Faith with Friends

Episode Summary: In this episode of the "Faith with Friends" podcast, host Lisa Lorenzo is joined by Dr. Lydia Martinez, a mental health counselor and Christian therapist. They discuss the topic of overcoming anxiety with the discipline of gratitude. They emphasize the importance of using the right tools, such as prayer, scripture, and the Holy Spirit, to combat anxiety and find peace. The episode explores the concept of living in the present moment and how it is connected to gratitude. The hosts provide practical insights and biblical perspectives on cultivating gratitude and overcoming anxiety. Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: Part 2 was previously posted

Welcome to the Faith with Friends podcast, where host Lisa explores faith, relationships, and spiritual growth. In this episode, Lisa discusses how to navigate life's ups and downs with faith, hope, and love. Drawing from the Word of God, she reminds listeners of the promises found in Isaiah 40:10 and Isaiah 41:10, which assure us that God is with us, strengthens us, and upholds us. Lisa emphasizes the importance of choosing faith over fear, trusting in God's promises even when we can't see a way forward. She encourages listeners to turn to God in prayer and find comfort and strength in His presence. Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: Resources: @faithwithfriends Listen to the full episode of the Faith with Friends podcast to gain insights on how to navigate life's challenges with faith, hope, and love. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from the Faith with Friends community.

About the Guest(s): No guest information provided in the transcript. Episode Summary: Welcome to the "Faith with Friends" podcast, where faith, relationships, and spiritual growth are discussed. In this episode, host Lisa Lorenzo explores the topic of walking in purpose. She delves into the journey of faith, emphasizing the importance of progress, purpose, and pressing on. Drawing from biblical verses, Lisa encourages listeners to set spiritual goals, track their progress, and celebrate each step. She highlights the need for deepening one's relationship with God, extending grace and kindness to others, and pursuing maturity in faith. The episode concludes with a call to serve the Lord and make a commitment to live out one's purpose. Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: Resources: No resources mentioned in the transcript. Thank you for listening to the "Faith with Friends" podcast. Be sure to like and subscribe to continue the conversation. Follow the podcast on Instagram at @faithwithfriends. Share this episode with your friends to help the circle grow. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from "Faith with Friends."

Finding Peace Through Gratitude: Overcoming Anxiety with Dr. Lydia Martinez Episode Summary: In this episode of the Faith with Friends podcast, host Lisa is joined by Dr. Lydia Martinez to discuss the topic of overcoming anxiety with the discipline of gratitude. They explore the challenges of anxiety and how it can control our lives, but emphasize the importance of being controlled by the Holy Spirit instead. Drawing from Philippians 4:6-7, they highlight the command to not be anxious and the promise of peace that comes from presenting our requests to God with thanksgiving. The episode delves into the concept of living in the present moment and how gratitude can help us overcome anxiety by focusing on God's goodness and provision. Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: Resources: @f Listen to the full episode to gain valuable insights and practical tips on overcoming anxiety with the discipline of gratitude. Stay tuned for more episodes of the Faith with Friends podcast, where they explore faith, relationships, and spiritual growth.

About the Guest(s): No guest information provided in the transcript. Episode Summary: Welcome to the Faith with Friends podcast, where we explor topics related to faith, relationships, and spiritual growth. In this episode, Lisa discusses the power and help that believers receive from the Holy Spirit. She highlights various ways in which the Holy Spirit guides, teaches, comforts, empowers, and fills believers with love. Through the Holy Spirit, believers have access to divine help in their faith journey and can experience a deep sense of purpose, security, and belonging. Lisa encourages listeners to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance and help in all areas of their lives. Key themes: Holy Spirit, divine help, guidance, teaching, comfort, empowerment, love. Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: Resources: Don't miss out on the opportunity to discover the power and help available through the Holy Spirit. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from the Faith with Friends podcast.

### About the Guest(s): ​ **Dr. Lidia Martinez** is a renowned expert in communication and relationships. With years of experience in counseling and coaching, she has helped countless individuals improve their communication skills and strengthen their connections with others. Dr. Martinez is known for her compassionate and empathetic approach, guiding her clients towards open and honest dialogue. She is the founder of [DrLidiaMartinez.com](https://www.drlidiamartinez.com), where she offers resources and support for individuals seeking to enhance their communication skills. ​ ### Episode Summary: ​ In this episode of the Faith with Friends podcast, host Lisa Lorenzo welcomes back Dr. Lidia Martinez to discuss effective communication strategies for women. They emphasize the importance of listening, empathy, and speaking with kindness and wisdom. Drawing from biblical teachings, they highlight the significance of open, honest, and respectful dialogue in building strong relationships. Dr. Martinez shares practical tips for active listening and expressing oneself authentically. The episode concludes with a reminder to embrace the fruits of the spirit and to approach communication with grace and compassion. ​ ### Key Takeaways: ​ - Effective communication begins with listening attentively and empathetically, allowing for open and honest dialogue. - Relating to others by finding common ground and shared experiences fosters understanding and connection. - Speaking the truth in love, with kindness and wisdom, promotes healthy communication and strengthens relationships. - Building trust and rapport takes time and requires humility and self-correction when mistakes are made. - Embracing the fruits of the spirit, such as compassion, kindness, and humility, enhances communication and leads to deeper connections. ​ ### Notable Quotes: ​ - "Effective communication means listening well first, taking the time to understand the other person's perspective before responding." - Dr. Lidia Martinez - "When we listen and relate to others, it makes them feel normal and understood, fostering deeper connections." - Lisa Lorenzo - "Speaking the truth in love means expressing oneself authentically and kindly, with the intention of building up and encouraging others." - Dr. Lidia Martinez - "Wisdom and faithful instruction should guide our words, ensuring they are truthful, kind, and purposeful." - Lisa Lorenzo - "Let your conversation always be full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." - Colossians 4:6 ​ ### Resources: ​ - [Dr. Lidia Martinez's website](https://www.drlidiamartinez.com) - Proverbs 31:26 - Luke 6:45 - Matthew 5:16 - Ephesians 4:14-16 ​ Listen to the full episode on [Faith with Friends] and gain valuable insights on effective communication strategies for women. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from Lisa Lorenzo and her guests. About the Guest(s): Dr. Lidia Martinez is a renowned expert in communication and relationships. With years of experience in counseling and coaching, she has helped countless individuals improve their communication skills and strengthen their connections with others. Dr. Martinez is known for her compassionate and empathetic approach, guiding her clients towards open and honest dialogue. She is the founder of DrLidiaMartinez.com, where she offers resources and support for individuals seeking to enhance their communication skills. Episode Summary: In this episode of the Faith with Friends podcast, host Lisa Lorenzo welcomes back Dr. Lidia Martinez to discuss effective communication strategies for women. They emphasize the...

In this episode of the "Faith with Friends" podcast, host Lisa Lorenzo explores Psalm 61. She sets the scene of David standing alone on a high rock, seeking refuge and peace in the wilderness. David's song in this psalm is a testament to his unshakable faith and his belief in God's unwavering presence. Lisa encourages listeners to take refuge in God's steadfast love and to find comfort in His unchanging presence. She reads through Psalm 61, highlighting David's cry for refuge, his desire to dwell in God's tent, and his trust in God's provision. Lisa emphasizes the importance of seeking God as our refuge, longing for intimacy with Him, and trusting in His provision. She encourages listeners to start each day by turning to God, seeking intimacy with Him, and committing to praise His name. ​ **Key Takeaways:** ​ 1. Seek God as your refuge and find stability in His unchanging presence. 2. Cultivate a deep longing for intimacy with God and seek to dwell in His presence. 3. Trust that God hears your prayers and provides for your needs. 4. Commit to praising God's name in every season of life. ​ **Quotes:** ​ - "In the midst of our own trials and tribulations, we can take refuge in the unwavering, steadfast love of God." - "Seek God out through prayer, through studying His word, through being with other believers." - "Regardless of your circumstance, you can praise God today. You can praise God today for who He is." - "Seek Him as your strength, your refuge, your helper, and your strong tower that you can run into and be safe."

In this episode of the Faith with Friends podcast, host Lisa Lorenzo delves into Psalm 6 and explores David's journey from suffering to strength. She sets the scene of a small, dimly lit room where David, burdened and weary, kneels in prayer and pours out his heart before the Lord. David's pleas reveal his deep understanding of God's nature and his desire for mercy over harsh discipline. Lisa highlights the importance of expressing our true emotions to God and trusting in His desire for our well-being. She emphasizes the need to seek God's presence for the fortitude to face trials and the importance of immersing ourselves in God's wisdom through studying the Scriptures, fervent prayer, and worshiping with fellow believers. The episode concludes with a reminder that in God, we can find peace, restoration, and unyielding strength. David's journey in Psalm 6 teaches us to find comfort in God's mercy, trust in His healing power, and approach Him with confidence, knowing that He hears and responds to our cries. Key Takeaways: Quotes:

Lisa is the host of the "Faith with Friends" podcast. She is passionate about faith, relationships, and spiritual growth. Through her podcast, she aims to help listeners know God and make Him known. Summary: In this episode, Lisa reads and discusses Psalm 5, which is a prayer of David seeking God's attention and help. The psalm serves as a reminder that we can turn to God for guidance and refuge in His presence. Lisa highlights the importance of starting the day by seeking God's presence and spending time in prayer. She emphasizes the need to acknowledge God's holiness and strive to live in a manner that honors Him. Lisa also encourages listeners to seek God's guidance in decision-making and to take refuge in His protection. The psalm reminds us that God hears our prayers and responds to them. Key Takeaways: Quotes: Psalm 5 Listen to my words, Lord, consider my lament. Hear my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly. For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness; with you, evil people are not welcome. The arrogant cannot stand in your presence. You hate all who do wrong; you destroy those who tell lies. The bloodthirsty and deceitful you, Lord, detest. But I, by your great love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple. Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies— make your way straight before me. Not a word from their mouth can be trusted; their heart is filled with malice. Their throat is an open grave; with their tongues they tell lies. Declare them guilty, O God! Let their intrigues be their downfall. Banish them for their many sins, for they have rebelled against you. But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice...

In this episode of the Faith with Friends podcast, host Lisa reads and reflects on Psalm 4. The theme of the psalm is rejoicing in God's protection and peace, even in the midst of adversity. David, the author of the psalm, was surrounded by enemies seeking to destroy him, yet he found confidence in God's ability to listen and respond to his prayers. The psalm emphasizes seeking God's favor, dealing with anger righteously, finding contentment in God's presence, and trusting in God's provision. Through these lessons, listeners are encouraged to anchor their hearts to the Lord and find peace in the midst of turmoil. Key Takeaways: Quotes:

**About The Guest(s):** ​ Lisa Lorenzo is the host of the Faith With Friends podcast. She is passionate about faith, relationships, and spiritual growth. Through her podcast, she aims to help listeners connect with God and deepen their understanding of faith. ​ **Summary:** ​ In this episode of the Faith With Friends podcast, host Lisa Lorenzo discusses Psalm 3 and the theme of confidently trusting God for protection and peace. She explores the heartfelt prayer of David in the midst of adversity and draws valuable lessons that can be applied to our own challenging times. David, despite facing threats, rebellion, and betrayal, turns to God in trust and finds hope in deliverance. The episode emphasizes the importance of turning to God in the midst of problems, finding peace in His protective presence, and trusting His timing for justice and mercy. It encourages listeners to shift their focus from worry to worship and declare God's ultimate victory over challenges. ​ **Key Takeaways:** ​ 1. Turn to God in the midst of problems and challenges, finding refuge and strength in His presence. 2. Trust that God surrounds you with His protective shield, granting you peace and security. 3. Rest in the Lord, knowing that He is in complete control and can provide restful sleep even in difficult circumstances. 4. Shift your focus from problems to the promised Savior, finding hope in His unfailing love. 5. Declare God's ultimate victory over challenges and trust in His deliverance. ​ **Quotes:** ​ - "I lie down and sleep, and I awake because the Lord sustains me." - "We can let go of worry and turn our worry into worship." - "Salvation belongs to the Lord, and in times of trouble, He's our ultimate source of triumph and deliverance." About The Guest(s): Lisa Lorenzo is the host of the Faith With Friends podcast. She is passionate about faith, relationships, and spiritual growth. Through her podcast, she aims to help listeners connect with God and deepen their understanding of faith. Summary: In this episode of the Faith With Friends podcast, host Lisa Lorenzo discusses Psalm 3 and the theme of confidently trusting God for protection and peace. She explores the heartfelt prayer of David in the midst of adversity and draws valuable lessons that can be applied to our own challenging times. David, despite facing threats, rebellion, and betrayal, turns to God in trust and finds hope in deliverance. The episode emphasizes the importance of turning to God in the midst of problems, finding peace in His protective presence, and trusting His timing for justice and mercy. It encourages listeners to shift their focus from worry to worship and declare God's ultimate victory over challenges. Key Takeaways: Quotes:

Lisa is the host of the Faith With Friends podcast. She is passionate about exploring faith, relationships, and spiritual growth. Through her podcast, she seeks to know God and make Him known. Summary: In this episode of the Faith With Friends podcast, host Lisa Lorenzo explores Psalm Two. She highlights the powerful message of God's sovereignty and the ultimate authority of His Son, Jesus Christ. The psalm is a call to all nations and rulers to acknowledge Jesus' reign. Lisa breaks down the verses and extracts valuable insights for listeners to apply in their lives today. She emphasizes the rebellion of nations, God's response, the divine decree declaring Jesus as the appointed heir, and the call to repentance. Lisa encourages listeners to surrender fully to Christ and share the message of His reign with others. She reminds them of the hope and salvation found in Jesus and the importance of aligning with His will. Key Takeaways: Quotes:

Hello everyone and welcome back. Today we're reading Psalm 1 as today is November 1st and we're going to have a little meditation on the path to true blessedness. Join me as we explore its verses and learn some valuable insight for our lives in under 10 minutes. Psalm 1 serves as an introduction to the entire book of Psalms. It sets the stage for the theme of righteousness and wisdom and it contrasts the way of the righteous to the fate of the wicked. So let's read it together. Psalm 1, starting in verse 1, says, Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked, or stand in the way that sinners take, or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, who meditates on his law day and night. That person will be like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, whatever they do prospers. Verse 4, Not so with the wicked. They are like chaff that the wind blows away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor the sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the Lord watches over the ways of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction. We have a choice of paths. The psalm begins by presenting two contrasting paths, the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. It emphasizes the importance of our associations and our influences. Who is in your small circle? Verse 2 moves on and tells us that the righteous individual finds joy in meditating on God's law day and night. And really it represents a deep ongoing relationship with the Word of God. I always say this quote that I love, you cannot love God more than you love God's Word. The Word of God is God and it's living. It's how we get to know Jesus. It's how we learn about Him and we learn about God the Father. So verse 3 goes on and we get this image of a tree planted by streams of water illustrating the stability and fruitfulness of a life rooted in God's Word. This person flourishes and prospers in their endeavors. Verse 4 through 6 give us ...

Summary: Lisa returns to the Faith with Friends podcast after a hiatus, sharing the reasons for her break and the importance of recharging and reconnecting with God and family. She emphasizes the need to prioritize one's relationship with God and seek wisdom from Him. Lisa is joined by her friend, Daris, as they discuss the importance of intentional time with God and the benefits of seeking wisdom. They read and analyze Proverbs 2, highlighting the actions required to receive wisdom, the benefits of wisdom, and the consequences of rejecting wisdom. They emphasize the need to seek wisdom through prayer and reading God's Word. Key Takeaways: Quotes:

Embracing Our Calling: Sharing the Gospel with Courage and Compassion Lisa celebrates a milestone in the Faith with Friends podcast journey, thanking listeners and guests for their support. She explores Isaiah 6:8, discussing the calling to spread the Gospel and the importance of a personal relationship with God. Lisa shares her own experience of following God's prompting to start the podcast and encourages listeners to embrace their own calling to share the message of hope and love. She challenges them to answer God's call with courage and compassion, becoming ambassadors for Christ in every interaction and opportunity. 0:00:01 Introduction to Faith with Friends podcast 0:00:51 Gratitude for reaching 8000 downloads and 42 countries 0:02:03 God's deliberate consideration in appointing messengers 0:03:13 Need for a personal relationship with God to be effective 0:03:42 God equips and empowers believers for their mission 0:04:16 Isaiah's response as a model for all believers 0:04:47 Delay in obeying God's call to start the podcast 0:05:47 Impacting lives through the podcast globally 0:06:16 Call to continue sharing Faith with Friends podcast 0:09:06 Chosen and appointed by God to be His ambassador "God chooses ordinary people to carry out his extraordinary message." [TRANSCRIPT] 0:00:01 - (None): You're listening to Faith with Friends podcast, where we talk about faith, relationships and spiritual growth. Welcome to our circle and the conversation where we seek to know God and make him known. Now, here's your host, Lisa Lorenzo. 0:00:21 - Welcome back to another episode of Faith with Friends. I'm thrilled to have you here with me today because together we have reached an incredible milestone in our Faith with Friends podcast journey. Our podcast has been downloaded over 8000 times and heard in 42 countries. So I want to thank you for being a part of this faith filled journey. And before we start today's topic, I want to express gratitude for each one of you. 0:00:51 - Your support and your encouragement have been a source of inspiration, and it's an honor to share these moments of faith together. And I would be admissed if I did not mention my girls, my friends that have been willing to come on and do their episodes, to share their gifts, to share their talents, and to share what God's doing in their lives in such authentic and transparent ways. So to each of you who have been on an episode or just prayed for us, prayed for God to do the work that he wants to do, not only in the...

Lisa Lorenzo is the host of the Faith With Friends podcast. She is passionate about faith, relationships, and spiritual growth. Through her podcast, she aims to help listeners prioritize prayer and the reading of God's Word. Summary: In this episode of the Faith With Friends podcast, host Lisa Lorenzo explores Hebrews chapter three, which calls us to have a steadfast faith. She emphasizes the importance of fixing our thoughts on Jesus and immersing ourselves in the teaching and life of Jesus through reading the Bible. Lisa highlights that reading God's Word transforms us and equips us for every good work. She also discusses the significance of prayer as a means of communing with God and aligning our hearts with His will. Lisa encourages listeners to guard their hearts against sin and unbelief and to support and uplift one another in the journey of faith. She concludes by reminding us that growing in faith is a lifelong journey and that we are called to soften our hearts and bring our burdens to Jesus. Key Takeaways: Fix your thoughts on Jesus and prioritize reading the Bible to grow in faith and strengthen your relationship with God. Reading God's Word transforms us and equips us for every good work. Prayer is a means of communing with God and aligning our hearts with His will. Guard your heart against sin and unbelief and support and uplift one another in the journey of faith. Soften your heart and bring your burdens to Jesus to experience His transformational power. Quotes: Prioritize Prayer and God's Word for Steadfast Faith Summary: Lisa Lorenzo hosts the Faith With Friends podcast, where she discusses faith, relationships, and spiritual growth. In this episode, she explores Hebrews chapter three, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing prayer and reading God's Word. She highlights the significance of fixing our thoughts on Jesus and immersing ourselves in the teachings of the Bible. Lorenzo encourages listeners to guard their hearts against sin and unbelief, while also emphasizing the need for community and support in the journey of faith. The episode concludes with a reminder to hold firm to our faith and seek transformation through prayer and Scripture. Introduction to the Faith With Friends podcast 0:00:19 Hebrews chapter three calls for steadfast faith 0:00:53 Importance of fixing our thoughts on Jesus 0:01:35 The transformative power of reading God's Word 0:02:45 Warning against hardening our hearts to God's voice 0:03:40 The significance of reading the entire Bible 0:04:38 Importance of supporting and encouraging one another 0:05:59 The privilege of sharing in Christ's life 0:07:02 Prioritizing prayer and reading God's Word 0:09:26 The challenge to not harden our hearts and seek transformation

In this episode of Faith with Friends, host Lisa Lorenzo is joined by her friend Shaunda to discuss God friendship and building others up. Shonda is mentor who has a passion for encouraging others to deepen their faith and develop Christ-like qualities.​ In this two-part series, Lisa and Shaunda delve into the topic of biblical friendships and what they should look like. They explore key verses from the Bible that highlight the importance of relationships in our spiritual growth and discuss practical ways to build meaningful connections with others. - 00:00:00 - Introduction to the Faith with Friends podcast and the topic of God friendship and building others up. - 00:00:30 - Shaunda's background and experience with mentoring and encouraging others in their faith. - 00:01:10 - Discussion of Job's example of being a good friend and praying for his friends. - 00:02:00 - Exploration of Proverbs 27:17 and how it relates to the impact of our relationships on our spiritual growth. - 00:03:05 - Examination of 1 Thessalonians 5:11 and the importance of encouraging and building up one another in our faith. - 00:04:14 - Discussion of the qualities needed for meaningful relationships, including vulnerability, humility, and a willingness to learn from one another. - 00:04:36 - The importance of constructive criticism and loving correction in the sharpening process. - 00:05:06 - Understanding the faithful wounds of a friend and how they help us grow. - 00:05:30 - The idea that everyone has a circle of influence and the importance of using that opportunity to encourage and build up others. - 00:06:02 - Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 and the importance of having friends to help us up when we fall. - 00:06:57 - The importance of finding a community of Christ, whether it be a church or online Bible study, and getting involved to make connections and grow. - 00:08:43 - The importance of prayer and starting a prayer group in your sphere of influence. - 00:09:21 - The importance of being grateful for the people who show up in our lives, even if it's just a few, and how God can use those moments to meet us where we are. - 00:09:58 - The example of Job's friends intentionally coming to comfort him in his time of need and the impact that can have on our relationships. - 00:11:20 - The lasting impact of friends who show up when we need them most and the imprint that leaves on our hearts. - 00:14:04 - Discussion of 1 Peter 4:8-10 and the importance of loving one another deeply, offering hospitality, and using our gifts to serve others. - 00:15:20 - The realization that all of our resources and gifts are on loan from God and the importance of using them to serve others. - 00:16:15 - Discussion of Proverbs 17:17 and the challenge of loving at all times, even in difficult situations. - 00:19:07 - The importance of being tethered to God through prayer and his word and how it impacts our relationships with others. - 00:19:31 - The impact of walking with the wise and being intentional about surrounding ourselves with spiritually mature people. - 00:21:10 - The significance of Colossians 3:12-14 in reminding us to show compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, and the importance of forgiveness and love in unifying relationships. - 00:24:20 - The importance of conveying peace and love to others, and the need for unity among believers. - 00:25:14 - The importance of love in relationships, and how it is only possible through Christ. - 00:26:16 - The importance of seeking to sharpen one another in the body of Christ, and the urgency of doing so in light of the imminence of Christ's return. ​ ## Quotable Phrases ​ - "Iron can only be sharpened by friction, by the friction and contact with another piece of iron." - Shonda - "Encourage one another and build each other up." - 1...

The celebration of Independence Day in the United States reminds us of our quest for freedom, both individually and as a society. As followers of Christ, we recognize our need to be free from the bondage of sin and our own selfish desires. Accepting Christ as our savior marks a new beginning and a spiritual rebirth, but the journey to freedom is ongoing and requires the cultivation of spiritual disciplines such as prayer, reading the Bible, and fellowship. Just as the nation had to establish its systems and institutions to uphold its freedom, we too must establish spiritual disciplines that strengthen our faith. Let us commit ourselves to the ongoing journey of spiritual growth by carving out time for prayer, study in God's word, and engaging in meaningful fellowship with other believers. Unity is crucial in the pursuit of freedom, as we are called to set aside our differences and come together as one body in Christ, extending love, grace, and forgiveness. The colonists set aside their differences for a common cause, and as followers of Christ, we are called to do the same. Let us embrace love, grace, and forgiveness in our relationships with one another, recognizing that our unity is a powerful testimony for the freedom we have in Christ. As we celebrate Independence Day, let us reflect on the deeper meaning behind the day and the eternal freedom we have in Christ. Let us be thankful for the sacrifices made for those who fought for our nation's independence, but let us also honor their legacy by living as faithful and free followers of Christ. Jesus, the Son of God, gave us the perfect example of a true sacrifice by giving his life on the cross. Through his death, he conquered sin and death, offering eternal life and reconciliation with God. It's Jesus' ultimate sacrifice that serves as a profound reminder of the depth of his love for us and the immeasurable lengths he went to redeem us. Let us deepen our relationship with God today and continue seeking truth, growing in faith, and finding freedom in Christ. Show Notes: Faith with Friends Podcast - Independence Day and Freedom in Christ Overview: In this episode of Faith with Friends podcast, the host, Lisa Lorenzo, discusses how Independence Day helps us reflect on our quest for freedom in Christ. She draws parallels between the journey towards independence and our spiritual journey towards freedom in Christ. The episode highlights the need for sacrifice, perseverance, and an unwavering faith to break free from the bondage of sin and selfish desires. The host also emphasizes the importance of unity among followers of Christ and the need to cultivate spiritual disciplines to strengthen our faith. Timestamped Chapter Summary:

Finding Rest in Jesus' Heart: A Senior Saint's Wisdom Rest for the Weary: Seeking Jesus in a Broken World In this episode of Faith with Friends podcast, Diane Stewart shares her thoughts on seeking rest in Jesus. She begins by quoting the song "Tell Your Heart to Beat Again" by Danny Gokey and emphasizes the need for Jesus in our broken world. Stewart then refers to Matthew 11:28, where Jesus invites the burdened and heavy-laden to come to Him for rest. She stresses that Jesus offers rest through His yoke of loving kindness, which is easy and light. Stewart encourages listeners to renew their minds and trust in the Lord, as stated in Romans 12:2 and Proverbs 3:5-6. She reminds listeners that God's love and acceptance are constant, regardless of their circumstances. Stewart concludes by expressing her desire to become more like Jesus and encourages listeners to seek Him with all their hearts. Rest is a precious gift that we all need in our lives. In our fast-paced and busy world, it can be challenging to find rest. However, the good news is that Jesus offers us rest, as mentioned in Matthew 11:28. He invites us to come to Him, regardless of our burdens and struggles, and promises to give us rest. Jesus offers us rest through His yoke of loving kindness, which is easy and light. This means that we don't have to carry our burdens alone. We can surrender them to Jesus and trust Him to carry them for us. We can find rest in His love and grace, which are freely available to us. Unfortunately, many of us fail to embrace this truth when we face difficult circumstances. We tend to worry and stress about the what-ifs in life instead of trusting in Jesus. However, Romans 12:2 reminds us not to conform to the patterns of this world but to renew our minds. We need to focus on God's promises and truths, which are found in His Word. Proverbs 3:5-6 also encourages us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our understanding. We need to acknowledge Him in all our ways, and He will make our paths straight. When we trust in Jesus, we can find rest for our souls. We can have peace in the midst of chaos and hope in the midst of despair. God's love and acceptance are constant, regardless of our circumstances. As Diane Stewart reminds us in the Faith with Friends podcast, we need to seek Jesus with all our hearts. We need to become more like Him and less like ourselves. We need to surrender our burdens to Him and trust Him to carry them for us. In conclusion, rest is a precious gift that we all need in our lives. Jesus offers us rest through His yoke of loving kindness, which is easy and light. We need to renew our minds and trust in Him, even in difficult circumstances. We need to seek Him with all our hearts and become more like Him. Let us surrender our burdens to Jesus and find rest for our souls. 0:00:00 Introduction to Faith with Friends podcast 0:00:48 Reflection on Matthew 11:28 and seeking rest in Jesus 0:02:15 Embracing God's love and mercy instead of worrying about the what ifs in life 0:03:03 Reflection on Romans 12:2 and Proverbs 3:5-6 0:03:42 Remembrance of God's deep and abiding love for us 0:04:08 Closing remarks and invitation to like and subscribe

The prophet Habakkuk questioned why God allowed injustice and violence to continue. He prayed for justice but saw no immediate change. Despite this, he chose to walk by faith, waiting patiently for God's timing and trusting in His character. Habakkuk's faith was grounded in the trustworthiness of God Himself. As believers, our faith is not blind, but grounded and founded in the trustworthiness of God. When we face prolonged periods of waiting, we should fix our eyes on Jesus, embrace the truth that God is always at work, and lean into His Word to find hope and reassurance. Our faith serves as an anchor that keeps us grounded in God's promises, even when everything around us seems uncertain. We can pray and seek God diligently, holding on to His promises and trusting that He is at work even in the waiting. Our role is to walk by faith, knowing that God's faithfulness endures forever. When we feel like we've been waiting forever, we can trust in God and His timing. Let's continue to lean into God's promises and walk by faith, knowing that God is the only one who can do the work we need. The prophet Habakkuk questioned why God allowed injustice and violence to continue. He prayed for justice but saw no immediate change. Despite this, he chose to walk by faith, waiting patiently for God's timing and trusting in His character. Habakkuk's faith was grounded in the trustworthiness of God Himself. As believers, our faith is not blind, but grounded and founded in the trustworthiness of God. When we face prolonged periods of waiting, we should fix our eyes on Jesus, embrace the truth that God is always at work, and lean into His Word to find hope and reassurance. Our faith serves as an anchor that keeps us grounded in God's promises, even when everything around us seems uncertain. We can pray and seek God diligently, holding on to His promises and trusting that He is at work even in the waiting. Our role is to walk by faith, knowing that God's faithfulness endures forever. When we feel like we've been waiting forever, we can trust in God and His timing. Let's continue to lean into God's promises and walk by faith, knowing that God is the only one who can do the work we need. Show Notes: Faith with Friends Podcast - Walking by Faith with Habakkuk Introduction In this episode of Faith with Friends, host Lisa Lorenzo talks about walking by faith with the prophet Habakkuk. She shares how Habakkuk's story can help believers who are struggling with waiting, uncertainty, and doubt. Overview In this episode, Lisa discusses the story of Habakkuk and how it can help believers walk by faith in challenging circumstances. She talks about how Habakkuk resolved to wait patiently for God's timing and trust in His character. Lisa encourages listeners to focus on God's faithfulness and promises, even when circumstances seem bleak. Timestamped Chapter Summary Quotable Phrases