than I imagined it would. Tamara Anderson 2:42 So I've learned a lot

A few months ago I felt like there was a giant wall in front of me every time I tried to edit a podcast. Here I tell the story of my wrestle with God to try to figure out what He was trying to tell me and teach me. Episode Discussion Points Invitation If you are struggling with your progress being stopped, take it to God. You may need to wrestle with Him a bit for an answer, find some quiet time to read your scriptures, ponder and pray. #tamarakanderson #storiesofhopeinhardtimes #podcast #hope #God #hardtimes #progressstopped #wrestlewithGod #answerstoprayer #prayer #Godguides #trustGod #podcasting Transcription You can find the transcription of today's episode here: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/podcasts/what-to-do-when-god-stops-your-progress

Several years ago I went on a hike with my family in Great Basin National Park to see the Bristlecone Pine trees. What I learned about these trees helped me see more clearly how we can all stay strong during times of adversity. Episode Discussion Points Facts About Bristlecone Pines 3 Tips for Strong Growth in Adversity 1. Grow Slow, be patient, wait on God Slow down in times of adversity, so you can process change, make time to absorb God’s goodness into circumstance and be able to grow strong—producing the resin needed to resist the adversary who wants you to decay. world's slowest-growing treeslow-and-steady approach to growth, Related Bible Verses About Slowing Down in Adversity who wait“Be patientwaiteth Be ye also patientstablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.” 2. Adapt to Adversity: Stronger in Christ Freezing, harsh, remote conditions can make you grow strong and stand the test of time.

May I share with you my favorite Christmas tradition? Listen as I share with you a little about our Nativity program that we act out as a family every year on Christmas Eve. Bonus: You can even get a copy of the program in the show notes. Christmas Nativity Program Bible-Based Nativity Christmas Program here. #tamarakanderson #storiesofhopeinhardtimes #podcast #hope #God #hardtimes #nativity #christmasprogram #holidaytraditions #christmastraditions #nativity #bible #christmasstory #JesusChrist #BirthofChrist Transcription You can find the transcription of today's episode here: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/podcasts/a-peek-at-the-anderson-family-christmas-program

After a move across the country when I was fourteen, Christmas didn't feel quite the same until a knock at our door set in motion a series of events that changed Christmas for the better. Story When I was fourteen years old, my family moved across the country from Virginia to Arizona. This was a hard move for me as a teenager and I had a hard time making new friends. As Christmas approached, it was a transition to even see the difference in the weather. It didn’t even feel like Christmas in Arizona. That all changed when twelve days before Christmas a piece of a nativity showed up on our doorstep along with a note about how this was a holiday 12-days of Christmas gift to our family. Each night after that another piece of the nativity showed up. On Christmas day evening, a sweet family in our congregation showed up with the final piece of the nativity: Jesus Christ. This family noticed the new family struggling to fit in and adapt and they loved us with the pure love of God. To this day I am thankful that God blessed and filled us with love because of the gift of another family that holiday season. Holiday Bible Verse Invitation If you are feeling lonely or discouraged this holiday season, I invite you to give of yourself—for it is in giving that we receive. Talk to God and ask Him who needs to feel His love this holiday season, and how you can be a part of that. He will inspire you to know what to do. #tamarakanderson #storiesofhopeinhardtimes #podcast #hope #God #hardtimes #christmasstory #holidaystory #christmasgift #giftoflove #giftofhope #lonely #JesusChrist Transcription You can find the transcription of today's episode here: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/podcasts/the-one-piece-at-a-time-nativity-gift

Debbie learned from her parents example the importance of choosing to still celebrate Christmas even when a tragedy struck their family during the holiday season. Episode Discussion Points Favorite Bible Verse This is especially applicable when we talk about losing those we love to death. Connect with Debbie https://www.authordebbieihlerrasmussen.com/Rediscovering her Self-Worth after DivorceMystic AngelMystic LakeMystic Mansion.Nessumsar Family - Legend of the Crow,Immanence #tamarakanderson #storiesofhopeinhardtimes #podcast #hope #God #hardtimes #death #grief #holidaygrief #holidayhope #JesusChrist Transcription You can find the transcription of today's episode here: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/podcasts/debbie-ihler-rasmussen-choosing-christmas-joy-amidst-grief

Krista shares the story of her grandfather spending his first Christmas away from his wife as a soldier in Korea where he spent a humble and joyful Christmas in an orphanage as he shared a simple gift. She also shares how she has found joy during the holidays even after her daughter has passed away. Episode Discussion Points Lessons Learned To People Grieving Loved Ones During the Holidays Favorite Bible Verse about Jesus Christ Connect with Krista Krista Isaacson: Courageously Trusting God With Heavy BurdensUnbearable Burdenhttps://www.kristamisaacson.com/ #tamarakanderson #storiesofhopeinhardtimes #podcast #hope #God #hardtimes #christmasstory #koreanwar #orphanage #christmascandy #service #grief #loss #peace Transcription You can find the transcription of today's episode here:...

Rhonda joins us to tell the story of Heidi, who was a young girl in Berlin during World War II and a valuable lesson she learned about Christmas and perspective when things don’t go as you expect. Episode Discussion Points Lessons Favorite Bible Verse about Christ “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy path.” ~Proverbs 3:5-6 Invitation Ask someone this question this holiday season: “Tell me about a time when you didn’t think you would make it.”Then listen and learn from them and their story (and maybe record it). Connect with Rhonda https://evalogue.life/https://evalogue.life/oral-history1/on her website.Quarks of Light. (You can find my interview with Rob here:

Joan shares a poignant story from wondering where God was when she was broke at Christmas time to receiving a Christmas miracle. Enjoy her holiday story of hope! Episode Discussion Points Lessons Learned Bible Verse Ps. 91:1-2 "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Need a Christmas Gift? Get Joan’s book, Fly on the Wall (for 8-12 year olds) about a boy who gets what he wants only to find out it wasn't what he really needed. Find it here on Amazon Connect with Joan https://joanraymondwriting.com/ #tamarakanderson #storiesofhopeinhardtimes #podcast #hope #God #hardtimes #holidaystory #christmasmiracle #holidays #miracle Transcription You can find the transcription of today's episode here: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/podcasts/joan-raymond-god-where-is-my-christmas-miracle

Jo Ann tells the story of a memorable Christmas when she was five-years-old and her Swedish grandmother gave her the gift of tradition. Enjoy this warm and happy holiday memory. Lessons Learned Connect with JoAnn here.https://www.joannglim.com/Begotten With Love, #tamarakanderson #storiesofhopeinhardtimes #podcast #hope #God #hardtimes #Christmasstory #holidaytraditions #traditions #sharetraditions #humor Transcription You can find the transcription of today's episode here: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/podcasts/jo-ann-glim-how-do-you-share-the-gift-of-tradition

Did you know there are 4 research-based habits you can incorporate into your life to help you live feeling more balanced and with less stress? Join us today as Dr. Michael Olpin shares what these four habits are and why they are so important to living a more happy and whole life. Episode Discussion Points Research has shown if you do at least 4 habits consistently you will get your body and mind in the state of balance. You don’t change a behavior overnight, but over the course of 9-weeks Dr. Olpin sees these behaviors changing his students. So, in his Mind, Body Wellness class he invites the students to participate in a Behavioral Contract where they promise to incorporate at least the 4 key habits into their lives during that semester. After reporting on in weekly, they find their lives are much more balanced and they are able to handle their stress better. Getting Your Mind and Body In Balance 1.Exercise: this is one of the best things for us! The physiological effects of exercise are huge! This is the MVP of wellness. 2.Nutrition: there are lots of diets, but Dr. Olpin recommends thinking about what our ancestors ate and focus on that. Eat as natural as possible. Try to stay away from sugars, liquid oils & processed foods. 3.Managing Stress: There are two approaches to managing stress. 4.Get Enough Sleep: Studies show that if you don’t get enough sleep you will start hallucinating (showing the importance of dreaming). Sleep in a place as dark and quiet as possible. Also getting rid of screen time as early as possible before bed can impact sleep. *Bonus: How to Think in Peace-Promoting Ways Invitation Incorporate one of these habits into your life today and see if you can add all four in your life over the next month. Connect with Dr. Olpin michaelolpin.comhttps://stressmanagementplace.comStress Management for Life: A Research-Based Experiential ApproachUnwind: 7 Principles for a Stress-Free LifeThe World is NOT a Stressful Place: Stress Relief for Everyone

Michael didn’t set out to be a college professor, he just wanted to learn to manage his stress, but this quest led him to not only lower his blood pressure but influence tens of thousands to live a more healthy lifestyle. Episode Discussion Points A Simple Meditation You Can Do Anywhere Favorite Bible Verse Proverbs 3:5-6—especially where it says, “Lean not unto thine own understandings.” Don’t get cocky. Lean on God and He will steer you in better direction than you could go on your own. Every time Dr. Olpin tries God and His promises things work out for the best. “We can’t out-God God.” Dr. Olpin likes to apply this verse every time he presents by saying a prayer before he teaches and asking for God’s help to reach His children. And it always goes better. Connect with Dr. Olpin michaelolpin.com

I’ve been dealing with some major burnout and strong emotions lately, so I thought I’d share a quote from a book I read recently which really resonated about how to deal with and process strong emotions. Awesome Quote Full RiggedTips to Deal with Strong Emotions Baseline Hack: Acknowledge ALL Emotions—don’t bottle them up inside (it only makes it worse). Talk it Out to Someone You Trust Vent Them Through Writing Admit Them to Yourself & God Jeremiah 33:3 Take Time to Process All Emotions #tamarakanderson #storiesofhopeinhardtimes #podcast #hope #God #hardtimes #strongemotions #anger #frustration #exhaustion #processemotions #talkitout #write #journal #talktoGod #forgiveness #mercy #patience Transcription You can find the transcription of today's episode here: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/podcasts/4-tips-to-deal-with-strong-emotions

After trying to unsuccessfully rebound after a few divorces, Coree finally figured out the importance of becoming a whole person through healing with God. She shares her passion to help those who have gone through the pain of divorce find the healing journey that puts them in a position to thrive. Episode Discussion Points Advice to Divorcees here

Exhausted? What can you do when you are beyond weary, and how can God help? Listen as I share 7 Bible principles I have learned from being weary. 7 Bible Principles to Remember When You’re Weary 1. God is With You & Will Help You for I am with thee:I will help theeI will uphold thee2 I will be with thee;3 4 thou wast precious in my sight5 I am with thee: 2. Take Time to Rest in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.13 14 3. God can Strengthen and Renew My Bible verse mantra: Key: Take my yoke upon you! Come unto meI will give you rest.Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me 4. Submit & Let God guide you 5 6 7 8 5. Be...

Paul was devastated when his son was diagnosed with Down Syndrome, but he came to see not only the power and impact of one life but how God works in the details of our lives. Episode Discussion Points Lessons From Mark Favorite Bible Verse Psalm 46:10, “Be Still and know that I am God.” Connect With Paul “Mark and Me.”PaulTaylorauthor.com #tamarakanderson #storiesofhopeinhardtimes #podcast #hope #God #hardtimes #specialneedschild #downsyndrome #Godinthedetails #peace #thepowerofone #Godslove Transcription You can find the transcription of today's episode here: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/podcasts/paul-taylor-how-is-god-in-the-details-of-our-lives

Have you ever poured out your soul and cried before God? Does He hear and listen? Does He weep with us. Listen as I share a particularly poignant Bible Story which has helped me answer these questions. Bible Story of Weeping— John chapter 11 3 Bible Tips to Remember When Weeping 1. You’’re not alone in your weeping 2. When you are weeping God is there with you. 3. Trust in God’s timing #tamarakanderson #storiesofhopeinhardtimes #podcast #hope #God #hardtime #crying #weeping #BibleStory #healing #JesusChrist #MaryandMartha #Lazarus Transcription You can find the transcription of today's episode here: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/podcasts/where-is-god-when-im-weeping

Sharon cried when her husband was told he was going to go blind, but she learned to adapt to caregiving with imagination and flexibility as she faced each challenge with faith, hope and God. Episode Discussion Points Advice for Caregivers Favorite Bible Verses Connect with Sharon https://www.sharonleinoauthor.com/

Music is such a powerful tool to connect us to God and has been throughout the ages. King David wrote the Psalm section as songs of praise unto God—and you can tell his mood in the different Psalms. —from psalms of thanksgiving, praise, lament, courage, sorrow, anger, mourning, adoration, meditation. 1. Listen to 2. Sing or play 3. Dance Psalms 149:3 How to Decide what Music is Uplifting I use this scripture as a great deciding guide: Need increased connection with God? Look at what you are listening to and choose music which will bring you closer to God. Idea Make a music favorites playlist #tamarakanderson #storiesofhopeinhardtimes #podcast #hope #God #hardtimes #ConnectiontoGod #dance #upliftingmusic #happymusic #music#musicplaylist Transcription You can find the transcription of today's episode here: https://www.tamarakanderson.com/podcasts/connecting-to-god-through-music